With the warm weather just around the corner, many people have to start converting their closets from winter to spring. Sometimes, people want a fresh, new wardrobe for the new season.

Shopping on a budget may be challenging for many. You may see a shirt you like and it is over the budget that you have set for yourself, but you buy it anyway and spend what you did not want to. This spring, saving money while re-stocking the wardrobe is a problem that many people may have. Sticking to a budget may be difficult but will benefit you in the long run.

VHS Junior Rachel Josephson says “I have shopped on a budget. It’s really hard! I splurged one time when I bought a purse that I had been looking at for a long time. I shouldn’t have bought it though. It cost a lot of money. As a teen, I don’t really make money in the winter, so spending a ton of money on clothes is almost unheard of.”

Teenagers have to be very cautious of how much money they spend because it may not be that easy to replenish the bank account afterward. Shopping on a budget will allow teens to get things that they really want without breaking the bank.

To stick to a budget, teens can buy clothing or other necessities online where they can find very good deals.  They may also want to bring a set amount when they go shopping so that they are not tempted to overspend.

Hitting the sale racks in a store is a good way to save money and still get cute clothes. Senior Kelly Clark says “I shop the sale racks all the time. It is probably the first place I go in a store.” You can get great fashion for half of the normal price.

Consignment stores are a very good, cheap alternative to department stores. If you do not mind the wear and tear of used clothing, then these stores are for you. Sometimes, you may find designer brands such as Chanel or Dior for much less than the average price

Paola Torrisi, Junior at VHS, stated “I shop at thrift stores all of the time. One time I bought a vintage pair of Levi jeans for $5. It was a steal!”

Outlet malls are a very efficient way to save money as well. Clothing and other items can be found for very cheap. Also, try trading clothing with friends. This will freshen up your wardrobe and you will not have to spend money.

One of the best tips may be to try to shop off-season.  Off-season is the best time to buy clothing that fits your style and your budget.  Buying a swimsuit in December, which will probably not be used until May or June, sounds silly.  Who would even think about it?  But if you are someone who does, you will likely find that the decreased demand has decreased the price as well.

Budgets can be very difficult to stick to.  But with the right plan, you can get a whole new wardrobe for much less than you would if you have no plan. As Marshall’s clothing store says, “never pay full price for fabulous!”