What to buy first on a small budget

Short answer: Start with what you wear every day and what sits closest to your skin. Underwear and socks give the most comfort for the money, because they are worn in every waking hour, while the rest of the wardrobe can wait until you need it.

Underwear first

Underwear is worn every day and in every waking hour, so this is where you notice the difference fastest. A soft fabric that fits well and does not dig in does more for you than a new jacket worn once a week. Start with five to seven pairs. See bamboo underwear for men.

Socks next

Socks wear out faster than anything else in the wardrobe, because the heel and toe rub against the shoe all day. They also affect comfort the most on a long day, especially if you walk a lot or stand at work. Buy several identical pairs. See all bamboo socks for men.

T-shirts

Two or three T-shirts in neutral colours cover a week when combined with what you already own. White, grey and black go with almost everything and work on their own or under a shirt or jumper. Choose a fit you know rather than experimenting on a tight budget. See bamboo T-shirts for men.

Seasonal items can wait

Base layers, shorts and thick jumpers can wait until the season is closer. Buy them too early and they sit in the cupboard for months, while the money could have gone on something you need now. Look instead at what is missing for the coming season, and buy it once you know your needs.

For women

The same order applies for women, so underwear first, then socks and finally tops. If you wear a bra or tops every day, they belong in the first round. Think about what you put on every morning without thinking, because that is where the money does the most good. See bamboo underwear for women.

Cost per wear

A garment worn daily for two years costs less per wear than something that only comes out a few times a year. Divide the price by the number of times you expect to wear it, and the comparison becomes fairer. The cheapest purchase is not always the one that costs least at the till. Read more in bamboo and economy.

Washing

Washing correctly can noticeably extend the life of your clothes, and it costs nothing. Wash at 30 to 40 degrees, turn garments inside out and let them air dry rather than using a tumble dryer. Avoid fabric softener, as it can leave a film on the fibres. See the full washing guide.

Buy few and good

Two good pairs that last are often cheaper per wear than five cheap ones that lose their shape after a few washes. It takes a little patience, because you buy fewer things at a time. In return you replace them less often, and the drawer fills with things you actually wear. See bamboo clothing for women.

Make a plan

Write down what you wear every week and what is already worn out. Then you can buy in the order that makes most sense and spread the cost over a few months. Start with what you feel every day, and let the rest follow as the budget allows. That way you avoid impulse purchases.

Frequently asked questions

What gives the most for the money?

Underwear and socks, because they are worn every day and closest to the skin. This is where you notice quality fastest, and they are used often enough to give a low cost per wear.

Should I buy expensive or cheap?

Choose by cost per wear rather than by the price on the label. A garment that lasts a long time and is worn often usually ends up being the cheapest choice.