F&F School uniform feedback thread - £250 Tesco voucher prize draw! NOW CLOSED

[MichelleMumsnet]

This thread is for the 100 MNers who have been trying out the F&F school uniform range.

Here's what they say about the range: "Every year we work tirelessly to improve on our schoolwear range, to ensure you get even better value for money and higher quality compared to the previous year. To enable us to do this we rely heavily on the feedback from all of you - the mums! This year, we have some new key features that we’re really excited to share with you and look forward to hearing your thoughts”

Below are a couple of questions for you to answer, but please also feel free to add any other comments you may also have.

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

Everyone who leaves their feedback will be entered into a prize draw where one Mumsnetter will win a £250 Tesco voucher.

Thanks,

MNHQ

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

I spent £53.00

I bought scuff resistant shoes for both DS1 (12) and 2(9)
Shorter length pleat trousers for DS1
2 pack of school trousers for DS2
2 pack of sports shorts for DS2
7 pairs of Antibacterial socks for DS2

Looks like good value for money on unpacking but only wear, wash and tear will tell the real story.
If I'm back before the end of the week with a complaint then no, no where near value for money at all. Same if I'm back before the end of October - Sometime next year....probably consider it average value.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

Don't have girls so didn't look at or buy the pinafores but did buy the (boys) shoes.
DS1 wasn't too impressed with the riptape; why no lace up option for "adult" sizing? (DS1 is an adult size 5)

DS2 likes the riptape but not too keen on wearing shoes in general: prefers boots or trainers, but was willing to wear them today.

No complaints from either on return from school - no blisters, lifting inner sole (huge problem normally for DS1 due to his toe first rather than heal first gaite) or pinching, so considered a success in chez Kahuna Oh, and no scuffs either.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

Matched my expectations but I would still like to see a higher cotton quality trouser made available: 20% cotton is hardly worth it.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

The shorter length trousers are a fab fit for DS1.

The "standard" trousers are ok on length but way too large on the waist for DS2.
I didn't notice any "adjustable waistband" options when ordering but I was so confused by the multiple same description items available on the website that I may have missed them as I was concentrating more on clicking on the right colour (very important for both schools) than anything else.
The multiple same item/descriptions seemed to be related to colour options only - why don't F&F use the same principle as just about every other supplier and give one item/description then have size and colour options available to select on the next page....much simpler for the purchaser.

Again, the sports shorts I purchased age 9-10 for my 9Yr 8mth old were way too big - they fit my 12 year old. As with the trousers; no adjustable waist band - EVERY single other pair of sports shorts I have EVER purchased in the past have had a draw string waistband... was NOT expecting these shorts to have a non adjustable waistband at all!

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?

No, I used the standard home delivery option. This is my preferred method of delivery and I would use it again - goods arrived within 48 hours of ordering.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

Maybe, but I would strongly recommend that they purchased in store though - try the clothes first - especially the trousers/shorts for waist and length fit as my experience with this trial has shown that "standard age (X-Y ) sizing" is anything but the normal "standard" delivered by an equivalent price range store - Asda, Matalan and M&S seem to have more realistic age range sizing IMO.

sorry can I just add - with the shoes and black plimsoles my 6 year old is just going into a size 2. now I realise she is unusually tall for her age so has big feet but black plimsoles seem hard to come by in sightly larger sizes so it is worth considering selling them.

With regards to school shoes. I did get her some 'other' black shoes from the school shoes link but I would have liked her to have the more usual velcro strap clarks style shoes as she is so young but once you need bigger than a 12 the styles become a bit too 'trendy' for a child her age in my opinion so I would prefer the more classic simple style to be available in a larger range of sizes.

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?
I spent £54.50 on:
1x pair of size 3 scruff resistant girls' shoes
2x age 10-11 black pleated skirts
2x packs of 40 denier tights
2x pack of 2 white blouses (long sleeve)
The value for money is good, especially when you consider that just a pair of shoes can set you back that much.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?
I really liked the shoes, they seem good quality and are quite stylish. DD doesn't think they are stylish enough though. DD won't wear a pinafore and has refused to do so since she was 6. It's a shame, I love them. But what do I know? :)

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?
The quality seems fine but only time will really tell. I'll post back next week as DD has school until next Tuesday.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?
The skirts were massive. I ordered a size smaller as DD is quite slim but even with the adjustable waist they are really big, falling down big. To get them tight enough they are too bunched up at the waist. DD isn't really tiny so I was shocked at how big the skirt was on her. I will exchange them but am worried that if i go down another size they will get a bit too short.

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?
I used home delivery as my nearest store is in the opposite direction to work so was worried about finding time to collect. They delivered within 2 days but the parcel was left on my doorstep. Luckily a neighbour spotted them and took it in.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, I probably would, especially the shoes. I prefer to have the children try things on though, buying shoes online is always a risk.

Thanks for including us in the product test, I'll come back once things have been washed and worn a bit more.

I have placed my order to collect tomorrow. I spent £51.00 which seems great value for the amount if things I ordered.
I got the scuff resistant shoes for dd and a pack of polo shirts. I got a pack of polo shirts for dd2. I got 2 short and 2 long sleeved shirts and two pairs of trousers for Ds.

The site was very easy to navigate and order things. I ordered the girls polo shirts a size up as I found they were on the small side last year.

Will be back in tomorrow when I collect them , thanks.

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

I bought 2 packs of 5 polo shirts, 6 pairs of boys trousers, two jersey pinafores, a pair of girls scuff resistant shoes - this cost £51 pounds. I think that is good value for money.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

I wanted to purchase the stain resistant pinafores, but when I shopped online they didn't have them in black, only blue and grey - which is no good for us. I got a jersey pinafore instead -in 6-7. This wasn't a great fit as it was to wide around the middle and perhaps at little too short, once she has another grow it'll be too short and not last the year. (But this may be down to my girl being taller than average and skinny.)

The scuff resistant shoes looked good, better than they looked online and they were approved by my very fussy little girl as they had a bow on them! I bought a size 12 as she has been in an 11 for most of the year. However they look very narrow, and when she tried them on, they were only just fitting on the width. If you a child with normal sized feet these would be ok. I think the comfy fit around the ankle/heel looked nice.

I didn't buy the scuff resistant shoes for my boy - he's never fit any shoes other than a proper g/h fitting.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

The uniform was lovely - the polo shirts were great value and the trousers were also good quality.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

Ensure there is a full range of sizes and colours available for online shopping. I wasn't able to buy some of the things I wanted because of this.

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?

Yes - click + collect is very useful as you don't have to wait in for a package, delivery is free and they keep it for 14 days so you don't have too hurry to much to pick it up.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes I would - the delivery was good, even though we had the voucher the prices were good and for me uniform shopping is mainly about price and these were good value.

Following up my earlier post, I can see that some subsequent posters are commenting on the website, so I thought I would give my opinion too!

Boys trousers - there are lots of pleat front trousers. But no descriptions that actually say flat front. Why not have one picture of the pleat front, and a description below that which says something like 'short length and long length available' as well as small squares showing which colours they are are available in?

There are no boys school shorts (not sports shorts) there at all. My DS wears short trousers for at least September, so it would be nice to have this option to purchase in July.

There are no grey boys school socks, only black.

There are no boys briefs in sizes for 4 or 5 or 6 or 7 year olds. I don't know of any boys this age who wear trunks, so please stock those sizes in briefs.

Please consider stocking a better quality boys trousers option. If you are trying to compete with M and S, they stock a range of quality trousers which vary in price. I always buy ones that contain wool, as they are warmer for winter, last longer, stay smart and wash brilliantly well. If you are only looking to compete with Asda etc, then I can understand you deciding not to stock a more expensive option.

I didn't buy the shoes as you don't have width sizes. My eldest son does need the extra width.

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

£52 on uniform for one boy.
Polo shirts, socks, trousers, shoes, jumper and zip up hooded top.
I thought it was all very good value, I struggled to spend the £50. I wanted to buy shorts though and couldnt find any except some really horrid looking polyester PE shorts. The strange thing was that the boy on the homepage picture was wearing some, but they weren't for sale.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?
My son is size 8 and the smallest size of shoes was 9. I brought some 9 for him to grown into but that means I can't really test the wear or fit yet. They look pretty sturdy and quite smart. There is a line of glue which has pushed up from around the sole which makes them look cheap, but then they are so that's not a complaint. Comfort and wear are the important things and if these are fine I would certainly buy them again.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?
The poloshirt, socks, shoes, and hooded top were all totally fine and I would buy them again. The jumper looked very smart but I would usually buy a wool jumper because I don't think cotton is warm enough (DS would never agree to wear a jumper unless it was freezing, and then what's the point of one more layer of cotton?). The trousers looked a bit nylony and the bum looked very odd and gathered when I had made the waist small enough to fit DS. He is slim, but not skinny, and trousers usually look ok on him.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

More choice in navy would have been good for us. I needed navy socks but had to buy the mixed pack with other colours we don't need. If there had been some cotton underwear trunks in plain colours in small sizes I would have brought them.

The website seriously needs some work! Clicking on next page or on any of the filters didn't work on my computer so I ended up ordering from the mobile site on my phone. That worked better, but it was annoying having to look past the same thing again and again. Items need to be just listed once, with an option to then choose the colour.

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?
No, I prefer home delivery. I live quite a long way from the nearest tescos.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, for poloshirts, and possibly for shoes.

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?
I got riptape scuff resistant boys shoes, polo shirts, sweatshirts, boys trousers, girls bootleg trousers, girls culottes, PE stuff and socks. I spent the £50 and then realized I needed extra polo shirts and did another top up order, so £65 in the end! Overall it is good value for money. (see below). I really wanted to get grey shorts – both girls and boys as mine wear these now and will do in September if warm – none listed at all?

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?
I did not get the girls ones as the scallop shoes are a bit girly for my daughter and not leather (unlike the boys ones). I only get leather as they stretch better and their feet get very hot. I got the boys riptape ones size 9 but they are a bit big as yet for my son – there were no smaller sizes. I looked again today but there are now only size 10s. I will feedback on performance once worn in Sept / Oct. I was not too keen on the design, but they better than expected. They look a bit plastic which is probably the coating – but they look sturdy with tough soles. If they last, I will be happy to get again at the price.

I did not get pinafores as my daughter flatly refuses to wear one and we still have last year’s unworn M&S ones. I went to have a look at them on line, but could not work out which ones they were – is it the permanent pleat ones??

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?
The shoes yes – pending actually being tested in the playground next term.
Sweat shirts – yes and no. I bought the equivalent ones 2 years ago (80% cotton not 60%). They were definitely thicker and warmer 2 years ago (I still have them so compared).
Having said that school is hot inside and I would use them in spring and autumn. They are much thinner than the school logo one.
Girl’s trousers – bootleg. I got sent a short length and normal length one. I ordered two normal length. I will keep both and one fits and one to grown into. They are thick and the Teflon coating is useful. They feel a bit stiff and hard, but I will wash and then see. They are much thicker than last years tailored M&S ones. The fit is fine. The only down side is the lack of pockets – my daughter loves having pockets! Luckily her school logo cardi has pockets, so that will have to do. Good for £3 though.
It’s hard to order the right length as the size guide does not tell you what the short, long and normal lengths are.
Boys pleat front – 2 different types. They are a bit bum baggy for a skinny boy, but this is not uncommon. They are also different colours – one is a lighter grey, which was what I was after. I looked on store too – the grey is very dark for most of them and more charcoal than grey. They look good for the price of £3.50.

White PE T shirts – thinnish but at only £1 each they are great for indoor PE.

Navy ‘boys’ PE shorts - love these and we keep as spares as they are not actually the right colour for us. I don’t see why they are listed as ‘boys’ however as this is the style all the girls wear at our school (same as I don’t see why the navy hoodie is ‘girls’ ?!?!?)
Polo shirts – had these last year (yellow /gold) and they faded after a few months. I still used them, but the colour did lesson. It’s hard to get cheap gold polos, as opposed to pale yellow. They are 100% cotton, which many people like, but they are a pain to iron compared to mixed fabric ones. The upside is that at 2 for £2 they were practically disposable. I got the ‘As New technology ones’ this time so I hope these last better and will see how they iron.
Culottes – big disappointment. These are a lot thinner and flimsier than M&S ones (or even ASDA ones). They are ok for summer, but not for winter. They are thin polyester mix. I still have M&S ones from last year and ended up getting some new. The F&F ones are ½ the price of M&S, but not at all warm. They are pretty long, so may last till next summer.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

Girls shoes that are less flowery and are leather. Girls culottes more suitable for winter. Pockets in girls trousers and culottes. Shorts for girls as I am not sure tesco do any except PE ones.

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?
Yes its very handy as nearest Tesco is 5mins from us.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes overall as inexpensive – but need to see how it lasts yet really. I do tell people about the cheap gold polos as they get ruined so fast at school – I have never had some of the stuff before, so I will if I think it lasts.
Please keep thread open until at least end of Oct as we only have a week of term left now. Son is in grey shorts/polo and daughter in grey shorts/polo or summer dresses at present, so no chance to try out the sweatshirts or trousers etc until next term.

I have now read some of the other comments and would add/agree

1. shoe width - was concerned about this as I am not sure they will definitely fit my G/H boy. I am estimating they are a G but will have to see how they fit when he grows into them. They look around a clarks G.
2. lines of glue on the riptape shoes...thought it was just me that would notice this. They look fine on and it will get hidden by mud.
3. trying to order boys trousers on line - again, thought it was just me that got incredibly confused with loads of different 'pleat front' trousers.

I was trying to go back and see which ones they were to put in my feedback, but gave up as I couldn't figure it out. I prefer mid grey but most are very dark.

1. I also have one pair of trousers with a big dirty mark on the leg. I am hoping it just washes out. It looks like a dirty water mark.

Will add more as I find it.

I'll be back to leave more feedback in a few days once the items have been properly put to the test but wanted to give my initial impressions about what we bought / value for money / order and delivery process etc:

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

We bought boys anti-scuff shoes (£16), then 2 packs of 2 pairs boys trousers, 1 pack of 5 polo shirts and 1 pack of 2 polo shirts, then a pack of girls socks. Came to a little over £50 which we thought was AMAZING VALUE for ALL that stuff! We'd normally spend over £40 just on a pair of shoes from a shoe shop.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

Will be back to answer once worn for a bit longer.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

So far very impressed. Everything at least as good quality if not better than more expensive items I've bought elsewhere in the past. Will definitely be buying items again in future.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

Couldn't find any boys school shorts other than sports shorts. Grey school shorts would be a useful addition.

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?

We made sure we pushed the order to over £50 to get free delivery. Just makes it easier. If we only needed one item - i'd consider click and collect to save on postage costs.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

Definitely. Easy to order. Speedy delivery. Great Quality and AMAZING VALUE FOR MONEY!!!

Will be back soon with more feedback on the shoes specifically. So far they look and 'feel' good!

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

I bought loads :o
1 x girls scuff resistant shoes
1 x boys scuff resistant shoes
2 x packs of white tshirts for PE
1 x stain resistant pleated skirt
1 x stain resistant girls trousers
1 x stain resistant girls pinafore
2 x burgundy cardigans
2 x packs of boys grey socks
1 x PE joggers for DD - I thought I'd ordered black but have ended up with navy instead, am keeping them regardless though as I think they're dark enough to get away with...

The whole lot cost me £70, which considering I'd normally have spent £80 just on the shoes is a bit of a bargain IMO.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

Overall I'm impressed with the shoes, although they haven't had much chance to actually get scuffed yet...DD likes hers and says they're comfortable - she's only worn them today but first impressions are good.

DS1 loves his, spent most of yesterday wearing school socks, school shoes, and (spiderman in case it's important) pants although I did manage to convince him to add shorts and tshirt to his overall ensemble for preschool today :o

The only stain resistant pinafore available in the colour we needed (grey) is too big for DD at the moment - she'll grow into it eventually but I can't comment on it as yet - DD wore the stain resistant skirt to school today though, and so far so good!

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

Yes, the skirt & trousers seem good quality, I like the adjustable waist on them as DD is a skinny minny and generally stuff falls down on her unless I alter it. I'll have to report back on how it stands up to repeated washing, as DD breaks up at the end of this week.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

The only thing I wasn't terribly impressed by was the lack of sizing on some items online - the shoes I wanted for DD weren't available in her size, and there were virtually no grey pinafores at all although there seemed to be plenty of navy ones in all sizes. Having said that, the shoes she's ended up with look great and compare favourably to the Clarks ones we normally get for her.

Re shoes, I would love to see T-bar style girls shoes, that give better foot coverage, especially for the winter - it's mad that boys shoes are proper, sturdy, and completely cover their feet whereas girls are mostly stuck with massive holes across the top of their feet which get soaked as soon as it rains/snows. Not particularly a criticism of Tesco though, since I've failed to find anything that style at all so far.

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?

I didn't use Click & Collect, I qualified for free delivery to my home since the order was over £50. I would far rather get stuff delivered to my house, as the closest Tesco to me is an Express one with no parking and it's always a hassle to collect stuff from them - I've done it before, and everyone seems rather vague and it takes ages for someone to disappear out the back, find my stuff, and bring it back with them.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

I'd definitely recommend the shoes - DD's were a quarter of the price we'd normally pay, and DS1's seem very sturdy. Both have decent soles on them, which is important as we walk nearly a mile to school and back in all weathers - DD usually wears through the soles on her shoes before she grows out of them.

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

I bought the following:
1 pack of short sleeved shirts
1 pack of long sleeved shirts
2 pairs of trousers
1 skirt
2 pinafore dresses
5 pairs of knee length socks
3 pairs of tights

I spent about £65.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

I was disappointed to be unable to order the scuff resistant shoes in DD's size. The pinafores look good, and seem to be well made. I probably won't be able to test exactly how stain resistant they are until September as we only have a week left of school.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

Yes, the quality seems good, at first glance the items all look better made and sturdier than our usual Asda stuff. Again, it is difficult to comment too much on the quality with such a short amount of time left at school. I will be interested to see how well the items last after lots of wear/washing.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

There were no school shorts/culottes available, which was a bit disappointing as DD would've loved some new ones. Also no shoes in her size, so perhaps a bit more stock available next time?

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?

No, I had the items delivered to my house. My nearest Tesco is a long walk so it is more convenient for me to have them delivered.

Q6 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

Going by first impression, yes I would recommend them. They are very reasonably priced and appear to be good quality. I would like to see if they pass the test of time though, as I think durability is what most people look for in school uniform. I like to buy everything I need in September, at the start of the school year, and expect everything I buy to last the academic year.

Q1: I bought
6 buy 1 give 1 polos
6 vests
2 pairs of trousers
2 pinafores
1 pair of scuff resistant shoes with buckles
It cost £50.50 in total

Q2 the pinafore looked great quality, nice size and good material. I was disappointed that the shoes weren't leather but they looked decent enough.

Q3 The quality of the uniform far exceeded my expectation. My only point to note is the sizing is on the generous size and the trousers especially are very long.

Q4 I like the buy one give one options and would like to see it across the range

Q5 I did use click and collect and would definitely use it again. I work full time and like that collection is at a time to suit me and I don't have to arrange time off work to wait in for a delivery

Q6 without a doubt I would recommend F&F school uniform

I totally 110% agree with this comment - 'I would love to see T-bar style girls shoes, that give better foot coverage, especially for the winter - it's mad that boys shoes are proper, sturdy, and completely cover their feet whereas girls are mostly stuck with massive holes across the top of their feet which get soaked as soon as it rains/snows. Not particularly a criticism of Tesco though, since I've failed to find anything that style at all so far'.

My daughter cycles to school so have decided that she is trying out her brothers new boys shoes (which are too big for him!). I often have ended up getting her boys shoes to go with her trousers as she hates her feet getting soaked.

Am I the only one who is disappointed there are no pockets in the girls uniform - trousers, skirts, culottes?

Dd wore one of her new stain resistant skirts today - she spilt milk on it just as we were leaving the hose, and it all wiped clean off! Good!!

Marking place. Should be able to collect order tonight.

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

I ordered

2 girls' cardigans
1 teflon coated pinafore
2 jersey pinafores (1 was cancelled)
1 kilt skirt
2 packs of 2 polos
girls' plimsoles
Girls scuff resistant shoes

for 53.5£. So very good value for the money.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

The shoes looks good and fits well. They have been used for a second day today and I will come back later to say they fare with time. For the money they still looked new and seems to be quite comfortable.

The teflon coated pinafore came back with food stains that were just easy to wipe off the surface for another use today. I am hoping for paints stains too see how easy it is to clean.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

Actually the quality was a bit better than expected, except the kilt which feel a bit cheap and synthetic.
Really impressed with the shoes at 10 £ and which manage too look less tatty than Clarks.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?
The sizing is quite wide, I have a tall but thin daughter and she is a bit swamp in her pinafore. May be introduce a slim fit?

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?
Yes I did, I have used it before and will use it again. It was quick and on time.
However I would have like the opportunity to change my order rather than just one items being cancelled. I would have taken another pinafore or another size instead.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes i would! Both pinafore looks good, the quality of the polo and the shoes are very good. I was happy with the cardigan last year but seeing the new one makes me realised how faded it is at the end of the year. Hoping the as-new technology will help keeping its colour a bit better this year.

BeCool
DD2 complained about the no pocket in the pinafore I told her that teachers don't like children fiddling with their pocket and hiding treasures.

Must be just girls the teachers don't like fiddling then LeMous.

I can imagine there would be some seriously negative comments here if the boys shorts and trousers didn't have pockets as standard.

I don't know that I have ever seen a grey pinafore with pockets - but DD's previous skirts, trousers & culottes (all M&S) all have pockets.

I'm going to be awkward and answer in two separate messages! My ds's are in the process of product testing at the moment and I'll come back with more detail of that after a few more days, but I wanted to have a rant respond to a couple of the questions straight away!

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

I bought 2 pairs of boys scuff resistant shoes; a pack of white PE T-shirts, white PE socks, black school socks and a school coat. However, I only bought some of these as what I really wanted to buy was not available/suitable and I felt the choice was too limited.

I wanted to buy a black v neck jumper for my ds - the only black jumper available was a roundnecked sweatshirt which the shool will not accept. There are V-necked jumpers in quite a few other colours just not black, which seemed a bit of a missed opportunity to me.

I wanted to but white shirts for both boys but they were predominantly polyester rather than cotton and I didn't fancy that much for two sweaty boys!

I wanted to buy leather shoes, but there werent any boys leather shoes available in their sizes. In actual fact there was only one choice of shoe for either of them available in their size.

I ended up buying a coat and tee shirts that we don't need just to make the 50 up as it would not let me spend less. And i had to add 1.50 on to the voucher in the end.

The prices were very cheap, but I would have preferred to pay more for leather shoes and cotton shoes rather than have the man-made (and potentially smelly!) fabrics.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?
I'll come back to you on this one!

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?
So far the quality is what I expected. Good for the price. A bit more wear and washing needed yet to be sure how they'll hold up long term.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?
More natural fibres needed and maybe a national survery of required colours? I'm not sure how viable that is!

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?
Not on this occasion, although I have used it in the past and it's great and really convenient.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?
At the moment I'd say that the prices were good but the choice is limited.

Thank You for picking me!

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

I bought 4 iron free school shirts, two pairs of trousers (adjustable waist), 1 pair of scuff resistant shoes, 51.50 - I think that it good value considering that includes a pair of shoes.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

I really liked the shoes that were ordered and so did my son. My only comment was that they were completly black inside so I had no where to label them. My son has wide feet and these fitted him well.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

I was really pleased with the quaity of the clothes. I am impressed with the shirts and can't think why I would ever buy shirts that need ironing again! I love the adjustable waist on the trousers as my youngest son is very slim and they always need tightening.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

Please put a white tag in the shoes so I can label them. Also My first choice in trousers was out of stock in the sizes I wanted which was a bit frustrating.

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?

No I didn't as my order was over 50 so was free delivery. I would use click and collect if it was under.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes definately. I normally pay a ridiculous amount of money at clarkes for shoes and these ones seem just as good. I was also pleased with the quality of the clothes and they don't break the bank. School uniform shopping was a lot less stressful this year!

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?

I spent £51.
I got 2 different styles of trouser- bootleg, and grosgrain bow shorter length.
selection on polo shirts for both dd's.
Wasn't able to get pinafores - so ordered permanent pleat skirt (2) and pack of '2 pack pleated skirts'
1 pair scallop punch hole scuff resist shoes.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?

Couldn't get the pinafores in dd2's size- dd1 won't wear them.

The shoes seem excellent quality for the price. Very sturdy, and a nice design without being overly fussy. DD2 has worn them for nursery (and in the garden) and they have kicked footballs and climbed the school climbing frame. Unlike previous 'cheaper' shoes at this stage, there are no marks on them. Unlike her old pair, that I have been colouring in with a black marker pen I have previously bought the Asda equivalent scuff resistant shoes, which lasted until grown out of- these seem better quality than those, so am pleased.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?

The permanent pleat skirts were washed before they weer worn just to tet the 'permanence' - and they have kept their shape. They seem to have coped with the climbing frame, and the paint has washed off them too

The bootleg trousers look very sturdy- but unfortunately do not fit dd1 very well- I find the waist on girls trousers small, and on boys , too large (we seem to need it the other way around). The grosgrain bow trousers feel a bit flimsy- probably ok for summer use, and on days where they would not be doing a lot outdoors. They crease quite a bit when washed. Again- didn't fit too well, (daughter's shape, rather than fault with trouser, i think)but will keep for dd2 (who seems a different shape to her sister)

Polo shirts washed well- but have yet to be subjected to paint

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?

The shoes are great, but maybe a better selection of the scuff resist - dd1 (who is 8 in August) felt most of the styles were too 'young' and the only style that she liked, didn't have her size (started bigger).

A much bigger selection of pinafores need to be available online, in the smaller sizes- couldn't get size 4-5 in any of the stain resist styles. At the dcs school, the 'junior' girls (7+) tend to wear skirts. (sadly, as pinafores keep the polo shirts clean for longer!)

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?

Have used Click and Collect before, it is very convenient, however, I was told I couldn't exchange sizes there (had to send items back for exchange) which was frustrating as the store had other sizes in stock. And pinafores!

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?

Definitely- especially the shoes. Really good price, and (early days) but seems well made, with a good sole.
i usually buy from Asda and Sansburys as they are more local, and for the prices- but certainly the polo shirts (which I seem to replace a lot) look good, and are very well priced.

I also noticed today that the boys shoes are completly black inside so I had no where to label them before school. I have sticky name labels so will use these, but prefer to write the name inside.

Raahh - that is odd re exchange, as I have exchanged Click & Collect items before, no problem. Some one else posted that they were offered a refund but not an exchange - all very odd Tesco!

If some one can invent a polo shirt that resists red school paint then they will be a millionaire in no time

its Yes- red paint, and tomato-based food stuffs.

re-the exchange, I don't know if it was just this particular branch (or staff member) but she claimed her till didn't have a button just 'to exchange'.

I've worked in retail a long time, and dealt with Jl click and collect- we never had a problem exchanging goods in store, purchased on line.

Q1 Which items from the range did you buy and how much did you spend? Would you say this was good value for money or not?
I spent £52 and bought stacks! I was very impressed with value for money. I bought:
F&F School Boys Joggers with As New Technology
F&F 2 Pack of Boys Pleat Front School Trousers
F&F Girls Star Fob School Trousers (2 sizes)
F&F Boys Pleat Front School Trousers
F&F School Scuff Resistant Brogues
F&F Girls Jersey School Trousers
and some underwear.

Q2 In particular, what did you think about the scuff resistant shoes and stain resistant pinafores?
I thought the sizing of the shoes was generous - they fitted me! They're a bit clunky and dd thought they were hard and stiff in the heel. They certainly seem sturdy.

Q3 Did the overall quality of the school uniforms match your expectations? If so, how? If not, why not?
The joggers are great and fit my skinny son well. The school trousers are large around the waist - I'm glad to see all the school trousers I bought have adjustable waists.
The girls' trousers seem suited to slim, leggy types - dd1's fitted well but dd2's were too tight in the legs. As teens are so different, perhaps it's better to use ladies' sizing rather than age. They were thinner material than our other Trutex trousers.

Q4 Do you have any other feedback that could help F&F improve their schoolwear again next year?
Not all sizes were available - for example I needed plimsolls but only tiny sizes were available. Rather than Age 5-6 etc, the website named their sizes as Year 5-6, which I thought was confusing... a Year 6 child and an Age 6 child is quite different!

Q5 Did you use Click + Collect Delivery service? If so, would you use to again, or not? Is it your preferred method of delivery?
No, I had the parcel delivered as it quaified for free delivery.

Q5 Finally, if it came up in conversation would you recommend F&F schoolwear range to friends or family? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, as it's good value and they styles were palatable to all. Even my fussy teenage dds liked their black trousers!

Thanks you for including me in this survey -everyone is pleased with at least one item and we're more ready for September than we've ever been!