Prodigal Magazine

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These days, everyone is searching for ways to buy what they need with less money to spare. So things can get a bit complicated if you want to keep your wardrobe updated on a tight budget. Most ladies are highly educated in the ways of getting the most clothing items for your dime, and our years of acquired knowledge might be of assistance to the guys in this budget conscious time. So to you guys who need wardrobe updates that won’t hurt your wallet, here are 8 tips that will save you money.

#1 – Buy staples and classics. When we have extra money to spare, buying something that is “in” is much easier. But if you’re on a budget, don’t purchase fad items that will be out of style in 6 months. Sticking to items that are always current will save you from having to reinvent your wardrobe each season. For guys, dark jeans, button-ups, polos, and simple jackets are safe items that allow you expand your wardrobe without worrying about going out of style.

#2 – Sale shop, seriously. I know that the word “sale” makes most guys want to barricade themselves in the den and watch sports all day, but they aren’t as bad as you think, especially in the men’s department. Sales can save you tons of cash, but for some, you might have to redefine the word “sale.” I pride myself on my bargain-shopping ability, and one of my tricks is, I don’t even look at racks that don’t sport a big, red “Clearance” sign. Most clearance sales can save you 50-75% on regular prices. And this time of year is an excellent time to check in with your favorite department store and find out when their end-of-season clearance sale will be. Last year I visited our biggest local chain for the event and paid $1.98 each for about 20 different brand name pieces of clothing.

#3 – Lose the arrogance. Many of us have an inner, unspoken issue with shopping at thrift and consignment shops, and now is a good time to relieve ourselves of it. Not only is there nothing wrong with purchasing used clothing, it’s fiscally, environmentally, and socially responsible. By visiting these stores, you can find clothing in near perfect condition, all the while saving money, reducing waste by reusing items, and contributing to local charities with your purchase. Most thrift stores have a set day for putting out new items, so call and check to have the best chance of great finds.

#4 – Donate. Sound backwards? Clean out your closet frequently and donate the items you no longer use to a local charity or thrift store. How does that save you money? As long as you get a donation receipt from your chosen location you can claim the items on your federal taxes as charity clothing donations, which can help to increase your tax refund at the end of the year.

#5 - Swap clothes. This is something that ladies love doing, but guys may not be as comfortable with just yet. If you have a good friend who wears near the same size clothing as you, make a deal that if you end up with something in your wardrobe that’s good but doesn’t quite work for you – whether it be size, color, or style – swap with the other person. It can save both of you money and make your wardrobe more specific to what you need.

#6 - Frequent discount stores. We all tend to follow the same shopping patterns by visiting the same stores over and over. Break your patterns by dropping the department stores for discount stores once in a while. Locations such as TJ Maxx, Steinmart, Ross, Marshalls, and others can provide great brands at less expensive prices. But even at these types of stores, avoid the tendency to not question the sticker. Do your best to stick to the mantra, “If it’s not on sale, don’t buy it.”

#7 – Find coupons. Many chain clothing stores place sales papers and coupons in local newspapers each weekend with hopes of drawing in customers. You might be surprised at how many local department stores offer additional discounts on already sale- and clearance-priced items. Taking an additional 20% off a clearance rack item is not only very satisfying, it will show you how little you can actually pay for a name-brand item.

#8 – Know what you already have. All of us tend to shove things in the back of our closets if they’re just not quite right. Take an hour or so and make a full inventory of your closet and dresser. Chances are you’ll find at least an item or two that you forgot you owned.

Some of these tips might seem like they require effort that shouldn’t be exerted for the sake of your wardrobe, but saving money is a great reward. If you think it’s not worth the trouble, just check your receipt when you checkout after a sale. All of us could dial our spending down a bit, and clothing is something that should not define who we are, but should simply be a piece of self-expression. And guys, self-expression can say that you’re stylish without anyone ever knowing what you paid for it.