Here at the Orlando Mom Blog, we know how to save money. You know that moment when your kid walks out wearing pants that look like they’ve time-traveled from last year’s closet? Blanca did that last week. She came downstairs, ankles fully out, looking like she was starring in a ‘90s sitcom. Patrick thought it was hilarious—until I reminded him his shirts are starting to look like crop tops. Kids grow faster than my laundry pile, and that’s saying something.
So, naturally, I went on a mini shopping mission around Port St. Lucie. Not the “let’s spend a whole paycheck” kind of trip—more like, “let’s find cute clothes that survive recess and spaghetti night.”
Once Upon a Child
If you haven’t been here yet, oh mama, go. It’s one of those magical places where you can trade in the clothes your kids have outgrown and buy newer ones for next to nothing. I found Blanca a pair of Justice jeans (that actually fit this time!) and Patrick a pile of graphic tees for under $20 total. It’s a little hit-or-miss, but that’s part of the fun. Kind of like thrifting, but with fewer broken toys to step over.
Target (Yes, I’m Predictable)
I can’t not mention Target. Their Cat & Jack line has me in a chokehold. Everything’s soft, cute, and doesn’t fall apart after two washes. Plus, they’ll literally replace anything that rips or stains within a year. I tested that policy—Patrick versus grass stains, round one—and they honored it. Bless them.
Marshalls and Ross
You have to dig a little, but if you’re patient (or have a coffee in hand), you can score some serious deals. Blanca’s been obsessed with anything sparkly lately, and I found a sequin hoodie for $9.99 that made her light up like a Christmas tree. Patrick, of course, only wanted basketball shorts. Again.
Thrift Shops with Personality
If you like a little treasure hunting, check out the Goodwill on Gatlin. I once found a practically new Columbia jacket there for $6. SIX DOLLARS. I may have done a small victory dance in the aisle. The staff pretended not to notice, which I appreciated.
Walmart for Basics
Okay, so it’s not glamorous, but those $5 plain tees and leggings are lifesavers. I grab a few every season. Perfect for school days, art projects, or when Patrick decides he’s going to “practice sliding” on the sidewalk again.
Honestly, the trick isn’t just where to shop—it’s keeping your sense of humor while you do it. Between Blanca’s fashion critiques (“Mom, that’s soooo 2023”) and Patrick hiding in the clothes racks, it’s always an adventure.
And maybe that’s the best part. These little shopping trips are our chaos-filled bonding moments—me with my coffee, them with their opinions, and all of us trying to agree on one pair of shoes. Affordable or not, that’s priceless.