Ways to Save Money on Clothing

The holiday seasons are over, now back to the reality of the hassle and bustle of life. As, I pass through the shop exhibitions of 'Imenti' building down town Nairobi, Kenya. I realize the pairs of jeans I bought recently is fading away. As usual, being the Kenyan I am. I started blaming the clothes retail seller and wish for the beggars to ride if at all, all wishes were true. Contemplating a change to other retail shops.

Clothing is one of life’s basic necessities. But for many of us, it is also one of our biggest expenditures.

This is especially true if you’re working in a white collar job. In these professional and social environments, how we physically present ourselves are often as important as our personal skills. The adage, don't judge a book by its cover doesn't suffice in this situation.

In case of individuals with children (alike my bros), then their clothing bills are probably sky-high as kids tend to outgrow their clothes fast.

So how are you when it comes to clothes? Do you keep a tab on your clothing expenditures and limit your spending within a regular budget?  If not, then I suggest that you do because this is one of the best ways you can save money.

When buying clothes, consider the below tips:

1. Plan your purchases. Have a monthly budget, stick to it and Be frugal.
2. To wear 'universally' in many seasons and occasions buy classic style clothing and neutral colors.
3. Make 'versatility' an element in clothing, this will enable pairing with several outfits in your wardrobe.
4. Invest in high quality materials in clothing that you frequently wear such as office attires. This allows for longevity.
5. Common Kenyan mistake is buying trendy clothing. If you really must, only purchase one or two. 
6. Buy clothes that fit. Avoid the excuse that it was fabulous.
7. This is especially for the ladies. Don’t purchase clothes and hope they’ll fit when you finally lose weight. Treat yourself to new haute couture after you shed the kilos.
8. If you're not sure you like a certain cloth, don't buy it. This is because clothes rarely grow to your liking.

For the Frugal spender:

1. Polos are example of simple and basic clothes which are usually cheaper when tailor-made. Call into your local tailor to make you a unique couture. While at your local tailor, having your old over sized clothes adjusted to fit again.
2. When cooking, doing odd jobs wear an overall or an apron. Also, try not to eat like a toddler, use a table napkin when possible.
3. You can stand out by wearing simple, plain clothes from Gakomba market and from 'baba' or 'mama nguo'.
4. A little walk to stay in shape will keep you fit. Donate oversize clothes. It's a good Karma.

Right Care:

1. During washing always separate colors and read the labels and be aware of special care instructions.
2. Other than making your clothes softer and aromatic, fabric conditioners lessen the need for ironing therefore saving on electricity.
3. Let the clothes hang dry on the sun. Using a dryer wears out clothing materials more quickly. This also allows you to save on electricity.
4. Wear old attires around the house to preserve your special attires such as 'nite out' clothes. Change as soon as you get home. Don’t let your kids play in their school uniforms at home.
5. Treat stains quickly so they don’t set and ruin your clothing.

Personal secret:

1. If it doesn’t smell or isn’t dirty. Hang and air out clothes worn for only a few hours. This will allow you to wear it again on another occasion.
2. An easy way to find "lost" shirts is to take an inventory of everything you have. This will help you know what you need and what you have too much of.
3. Trade clothing with family members, it can be fun. You’ll get rid of items that you’ve grown tired of wearing and get something “new” in return esp during holiday seasons.

I am not a fashion fad but an observer. In my own view, You can dress quite well for much less. Is that extra little bit of theoretical “wooh” in your appearance genuinely worth it?