Several emails have landed in my inbox from parents looking for ways to get their teens geared-up for school for less. If you have a teen with a taste for fashion, then this one is for you!

Dear Kerry: How about a post on how to survive back to school shopping with a teenager? Teens just want to fit in and look cool but their stuff is bloody expensive! We were watching eBay for Uggs and most were into bidding wars that seemed to result in the same price as shopping at the mall! Help Kerry!

-- Kristina

Dear Kristina: You write that your daughter is doing a lot of chores at home hoping to earn enough for a pair of Uggs before school starts. Teen fashion can indeed be expensive, perhaps try a few of these tips when the online classified and auction sites (Craigslist.ca, Kijiji.ca, and eBay.ca) don't have the right deal for you.

1. Shop online for a better deal. Always go online and check if a retailer is offering a web-only sale. Many brand-name stores offer special coupons, free shipping, and deep discounts only available to online shoppers through their websites. Also, check out store Facebook pages -- many offer back-to-school deals for those connected online. See 5 ways Facebook can make you rich for a few shopping hints and tips.

2. Check out discount retailers. If you love to hunt and bargain shop then take your teen to any discount store with brand-name items (Winners anyone?) and see if your must-have item is in stock. It's possible to find the latest and coolest gear for up to 60 percent off retail prices.

3. Get a quality knock-off. When your teen isn't stuck on buying the brand-name jeans or boots, there's always a suitable knock-off on the market selling for far less. If your daughter loves Ugg boots, then why not check out EMU sheepskin boots -- they sell for 60 percent less!

4. Ask for a discount. Asking for a better deal on an advertised sticker price is free. It's possible to save a quick 10 percent by being polite and finding the right person to haggle with. See 5 ways to get a discount on anything for the cost-cutting details.

5. Save up and set a goal. Teens who set money goals and learn to save for that big dream item may grow into financially savvy adults who understand the value of a hard-earned dollar. Download this free Achieving Financial Goals Worksheet to track your teen's saving progress and mark off each milestone as she or he reaches it.

Your Turn: What's your trick for saving on teen fashion?