Can you believe it’s July already? Soon, you’ll notice the fall clothes arriving in stores. The good news, though, is that summer clothes are now going on clearance. So, if you’re like me and have been sticking to a minimal summer wardrobe, you might want to loosen the purse strings a bit and hit the stores for some good bargain shopping. This is THE month to buy anything that you need for summer. The discounts will be lower in August, but there will be fewer choices. So, before you go randomly looking through the endless clearance racks, let’s make a plan for how to make the most of your July bargain shopping.
PLAN YOUR SHOPPING
- Take a look at your closet. Make a note of items that you’ve been needing this summer but haven’t bought yet.
- Add to your list the items that you have that are starting to wear out and you know will need to be replaced for next year.
- Add to your list anything you wanted to buy, but was out of your budget. You might find it now for a great price.
- Add to your list anything that would add more versatility to your wardrobe, such as a good print to add more flair to your neutrals.
- Think of any special occasions you have this summer that would require something new. You’ll need to buy it in July, before it becomes too difficult to find.
- Add other items to your list such as shoes, jewelry, pajamas.
- Take your list, prioritize it, and set an estimated amount for each item.
The following are some specific things you might want to look for that will be on clearance in July:
- Summer dresses
- Summer tops
- Capris and crop pants
- Shorts
- Bathing Suits
- Shoes, especially sandals
- Summer purses
- Pajamas
CLEARANCE SHOPPING TIPS
- Always shop with the next summer in mind. Only buy things that you’ll wear this summer AND next summer.
- Don’t buy something just because it’s on sale. Just because a tube top is on sale for $5. doesn’t mean you should buy it.
- Buy basic or classic styles. You could splurge on trendy things only if you’re pretty sure they’ll be in style again next year.
- Buy colors that aren’t too trendy. Colors that are on trend this summer might not be next year.
- Look for items that you would love to have, but could never pay full price for. This is a great time for investment items.
- Try to buy items that you could wear year round, such as layering pieces or things made with a fabric that isn’t distinctly for summer.
- Be on the lookout for special sales and coupons. Stores will often have an additional discount on top of the clearance price.
MORE JULY SHOPPING TIPS
I love shopping for clothes, but keep in mind, that July is also a great time to buy ANYTHING related to summer such as:
- Outdoor apparel and gear
- Summer sports equipment
- Garden items
- Outdoor furniture
Keep in mind that some things will be discounted more in August, when it’s back-to-school time, such as computers, electronics, backpacks, and other school items, so keep an eye out for those sales. I’m amazed when I see stores putting back-to-school things out on the shelves. Who wants to think about that when they’re heading to the pool?
So, with kids going back to school in just one more month, let’s remember to make the most of the summertime we’ve got left. Go out and find some great bargains on all the summer clothes while they’re available. Mix and match your new purchases and wear ALL your favorites! For more summer wardrobe tips, see my previous post, Easy Summer Wardrobe On A Budget.
Enjoy your wardrobe and enjoy your summer!