CARTHAGE, TX - KTBS 3 contributor Bethany Nolan visited a local boutique to see how businesses are preparing for the back-to-school shopping rush and what families can expect to save during tax-free weekend.
At Lazy K Boutique, owner Jasey Williams says the store is making sure its shelves are stocked with options for the entire family, including women's, men's, girls', boys' and baby clothing.
“We want to make sure that everyone has an option when they walk in,” Williams said.
The boutique also carries backpacks, lunchboxes and shoes. Williams says many of the clothing items qualify for the tax exemption, although some accessories are not included.
Shopping with school dress codes in mind
Williams says the store is stocking clothing that can be used throughout the school year and meets school dress-code requirements.
That includes longer dresses and sleeves, jeans with holes below the knees or no holes at all, and longer-length shorts for boys.
The goal is to help families get more use out of their purchases and avoid spending money on clothing that may not be allowed at school.
Families are watching their budgets
Williams says families are being more intentional about their back-to-school purchases.
Some shoppers are buying similar styles for multiple children, and the boutique carries options in both men's and boys' sizes.
“Budgets are a big thing,” Williams said. “We like to make sure that we have something that everyone can run in and grab without it being over budget.”
Texas tax-free weekend
The 2026 Texas Sales Tax Holiday is underway and runs through midnight Sunday.
During the holiday, shoppers can purchase qualifying school items without paying state or local sales taxes. Eligible items can include certain clothing, footwear, backpacks and school supplies, although some items are excluded.
Oklahoma tax-free weekend
Oklahoma’s tax-free weekend runs from midnight Friday, August 7, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, August 9.
Qualifying purchases are exempt from Oklahoma’s standard 6% sales tax. The exemption applies to eligible clothing and shoes, and qualifying purchases made online can also receive the tax break.
What shoppers should know
Tax-free rules vary between Texas and Oklahoma, including which items qualify and how the exemptions work.
Families should check the rules for the state where they are shopping before making a purchase.
For shoppers buying multiple outfits, shoes or other qualifying items, eliminating sales tax can provide meaningful savings — especially when combined with store sales and other discounts.
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