First things first. Decide what is needed by cleaning out her closet.
The items that are in good shape but no longer fit can be taken to a
consignment store. The Style Exchange will pay you cash on the spot.
This usually yields a little money to invest in some of the items you’re
replacing.
Be sure to toss the damaged items, and set aside ones that need minor
repairs, like adding buttons. Promptly take these to the dry cleaners
if you know you won’t get around to repairing them.
Moms can usually buy after-season sales, (Feb. for winter wears and
Aug. for summer wears). Because it’s hard to gauge how much your
daughter might grow in a years time, it’s usually best to buy season to
season.
Shop at stores you know won’t break the bank. Teen clothes usually
last for one season, either because of wear or size. Don’t invest too
much if she’s still growing.
Stores known for being “Teen Stores” typically are made from cheaper
materials and either pill quickly, snag or are easily damaged by washing
machine use. Some of the stores I have listed are notorious for cheaper
fabrics, and that’s why I might only buy accessories there. Item’s that
need to be of better quality, like bras, should be purchased with
higher standards. Jeans can be bought at less-expensive stores because
they’re made of denim—a stronger fabric by nature. I rarely skimp on
shoes because if my feet hurt, my whole body hurts.
Finally, make a list (with your daughter) of the items you’ll be
shopping for. Stick to your shopping budget and the list. Map out your
destinations and even plan for your lunch-break and an afternoon or
early evening snack-break. (Hunger will inevitably ruin a productive
shopping trip.) Keep up with your purchases and go directly to sale
racks before venturing through the rest of the store. Have a discussion
with her—before you begin—outlining your intent to stay on track.