Shopping for back to school is expensive. Fashion expert Jo Ross has some basics for budget-minded parents searching for the best deal on school uniforms.
Ross checked out local stores to find out how much items run for the average child.
Here are some basic price comparisons (prices and promotional deals may vary by store):
Old Navy (prices good through Thursday 8/2)
Children's polos $5
Children's shorts $8
Children's pants $10
Teen polos $8
Teens shorts $12
Teens pants $15
Gymborre
Children's polos $ 16.95
Children's shorts $ 21.95
Children's pants $ 24.95
Gap Kids (30 % off)
Children's polos $ 16.95
Children's shorts $ 19.95
Children's pants $29.95
J C Penney
Children's polos $7
Children's shorts $12
Children's pants $14
Dillard's
Children's polos $11.99 (buy 3 or more for $ 9.99 each)
Children's pants $16.99 (buy 3 or more for $ 14.99 each)
Children's shorts $14.99 (no deal on shorts)
Ross also says some stores have a uniform exchange, so ask if they do. It could save you money.
If you have a child that needs to break out of the uniform mold without getting too wild, Ross also suggests some easy ways to personalize their ensemble with headbands, backpacks, purses and lunch boxes. But she reminds each family to check with their school about specific rules.
JOIN FASHION COUNCIL AND LEARN ABOUT MODELING:
Jo Ross mentors models of all ages, and she is helping organize Fashion Council for the Oxmoor Center and Mall St. Matthews, They are currently taking applications that are available to pick up at both Management Offices, as well as on line. www.oxmoorcenter.com
Ages are 6-12 and 13 - 20 are welcome. It is a year long program where members attend once a month meetings to learn about modeling, but also professional etiquette, how to introduce themselves to others, etc. Then when the shopping centers have shows, TV appearances, or charity events, those members are the models. This program develops self esteem and confidence.
