Tips for Shopping for a Uniform Online

When you’re running a business (or are in charge of sourcing employee uniforms), shopping in store isn’t always the best option for finding a company uniform. Sometimes, the stores we’re after either don’t physically exist or aren’t practical for us to travel to. This leaves buying online as the only option. If you’re shopping for a uniform online, there are so many variables that must be considered.

Are you buying uniforms for current employees? Future employees? Both? Have you considered how your logo will look on specific garments and colours? How involved will your employees be in the uniform process?

Whether you’re new to the online buying process or have been scratching your head for a while, here is how you should approach shopping for a uniform online.

Find your inspiration

The very first thing you need to do is to find your inspiration. Pinterest is the perfect place to save and manage your ideas – you can also collaborate with others to share your thoughts. Save each idea theme to a new folder so that you can identify trends in what you like and what pairs well together. You can also browse other internet sites like Instagram or even good old Google Images for inspiration. Noticing what other companies are wearing when you’re in other workplaces is another great way to see what looks good. Once you have a solid idea of what you’re looking for, it’s time to hit the (online) shops!

Keep it simple

This tip is exactly how it sounds – keep it simple! Having an overly complicated uniform in mind will be a lot more difficult to find. Not only will a complex uniform be harder to find online, but there is also a much larger chance of disappointment if you don’t get what you’re after. Instead of trying to piece together bold patterns and colours, opt for plain shirts or simple patterns that you know will look flattering on almost everyone. Choosing to shop for basic pieces such as polos, shirts, and lowers is a safe way to go. This way, employees can accessorise to their own taste (within company guidelines, of course!).

Although you may think that plain = boring, this isn’t the case. Buying simple pieces means that you’re choosing to make a timeless statement, and the uniform can be used for your company for years to come. At Fashion Biz Canada, our garments are made with longevity and durability as a key focus. They are also left intentionally blank so you can screen print or embroider your company logo wherever you’d like. Our range can be mixed and matched, meaning you can get multiple outfits from one garment!

Getting the size right

Without a doubt, the most challenging part about buying staff uniforms online is getting the sizing right. You can buy the simplest uniform in the world, but if it doesn’t fit your employees properly, it can cause all sorts of problems.

When it comes to finding the best size for each person online, here are our tips.

Use a measuring tape

Yes, we do mean that old-school measuring tape from your Nana’s sewing kit! One of the best ways to measure yourself is with the old-school tape measure. For the most accurate measurement, place the measuring tape around you and read it when it is sitting comfortably against your body. Make sure you aren’t pulling it too tight or giving it too much slack, either.

As a guide, you want every part of the tape to be touching your skin the whole way around to ensure it is sitting perfectly. Also – we think it goes without saying, but just in case – always measure yourself without clothes on. Wearing clothes will always skew the measurement.

Double and triple check

Each retailer will have a slightly different sizing chart. Before you measure, read each chart carefully to see where exactly on your body to place the measuring tape. There is so much range on your body that can be misinterpreted or miscommunicated to the end user, so seeking clarity before ordering can save you unnecessary trouble.

Do your best to line up the tape with the specified location. If you’re unsure, it’s highly recommended that you measure the same spot multiple times to ensure you’re getting the correct reading and aren’t slightly adjusting the tape. If you find that the numbers change each time, you’re almost certainly moving the tape. Hold it still!  

Use the size charts

Just because you usually wear a size 10 doesn’t mean you’ll be this size for every item of clothing. Before asking your employees to choose their size, refer them to the relevant size chart. No two clothing stores are the same. The same goes for uniform suppliers. Sizes will vary based on uniform stockist, so the provided size chart is crucial.

By measuring yourself (and asking your staff to do the same) to the requirements that the stockists ask for, you’re giving yourself the best chance of receiving a uniform that fits properly.

Check the returns and exchange policy before purchasing

Lastly, check their returns and exchanges policy before purchasing from any uniform distributor. No matter how long you spend fiddling around with a measuring tape and taking your measurements, things can go wrong. Maybe you measured the wrong area. Maybe you misinterpreted the size guide. These things happen. By checking the returns policy, you’re potentially saving yourself a lot of trouble down the track if your distributor won’t accept returns. It will also give you advice on what happens if you aren’t happy with your items.

When you’re looking for a team uniform, online can often have a broader range of uniform options that can help with your uniform ideation process. Choosing a uniform is a significant event for your business, so you want to ensure you do it the best you can. Remember – keep it simple, measure, double check and refer to the returns policy. Check out the latest Fashion Biz Canada range for your next (or refreshed) company uniform.