Cheap shopping for NYC kids

Cheap shopping for NYC kids

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• Photograph: Virginia Rollison55.ft.x476.unoppressivebook_0.jpg653793
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Six simple ways to save

1 Visit a sample sale
The lines may not be as long as the biannual Barneys Warehouse event (and we’re okay with that!), but Kidini’s thrice-yearly sample sales of children’s clothing should attract similarly avid fans. Next up: the spring/summer show (Tue May 11-Fri May 14 9:30am-7pm. 2 Great Jones St between Broadway and Lafayette St, first floor, 917-653-3643, kidiniclothes.com), which promises to have more than 3,000 pieces from designers like Ella Moss, Splendid, Small Paul by Paul Frank and Neige. And unlike the situation at many adult sample sales, the owners encourage little ones to try on the clothes—after the opening-morning crowds disperse. For future sale info, e-mail info@kidiniclothes.com to join the mailing list.

You can also join mailing lists for sites like Totsy (totsy.com), Mini Social (theminisocial.com) and Zulily (zulily.com). All will notify you of invite-only “flash sales”—they usually last anywhere from 48 to 72 hours—on specific brands for munchkins.

2 Stock up at the end of the season
Many of the city’s smaller boutiques literally have no room for last year’s merchandise. Stores like Ibiza Kids, Pink Olive and Mini Jake knock down the prices on their winter stock from January to March, and summer items from July to September. Ask to be added to e-mail newsletters—shop owners often announce insider sales and trunk shows.

3 Use twitter
Sign up for your favorite store’s feeds (type in the name on twitter.com); many shopkeepers tweet about sales, events and new inventory. Barnes and Noble Kids (BNKids) recently announced the arrival of the latest book in the popular “39 Clues” series, as well as a 20% discount on books. West Village boutique Estella (EstellaShop) has tweeted about new organic tees at the store.

4 Consider consignment shops
Yes, the clothing is gently used, but shops like Jane’s Exchange and Still Hip won’t accept items that look like the last kid lived in them for years. Plus, you can sell your own child’s outgrown togs for cash or store credit.

5 Take advantage of BOGO sales
Moms we spoke to swear by these deals. Big shoe chains like Payless and Stride Rite usually hold Buy One, Get One Free sales a few times a year. Tip: If you find a style your kid likes, buy one pair in the size he currently wears and another pair one size up.

6 Troll the blogosphere
Mommy blogs like Stroller Traffic and My Mom Shops post coupon codes and discounts. And don’t forget to check out the Discount Diva section of our blog for info on local sales.—Michelle Hainer