It's back-to-school time ... again! This year, the TODAY Parents and Shop TODAY teams came together to make the transition to schoolwork mode as seamless and easy as possible. We're bringing you the best back-to-school supplies, tips and tricks — all in one place.
If you want your kid to look cool — without blowing your budget — we've got you covered.
Most children have fairly specific likes and dislikes, from colors and lengths to whether or not a shirt has a tag on it. My son is going through a phase where he wears all his shirts inside out ... he calls it his "look."
So, for back-to-school shopping, you'll want sturdy attire that will last the whole school year and at the same time, is fun and functional.
To help guide you, we scoured the internet to find the best back-to-school styles and deals. Happy shopping, folks!
1. Amazon
The online behemoth has a massive, and we do mean massive, selection of clothes, in all manner of sizes. Plus, returns are super-easy. And Prime Wardrobe lets you try on certain styles without commitment.
PUMA Unisex ST Runner NL Velcro Kids Sneaker
These sneakers stand the test of time. We speak from experience.
Spotted Zebra Girls' 2-Pack Knit Sleeveless Tiered Dresses
We love these colorful, fun numbers.
A total classic, at an unbeatable price.
2. Polarn O. Pyret
This Swedish brand specializes in fun styles that are also seemingly indestructible. My son still wears shirts that we bought three years ago — not a tear or hole in sight.
This simple but stylish striped tee is sure to become a wardrobe staple.
Stay warm and dry during fall storms with this cozy, waterproof rain jacket.
3. Nordstrom
We love the store's wide assortment of brands and products, for kids and adults.
CREWCUTS BY J.CREW Splatter Print Backpack
What's not to love about this sturdy and fun backpack?
TUCKER + TATE Rainbow Stripe Sweater
We are smitten with this bright and engaging shirt.
4. Walmart
We already know you can dress like a royal by shopping here but the chain also offers some seriously good deals on back-to-school attire.
Wonder Nation Girls' Solid & Printed Leggings 2-Pack Set
Nothing beats comfy leggings when it comes to letting loose on the playground.
Fruit of the Loom Boys' Long Sleeve Crew T-Shirt with Rib Cuffs
This simple, classic shirt comes in a wide variety of colors.
5. Zappos
We love this store for its huge, and we do mean huge, variety of jackets and various other outdoor essentials.
Crocs Kids Handle It Rain Boot
These are so fresh, and so practical.
Hatley Kids Color Changing Shark Frenzy Raincoat
The most long-lasting raincoat this mom has ever bought.
6. Boden
Another brand we love because of its consistently high-quality attire and colorful garb.
This cozy sweatshirt is perfect for transitional fall weather.
This colorful, cozy long-sleeved tee brightens up any outfit.
7. Macy's
Another store that has major options for parents, including those whose kids are into Under Armour. You know who you are!
Under Armour Big Boys Logo-Print T-Shirt
You can't go wrong with this athletic shirt.
Under Armour Big Boys Pennant Tapered Pants
This pair is equally comfortable and versatile.
8. American Eagle
A go-to destination for teens and tweens, with a nice selection of denim.
AE NE(X)T Level Super High-Waisted Jegging
This dark-wash style holds its shape forever.
This graphic tee is out-of-this-world cool.
Go Tagless
This isn't a store, but rather, we collected a few options for kids, like my own, who loathe clothing tags and demand shirt and pants without those irritating attachments sewn in.
“Some children are more sensitive to this nuisance than others. There’s an easy way to get around it — companies make clothing without it,” said Tovah Klein, the director of the Barnard Center for Toddler Development and the author of “How Toddlers Thrive: What Parents Can Do Today for Children Ages 2-5 to Plant the Seeds of Lifelong Success.” Here are some of the best we've found.
City Threads Boys' and Girls' 100% Pants
No buttons, zippers or tags!
Not only are these tagless, but they look cute, too!
We buy most of our clothes from this site, which specializes in mix-and-match styles that are insanely comfortable.