Non-essential shops in the UK opened recently for the first time since mid-March. Since then, there have been stories of flocks and floods of people queuing outside - come rain or shine - to browse and treat themselves to something new for less.

There have been clear trends in the type of store that people are queuing outside as the nation prepares to be released from lockdown. Typically, these shops will have been budget-friendly and do not have online versions of their stores.

If you are living in a vulnerable household or are at-risk yourself, you’re likely to be reluctant to go out to the high street to get something new. However, we know that budgets are tight at the minute and we all look forward to something new so we have put together some top tips to get cheaper clothing, without having to go in store.

Voucher Codes

Currently there are great sales in stores because stocks from the winter are still available. However you can still shop online for much less with promotions. You don’t have to wait for items you want to go into seasonal sales and stocks to thin before you can buy at a lower price, even for the biggest brands.

There are huge savings to be had with online voucher codes for a full spectrum of brands; from Nike Promos to Raybans Discounts to luxury beauty brands. Simply search online for the best codes and either apply at the checkout or use the discounted portal to use.

You should note that sometimes these discounts have limits to how much you can spend (typically up to around £500) and you will need to shop on the brand website. However, this is one of the best way to get premium, quality items and accessories for less.

Use Try Now Pay Later Options 

One of the biggest pitifuls of shopping online is having to order multiple sizes or similar styles with the intention of sending half the options back. This can mean that money is out of your account when you’ve got scheduled outgoings.

Many retailers now offer buy now pay later schemes which mean that you won’t pay for items if they are returned within the first 28 days. Although this doesn’t make your clothes any cheaper it can just keep your cash flow fluid whilst you shop online.

And as an added bonus, you get to try clothes in your own time and see what you like in flattering lighting (which never happens in store). You can also try different outfits with your existing wardrobe to see which pieces are going to integrate best and you’re going to get the most wear out of - ensuring you’re only buying the bits you’ll use.

Use Second Hand Platforms

This isn’t an option for everyone as it can be labour intensive, but new items can work out much much cheaper.

Online platforms and apps such as DePop, PreLoved, Vinted and eBay all list tonnes of amazing clothes for less. There are platforms for every price point (eBay is most often the cheapest with hidden gems) and Vinted or PreLoved tend to the most luxurious, higher end or vintage pieces.

When shopping on these platforms, you don’t actually have to be buying second hand. You can filter by new items with tags still on or brand new releases.

Look Up Hacks

Although it might not be getting ‘brand new’ clothes, if you know what pieces you’re looking for you can search for the hottest hacks to make new clothes. There are tonnes of upcycling and thrift-flipping videos and ideas online.