Tips for First Time Uniform Shoppers
Shopping for uniforms for the first time is an exciting experience. Whether you've got a toddler going to "big-kid school" for the first time, or simply transferring your student to a uniform-enforcing school, first-time uniform shopping is usually accompanied by big changes.
Of course, it always helps to be educated when you're new to this shopping experience, so we've put together a few tips to make your back-to-school shopping trip run as smooth as can be.
Make a plan. Before you set out to shop, make a plan beforehand so you'll know exactly what you need. If you can plan your student's weekly outfits ahead of time, you'll have an idea of how many items to purchase (saving you a trip to the uniform store later in the school year). Most schools' uniform items vary depending on gender and grade level, so make sure to take a look at your school dress code or handbook. Here are a few things to look out for while you're doing your research:
- How often your student will take P.E. class and whether they're required to dress out
- What colors are allowed for accessory items like socks, belts, and shoes
- Length requirement for items like skirts, skorts, and dresses
Get up-to-date on all the best back-to-school deals. Yes, everyone knows about tax-free weekend, but did you know there are back-to-school deals that top even that? Stay in-the-know by subscribing to email updates or following your shopping destinations on social media. Even if it's just for the back-to-school season, you'll find out about the best discounts early on, and you can always unsubscribe later.
Avoid high-traffic shopping days. This can be a little hard to do when you've got a busy schedule full of daily summer activities. But set aside a day to shop when you're almost guaranteed to get one-on-one service (we recommend a Wednesday or Thursday). Avoid shopping on the very last day of an in-store promotion or the week before school starts.
Don't wait until the last minute. This is our golden advice for anyone shopping for uniforms, but especially for you. It's in your best interest to shop in advance when inventory is most plentiful and there's time to place a special order if needed. For most kids, it's reassuring to know they're completely prepared for the first day of school.
Have fun! Remember that a new school means a lot of first-times. While it can be a busy season of transition, don't forget to make memories, take pictures, and pat yourself on the back for a great start to the school year!
