It's time to put away those beach bags and take out the lunch boxes — the new school year is almost upon us. But there's no need to stress if you're anxious about the annual back-to-school shopping trip.
Senior lifestyle editor at Zulily.com, Amy E. Goodman, visited TODAY Tuesday to share the top trends this season.
Animal instincts
Let your little one roar into the new school year with an animal-themed outfit. From leopard-print shoes to a wolf appliqueé T-shirt, the options are endless!
Elizabeth: Bunny Bow Shirt, $4.99, HM.com; Stevies #Dressup Ballet Flat, $21.99, Target.com
Zion: Get Appy Tee with Wolf, $34, HannaAndersson.com; Star Wars R2D2 Backpack, $19.99, Target.com
Rowan: Wolf T-shirt, $32, SaltCityEmporium.com; Boys' Down Vest, $39, LandsEnd.com
Popular plaids
Plaid is one of the most versatile patterns: Your kids can wear it all the way into the holidays! Feel free to dress it down for the school day or dress it up with different separates and nicer shoes for a special occasion.
Ella: Plaid Shirtdress, $41.60, HannaAndersson.com; Ryder Tall Boots, $23.07, ChildrensPlace.com
Joseph: Plaid Shorts, $29.99, USA.Tommy.com; Rockstar Skate Sneakers, $20.26, ChildrensPlace.com
If the knit fits!
While it can be tough to think about warm and fuzzy clothing in the middle of August, you'll be glad you invested in these chic and cozy knits come fall. A fun knit dress with colorful tights will look great and keep her comfy all day long. And for him, check out that cool glow-in-the-dark T-shirt!
Fiona: Knitted separates from $24, BodenUSA.com; Suede Fringe Boot, $29.95, FabKids.com
Mack: Glow-in-the Dark T-shirt, from $32.50, Jcrew.com; French Terry Moto Pants, $35, TeaCollection.com
Sporty loungewear
Adults are loving the athleisure trend, so why can't kids get in on the sporty look? Sweats and easy separates are all the rage this year; just look for items with a special touch like trendy pockets or a lace-accented shoulder to make it feel elevated.
Jared: Junk Food Star Wars Football Tee, $26.95, Gap.com; Separates from $9, OldNavy.com
Olivia: Lace Accent Sweater, $12.99, H&M stores; Star Leggings, $12.99, H&M stores
Rock stars
Add a little rock 'n' roll to their wardrobe with faux leather accents that will make them feel like a star. Graphic T-shirts, faded jeans and muted flannels round out the look.
Caroline: Floral & Faux Leather Jacket, $49.95, Abercrombie; Mossimo Black Booties & Sneakers, $17.99-$34.99, Target stores
Kingsley: Tony Hawk NY Bridge Graphic Tee, $18, Kohls.com; Straight Jeans, $39.95, Gap.com
Southwestern
Help them stand out in the crowd with a trendy print, like this Southwestern-inspired button-up. This fashion-forward piece will let his personality shine.
Kingsley: Southwestern Print Shirt, $29.95, Gap.com; Jogger Pant, $29.95, Gap.com; Brown Trainers, $35.90, Zara.com
Star player
You know she's a star, but be sure to remind her with this playful printed sweatshirt. Worn under a puffy vest, she'll be ready for a field trip or a playdate at the park in no time.
Olivia: Black Star Sweatshirt, $12.99, HM.com; Padded Vest, $34.99, HM.com