This article is also available at Yahoo's link: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/parenting/back-to-school-clothes-for-50-total-2210548/ Whenever I think about the start of the school year, I recall that fabulous Staples commercial where the dad is dancing through the aisles buying school supplies for his two bummed kids as Andy Williams’ “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” plays in the background. Classic. Yes parents, you’ve survived another summer! It’s Miller Time. It’s also time to get the kids prepped for another year of learning. The difference between the 2009 and 2010 school year, however, is that I’m already getting mail from parents, seriously strapped for cash compared to last year, looking for solid strategies on how to save big without their kids paying the price. Have no fear, the strategies are here. When it comes to school clothes, it’s not unusual for parents to shell out at least another $300 to get a wardrobe that provides a week or two of outfits. Ironically, private school students often spend about the same $300 on uniforms. With some simple tricks, students nationwide, regardless of location, can find incredible savings that will slash that cost tremendously. If your child is heading to public school, the general rule of thumb seems to be about ten outfits, enough to carry them for two weeks. Tops, bottoms, skirts, sweaters, jackets can all be mixed and matched, yet a minimum of ten pieces of clothing seems to be the norm. Just about everyone is as strapped for time as they are for cash, yet if you hit the mall last minute for your kids' wardrobe, chances are excellent you’ll spend that $300 and easily surpass it. This year, I highly suggest a new strategy. Hit your local thrift store and/or consignment store. Before you cringe, hear me out. I’m a Talbots / Calvin Klein addict of the highest order. When it comes to clothes, shoes and accessories, only the best will do. I find them all easily at my local thrift store, usually for 90% off. I have yet to purchase an article of clothing with a rip, stain or tear. I have a closet full of designer gear and I regularly spend 90% less (often 95-99% less) than retail. For the fashion-conscious students in your household, dangle the prospect of getting 3x the clothes that they did last year, all the same designers they love, for $50 instead. Triple the amount of clothes, and your household saves at least $250. Who wouldn’t love that? For this first time out, offer your child a disguise to wear if necessary, as well as a cut of the savings. Whatever you save over last year, offer them a percentage, no more than $50. Everyone’s a winner. Another option for clothes — especially pre-school and elementary school kids — is Craigslist. I have two preschoolers (my oldest is about to enter kindergarten) and, for the last three years, I’ve procured fabulous wardrobes for them both on Craigslist. The amazing offerings there have provided my kids attractive designer names, including tops, pants, suits, dresses, etc at the click of a mouse. Best part — I’ve outfitted both of my children for a total of $50/year. This includes outfits for special occasions and holidays as well. Check into it. If you have any safety concerns about meeting people you don’t know at their home, or having them in your home, meet at a mutually convenient location. You can never be too careful, and still I have yet to hear from anyone who has had trouble purchasing clothing, toys, etc. this way. Craigslist also seems to be an excellent location to find Private School uniforms for up to 90% off. If your child’s private school offers a uniform exchange, be sure to get it on your schedule since the savings can be huge there as well. Simple strategies here add up big. If you try out all the strategies above, your kids are still enjoying fabulous healthy lunches, designer clothes, shoes, accessories and school supplies, and your household is easily saving nearly $700 a year, per child. Two kids? Three? Now you’re pocketing thousands of dollars, and your kids still eat and dress like royalty. Now that’s some Brilliant Frugal Living!