1. Winners
They have fabulous toddler clothing bargains. Look for big names like Adidas, Nike, Just a Girl, Tommy Hilfiger and more. These are usually marked down at least 25% from their suggested price and often 50-75% less. Why not have designer duds for your little dude or dudette for the same price you would pay at Wal-Mart for a lower quality brand? Be sure to check their clearance racks for even better deals.
Minnie's Best Bargain: Nike Tennis Dress with Matching Shorts - Size 2T. Regular Price: $39.95. Winner's Price: $12.95
Minnie's Tip: Bring your little one with you. Designers vary in size. Nike's 2T may be Tommy Hilfiger's 3T.
This is a second hand shop specifically geared towards children. They advertise that their merchandise is high end and gently used. I find that it varies from store to store. They are a franchise and the condition of the store and merchandise is only as good as the owner. However, once you have found a good store, stick with it for some great bargains. It takes a while to go through everything but you can find barely worn garments and some clothes with the original tags still on them. They also have a loyalty card program and big sales.
Minnie's Best Bargain: Gymboree Skort and Halter Top (tags still on) - Size 2T. Regular Price: $49.95. Once Upon's Price: $6.00.
Minnie's Tip: Bring your little one, but bring a friend. You need your toddler for sizing but you need a friend to watch her because it takes a while to go through the racks.
3. Loblaws
That is right, the grocery store. They are carrying a line called "Joe" and it is cute. Prices are very reasonable, comparable with Wal-Mart but so much more hip and cool. They have all kinds of mix and match outfits including shoes. Do not leave without looking at their clearance rack. Up to 90% off some pieces.
Minnie's Best Bargain: Joe Polka Dot Shirt and Shorts - Size 1T. Both items: $4
Minnie's Tip: Hit the kids' clothes section before the frozen food or else you could risk your fish sticks defrosting.
4. Gymboree
Traditionally high-end price wise, but excellent quality. The trick to buying Gymboree is to buy on sale. They have some of the best sales in the industry. You can get in-season lines at half price. Sign up on-line to receive their newsletter and get information about up-coming sales. Gymboree clothes also have an incredibly good resale value on the Canadian on-line classified site, Kijiji.
Minnie's Best Bargain: Watermelon Picnic Line (this season) - 30% off
Minnie's Tip: As tempting as the bargains seem on-line take a pass. Even though the company is American, the clothes are made in foreign countries and you will have to pay duty on that. If you must order on line, add at least 30% for duty
that will come "payment due" before you are given your package. 2014-Some orders ship out of Canada now. Check with Gymboree before you order.
5. Church Bazaars/Mom to Mom Sales
Check your local paper for these. You will be amazed at the bargains to be had at these events. There is everything from handcrafted sweaters to gently used OshKosh overalls. Items vary from event to event so go with an open mind.
Minnie's Best Bargain: Hand Knit Fair Isle Cardigan - Size 3T - $7.00
Minnie's Tip: Bring cash. Credit and debit not normally accepted.
There is so much money to be saved when you stay away from the traditional discount department stores. Not only do you pay less money for higher quality clothing, your toddler won't be wearing the same outfit as all the rest of the kids on the playground. Keep an open mind and keep those pennies in the bank.
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