BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – For parents, back-to-school shopping means balancing the needs of their kids with the needs of their wallet.
High school senior Isabella Ousikaitis was walking around University Mall looking for something to wear on her first day of school.
“Oh man, I’ve been thinking about it for the past week and I have no idea what to wear… I want to start this year fresh,” Ousikaitis said.
She hopes she can find it with Zumiez.
The clothing and skateboard store has been busy in recent weeks, with families shopping for deals like the “Outfit Builder” four-item item for $125.
“We have the hottest brands, we have things my parents wore when they were in high school, we have things the younger kids haven’t even heard of yet, so there’s a little bit of something for everyone here,” said Riley Williams of Zoomies.
Back-to-school shopping is a staple for retailers, with American parents expected to spend about $39 billion this year, according to the National Retail Federation.
In Vermont, 60% of households have already started shopping, according to Erin Sigrist of the Vermont Retail Grocers Association.
“With online retail and various sales happening throughout the summer, more people are starting to shop earlier, procrastinating and planning ahead,” Singrist said.
That increased spending is driving some shoppers to Plato’s Closet in Williston.
This thrift store prides itself on helping shoppers save money while also saving on clothing.
The Williston store alone has saved 4 million items from landfills since 2002.
“I think it’s really great and it’s also really convenient for parents to take their kids to one place and get all the brand name stuff they want,” Ellie Powell of Plato’s Closet said.
According to Platos staff, baggy pants, cargo shorts, graphic tees and oversized tees are the most popular items this year.
Jesse Stringer is looking for designer shoes for his sons on a budget.
“That’s a good place to start to see what’s out there so you can save a few dollars,” Stringer said.
St. Johnsbury Academy sophomores Katherine Zaiko and Effie Dunn are hoping to find some new clothes for the new year.
“The clothes are cheaper here than elsewhere. They’re second-hand. You can buy more. That means I have four wardrobes here,” Zajko said.
“I usually go for pastels and cool colours, but this time I’m trying to get out of my comfort zone, so I’m shopping with my girlfriend,” Dan said.
With brick-and-mortar and online stores competing for foot traffic, Vermont retailers are encouraging people to shop local back-to-school sales whenever possible.
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