by Jaime Lafond

Created on: July 10, 2009   Last Updated: July 14, 2009

If only the rules of dressing an adult on a budget also applied to dressing a toddler. With all the fashionable clothing options for toddlers on the market, it would be easy to "buy classic, neutral pieces and add select trendy pieces for a pop of color" in order to stick to a budget. However, following budget-friendly fashion tips geared towards adults would clearly be done in vain - the average toddler would outgrow the clothing long before it goes out of style! Fortunately, there are several attractive options for those of us dressing a toddler on a budget. The following are some budget-friendly tips and suggestions to dressing a toddler in Canada:

Sort through drawers and closets often

When it comes to toddlers clothing it is extremely important to unclutter drawers and closets often because, at this age, the little ones are growing at mega speed. If it doesn't fit, toss it (not literally - see "What to do with old clothes"). If it still fits, keep it - even if it's out of season or going to be out of season soon. Many pieces from your toddler's summer wardrobe, such as t-shirts and tanks, can be paired with warmer items, such as hoodies and sweaters, throughout the winter months. On the other hand, hoodies and sweaters can still be worn on cool summer evenings or rainy days at the cottage. One of the most costly mistakes that we often make is tossing summer shorts and skirts at the end of the season, assuming that our toddler will grow out of them over the winter. This is not always the case! Toddlers often out-grow their baby fat and slim down or lose their bulky diapers, so they may still fit in last years shorts or skirts - a rare, but significant, budget saver when dressing a toddler!

Make a list of clothing items that you need before you shop

When dressing a toddler on a budget it is essential that you make a list of clothing items that you need before going shopping. Making a shopping list in advance, and sticking to it, will ensure that you purchase only the basics that you need and that you aren't swayed towards the more costly fashion items. I'm not saying that you can't buy fashion items; but, if you have a list of what you need it will allow you to pick and chose where you want to save and splurge so that you can stay within your budget.

Shop at discount retail stores and Winners

Discount retailers in Canada, such as Walmart, Zellers and Giant Tiger, offer everyday low prices compared to more expensive department stores, high-end box stores,

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