Community Corner
Smart Spending Items For Your Family’s Fall Wardrobe
Quality usually comes with a hefty price tag when it comes to clothing, but resale and vintage shops can save your family big bucks on name-brand and one-of-a-kind items.
Written by Julia Halewicz
Families with young kids feel the burn of shopping for clothes, as little feet grow bigger and staples seem to only last for one season.
TLC reports that the average household spends about $2,000 a year on clothing. While it might be appealing to think of clothes as disposable and try to cut your costs by buying cheap, some items are worth the investment, even if you don’t want to pay retail prices.
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Consider buying handmade sweaters, shoes, and dresses on Etsy, or gently worn kids gear on ThredUp.com. Mom-to-Mom swaps that focus on kids gear are also gaining momentum (if you haven’t found any in your area, you might consider getting some friends together and starting one). Local vintage shops and reuse chains like Buffalo Exchange also have great coats and accessories that are affordable.
Here are 4 investment pieces to consider for everyone in the family this season:
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FOR DAD: Sturdy Boots
We understand the need for comfort (sort of) but consider investing in a pair that doesn’t telegraph how supportive the arch is under your weight.
Why it’s worth the investment: Quality shoes are known to be expensive, but the shape and durability last. You won’t have to replace them as frequently as less expensive brands, which lose their support.
Where to find it: $185, Patagonia Men’s Ranger Smith; $425.01, Classic Handmade Ankle Boots on Etsy.
FOR MOM: Anything leather
A faux or real leather jacket or pair of leggings is an easy way to wear this trend. Pairing leggings with a slouchy thick-cabled knit can easily make your outfit more casual.
Why it’s worth the investment: Leather lasts for a long time, always looks fresh, and can work for both dressy and casual looks.
Where to find it: $79, Vintage on Etsy; $198, Michael Kors Faux Leather Wool Blend Coat.
FOR GIRLS: Mary Janes
One pair is all you need in a color like black patent leather or merlot. The best brands, and most pricey, feel like sneakers, so she’ll never complain of discomfort.
Why it’s worth the investment: Mary Janes are classic and go with everything from dresses to jeans. Better quality brands will survive trips to the park and recess at school. It’s the only other shoe you’ll need aside from a sneaker.
Where to find it: $34.99 re-sell Black Pediped Mary Jane on Ebay; $65.40, Black Primigi Mary Janes on Zappos.
FOR BOYS: A navy blazer
Boys are instantly transformed when you toss a classic navy blue blazer over their T-shirt or button down.
Why it’s worth the investment: Great for picture day and holidays, you can save this classic for the younger boys in the family. It can also double as a coat on warmer days.
Where to find it: $18.49, Navy Blazer from ThredUp.com; $158, J.Crew Boy’s Navy Blazer
TELL US: Which clothing items do you spend the most money on and do you only buy them retail? What local stores offer the most durable clothing that has lasted your family through several seasons?
