Send the Kids Back to School in Style

It’s that time of year once again. Parents and children are hitting the stores not only to get everything on the back to school supply lists, but also to buy back-to-school clothes.

Girls in particular are picky about what they wear to school at a younger age than ever before  Since so many grade school girls want to look like their older sisters, parents are trying to find that balance between fashionable and appropriate in order to avoid a junior fashion war. Luckily, clothing stores at can help both sides win the battle.

At , the word for fall is color.

“This year bright colors are in order not only for clothing, but for backpacks and boots too,” said an employee, "Layering is also important, with vests over shirts and skirts over leggings. This look is warm as well as fashionable.”

Another employee pointed out the accessories.

“All kinds of accessories are in style, but for some reason the big trend is fake eyeglasses with non-prescription plastic lenses. I guess boys really do like girls with glasses!”

Boots are just as vital for young girls as for adult women, but the girls get to have plenty of fun with shiny patent leather and fur.

Over at , shades of purple, gray, and mauve take center stage. Leggings and mini dresses are quite popular in all colors. If the girls want to go retro, there are also plenty of dresses and tops in psychedelic colors and peace sign prints. Continuing with the accessory theme are wide headbands in several styles to add a splash of color to young hairstyles.

At there is fashion for both sexes.

“Jeans are important every season for boys and girls,” said an employee.  “The boys’ denim is more straightforward, but the girls have jeans embellished with embroidery and rhinestones to liven up their wardrobes. Graphic tees are also in style for all kids, floral and artsy prints for the girls and more masculine ones for the boys.”

When it’s too warm to wear boots, there are satin ballet flats for the girls, which look especially cute with the ruffled skirts. The hoodie trend remains popular, and Gap has plenty of them on display.

As a rule, when kids dress well and feel like they are in tune with the latest styles they feel better about themselves, which also makes for a better learning environment. Check out these stores and others at Crocker Park for more ways to make the grade in the fashion department.