Tween brands can be expensive. But, with planning, patience, and some inside tips from a former tween, you can do it.
My son is 10-1/2. At this point, he’s not really into clothes (thankfully). But, I know the day will come soon. So, I wanted to be prepared. My 14 year old niece gave me some advice almost a year ago about tween brands and how tweens dress. She knows I’m a frugal gal, so she gave me plenty of insider tips & tricks to keep more money in my wallet.
What is a Tween?
A 7-12 year old, who feels like he’s not a little kid, but he is not yet a teenager.
Which Items Make Great Tween Outfits
For guys:
- Graphic Tees
- Skinny Jeans
- Belts
- California/Surfer-style shirts with print
- Hooded sweatshirts a.k.a. Hoodies
- Hooded Jackets
- Anything Neon
- Oversized Baseball caps
- Glasses without lenses
For girls:
- Knee High Socks
- Pairing shorts with knee high socks
- Anything Neon
- Touches of 80’s retro
- Glasses without lenses
Which Tween Brands Should You Buy
- Abercrombie & Fitch
- Aeropostale
- Hollister
- PacSun
- Justice
- Brothers
- Claire’s Boutique (for jewelry)
- Strawberry (for jewelry, pajamas, inexpensive layering pieces)
When to Shop
- End of season (Feb, May, Aug, Nov)
- Year round at thrift stores or consignment stores like Plato’s Closet, and discount stores like TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, and Ross
- Thrift stores are exceptionaly stocked at beginning of school year and Christmas when parents are cleaning out closets
How to Afford Tween Brands
If your tween likes a particular brand, pick the central items at those stores. Shop the clearance bins or$5 bin at Hollister. To stretch your budget, shop Walmart, Kmart, or Target. They are a great source to buy tank tops in solids or prints for layering. Also, you will find accessory sets like bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and belts .
Otherwise, here are some example price points in our area:
- $5 at Claire’s Boutique will buy earrings or bangles
- $10 at Foot Locker will buy colored or pattern socks
- $20 at Hollister will buy a hoodie
- $60 at Foot Locker will buy a pair of Adidas Sambas
Finding Tween Styles at Thrift Stores
In order to have success at thrift stores and consignment stores, come in with an eye for what you’re looking for. Browse catalogs, storefronts, and websites. Try things on for fit, color, and style.
Key Points for Tween Style
This is their first shot at illustrating their personality, creativity, and style. Shop at the right places, know your price points, and take inspiration from fashion magazines and higher end clothing stores. Focus on quality over quantity or price. Just like stockpiling groceries at the right price, buy larger sizes at the end of the season, in preparation for next year.
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