Back-to-school season in Seattle mixes rainy-day practicality with a healthy dash of Pacific Northwest style. Below is a local, parent-tested guide to where Seattle families can find everything from rugged playground-ready outerwear to affordable basics and gently used treasures.
1. University Village — one-stop shopping for kids
University Village (U Village) brings together national chains and local boutique options in one easy-to-walk outdoor center — think crewcuts/J.Crew, Pottery Barn Kids, GapKids and specialty shoe shops. It’s a great place to mix higher-quality staples with fun outfit finds and grab lunch between errands.
Why go: Multiple kids stores in one trip, easy stroller/parking options, kid-friendly eateries.
Neighborhood tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
2. Nordstrom Rack — designer brands at discount prices
Nordstrom Rack has multiple Seattle locations and is consistently a top pick for parents hunting discounted name-brand kids’ clothes and shoes (especially during end-of-season rollbacks and back-to-school promos). For basics and nicer pieces, this is a go-to.
Why go: Good deals on quality brands, reliable sizing labels.
Pro tip: Check Rack’s “back-to-school” seasonal section online first to scope deals.
3. REI — for outdoorsy kids (jackets, rain gear, shoes)
Seattle weather demands good outerwear. REI stocks durable kids’ rain jackets, boots, backpacks and layering pieces from solid outdoor brands (Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia). For families who live for hikes, swim lessons, and school outdoor programs, quality pays off.
Why go: Long-lasting gear built for PNW weather; REI member deals can offset costs.
Pro tip: Buy one-size-up jackets and hand-me-down them later — resale value is strong.
4. Consignment & resale — Kid to Kid, Once Upon a Child, Childish Things
For budget-friendly options and fast-growing kids, Seattle’s consignment shops are invaluable. National chains like Kid to Kid and Once Upon a Child have local outlets, and beloved local resale stores (e.g., Childish Things in Greenwood) curate high-quality, gently used children’s clothing, shoes and gear. Consignment pop-up sales like Just Between Friends (JBF) are seasonal goldmines.
Why go: Save up to 70% off retail, great for rapidly changing sizes.
Pro tip: Bring a tape measure for strollers/car seats and double-check product safety recalls before purchase.
5. Department & big-box stores — Target, Walmart, Staples
For backpacks, basic school supplies, and budget-friendly clothing, big-box stores remain practical — one stop for binders, crayons, lunchboxes and uniforms (where applicable). They’re also handy for last-minute items. (Local store pages and circulars are helpful for spotting weekly deals.)
Why go: Convenience, one-stop supply shopping, price promotions.
Pro tip: Buy bulk or multipacks for items like pencils and glue sticks to stretch your budget.
6. Local kids boutiques — Bootyland, The Original Children’s Shop & more
If you’re after unique styles, ethically made clothing, or special-occasion pieces, Seattle’s boutiques (featured in local round-ups like Seattle Met’s kids shopping lists) are fantastic. They often carry sustainable brands and offer personalized service — great for special first-day outfits or gifts.
Why go: Unique finds, support small businesses, nicer fabrics & fits.
Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm sizes/stock — boutiques can have limited inventory.
7. Thrift stores & charity boutiques — Value Village, Goodwill, Bargain Boutiques
For families on strict budgets, charity shops and bargain boutiques can yield surprise finds (and purchases support local causes). These are worth a quick browse for durable play clothes and accessories. Note: availability varies by location.
Why go: Low prices + sustainable shopping.
Pro tip: Search neighborhood thrift stores for hidden gems on weekday mornings.
8. Seasonal/one-day events — Consignment sales & community givebacks
Watch for pop-up consignment sales (JBF), school PTA clothing exchanges, and store-sponsored school supply drives. These events are high-value ways to find lots of items at once or to donate items your kids have outgrown.
Why go: Massive selection for the price; community-driven.
Pro tip: Sign up early at JBF-style sales for early-bird access.
9. Where to buy school shoes & rainboots (local shoe shops)
Seattle-specific shoe stores (including local shops in U Village and sole-focused stores) stock kid-friendly lines and often measure feet properly — a must for growing kids. University Village’s shoe shops are particularly convenient for families.
Why go: Proper fit = fewer foot problems; specialty staff can recommend brands for arch support or durability.
Pro tip: Bring the child in; measure both feet and shop late afternoon when feet are slightly larger.
