Sarasota’s Back-to-School Shopping Guide 2024

The summer season is quickly coming to a close and school is almost back in session. Get back-to-school ready at UTC, where there are plenty of places to find the perfect first day ‘fits and all the supplies on the class list. No matter their age, you can find it all here at UTC. Plus tax-free shopping is available July 29 through August 11, making the start of the new school year even easier to take on! 

FOR PRESCHOOLERS 

From cute dresses to casual styles and shoes, find all the best looks for your littlest learners. Pro tip: Earn an A+ with a back-to-school haircut from our kids-only salon Lil’ Divas and Dudes Salon & Day Spa. 

OUR PICKS: 

• Carter’s | The Mall at UTC
• Cotton on Kids | The Mall at UTC
• Janie and Jack | The Mall at UTC
• Old Navy | The West District at UTC

FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL KIDS

Snag school clothing that makes the grade, from graphic tees and polos to school-approved shorts and pants. 

OUR PICKS: 

• Franki by Francesca’s | The Mall at UTC
• Gap Kids | The Mall at UTC 
• Kohl’s | The Market at UTC
• TJ Maxx | The Shoppes at UTC

FOR TWEENS AND TEENS

Send them back to school in style with on-trend finds and dazzling accessories that will get them excited about heading back to class. 

OUR PICKS: 

• Abercrombie & Fitch | The Mall at UTC
• Lululemon | The Mall at UTC
• Nordstrom Rack | The Shoppes at UTC
• Urban Outfitters | The Mall at UTC

FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

From collegiate gear to cute and comfy outfits, find your perfect student style for every class, cram session and campus party.

OUR PICKS: 

• Anthropologie | The Mall at UTC
• Fan Outfitters | The Shoppes at UTC
• Free People | The Mall at UTC
• J. Crew Factory | The Shoppes at UTC

FOR SCHOOL SUPPLIES 

Stock up for the school year and check off everything on your list, including backpacks, water bottles, folders, electronics and more.

OUR PICKS: 

• Barnes & Noble | The West District at UTC
• Best Buy | The West District at UTC
• Staples | The Square at UTC
• Target | The West District at UTC

FOR SHOES

Once you’ve found the perfect back-to-school outfits, complete the look with the perfect pair of shoes. We’ve rounded up a few places to find a fashionable new pair of kicks.  

OUR PICKS: 

• Dick’s Sporting Goods | The West District at UTC
• DSW | The West District at UTC
• Journeys | The Mall at UTC
• Kids Foot Locker | The Mall at UTC

FOR FUN

Before they head back to class, head to The Mall at UTC’s Annual Back-to-School Bash on  Saturday, Aug. 3. Learn more about community resources, like healthcare providers and tutors, while celebrating the new school year with live entertainment, face painting, kids’ activities and an interactive scavenger hunt for free school supplies. As an added bonus, The Mall at UTC is  giving away free backpacks to parents who pre-register (while supplies last, limit four per family). 

*For more details on tax-free qualifying items, visit https://floridarevenue.com/backtoschool