Alternative Clothing Options for State/National Contests
Hi everyone! As you know, the SkillsUSA store is currently out of several clothing items students are required to wear for competitions according to National technical standards. We understand that exceptions may need to be made (for example, a solid white polo in the same style as the official dress polo but without a logo).
How are you handling this with your advisors and contest chairs? If you’ve already communicated guidance, would you mind sharing the wording you used for acceptable substitutions when official items are out of stock?
We’re looking for best practices and clear language to share with our advisors so there’s no confusion about what meets National requirements. Our goal is to ensure students aren’t penalized with point deductions for Official Dress issues caused by unavailable items.
Any guidance would be appreciated. Thank you in advance! 😀
Hi, Lauren!
We just wrapped up our SLSC and the language/waiver we provided via a competition update and newsletter seemed to work well and ease a lot of advisors minds:
Clothing/Merchandise Waiver
Due to the national transition of SkillsUSA merchandise providers, some chapters may experience delays in receiving contest-specific apparel or merchandise
For the 2026 State Leadership and Skills Conference, students may compete without required contest-specific clothing or merchandise (e.g., SkillsUSA Official Binder)
Students are encouraged to dress as closely as possible to the clothing classification when available
Students should bring a printed copy of this approved waiver to their competition, if applicable
No clothing-related penalties will be issued under this waiver, provided all other competition and safety requirements are met
Our full competition updates can be found here.
Good luck with your SLSC!