Start the school year with confidence and comfort, thanks to a school uniform that’s tailored to fit and flatter.
Whether your child has grown, inherited a hand-me-down uniform, or simply changed their preference about what feels good, getting their school uniform professionally altered (within school dress code regulations) not only makes the process quick and easy for busy parents, it also makes your child feel seen and special.
In this article, we’ll focus on school uniform skirt and dress alterations, with expert tips from the professionals at LookSmart Alterations. Let the back-to-school buzz begin!
What are the most common alterations to school uniform skirts and dresses?
Children and teenagers grow – and quickly! It’s not uncommon for the uniform you purchased a few months ago to not fit quite right now that the school year is beginning.
If you want top marks for style and comfort, here are a few common school uniform alterations to make skirts and dresses fit perfectly.
Hem the length
Hemming is often the go-to fix – one simple alteration that can make a big difference. It’s precision work, otherwise it might look bulky, uneven, or long. A professional tailor can ensure a smooth and polished finish, helping your child to look their best.
First things first, determine the appropriate length of the school uniform dress or skirt as specified in the school dress code. Bring that with you to the LookSmart tailor near you so they have it as a reference.
Make sure to leave some extra fabric to allow for future alterations, should your child grow (again) or if you might hand-me-down the uniform to another child.
Adjust the waist
A well-fitted waistline is important for both comfort and style. If your child’s skirt or dress is fitted appropriately (neither too tight nor too loose), they’ll feel good, which allows them to concentrate on more important things, like schoolwork. It can also help them to feel more confident about the way they look.
Waistlines can be tapered in or let out, depending on what’s required. A professional tailor will be able to get the sizing just right, fitting to flatter their unique shape.
Adjust and repair sleeves
Like hems, sleeves are a part of the school uniform that reflect a growth spurt. And like the waistline, well-fitted sleeves are important for comfort and style. Our expert tailors can adjust the length and size of the sleeves so they look crisp and are worn comfortably.
Sleeves also experience a lot of wear and tear. Rather than replacing, consider repairing – it’s a money-saver, especially if it happens a few times throughout the year!
Top tips
Remember that most schools have strict rules regarding school uniform alterations, especially if the alterations will alter the appearance of the uniform (adding straps, for example).
Also, we understand how busy this time of year can be. If you’re running short on time, enquire about our Express Service. We’ll complete your alterations in 24 hours or less. (Additional charges apply.)
Professional tailor or DIY – what’s the difference?
Modern families are busy families, with full days and calendars. When it comes to altering or mending your children’s clothing and school uniforms, it’s worth weighing up what’s easier – doing it yourself or bringing it to a professional tailor.
DIY alterations
If you have the equipment and sewing experience, it can be quicker and more cost-effective to undertake simple alterations or mending tasks yourself.
Most basic sewing techniques are also easy to learn. However, that requires investing time in learning, as well as money in purchasing equipment. (You’ll also need room in your home to store the equipment.)
Professional tailors
Going to a professional tailor for alterations, tailoring, and repairs ensures you get high-quality work when you need it, saving you time and stress.
Professional tailors (like the experts at LookSmart) understand what’s required, can communicate with you about preferences, and can transform your requests into consistent, quality results, giving you one less thing to worry about.
We can ensure that your child’s school uniform not only fits well now, but has room for future growth and adjustments, saving you time and money in the long run. And if you’re pressed for time, there’s always our Express Service. We’ll complete your alterations in 24 hours or less. (Additional charges apply.)
Four style tips for school uniforms
Each child is unique and, understandably, they would want their school uniforms to reflect their personalities. Here are four style tips for letting their style shine through (while still adhering to rules and regulations).
Tip #1: Get them involved in the process
Go over the school’s dress code with your child. Discuss the rules that need to be followed (and why) and look for opportunities where they can splash out on style. This will help them take more ownership of the process and feel more empowered.
Tip #2: Shoes and accessories
Some school dress codes have leeway when it comes to shoe selection or accessories, like hair ties or jewellery. With younger kids, adding colour (bright shoelaces, vibrant hair ties, or patterned socks) is often a good way to add a personal touch to their uniforms. With teenagers, think about gifting them a grown-up piece of jewellery they can wear, such as a watch, earrings, or a pin.
Tip #3: Buttons, embroidery, and thread
Let them pick out buttons and sew them on with silver thread – a small personal expression that might be allowed within the rules or regulations. Or perhaps your school might allow tasteful embroidery on the school uniform, such as your child’s initials.
Tip #4: Fit never goes out of style
Most importantly, see a professional tailor to make sure your child’s school uniform fits perfectly. A tailored fit never goes out of style and it’s 100% within the school’s dress code requirements.
Six helpful questions to ask your tailor
If this is your first time getting a school uniform dress or skirt altered by a professional tailor, here are six questions to ask the experts at LookSmart.
1. Are you familiar with uniforms from [your school’s name]? If you’re visiting your local LookSmart tailor, they may be familiar with school uniforms from the area. It’s still a good idea to bring any dress code requirements with you to ensure your tailor has all the information needed to be compliant.
2. What types of alterations do you offer? We offer a wide variety of different clothing alterations. You might be surprised! It may also give you inspiration for other alterations you might want to get done, from invisible mending to altering a pair of pants you bought online.
3. How long do alterations normally take? This can depend on the type of alteration and current level of demand, but a 24-hour turnaround is available for most services. Speak with your local LookSmart store to learn more.
4. How much do alterations cost? This also depends on the type of alteration, so speak with the experts at LookSmart and they’ll be able to provide more information.
5. Do you have any recommendations? Our experienced tailors might be able to suggest something to help make your child’s school uniform fit even better.
6. Can you please allow room for future growth and adjustments? If you’re hoping to make this uniform last, or if you are planning to hand it down to another child, it’s good to future-proof any adjustments, where possible. Speak with your expert LookSmart tailor about this.
Summing up
Dress for success this school year with a great-fitting school uniform dress or skirt. A few small alterations can ensure your child’s uniform fits perfectly, allowing them to head back to school in comfort and confidence.
By going to a professional tailor, you’ll save money and time, prolonging the use of your child’s school uniform.
At LookSmart, we believe in providing high-quality alterations and tailoring services that complement your unique body shape and size. Trust us to start the school year in style.
FAQs
How long do school uniform alterations take?
Some alteration services are more time-consuming than others, and can therefore take longer. In addition, the current level of demand may affect turnaround times, as well.
If you need a fast turnaround time, enquire about our Express Service. We’ll complete your alterations in 24 hours or less. (Additional charges apply.)
Should I wash a school uniform before taking it to be altered?
It’s helpful to wash the uniform at least once before taking it to one of our expert tailors for alterations. If the school uniform is made of material that will shrink in the wash, that should happen before the uniform is altered in any way.
Are alterations sustainable?
Yes! Getting your clothes altered, tailored, and mended is a key part of a circular economy. It’s better to buy once, buy quality, and invest in making it fit well and last a long time, rather than buying something new. Whether you purchased something online or in a secondhand store, we can help your clothes fit perfectly, and then work with you to extend the life of each garment, saving you money and reducing the impact on the environment.
