AJ stands for Andrew Jackson, our 7th president. His reputation for toughness earned him the nickname "Old Hickory." A hero of the War of 1812, Jackson has appeared on the $20 bill since 1928.

Do you notice that clothing stores start back-to-school promotions about the time summer begins?

Why so early? It's a planned advertising approach that continuously sends the message that you'll need new clothes for school this fall.

And, of course, every store hopes that its displays will encourage you to do your shopping there.

Before dashing off to the stores, here are shopping tips to help you:

• Get the most for your money;
• Avoid filling your closet with clothes you'll rarely wear.

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Creative shopping ideas.

Creative Shopping Ideas

• Invite your friends to a clothes swap. Ask them to bring the clothes they've gotten tired of, for trade.

• If you want individuality, visit vintage stores for good deals on unusual clothing. You'll have a one-of-a-kind top instead of the same one as so many of your classmates.

• Use new accessories to update your old clothes. They don't cost as much.

• Watch for sales and discount coupons in the newspaper and mail.

• Shop the discount stores. You'll find your favorite brands at reduced prices.

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Even experts who shop for movie stars and pop singers don't rush into buying. They know it takes planning to decide the style, likes, and colors that fit their star's personality.

And it often takes major looking to find the right style at the right price.

Begin by flipping through magazines, noticing what your favorite TV actors or actresses are wearing. Check the attire of your big brother or sister.

Especially look at what your friends and people you admire are wearing. Then when you spot a "look" you like, study the colors, components, and accessories that make up that "look."

Ask yourself these questions:

• What styles and colors do I like?

• What type of clothing makes me feel most comfortable?

• What styles don't I like?

• What will go with what I already own?

• What looks good on me?

Another option is to go online to look for some of your favorite brands and check their styles before you hit the stores.

Choose carefully

Find clothes that fit your lifestyle. A frequent mistake is buying something just because it's "cool." And avoid the temptation to buy something just because it's on sale.

That sale shirt won't be much of a bargain if it doesn't match your clothing and ends up in the back of your closet.

Want a reminder of what it means to be out of fashion? Look at what was fashionable for gentlemen in France a while ago. Check out the site index for a great historical fashion show.

Shop with help

Make a list of what you want to buy before you head out to the shops. It'll reduce your temptation to buy something on impulse.

Remember, stores are arranged to encourage you to spend your money.

Go shopping with your mom or a friend who'll be honest about whether items look good on you or not.

Ask your parents to set a school clothes budget for you. And ask if you can make the buying decisions.

Remind them that if you do the choosing, you'll learn good buying habits and will probably be happier than having someone pick your clothing for you.

You'll learn as much from your mistakes as your wise selections.

Buy things that last

Buy clothes that won't go out of style quickly. Called "classics," these include loafers, black skirts and pants, long- and short-sleeved shirts, and solid color pullover, front-zip, or button sweaters.

Sure, you can invest in trendy clothes, but keep these purchases to a minimum. After all, fads fade quickly, and you may not want to be seen wearing stuff that's out of fashion next year.

Check for the look, but also check the quality. Always choose quality over quantity.

In most cases, one good shirt is worth more than two of lesser quality. If the color quickly fades or it unravels in the washing machine, you'll be disappointed.

Armed with these tips, have fun shopping!

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