As the summer holidays come to an end, the back-to-school season is upon us. For parents, this time of year can be both exciting and stressful. While the prospect of routine and structure may be appealing, the process of getting everything ready for the new school year can feel overwhelming. School uniform preparation can take up a significant portion of the back-to-school prep time. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to help with your school uniform preparation to help make the transition back to school smoother for you and your family.

The importance of back-to-school preparation

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful start to the school year. Taking the time to get organised and plan can save you from last-minute stress and chaos. By setting aside a few days before school starts to prepare, you can help your child ease into the new academic year with confidence.

Tips for shopping for school uniforms

Shopping for school uniforms can take up a significant amount of time in your back-to-school preparation.

Have your child try on any existing uniforms from the year before to evaluate if a new uniform or any alterations are required. Check the uniform isn’t too tight and that your child can move freely and comfortably in their uniform. If the uniform still fits, take note of any concerns such as short hems or areas that need repair as these are things a seamstress can take care of for you.

If your child has outgrown their school uniforms, try to avoid the last-minute rush by starting your school uniform shopping early. This will give you ample time to find the right sizes, styles, and any necessary alterations. Our tip is to buy uniforms that are slightly oversized to allow for growth throughout the year.  For uniforms that are slightly too big, a skilled seamstress can adjust it to fit, whilst accommodating for future growth.   

School uniform alterations: Why and how to get them done

Sometimes, school uniforms may require alterations to achieve a more comfortable fit for your child, or to repair any wear and tear. If you're not comfortable making alterations yourself, seek the help of a professional seamstress. They have the expertise to make precise alterations and ensure a perfect fit. Book an appointment with a seamstress well in advance to allow enough time for alterations before school starts.

Properly altered uniforms ensure that your child is comfortable throughout the day. It eliminates any discomfort caused by ill-fitting sleeves, trousers, or skirts, allowing them to focus on their studies without any unnecessary distractions.

By having uniforms altered, you can extend their lifespan. Rather than buying new uniforms each time your child grows, alterations can help make the existing uniforms last longer, saving you money in the long run.

Understanding school uniform alterations

When it comes to school uniform alterations, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what can be altered which will help you communicate your requirements. Here are some of the possible types of alterations a seamstress could do to adjust your child’s uniforms:

1. Hemming trousers and skirts: If the uniform trousers or skirts are too long, they can be hemmed to the correct length. It's important to specify the desired (or required) length so your seamstress can adjust the hem accordingly.

2. Adjusting waistbands: If the waistband of the uniform trousers or skirts is too loose, it can be taken in to achieve a better fit. Similarly, if the waistband is elastic or if its boys pants and it's too tight, it can be let out to provide more comfort.

3. Shortening sleeves: In the case of long-sleeved uniforms, the sleeves can be shortened to the desired length. This alteration is particularly useful if the sleeves are excessively long and hinder your child's ability to move freely.

4. Mending and repairs: School uniforms experience a lot of wear and tear, but just because its broken doesn’t mean you can’t fix it! You’ll save a lot of money (and its more sustainable) to have uniforms mended or repaired. Broken zips, holes in pockets, hat bands or Panama repairs, fabric tears and more, can all be repaired by a skilled seamstress.

By following the tips provided in this article, you can make the transition back to school easier and less stressful for both you and your child. Shop for school uniforms in advance and consider getting alterations done if necessary. Book in for a school uniform fitting to get school uniforms mended or altered with our Sensational Sewing team and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your child will be comfortable and ready for the school year ahead.