Page 5 | NOW CLOSED Talk to M&S about their schoolwear and win one of two £100 M&S giftcards

zipzap · 21/06/2012 23:52

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.
Combination of price, quality, durability, and fit. Style not so important - probably because I have young boys - but only in so far as I expect 'classic' schoolboy trousers, I don't want to pay extra for naff detailing that I don't want!

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?
Mixture of online and in store. Have to get logo-ed items from John Lewis and they now only do online ordering for them. I usually pick stuff up when I am passing and have spotted your 'Back to School' promotion on (although I was pleased to see that this year it wasn't tagged with back to school given that it started before even the summer half term had started, let alone the summer holidays. Mind you I'm an old gimmer that fondly remembers the days when the back to school promotions didn't start until half way through August and they really were the start of the impending doom start of term.

Anyhow, I'm usually in a big M&S two or three times a month so will pick up as and when I spot the offer - and if they don't have the right size I'll then know to go home and order on collect from store.

I have been buying uniform by default from M&S but have had problems with the white polo shirts (for ds1 since he was 4, he's now 7) as the shirt that is the right size for his body has a neck opening that is too small for him to get over his head. I originally bought the next size up but that wasn't so good as a it meant his shirt was too big and looked messy sticking out from under his logo jumper (where the right size jumper had a neck that was big enough for ds's head). It meant that I got fed with the m&s shirts and started looking around at others - out of everyone's I've found that matalan were the best (thanks to a product test on MN when I was lucky enough to get vouchers to buy matalan school uniform and then report back on it) - having tried John lewis, Next and all the main supermarket ones too.

One of the issues is that if you buy school uniform in the crazy early back to school promotions you are then stuck if your dc then has a growth spurt just before going back to school. Would be nice if you would for uniform allow people to exchange it for different size/colour of the same thing even if you don't allow people to return it up until the middle of september (a bit like having an extended period for exchanges in the run up to christmas) just to give you a bit of peace of mind that you are not going to be stuck with uniform that is too small.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?
usually use M&S for uniform basics, have to use JL for logo-ed items.
Now going to use matalan for their white polo shirts as mentioned above - as their necks are big enough for ds to pull over his head (although he does seem to have a particularly large head for his size, he is by no means the only one - lots of mums have said they also have the same problem). Even though the quality isn't as good, the m&s ones just don't fit ds so there is no point in buying them..
I do like the way you have the white patch for labelling socks on their cuff - very handy and always used.
Most items seem to be of reasonable quality - but hems of trousers often need to be restitched up as they come down pretty quickly.
Still tend to use clarks or startrite for school shoes although have used supermarket trainers, just more likely to be in the supermarket with ds to try them on rather than in m&s.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

bigger neckline on white polo shirts, currently very restrictive
labels - seem to be getting noticeably more scratchy in the m&s clothes and need more cutting out. And other than the socks - very little space for writing names on
teflon coated trousers are a genius idea - but last year they seemed a lot stiffer and nastier fabric than they wre the year previously. Even ds noted they weren't as comfortable as his previous trousers.
thought there was a schoolwear catalogue - I usually pick it up when I see it and send it to my sister who lives in the back end of nowhere, so she can see stuff and order it online. Would be nice to be able to register on the website to be sent the schoolwear catalogue when it comes out (either/or/both online and by post) so you don't have to keep worrying about when the new stuff comes out. You could even sign up to say that you want it until your child(ren) turns 16/18 or at least until the end of their current school, would be a nice reminder.
More boys clothes in general - I find I'm buying less and less m&s stuff for ds as there is so little choice - most of the space is given over to girls clothes . vicious circle - means I am not bothering to even look as I know there is not likely to be much there (and it's quite a big store so no excuse). I tried to buy a summer cagoule/waterproof jacket for ds today - found one boring navy one (and a beige non-waterproof thing). For girls of the same age - wide choice. Same rain still falls on boys as well as girls - they need to be able to buy macs too! And in winter there are only anoraks for the boys - whereas there are much longer line coats for the girls to keep them warmer, would be nice to see some longer boys coats too.

CHUMMUM · 22/06/2012 00:03

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

Fit, comfort and then price. Not bothered about style yet but will change probably as daughter goes to secondary!

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

On-line at the moment (again may change as daughter is more bothered about appearance!) Would order more if offered free delivery and then happy to return to store what doesn't fit!

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

Recently bought ready for September boys shirts & trousers and girls blouses & trousers My son loved the shirts with velcro as top button, we found them really difficult before!
I have also purchased from Next.
Sometimes the Non-iron from M&S still seem to need ironing!

Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

I think you should continue the vlecro for the top button for all ages, our son is really happy and will be upset if at age 9 he has to struggle again!
I would like to see the pinafores and skirts longer.
We have to go to the school retailer for blue check infant blouses/shirts, they charge £10 for one item! Next stock them for girls, can M&S do them for both?
I bought two summer blue check school dresses last september age 11, both of them have needed stitching after the pocket has come away leaving a hole! They must have only been worn 10 times max!! Presume it was manufacturing fault since both dresses had same problem.
I prefer schoolwear catalogue on-line.

nailak · 22/06/2012 01:09

1 price
Fit, stain repellant, hard wearing, style so looks nice and smart, and a bit girly for my dds, like the embroidered pockets and scalloped necks on shirts/polos. Iron free and right colour. Although I have also bought plain black for my dd to wear with normal tops at nursery with no uniform.
2 in-store exclusively

3 m&s, Asda or Tesco.
I do main shop at m and s as I like their stuff. I buy the sets of 2 trousers and skirts and packets of 3 shirts they are very cheap, wash well, stand up to wear and tear. I choose and s because of reputation.

4 I buy jumpers when need replacing from where ever I happen to go first. M and s in store doesn't have large range of sizes and colours all year and it is a pita to order when I can just pick up new jumper from supermarket without waiting.
I like clothing with adjustable waists. Always buy those if I have the choice.
There are no girls pe shorts or jogging bottoms in girls section in store. It would be better if these items were labelled as unisex rather then boys.
It is always hard to find right combination of sizes and colours during school uniform events.

Also vests like the thermal ones should come in packs of only white to wear under school shirts, haven't seen this in my store, and could be nearer uniforms, rather then on other end of the store floor. Same with leggings in uniform colours to wear under skirts and pinafores.

The summer dresses I saw in store were expensive compared to supermarkets. And in summer when you want to but them there is not a big range.

WhereYouLeftIt · 22/06/2012 01:55

?~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can. ?
Fit is the most important factor for me. DS has always been tall for his age, and has varied from slim to chunky. So a flat ?Age X? for sizing is useless to me. Quality and price are equally important. I rarely buy the cheapest as they are usually poor quality and therefore poor value. But it doesn?t have to be of the highest quality/durability either as he will grow out of it long before a reasonable quality item will wear out. Style is pretty irrelevant for school uniform, surely? Certainly for a boy, school trousers are school trousers are school trousers. As long as they have pockets and aren?t seventies flares or drainpipes, they?ll pretty much do.

?~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you? ?
Some of his uniform I have to get from a particular supplier (Price & Buckland) who supply all the logo?ed uniform ? sweatshirts, polo shirts, PE kit. I buy this online as there is no in store option. When he started the school there was an open day for parents of new pupils, so that we could see these items and their sizing. I don?t mind buying them online, as I tend to buy sweatshirts and polos a little on the large side so that he doesn?t grow out of them too fast (plus he likes them a little loose too). Delivery is £3.95 and always within the week, or you can ask them to deliver to the school for free but that is only once a month. I?ve always had them delivered to my home. His trousers are always bought in store, with him trying them on before we buy to ensure that they fit him well ? I was buying Age 15 for him when he was 12 so I don?t see any alternative to this. School shoes have to be bought in store from a shop which carries width fittings as he is a G or H fitting usually, and I believe standard fittings are about a C or a D. Socks I usually buy online from M&S as my local store never seems to have his size in stock. Jackets have usually been bought in store, usually from a camping-type shop to get something suitably waterproof, warm and lightweight; but have also bought online too.

?~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try??
The majority of his uniform is bought from Price & Buckland because I have no choice in the matter. They are the sole supplier of the logo?ed uniform. I didn?t use to mind this as I thought the items were fairly good quality and reasonably priced, e.g. £8 for a polo and £10 for a sweatshirt (as at Aug-2011). But I?ve just been on their site and these items are now £10.60 and £14.20 respectively ? quite a hike, and with no possibility of taking my custom elsewhere! Trousers have usually been bought from Sainsbury?s. They have a changing room he could use, they had all sizes in stock so that he could find the best fit, the trousers were fairly cheap (I think £14 for two pairs, not sure) and reasonable quality. I did have a look at M&S trousers but there was no changing room for him to try them on (childrenswear is in a separate building from men and ladieswear, so he couldn?t use them). If he had been able to try them on at M&S we may well have bought them there, but I cannot be bothered to buy, take home, try, take back, buy another size, take home etc. M&S socks have always been outgrown not outworn, which is why I continue to buy them at M&S. School shoes are bought from a local independent , who can measure and fit his feet. If they do not have his size in stock (used to happen a lot when he was younger) then there is also a Clarks shop in town and we go there. There?s no ?usual? for his jacket ? they?ve been bought in local camping shops, in store at Next , online from a cycling retailer etc. I haven?t bought any jackets from M&S because when I looked online I didn?t like the styles available.

?~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store??
If M&S could supply logo?ed items to our school that would be great! The range of trousers looks absolutely fine as they are, but I really need him to try them on before I buy them so a changing room please! Do the coats all have to be padded? DS currently wears a two-part jacket; a fleece inner jacket and a waterproof outer jacket. The inner jacket can be removed for warm-but-wet days. And since he cycles to school quite a bit, his jacket needs to be long enough at the back to cover him properly ? neither of the jackets currently on the website would be adequate. Wide-fitting shoes would be great, as would sizes going beyond an 8. My son was already a 7 at age 12, as were several of his friends. Not really sure about the catalogue ? don?t I effectively have that in the website? And I?m sure I?ve picked up booklets of schoolwear instore before.

gottasmile · 22/06/2012 06:59

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

The first thing I look for is whether it's 100% cotton. That's the most important thing for me. I usually don't have much choice with regards to price, style or fit, as there's such limited choice in cotton.

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

I use a mix of the two. If i find what i need online, I prefer to do it online as it saves so much time. For my son, I go to the store for trousers, as he has an unusual shape and I need him to try them on. Because there are so many items to buy, it's much easier and less time consuming to shop online.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

I buy from M&S and Sainsbury's. I use M&S for trousers and shorts because they fit really well. I've just bought some pinafores and summer dresses from Sainsbury's as they were cheap and just happened to be walking past them. My daughter liked the little flower on the zip. i then didn't even look in M&S because I was sorted. School shirts i buy from M&S because I find 100% cotton.
The M&S trousers and shorts are excellent, have lasted 2 years! The shirts are good, but even though they state that they are non-iron, I find that I do have to iron them.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

They could do more 100% cotton. So many kids these days have exzema or sensitive skin.
For our school, we have to buy some items with the school logo, but the rest I can fine in M&S. I would definitely appreciate a schoolwear catalogue both online AND in store (but they have them already don't they?) It makes shopping so much easier.

Hope this helps!

bebejones · 22/06/2012 07:37

My DD is due to start reception in September. I have been getting uniform over the last couple of months since we found out which school she was going to. (She is an August born & I didn't want to leave it all til then as it's an expensive month for us!!)

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you?

I've tried to choose tems that seem like good value. This doesn't always mean cheapest, I want quality at a good price so that it stands up to the battering it's going to get from a lively 4 year old! I've also tried to pick items that I think my DD will be able to get on & off easily by herself (with the exception of the only non-zipped pinafore I could find).

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two?

I have, so far, bought online only. We live in a semi-rural location & the nearest places stocking uniform are 30-45min drive away. The p&p charges are probably less than the cost of petrol to get to the actual shop!! I will probably pick up some bits and pieces over the next month or so in stores...if I'm there! I used her existing clothes from the retailers as a guide to size & fit & read all reviews on the items on the websites to guage the quality of some pieces I hadn't previously seen in store.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why?

To date I have bought from M&S & Next. Mostly because I know the sizes & how they fit my daughter. She is small (only 92.5cm tall currently) and these retailers both offered sizes small enough to fit her. I will have to buy some items from Tesco as this is the retailer DDs school are using now for their logo embroidered items. Unfortunately the smallest size they stock is likely to be a bit big for DD, but I'm hoping that it will last a while!

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range?

Can you please do more pinafores without the central zip? I've really struggled to find nice pinafores without this. I have had to buy a couple with the zip through lack of choice, but I personally don't think they look as smart & reviewers on your website have commented on problems with the zips after a few washes. I also think sizing needs to be reviewed. My DD is small, but she's not the only child I know starting reception whose parents are struggling to find uniform small enough without having to pay over the odds!

FriedSprout · 22/06/2012 08:09

I have used M&S a lot through the years but have, but now dd is a teen the range is very limited. Even in huge stores. She has tiny waist in comparison with her hips and this has meant going to plus sizes on-line. This year only one style! Skirts are too short as dd tall, so school would not be happy. A good range of sizes and styles for teens please with no "plus fit" label or ages (show me a standard size teen!).

moonbells · 22/06/2012 09:00

First of all, DS starts this autumn in Reception so I'm just about to get on this bandwagon! Most stuff has to be bought from the official supplier as it's logoed, but the shirts, trousers and socks etc can be generic. So all following comments are for them only. I am looking at the M&S website for reference as I answer.

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

price and comfort/fit. Also durability, (especially for trousers) they will need to cope with a boy who seems to cheesegrater the knees of every pair of trousers he owns! Out of school stuff I patch, but I would like them to last more than a month!

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

I think for the first time I would go to store, to check 'feel' and see what the colours actually look like. After that, online all the way. As long as I'm not forced to pay huge postage rates that cost more than the posted item...

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

As commented above, just starting out on this lark. Have already got one pair of trousers from Matalan as I needed some smart 'proper' trousers for a formal do for DS, and they were ideal. So I have a baseline. I chose teflon trousers with elasticated waistband (needed for Mr Skinny) and that were reasonably cheap as I didn't foresee him wearing them that much before he grew out of them! However I see the M&S double pack of value trousers are similarly priced so I may well be off there pronto! I'll see which ones wear out first. It's a balance between wearing out and growing out!

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

It would be nice if the under-7-year-old elasticated pull-up trousers were illustrated. All the ones in the pics are on older models and none show the back view! Surely showing one extra photo won't hurt?

Oh! And stocking basics all through the school year. There is nothing worse than them growing out of something and you finding you can't get it again till the summer holidays... online is a saviour here, but sometimes you do need to see something and don't want to run up a mortgage travelling to Marble Arch...

anchovies · 22/06/2012 09:10

When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

I make the decisions on quality and fit. There is nothing worse than it all falling apart, seams coming down, collars curling etc by mid October. Also having tall and slim ds's, the fit of the trousers is particularly important, I always buy M&S modern fit trousers, the elastic waist and slim fit leg are the best fit I've found.

Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

I would like to buy instore but there is rarely what I need. I tend to buy online for instore collection then we try on and keep what fits. Free delivery is always a big bonus, especially when you don't know if it's going to fit.

Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

I don't like any polo shirts other than trutex or sportex mainly because I hate ironing and these are more expensive but don't fade and are thick enough that they don't need ironing and the collars don't curl. I always buy M&S modern fit trousers for my ds's as they last well, keep their crease and fit really nicely. I do have to replace 2 or 3 times in a year though as the knees tend to fade. I buy the M&S jersey pinafores for my dd as they fit nicely and look "young enough" on a 3-4 year old.

Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

A jersey skirt would also be good as I think little ones in particular need comfy clothes that are easy to play in. I always struggle to find small tights, even age 3-4 are generally massive. I would rather pay more and know it is going to look good and last than pay less and have to replace more often (ie the polo shirts). I'm not too fussed about a catalogue to be honest, make my choices by browsing online and then looking instore.

anchovies · 22/06/2012 09:12

Forgot to say, I find the online reviews invaluable when making my choices.

Maffy · 22/06/2012 09:33

Quality of fabric is most important, particularly being natural fibres. I would pay a premium for thick wool, almost flannel, and heavy cotton, rather than thin, easy care fabrics.

Online for research, then we visit the shop to check quality and fit. Ability to order to store online would be brilliant, to ensure that a journey is not wasted.

Usually M&S and John Lewis, as tend to be better quality. Also admire independant, specialist school outfitters online, for their heavy wool/cotton, but usually do not buy as no stores local to try. M&S cotton sweater are brilliant and my son usually wears red and green ones for casual everyday.

As mentioned above, premium thick wool and cotton trousers, shorts, blazers etc. School caps would be ideal, but probably a limited market.

Tamoo · 22/06/2012 09:35

I shop exclusively instore, buy most (unbadged) schoolwear from M&S because it's very handy for me to drive to. I wouldn't buy online because it actually takes less time for me to go to the store.

Quality is the most important factor to me - I have bought cheaper items in the past that have only lasted a few weeks. Price is secondary to quality but next in importance. DS is a standard fit so I know most things in his age range will be OK, wherever I shop.

I like M&S because they stock the type of trousers I like (they have a good range of styles generally) and also because trousers are the item DS wears out most and they seem to be the most durable. Also, they usually have a better stocked range of sizes than the supermarkets.

Except for what I need to order from school, I can get everything in one go at M&S, as they also stock the items required for DS's PE kit.

However I have found that at some times during the year M&S schoolwear stock is quite depleted - not when everyone's buying it, but at random times I guess when they think nobody is buying much uniform. I have asked staff about this and they referred me to the catalogue/online store so I know the option's there.

Another bonus is that there's usually a bargain rail in my local M&S - got a school coat there a while back and it lasted two winters for less than half price.

Generally speaking more multibuy savings would be very welcome, I for one would welcome the change to purchase multiple items I know aren't going to last all year or that I know DS is likely to grow out of before the end of the school year.

GraceK · 22/06/2012 09:36

I favour fit & quality of fabric. I have very skinny children & a lot of the uniform ranges are too wide & therefore look untidy. I also want fairly thick, good quality fabric that washes well - some of the summer dresses available are made of very poor, thin fabric.
I mainly shop on online because the stock levels of M&S uniforms are very low in the shops. I have purchased from JL (& Asda) as they have stock all year round. Smallest sizes are useful to have in shops so you can work out where on sizing range your child comes when they first start school. I like order online & pick up in store as know I'll find the right stock.
My DD's uniform comes mainly from M&S. (She has two grey tunics from John Lewis' as M&S' designs last year didn't appeal and 2 extra sunfrocks from Asda due to a sudden growth spurt in May.) M&S uniform is slim enough for her, good quality fabric & washes well. I was recommended the 'stain tec' polo shirts by friends with older children when she started school & they have worn well though the sizing seems to have changed recently - she inherited an M&S sunfrock which is age 5 and she has a new age 3 which are the same size!
Black tracksuits in small sizes (tops & bottoms sold separately) for sport - finding a plain without a logo on is quite difficult. A long sleeved shirt in cotton mix (like 3312 032 sold last year but with full length sleeves) - my DD wants a long sleeve top in winter but I don't want a 'proper' school shirt that need ironing for a primary pupil as she'dnot cope withthe buttons / be able to roll up the sleeves properly. Possibly a pretty cardigan (maybe with crochet-style detailing) in white to go with all the summer frocks.

Don't think I need a catalogue but if you're making one for instore ordering then it might as well be online as well.

PostBellumBugsy · 22/06/2012 09:37

When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

There isn't one specific factor, it is a combination of finding good quality, durable clothes that fit my child & are reasonably priced. I would rather pay a little bit more for clothes that are well made & will last.

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

I would love to buy exclusively instore, but I often find that the sizes I want are not available, so I tend to use a mix of the two. I like the fact that you can get free delivery to a store of your choice - that works well for me.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

I buy all non-logo clothing items from M&S. Most items last very well and wash well. I never buy shoes though.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

I would like to see a higher cotton content in all the shirts & dresses. I know that people want to not have to iron, but I would prefer to see a higher natural fibre content. Not bothered about a schoolwear catalogue, as the website is effectively that.

jubilucket · 22/06/2012 09:45

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

Quality is fairly important, however style is now taking priority, as ddtwins are 13 and getting fashion concious. I have two pairs of your trousers virtually unused this year, as they will not put them on unless the cheaper, tattier but much better cut (in their opinion) skinny ones from New Look are still wet in the wash. New Look make clothes that fit my tall, slim dds much better than yours.

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

When I shop online I like stores which I can trust to use reliable couriers who don't tap lightly at the door, ignore clearly written notes asking for parcels to be left with a neighbour, and leave a card telling me I have to drive to a depot to collect my parcel which is actually further away than my nearest M&S.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

I used M&S and John Lewis about 50/50 until the fashion conciousness thing came in. DD1 has a quantity of your shirts which she loves, dd2 prefers some John Lewis ones. But the trousers are an epic fail - see above.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

Tall slim children cannot be covered by your lovely adjustable waistbands, they still leave a baggy hipline.
You had a big gap in three quarter length sleeve shirts last time I looked.
I thought you had a schoolwear online catalogue already

piprabbit · 22/06/2012 09:56

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.
I tend to go on the quality and fit of the product. DD is tall for her age and a lot of the supermarket uniform skirts and dresses are indecently short on her. I want clothes that wear well as I only want to but uniform once a year (unless I really need to replace something). I'm also looking for stuff that doesn't need much ironing - which is important on pleated skirts etc.

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?
I buy in a mix of ways. Logo'd items are bought in our local uniform shop. When I'm doing my big annual uniform shop, I tend to look in the shops and then come home and order online. This is because I can rarely find all the items I need in the right sizes in one shop, so it's easier to check the quality and fit in store and then come home and order all the correctly sized stuff online (taking advantage of free P&P over certain spend limits). If I'm buying the odd replacement item during the school year, then I'll buy from the local shop.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?
I buy a lot of uniform from M&S as it generally fits and lasts well. DD loves your cullottes, which are hard to find elsewhere. I have a bulk buy of yellow polo shirts from M&S as they were discounted to ridiculous cheapness (which will last the children for years to come) however I actually much prefer John Lewis polo shirts as they dry much softer (I hate crispy polo shirts) and look better for longer. I tend to buy sports kit from Matalan or Sainsbury's as it is much better value and I'm less worried about the look of items which are going to live screwed up in a PE bag for weeks on end.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?
I'd love for M&S to make the lovely soft polo shirts that John Lewis do - it would save me an extra shopping trip. More purple would be good (summer dresses, cardigans and jumpers, trimmed accessories etc.) and nice strong purple not a wishy-washy lilac. I'm not fussed about a catalogue - I can look in your online store if I want to, but uniform catalogues tend to be wasted on us as so few of the items come in our school's colours (yellow/gold and purple).

WhoKnowsWhereTheTimeGoes · 22/06/2012 10:00

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

All of those things plus durability which I suppose is Quality. I would say fit, style and durability are the main priorities. Adjustable waist trousers and skirts are essential. My DCs are 6 and 8 years old BTW

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

Both. When each DC started school the 3 for 2 offer was on, I took them to a large store for trying things on. I usually just buy the same things in the next size up the following summer, so tend to to online and instore pickup. I don't live near a big store, but when I go there I have often found they don't have the item I want in the size I want.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

I buy all trousers and skirts from M&S, have also bought pinafores (but prefer a Sainsbury's style, jersey with no zip), socks and polo shirts there. Buy summer dresses in Sainsburys locally as these are bought earlier in the year. I buy some M&S polos but have also used them from various other stores, don't think there's much to choose between them.

The boys adjustable waist pleated stain defence trousers have been excellent for my son, looking as good after a whole year as they did new. Same for the girls skirt with the butterfly on and the girls bootleg trousers with butterfly. The sizing on polos is weird, I have to buy them a size or two larger than I would buy tee shirt for the same child.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

I had a catalogue from the store last year and it was useful. I do a stocktake and see what we need and in which sizes in the summer and try and do it all in one big order. One thing I would like to see got rid of are the butterflies and other adornments on the girls clothes, they look out of place on a uniform, there is no need for them and I don't like the idea that all girl's things need to be sparkly and pretty. Skirts and pinafores I would like to be a bit longer. My son has not liked M&S socks because the toe seams rub him.

LoonyRationalist · 22/06/2012 10:16

Bebejones I disagree on the zip on pinafores, I think it is a great idea, makes getting dressed themselves so much easier (which must also be a godsend for their teachers) we have 3 zipped pinafores which I bought at the start of the school year, no problems with the zips at all and I'm confident that they'll last for dd2 too.

MerryMarigold · 22/06/2012 10:37

When buying uniform for my boys, the most important thing is fit (need adjustable waist) and availability ie. are the right sizes in stock? I usually buy when I am doing the food shop at a supermarket. If something is not available in the right size/ colour I would 'graduate' to looking in clothes shops such as M & S/ BHS. Price is important too, quality less so as they tend to just get caned anyway with black marker pens, food etc (I have 3 in school under 7). As my kids grow fast, I'd rather buy some new ones half way through the year than expect them to last all year. With my daughter, it's a bit of a struggle to get her to wear uniform so this year I am going to take her with me to choose. In this case, the style will be important. I will probably take her somewhere not Asda! where there are less tarty styles (M & S/ Sainsbury's) so she can't be tempted by them even though she is only 3. I probably wouldn't use NEXT as I think it's overpriced, but I will check their styles out online and see if there's something she may like.

I tend to buy online half way through the school year as uniform is less readily available. I bought my ds1 trousers from M & S online in January as he had already outgrown his September ones. They have lasted really well. In that case, the availability was most important as it wasn't 'back to school' time and many places were sold out of things. I also bought my ds2 and dd uniforms online as they started school Nursery in November so again, supermarkets were out of stock. I got ds2's trousers from very.co.uk and they are excellent quality.

I usually buy most things from the supermarket. If I was paying that bit extra, I would go for trousers from more expensive shops and tops/ jumpers from the supermarkets. I did buy trousers from M & S and found them excellent. However, in previous years I bought jumpers and found them no different from the supermarket ones (they were pretty cheap, but not as cheap as supermarket). I would prefer to know with M & S that I was getting quality and can choose the bits where I need quality items.

A schoolwear catalogue online is good, so can check out styles for dd. I think M & S need to focus on quality and availability though, rather than 'competing' with supermarkets. By availability I mean that uniform items are readily available all year round. I would like to see socks which co-ordinate with jumpers! So with the red jumpers, maybe red striped socks or socks with red stars on etc. It looks great and just a bit more funky (especially in summer, with shorts) to have co-ordinating socks! I think the main thing though would be to focus on quality/ more expensive rather than trying to offer cheaper items which are the same price/ quality as supermarkets. If you buy from M & S, even if it only costs £2 which is the same price as the supermarket, you kind of resent the fact it doesn't last, whereas with the supermarket you don't expect it too.

Donki · 22/06/2012 10:53

Most important considerations

Comfort/Quality/fit/value for money - cheap is no good, if it goes through to holes in a week, or the YD won't wear it because it is uncomfortable, or doesn't fit properly!

If two garments were similar otherwise, I would be willing to spend a pound or two more per garment for made in the UK/fair trade/environmental factors.

I buy in store by preference so that comfort and fit can be tried out! I buy online whent he correct size/colour are not available in store.

I usually buy trouser in M&S because so far they have been the best fit/most comfortable (we go to an average of 3 shops to try things out). I don't use supermarkets, because previous experience of schoolwear (and other clothing) from Sainsburys and Tescos has been very poor. I buy school tops in the school shop, because they are unavailable elsewhere (embroidered logo). The sweatshirts are good, if expensive. I am not so impresed with the school polo shirts, but have no choice.

Blu · 22/06/2012 11:14

~ When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

I look for natural fubres / breathable / not shiny, and with some degree of sharpness and style to the cut. Too much school uniform becomes shapeless and downbeat looking too quickly. If they must wear uniform I would like it to look nice and keep it's shape. Cost is also a factor as is ease of care. Also easy availablility of all sizes in stock. As a wohm I don't have time to faff about sourcing things.

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

I would buy things onlline once I have seen them in store and ordered them once before., and if sizing proves to be consistent. The advantages of shopping online are wiped out if you have to faff about with returns. I think it would be useful to be able to send an adbance provisional order to a store: shirts, trousers, socks etc, all in specific sizes, and then to get a confirmation e mail saying they are all in - pop in and pick it all up, having tried on any items as necessary..

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

I have not yet bought uniform items from M&S because my local stoore ad the other I pass regularly do not stock them, also I have had little need for uniform. From now on I need to be able to get white shirts and grey trousers for secondary and I have heard that M&S school trousers are good and less shiny / teflinny than others!

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

Stocking it on Brixton and Covent Garden would encourage me to buy - or a catalogue available in those stores and with an in-store collection in those stores. I hate having to go into a really busy town centre on a saturday for routine items like school uniform. (or ever, really!)

lionheart · 22/06/2012 11:40

hen you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

Quality and fit are most important but I like clothes that will be easy to wash and I can avoid ironing!

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two?

I always buy school clothes in store rather than online.

Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why?

A mixture of M&S, the school uniform provider for logo stuff and BHS if M&S don't have what I need. Sometimes it depends on the timings and M&S has limited stock but I will always try there first because I like the quality and the option of elasticiated, extended waists.

If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? No problems with M&S. They last longer than BHS stuff which tends to wear at the knees and look scruffier, sooner.

If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Make sure that there is a full range of sizes available at peak buying times. It shouldn't be necessary and isn't practical to buy stuff as soon as the Summer holidays start just to be sure of availability. Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range?

The boys socks tend to be either sporty of of slightly hideous colourful designs. White ankle socks for boys that don't have a frilly edge would be terrific! Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store? Online, certainly but it requires too much guess work and trial and error to work out exactly what will suit when your children grow so fast.

beachhutbetty · 22/06/2012 12:21

When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.
*I think I go by a combination of the above, with price and quality being the most important. Fit is important too but I am so used to altering trouser lengths and/or skirt waists that I don't consider that so much.

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?
*A mix of the two, although now I have to buy from the school shop which is a purely on-line experience. I find tops easier to shop for online. My 2 are not standard waist/height measurements so skirts and trousers are easier to shop for instore. Online is useful as it cuts out the hassle of taking DCs shopping but returns can be frustrating.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?
*Schoolblazer.com is designated uniform supplier but previously used M&S and Tesco. M&S uniform might seem pricier upfront but the quality means that it lasts longer and looks better.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?
*Happy with current provision

Tobagostreet · 22/06/2012 12:22

When you're buying school uniform in general for your DC, what are the most important factors to you? Is it price, quality, style, fit or something else? M&S would like to understand how you decide whether or not to buy an item of school uniform so please provide as much detail as you can.

Quality and fit are the most important factors closely followed by cost/value for money. Waists which can be adjusted and a variety of lengths (trousers). It?s important that the shirts are good quality and thickness (to ensure the white looks opaque), with well sewed on buttons!

~ Do you tend to shop for schoolwear exclusively in store, exclusively online, or a mix of the two? Are there specific things that you buy online and others that you would only ever consider buying in store? How important are factors such as delivery options, the in store/online experience etc to you?

My first option is always in store with the kids ? it?s important to get the fit right, without multiple returns/re-orders. I only order online for instore pickup when I have under purchased or the sizing wasn?t available in store.

~ Which retailer(s) do you usually buy schoolwear from and why? If you have bought school uniform from M&S recently, how did you find it? Did the item(s) last well or not? If you haven't bought M&S school uniform before, why is that? What would make you give M&S school uniform a try?

I buy all of my uniforms from M&S when the discount offers are on (from underwear to overcoats). The quality differs with composition ? same trousers in grey fare better that in black as material is different. There are often stock problems on basic items even in large stores (short sleeved white shirts tend to be available below age 5 and above age 13 ? everything else can be a ?scrum? to get).

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to improve their schoolwear range? Are there any items that they don't currently stock that you'd like to see added to the range? Would you appreciate a schoolwear catalogue available either online or in store?

Boys formal shorts ? why oh why are they only available in Grey? Year after year I have the ?hunt for black shorts? amongst retailers. The laugh is that M&S sell so many black trousers ? they have them in stock all year round ? but never any shorts grrrr.

Nolda · 22/06/2012 12:26

When buying shirts and dresses I look for those made from 100% cotton. And that is why I buy these items from M&S as they do 100% cotton items at a good price. I also like that there is a good choice of styles of dress. I like my DD to wear a longer length dress and not something too short and clingy. I like her to be able to play without feeling restricted by her dress. I also like her to look like a child rather than a mini-grown-up.

I tend to buy online but delivered to store (for free) as the M&S is my town is a Simply Food one and doesn't stock school uniform.

John Lewis and M&S for quality. All items from M&S have lasted well except a school tunic I bought last winter. The zip broke quite quickly but DD had the same style the previous year and that was fine and has been passed on to another girl.

Please could you add blue girls track pants to the range. I think you only have black at the moment. I picked up a schoolwear catalogue in store recently and think this is a good idea.