10 best places to buy school uniforms this year

Let’s face it: shopping for school uniforms isn’t exactly at the top of anyone’s “fun summer activities” list. But unless you’re planning to send your kid to school in last year’s too-short pants and a shirt with mysterious stains (no judgment here), it’s a task we’ve got to tackle.

Where to buy school uniforms

The good news? You’ve got options that won’t break the bank or require a second mortgage. (Save that for college tuition, am I right?) Many retail giants like Kohl’s and Target have stepped up their school uniform game in recent years, offering basics that won’t disintegrate after two washes. (Plus, you can grab some chip clips and a new shower curtain while you’re at it. Or pick out a backpack or lunch box. Multitasking for the win!)

Other brands like Lands’ End and Janie & Jack offer a step up in quality without venturing into “designer uniform” territory (is that even a thing?). Their uniforms tend to withstand the rigors of recess and cafeteria spills with impressive resilience. And let’s be honest, anything that survives a full school year deserves a medal.

If you’re dealing with a school that’s extra picky about their uniform specifications, specialty retailers like French Toast and The Uniform Shop by Tommy Hilfiger have got you covered. They offer those hard-to-find items like specific plaid skirts or blazers with the right number of buttons. (Because apparently, that’s a thing some schools care about. Who knew?)

For the eco-conscious, check out Primary. They offer simple, mix-and-match pieces in sustainable fabrics. It’s like the capsule wardrobe of school uniforms.

And let’s not forget the power of hand-me-downs and secondhand stores. One parent’s “too small” is another’s “perfect fit.” Plus, it’s like a treasure hunt where the prize is not having to go shopping again.

Remember, whatever your uniform-shopping strategy, you’re not alone in this annual ritual. We’re all in this together, armed with credit cards and the desperate hope that maybe, just maybe, these pants will last until winter break.