I talked about this on stories as Clayton started school but I wanted to put it here so you could share and reference it more easily!

The real takeaway here is ASK QUESTIONS!

Even if nothing changes for you in an area, you might be part of things changing down the line. Explain why you care and see what workarounds you can find, uniform or any area. Yes it can be uncomfortable to be the one who asks if something can be done differently, but you’re not doing it to be difficult, you’re asking to bring needed change. So ask away!

For Clayton I first dug into what was listed by the school. Called the companies, looked at what they made clothes with and where. It wasn’t awful, there was some idea of supply chain but I knew I wanted to be a bit more sure on sourcing and materials. Sadly second hand wasn’t an option with 2020. So a few tips for starting out:

• Ask about second hand sales: This is probably the best way to give uniform a longer life and spend less without using more resources!
• Check local charity shops: sometimes local charity shops will have uniform basics or even specific pieces for local schools. This will be an ongoing thing – if I see something in a larger size I’m grab it before it’s needed!
• Ask if there are facebook groups or online reselling options for your school: In the era of COVID some schools are doing more online methods of clothing reselling, find out what you have access to.
• See if you can start something! If your school doesn’t have anything, ask if you can start something! A google doc with available pieces and email address? An appointment only second hand sale? A coordinator who people can check in with who handles it all with no contact – there could be so many options!

HERE’S WHAT WE DID!

UNIFORM BASICS

Ethical superstore (UK/ROI)

Eco Outfitters

SHOES

Giesswein (US/UK/Europe)

GYM KIT

Ethical superstore (UK/ROI)

Eco Outfitters

GYM PLIMSOLES

Trotters: not overall a brand I choose but they have one great plimsole option. 

OUTDOOR SPORT SHOES

Second hand FB marketplace

SCHOOL COAT

Mini Boden Used via eBay

LUNCH BAGS

Used via eBay

LUNCH CONTAINERS

Eco lunch box (UK LINK)

Eco Lunch Box (US LINK)

Planet box – much less worth the cost to me but we do use it cos we have it! (US LINK HERE) (UK not available)

Stasher Bag (UK LINK)

Stasher Bag (US LINK)

Hydroflask Water Bottle (US LINK)

SCHOOL COLOURED SWEATER

OrBasics THIS sweater which they currently have in lots of great school basic colours.

SCHOOL COLOURED GYM SHIRT

Mini Boden New

Hope that helps! 

 

 

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