Back to School Clothes, what can you afford? Would you shop thrift stores and yard sales?

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OK, when I was a kid Mom choose most of what we got for back to school. She was a single working Mom with 4 small children and times were tough. Not unlike today's economy and many situations for many single Moms. We only got a couple new items and a pair of shoes. I understand her challenges now but back then we felt it was unfair.

My own children had it a little better but but it was still hard to buy much for them. When back to school rolled around we always scrambled for the money to make it happen. You want your kids to look nice, be happy and be comfortable amongst their peers. At any age it really counts and can make or break their self esteem. When they were small, I made a lot of their clothing and they loved it. It was also fun for me. Once they hit about 6th grade they were not about to wear what I made and the major changes began. Back to school shopping was always a challenge financially and emotionally. The kids made their own clothing choices with some stern comments and suggestions from Mom. My husband and I did set a budget and a limit on the amount they got to spend. They quickly learned that price due to name brand selection determined the number of items they would get and at times that was hard to watch.

My kids are on their own now in that department. I wouldn't dare try to dress them now. How is it for you this year? Will you be shopping at the local thrift stores and yard sales? You can get some amazing deals and some perfect or near perfect clothing. Don't pass that up if you're struggling with a budget.

Also keep in mind... when your kids grow out items of clothing items don't box them up to deal with later, have a yard sale or donate them to your local thrift stores. Somebody really needs them or maybe you need new ones too so do that yard sale! Get creative, stretch that budget!

So here's my question...

~ If someone told you that you can get "gently used" brand name clothing and often "like new" and "new" items at a fraction of the price would you shop at a yard sale or thrift store for back to school clothing?