While some parts of the U.S. are still dealing with snow, many of us are looking forward to warmer weather. Though it’s only February, stores are already displaying swimsuits. If summer clothes are already on shelves, when should we invest in winter wear?
**End of Season**
For parents, kids outgrowing clothes fast is a constant challenge, especially during a season. But if they outgrow their winter clothes just as the season ends, it can save you money. Right now, as winter winds down, it’s best to make do with what you have and hold off buying new stuff. Soon, stores will heavily discount their remaining winter stock to make way for summer collections. The downside is a possibly limited selection.
**Prime Time**
If you have specific needs for next winter, waiting until the season’s end might not work for you. You might not find the items or sizes you need. If that happens, you’ll have to buy new winter collections at full price. To avoid this, shop now or even better, earlier in the season. Winter wear sales start post-New Year and peak by late February. Waiting until March might leave you with slim pickings.
**Consignment Sales**
Buying second-hand might not appeal to everyone, but you can often find new items with tags at consignment stores. For those who don’t mind pre-loved items, this is a great option. Consignment sale timing is different from regular stores: they offer fall/winter clothes in September or October, and spring/summer clothes in February or March. So, for winter gear, aim for September or October.
**Additional Tip**
Another smart strategy is to take advantage of retailers’ annual inventory counts. Retailers reduce inventory before counting, meaning more discounts for you. Look for signs of inventory management and head straight to the clearance section, or ask an employee about inventory dates and shop a few days prior for the best deals.
**Winter Apparel Strategy**
Though we’re dreaming of sunny beaches, thinking ahead for winter can help manage your clothing budget effectively. Here’s a simple plan to get the best winter clothing deals:
– Shop right after New Year’s for specific items or sizes at modest discounts.
– Wait until late February or early March for steeper discounts.
– Find out when your favorite stores do their inventory and shop a few days before for big savings.
– For second-hand winter clothing, check out consignment sales in September or October.
By following these tips, you can stock up on winter clothes without breaking the bank. What are your tricks for finding great deals on winter apparel?