I know, I know, the schools have only just broken up and here I am banging on about school uniform. Me, who is always the one making a midnight dash to the shops the night before school starts in September.
But there is sense in forward planning. You see, many stores only have a limited amount of school uniform stock, and when it's gone it's gone, leaving you with no option but to hit the pricier shops.
In store from tomorrow,
Aldi launches the country's lowest price back-to-school package, allowing parents to stock up on 2 polo shirts, a skirt or trousers and a jumper for £4 the lot.
That's pretty incredible isn't it? A pair of school trousers for just £1.50 and a round necked sweater for £1.25.
Aldi claim to have rigorously tested their garments to ensure they wash and wear well; whites stay white; hems are secure and they withstand kid's wear and tear. What's more, the prices are consistent whatever the age - so whether your child is 4 or 11, you'll pay the same price.
We were sent some uniform items to try out, and obviously as we broke up today, they haven't been tested to the max, nor have I been able to see how they withstand regular washing, but first impressions are good, especially when you consider the price.
The girl's trousers have Teflon fabric protector, designed to repel stains.
They are machine washable, and can be tumble dried. They have a handy name and class section on the care label, so no worries about sewing in name tags.
We were sent age 5-6 for Ruby who is 5 and a half, and they fitted very well length wise, and there's adjustable elastic in the waistband. They were a flattering, feminine cut, with a deep waistband and button details. She really liked them and they do look smart.
There's also a skirt available in the range priced at £1.50.
A pack of 2 polo shirt is only £1.25, and again, these fitted well. Nice girlie detail with the gathered cap sleeves and the pretty scalloped edge collar. These are 100% cotton, so will keep her cool and fresh.
There's a lot I like about picking up school uniform while out doing the necessary food shop - it saves that horrendously tortuous trip to town to get kitted out, but on the other hand, if you're buying clothes this cheap you have to ask how much did the person in Bangladesh making them get paid? Although, I do applaud them for signing up to the
Accord to improve health and safety of workers after the Rana Plaza tragedy, unlike some other supermarket giants.
For more detail on Aldi's Corporate and Social Responsibility policies, see their
website.
What do you think about the battle of the low-cost school uniform? Great for those on a tight budget, or do you have a concern about ethics?
Disclosure: We were sent these items for the purposes of this review, however all opinions are my own.
