MAIN Shopping Children's Clothes

Just ahead, check out helpful tips on where, when, and what to look for when buying clothes for the kids -- with more expert advice around the Web for keeping your kids affordably well-dressed throughout the year:

When to shop for kids' clothes?

Like shopping in general, it's all about the timing. The best time to buy children's clothing? Shop for bargains in late September for school clothes after the back-to-school sale rush is over. Wait until store shelves make room for winter gear to buy sneakers in November. Check again in April for sales on sneaker styles that haven't moved during the winter months.

Of course, November is also time to take advantage of Black Friday sales when everything goes on sale! 'Meanwhile, from December 26 through January, look for post-holiday sales on kids' fancy dresses, sweaters and outfits. Then, watch for kids' winter clothing sales in February as retailers make way for spring.

At any time of year, keep an eye out for children's clothing clearances (see below) and circulars from popular retailers for children's clothes - such as Target, JCPenney, Kohl's and Walmart.

After considering quality, fabric and cost -- know your kids' style. One may want
color-coordinated and trendy, while the other may be fine with jeans and a sweatshirt.

Buying kids' clothes to last

Fabric choices, fastenings,and fit and ease, are all major considerations.

PRO TIP: It goes without saying that cheap clothes are usually cheaply made. One quick way to tell? Inspect the stitching around buttons and seams. The heavier the stitching, the longer clothes will last.

Because they hold their shape and color wash after wash, poly-cotton blends should be your first choice for tops and t-shirts. For fall and winter gear, there's nothing more durable than denim.

During the school year, avoid the usual morning chaos by choosing zippers instead of buttons. Velcro, instead of laces, are also great for when they're running late in the morning.

Another important consideration: know your kids' style. One child may want color-coordinated, while another will be fine with jeans and a sweatshirt. Finally, if the cost and quality all meet with your satisfaction, and the kids are still smiling as they try on their brand new duds - score! You've picked a winner.

More money-saving tips when shopping for kids' clothes

The easiest way to comparison shop is, of course, online — and don't forget to print out sale coupons offered by most major retailers that may add up to tons of discounts at the cash register. Retailers honor their store coupons online. Simply enter the code as you check out and enjoy the extra discounts without stepping a foot outside the house.

Also don't overlook thrift stores in your neighborhood that enjoy a booming business in children's clothing. With luck, you may find brand new children's clothing in their original packaging left by moms whose kids have already outgrown them.

Children's clothing clearance sales

also see -> Buying Back to School Shoes    Kids School Backpacks

More about buying children's clothing around the Web:

How to Outfit a Child for Back to School - A good guide to buying school clothes with a checkllist of essentials, and related tips

10 Ways to Save on Children's Clothing - Ways to stretch your budget when purchasing children's clothing, including where and when to shop.