First things first. Decide what is needed by cleaning out her closet. The items that are in good shape but no longer fit can be taken to a consignment store. The Style Exchange will pay you cash on the spot. This usually yields a little money to invest in some of the items you’re replacing.
Be sure to toss the damaged items, and set aside ones that need minor repairs, like adding buttons. Promptly take these to the dry cleaners if you know you won’t get around to repairing them.
Moms can usually buy after-season sales, (Feb. for winter wears and Aug. for summer wears). Because it’s hard to gauge how much your daughter might grow in a years time, it’s usually best to buy season to season.
Shop at stores you know won’t break the bank. Teen clothes usually last for one season, either because of wear or size. Don’t invest too much if she’s still growing.
Stores known for being “Teen Stores” typically are made from cheaper materials and either pill quickly, snag or are easily damaged by washing machine use. Some of the stores I have listed are notorious for cheaper fabrics, and that’s why I might only buy accessories there. Item’s that need to be of better quality, like bras, should be purchased with higher standards. Jeans can be bought at less-expensive stores because they’re made of denim—a stronger fabric by nature. I rarely skimp on shoes because if my feet hurt, my whole body hurts.
Finally, make a list (with your daughter) of the items you’ll be shopping for. Stick to your shopping budget and the list. Map out your destinations and even plan for your lunch-break and an afternoon or early evening snack-break. (Hunger will inevitably ruin a productive shopping trip.) Keep up with your purchases and go directly to sale racks before venturing through the rest of the store. Have a discussion with her—before you begin—outlining your intent to stay on track.