School uniform

[HappySunflower]

So, my baby is starting school in September!

I've started to look around in preparation for buying her uniform. I've never seen so many polyester dresses in my life. But they seem to be what most people recommend as washing and lasting well.
I think I've narrowed our choices down to BHS & M&S who both seem to sell nice looking stuff, though I do need to go and check them out properly.

I think I'm going to go for the zip up dresses which will be easier than the button up ones on PE days.
So, where do you buy your child's uniform from and do you have any particular recommendations?

Whatever you do, get loads of everything. When dd was younger I used to have a couple good outfits for the beginning of the week and spares just in case. Even if she came home covered in mud, paint or yoghurt every day I would have clean clothes without having to put a wash on just for 1 or 2 items (I hate the waste of water and electricity when you do that).

Our PTA always has a uniform stall at the summer fete and I stocked up with loads of stuff for next to nothing.

always get spares in 2nd hand sale (particularly if they wear blazers)
For older boys, the proper school trousers are worth buying and fit better (david luke etc)
Shirts - m&s & sainsburys are very good

I like Sainsburys and Asda for uniform, they always last well and fit nicely.

I've tried supermarket pinafores and regretted them. I found them thin and they need ironing crease easily. Same with cotton blouses. Ive always gone back to m&s. My dd often gets 18-24 months out of her pinafores and they still look great and good enough to pass on to dd2.

The only supermarket item of clothing I've bought year after year is Sainsburys gingham summer dresses.

Trutex stuff tends to be very durable and washes well. I get it from an independent school outfitters or online. I also prefer the look of the button pinafores and dresses, so I've taught dd to do buttons.

John Lewis stuff is nice quality and good for slim children.

M&s pinafores dresses all the way. They last really well and I like their long length for my dd1 as she is tall so they last longer