What do kids really want when it comes to school style? Comfortable, on-trend clothes they can really move in. That's the key!
From letterman jackets to snazzy joggers and artsy T-shirts (that they’ll never want to take off), here are some unique brands and outfit ideas at every price point to kick off their A+ look.
Little letterman
Letterman jackets are making the grade this back-to-school season, even on our littlest of classmates. Layer a retro sports shirt and some Velcro sneakers to make a morning routine so much easier. And how cute are these chambray sneakers?
Nautica Little Boys' Big N 83 Tee, $19, Boomdash
Drizzle Grey Slub Chambray Tiny Toms Lenny Sneakers, $39, Toms
Graphic T-shirt sweetheart
Outspoken kids can let their graphic T-shirts do the talking with a fun statement. Then, she can repurpose a denim skirt with a cozy pair of tights to get more mileage out of her summer wares. And a dose of animal fun will be all the rage, like these cute rabbit-ear boots!
Toddler Girls Long Sleeve 'Girls Never Give Up' Graphic Tee, $5, The Children's Place
Toddler Girls Denim Skort, $8, The Children's Place
Toddler Girls Long Sleeve Embellished Fuzzy Animal Graphic Sweater, $10, The Children's Place
Bunny Felt High-Tops for Toddler Girls, $24, Old Navy
Layered up dude
Start his layered outfit with an ultrasoft jersey T-shirt and he'll feel comfy-cozy throughout the day. Top it off with a breathable plaid button-down so your little one can toss it on or take it off if he gets too toasty. Finish with faux leather chukka boots for an outdoorsy feel that’s also friendly to the environment.
Parker Shirt, $50, Blue Rooster
Boys Art Tee in Supersoft Jersey, $26, Hanna Anderson
Beckett Pant, $44, Blue Rooster
Brown Synthetic Leather Chukka Boots, $59, Toms
Neither too cold nor too hot
Summer rompers can work well in the fall when paired with opaque tights and a waterproof windbreaker. And when it comes to popularity, ballet flats are here to stay! Seek standout details like grommets, bows or lace-ups for a fun take.
Waterproof Windbreaker with Polka Dots and Jersey, $30, Orchestra
Short Cotton Overalls with Embroidery, $26, Orchestra
Long-sleeved Plain-colored Tee-shirt with Printed Flowers, $11, Orchestra
Elastic Strap Ballet Flats, $16, Old Navy
Colorful cutie
Embrace punchy colors for kids to bring rays of sunshine into the classroom. And for those kids who resist wearing jeans because of their stiff texture, try shopping for fleece denim. The soft material has just enough comfort to change their minds.
Rubber Parka with Removable Hood and Printed Writing, $38, Orchestra
Boys Art Tee in Supersoft Jersey, $24, Hanna Anderson
Worn denim-effect fleece pants, $20, Orchestra
Navy Slub Chambray Youth Lenny Sneakers, $45, Toms
Touch of luxe
Comfy clothes can still look luxurious! Pair a flowy, floral print dress with a faux fur vest. Vests are a perfect solution for handling tricky hot-to-chilly weather. With more volume on top, a fitted jegging balances the outfit and will work great on the playground. Fringed booties will round out her boho-chic look and keep feet warm.
Rare Editions Chiffon Dress, Vest and Necklace Set, $42, Macy's
The Children's Place Girls Solid Ponte Knit Jeggings, $12, Boomdash
Anime invasion
Anime and art images are a designer favorite this fall. Look for bomber jackets with embellishments like patches, embroidery or extra hardware for visual interest. To complete this cool look, a backpack by Society6 is designed by an independent artist and will become an eye-catching hallway staple.
Military Bomber Jacket with Patches, $46, Zara
Dragon T-Shirt with Foil Slogan, $16, Zara
Boys 8 - 20 511 Sim Fit Performance Jeans, $28, Levi's
Moon Glow Backpack, $69, Society 6
Athlesiure update
The retro sports shirt trend is going strong and looks especially great when paired with a simple, one-hued hoodie. Crisp white sneakers are a classic while emoji bracelets capture that teen spirit.
"80s Pins" Burnout Zip Hoodie, $40, Butter Super Soft
Splendid Girls' Camo Print Joggers, $38, Bloomingdale's
Best Friends Emoji Bracelets (2 Set), $14, Zomi Gems
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline Slip-on, $50, Zappos
Cool and comfortable
Mix things up with separates from Kidbox, a fashion subscription that contains six to eight pieces of clothing curated to your kid’s style. It costs up to $98 if you buy all of the items included. Here's a sample of what it might contain: a must-have plaid button-down for tweens, a two-tone T-shirt and some killer patchwork joggers.
6-8 curated separates for up to $98, Kidbox
Men's Champion Denim, $45, Keds