When you are trying to tighten your budget because of refinancing or a bankruptcy, it may seem very difficult to find a way to cut the costs of clothing. No matter how much you want them too, those shoes at the mall won’t just drop in price, and even some of the sale rack items may be too much for what you are hoping to pay. However, using some creative money saving strategies, you may be able to reduce spending in this aspect of your life, and put that money towards satisfying the debts that have been looming over your head.

You don’t have to sacrifice your love for style when you sacrifice some of your clothing budget. In fact, it is only a matter of looking for your clothing in the right places and making sure that you don’t overspend. First of all, you should shop with cash only. Though this may seem old-fashioned, when you limit yourself to shopping with cash for clothing, you will limit the temptation to overspend on a credit card. It’s too easy to swipe that little plastic card in exchange for that new dress or shirt that you have been eyeing. With cash, if you don’t have the money then you can’t spend it. You will put yourself on an un-budgeable budget.

Also, if you want to get more for that small wad of cash in your envelope, try hitting discount chains. Stores like T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, Nordstrom Rack, and Ross have brand name clothing that was originally put in the department store but then was removed because of a surplus. These items are great-quality clothing, but are sold at the discount stores for a fraction of the price. Hit the sales racks at the discount stores for an even better deal. However, don’t be lured to by items you didn’t need because they were on sale. Impulse buys are never a good idea when you are on a budget. Only purchase the items that are essentials for your wardrobe at the moment, and remember that eventually you will end up without debt and with more money to spend on the clothing that you love.