6 clever tricks for buying kid's clothes on a budget

Before long, fashions and branding will become important to your children. But there are plenty of ways to keep them happy, while looking after your wallet. Here are six easy ways to pay less for quality kid's clothes.

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Sign up for store cards from the big department and chain stores.

• You could gain points to redeem against future purchases, notice of sales, special offers or money-off vouchers and discounts.

However, to avoid the high interest charges these cards typically apply to your purchases, always pay off your bill in full every month.

• With interest rates sometimes upwards of 25 per cent, any initial savings may go down the drain if you start carrying unpaid balances on your credit card.

Many online catalogues start their sales ahead of reductions offered by mail, or even locally if the retailer has a physical store. The same goes for online outlets of some stores.

• Register your email address to get advance notice of sales and any special offers, often available through exclusive e-coupons – but keep your eyes peeled for in-store specials, too.
• With many more people now buying online, retailers are struggling to get people back into their stores. For that reason, you may spot incredible deals only available if you shop in person – although they might still be announced online.

Look out for bargains in "club" stores where you will find many items of clothing at rock-bottom prices.

• Larger club stores tend to offer a smaller selection of clothing choices, but for such basic items as socks and underwear you simply can't go wrong.
• As well, sometimes club stores don't offer changing rooms where you can try on the garments for size. As such, you may have to "guesstimate" if the clothes will fit your child.

Certain department stores offer good-value selections by top designers.

• If your child must have branded tops and trousers, look for them here but remember: children outgrow clothes quickly, so don't overspend on garments that they'll wear for a short time.
• On the other hand, quality garments can be passed along to younger siblings or sold to thrift stores, to offset the initially high price.

You can save on branded sportswear clothes and sneakers at factory outlet stores during their end of the season sales.

• Outlet stores usually have a lot of choice, but not always in all sizes.
• Also, you may have to check for "seconds", which are items that have minor imperfections (usually cosmetic) that don't affect quality. If you (and your child) can overlook these small flaws, you'll be able to enjoy some big savings on quality sportswear at a fraction of the price.

Good sources of previously loved clothing can be found by looking up second-hand stores, consignment stores and church bazaars in your area.

• You'll have to dig through these places, but you may find quality coats, shoes, pants and dresses, especially for kids, where the previous child only wore them for a short while before outgrowing them.
• Teens may love the "vintage" finds there and it's a great opportunity for them to personalize their fashion style.

You should also never say no to hand-me-downs! Family and friends with older children will know you appreciate anything they can pass on.

• Even if these items have seen better days, there are times when your kids will need clothes for rough-and-tumble wear.

Just because you have a bunch of kids at home who need new clothes doesn't mean you have to win the lottery to pay for it all. With a bit of creativity, perseverance and knowing where to look, your kids can dress great without costing you a fortune because finding discount clothes has never been easier!