It's that time of year and if you have little ones, odds are your mind is slowly making the move from barbecues to backpacks. Thankfully, TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas is here to soften the blow with some fun new fashion collaborations that will help you beat those back to school blues.
Pre-school
True fashion knows no age and this fall, even the smallest of school kids can get in on the action. International brand H&M's new "All for Children" UNICEF Collection boasts a selection of updated classic pieces and will donate 25 percent of their proceeds to the All for Children initiative which promotes children's rights to education and protection in some of the poorest parts of the world. The line will carry pieces for babies to 8-year-old's and will include everything from dresses, skirts and shorts to hoodies, corduroy blazers and parkas all meant to be mixed and matched throughout the season. Available in 150 stores worldwide and also online, this partnership allows kids to look good, while also doing good for their less fortunate peers ($9.95-$59.95, Hm.com).
Another launch to look for is Missoni for Target. Arriving in stores September 13, the chic Italian design house will unveil over 400 pieces made exclusively for the chain retailer, including many items featuring the label's signature swirls and bright florals. In addition to children's wear, the collection also includes women's, men's and home! ($7.99-$44.99, Target.com)
Grade school
When it comes to dressing your kid, it's all about fun and function. While kids want clothes that express their personality, you need items that will withstand the playground. With that in mind, 77kids by American Eagle offers on-trend options for kids inspired by the heritage of American Eagle Outfitters®. Focusing on great fit, value and style, the line comes in sizes ranging from 2 to 14 and all pieces are backed by the brand's 77wash® and 77soft® guarantees to maintain size, shape and quality through multiple trips to the washing machine. With a mantra of "Long Live Fun" the brand also includes little77® — a line of clothing and accessories for newborns to 18 months old ($9.50-$49.50).
Middle school
If you've got a girl between the ages of 8 and 12, you may already be familiar with Stardoll.com, an online mecca for tweens who love all things fashion and shopping. The site features interactive games and virtual "MeDolls" that can be dressed up and personalized, and for the first time this August, little budding designers can step into glam apparel and accessories inspired by the site. The cute collection features a candy-colored array of tops and bottoms with girly embellishments that admittedly make me wish I were 10 again, from ruffles and glittery buttons to sparkly, 3D appliques ($11.99-$23.99; JCP.com).
And for the boys? Angry Birds, the online gaming phenomenon, is now making its real world mark with merchandise that parents may just want to steal from their kids! The series of T-shirts by Arizona Jeans brings the game's fun phrases and beloved birds off the screen and into your wardrobe — and will hopefully satisfy all addicts enough so that there's no playing during class (or work) time! ($15.99-$29.99; JCP.com).
High school
Last but not least, even the pickiest of high school-ers will fall in love with affordable styles from the French Connection U.K. line available at Sears. The European fashion favorite first launched its "UK Style" collection this past spring, and for back-to-school they're offering up more of their signature chic looks for both guys and girls. The line is particularly great for mixing and matching — boys can toss on a graphic T-shirt and top it off with a hoodie without worrying about missing the mark! ($9.99-$49.99; Sears.com)
For free-spirited fashionistas, there's sportswear by Jessica Simpson. The popular star has already proven that she's got what it takes to design (her handbags and heels have been making women squeal with delight for several seasons) and now she's bringing a bit of flair to the teen fashion scene. With fresh blazers, funky rompers and cozy, faux-fur trimmed vests, both moms and daughters will approve ($34-$98; Macys.com).