September is almost upon us, which means the countdown to the first day of term has officially started. Whether you’ve got a few last-minute basics to buy, or you’ve left it all a little last-minute and need to go out and buy everything, there are plenty of bargain buys available right now that will have the kids kitted out in no time.
When it comes to shopping for school uniforms, look for clever design features that will mean every piece will last. Most stores offer technical fabrics that are non-iron, stain and weather-proof, while still being comfy to wear. Lots of places also offer skirts and trousers with handy adjustable waistbands and hems that can easily be dropped, so the school wear will grow with your children. This will mean you won’t need to buy them as often – saving you money and hassle in a few months' time.
Shortlist: what back to school essentials to buy
Best back to school essentials polo shirt: Matalan Kids 2 Pack School Polo Shirts
Best back to school essentials boys trousers: John Lewis Boys' Adjustable Waist Stain Resistant Slim Fit School Trousers
Best back to school essentials girls skirt: M&S 2pk Girls' Crease Resistant School Skirts
Best back to school essentials water bottle: ONTA Collapsible Water Bottle
Once they’ve got their outfits sorted, it’s time to stock on their back to school stationery goodies. Younger tots will love novelty-shaped items that will add some fun to their studies, while teens will appreciate handy organisers that will help them keep on top of deadlines and revision.
Not sure where to start? We’ve rounded up some hero buys below to make the back-to-school shop all the easier...
SHOP: best back to school essentials to shop
Best back to school essentials polo shirt
www.matalan.co.uk
These soft Matalan two-pack polo shirts are available in a few colours and you’ll get two for the same price as your morning coffee. They will save you cash as well as any fuss with the laundry. Available in yellow, light blue, dark blue and red.
Best back to school shoes
www.deichmann.com
Of course, how can you send your child back to school without a pair of half-decent shoes to treat them to? Luckily, Deichmann has a nifty offer of buy-one-get-one-half-price on ALL school shoes - including choices from Nike, Kickers, Skechers and more. Snap them up before they're gone.
Best back to school essentials water bottle
This ONTA collapsible water bottle is portable and foldable making it bag-friendly, plus the clip is also easy to carry, attaching it to your child's bag so they won't forget it.
Best back to school essentials boys trousers
www.johnlewis.com
Clever design details will get extra mileage out of their everyday basics. Look for non-iron fabrics, sturdy hems and scuff-proof reinforced knees to keep them looking smart until next September.
Best back to school essentials girls skirt
www.marksandspencer.com
Keep them looking their best whatever they get up to with these permanent-pleated skirts. M&S has a range of shapes, lengths and colours to suit any little twirler, and all with hard-working fabrics that stay pristine.
Best back to school essentials labels
Ensure your tots come home in the same stuff they went to school in with this handy set of name labels. Each Natmetape Express printed name tape pack contains 50 iron-on tags that will last without the hassle of sewing. Now, they'll have no excuse.
Best back to school essentials pencil case
It's always the case (pun intended) that your child might need a fresh new pencil case for the new year - or maybe they've drawn all over their last one... If you're looking for an affordable choice, snap up this Yordawn pencil case that's only £7.
Best back to school essentials planner
www.wilko.com
Best back to school essentials sweatshirt
www.marksandspencer.com
Perfect for when the weather cools down, these unisex jumpers come in a whopping ten colours and made from super soft cotton, these essentials help them stay warm and super comfy all day.
Best bak to school essentials boys shoes
www.marksandspencer.com
Of course, they're going to need a solid pair of sturdy shoes to run back to school in. These comfy and scuff-resistant M&S Kids' leather school shoes will keep them running round all year. The velcro straps make them easy to pop on and off too.
Best back to school essentials girls shoes
www.matalan.co.uk
Girls need a good pair of school shoes, too. Little fashionistas will be very pleased with these extra fancy kicks and they'll break them in within no time with these Matalan girls black school shoes.
What back to school essentials do I need?
Now, when it comes to back to school essentials it can be hard to know exactly what your child needs and what's not actually essential. If you're looking at what others are buying, you should look at supplies like children's books, pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, folders, and a backpack.
On the other hand, a uniform is definitely an essential purchase, and although it can be sometimes expensive, there are lots of online retailers that offer affordable choices. Check with your school for colours, styles, and whether or not your child can be wearing accessories. What to buy? Essentials will be shirts, trousers, skirts, ties, and blazers.
What shoes are back to school essentials?
Shoes can be one of the most important investments that you fork out for - truth is, you don't want your child to be running around with holes in their feet! Sturdy and comfortable shoes are what you'll want to look for, such as well-fitted trainers or leather shoes.
Matilda Stanley is the Deputy Section Editor (Style) for Closer. She has written everything from autumn wedding guest dresses to the best bump buys.