Clothing
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Repair minor rips by hand, refit clothes, or restyle existing items instead of buying new ones to save money.
It is cheaper than replacing stuff and can be oddly satisfying.
4 people, independently
- Buy a sewing machine to repair and alter your own clothes instead of buying new ones.2
Buy Nautica jeans at Costco for $19 for good quality.
They are a great brand with good quality.
one person who lived it
Buy children's clothing one size up to extend its use for two seasons, then hand it down to siblings.
This allows items like coats to be used for multiple winters, reducing cost per season.
one person who lived it
- Pass down clothes from older siblings or cousins' children to save money.3
Buy second-hand clothes to access higher-quality materials like silk, wool, and linen that are often too expensive when new.
Brand new clothes are often made of cheap polyester even if they cost a lot.
one person who lived it
Buy high-quality work boots and recondition them rather than replacing cheap pairs frequently.
One person reported wearing the same pair since 2011 after spending $100 each time for reconditioning.
one person who lived it
Shop consignment stores in vacation towns for clothing.
One person found expensive brands like Vineyard Vines and Polo there.
one person who lived it
Use reusable silicone nipple covers as an inexpensive bra alternative.
They are reusable, inexpensive, and do not leave sticky residue when removed.
one person who lived it