What to Do With Old Special Occasion Wear

Many of us buy outfits for a special occasion for our children or ourselves never to be worn again. If the clothing is in good condition, you have a few options!

Donate It: There are several organizations that specifically accept special occasion wear to be passed on to people in need. Check out DonateMyDress.org and PrincessProject.org if you have dresses to donate. I could not find any specific organizations for donating boys suits, but places like Goodwill and the Salvation Army will take them. You can also check with your local school to see if they have any clothing drives, and if they don't consider organizing one!

Hand It Down: Contact friends and family to see if anyone can use your item. If you belong to a local group (such as a moms club) post that you have an item for giveaway or trade.

Barter It: I have found trading items with other moms to be a valuable resource. You may no longer need that flower girl dress, but you might need a boys suit for an upcoming event that another mom no longer has a use for.

Sell It: You can make some money towards your new clothes by reselling the item on sites like Ebay or Craigslist.

Reuse It: If you know a seamstress or are handy with a sewing machine yourself, consider altering the garment to make it more appropriate for casual wear.

Now it's time to go through your closet - and don't forget your kids as well! What is sitting collecting dust could be helping someone else or putting a little extra cash in your wallet.