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by Tammy McKillip
The back-to-school shopping may be a bit easier on the wallet this year, thanks to a recent “green” trend in the fashion industry and simpler, more wholesome styles created with natural fabrics. Out are the blinking, springing character-embossed shoes and in are more classic kid-styles with clean lines, washable fabrics and versatile appeal.
Comfort
When it comes to daily duds, it’s all about layers this fall—and comfort. With the economy in a slump, the relaxed, natural-fiber, no-frills look keeps things real as kids head back to school. Canvas sneakers, soft, relaxed-fit jeans, cotton t-shirts and open button-downs will give the boys a timeless look that won’t cramp their style. Colorful leggings, cotton tunics, miniskirts, open sweaters and ankle boots lend a sassy, but down-to-earth cute to girls’ fashions. Earth-friendly fibers will dominate the fashion market on everything from backpacks, to shoes, purses, belts and other accessories and clothing. Plastic and glitz are definitely out this season—cotton and affordability is in, as can be seen in this TJ Max/Marshalls photo spread (above).
Shoes & Sweats
The Gap and Old Navy stores will soon be stocking Keds sneakers, and Crayola has come out with a new line of Vans, in primary colors—made of cotton, simple and easy to wear (although those of you with Velcro-dependent kids will need to work on the whole shoe-tying thing.)
For sports-minded or sporty wannabes, good news—the comfy sweats with the side stripe are now officially “in” for fall, so no more battles with Mom and Dad. Wear a long plain or Rock-n-Roll inspired T over your pull-on sweatpants, and you’ll achieve that effortless, “too cool to care,” look. Adidas has a whole new line of kiddie sports star fashions at Nordstrom, but you can find knock-off brands at practically any department store in the area.
Outerwear
When it comes to outerwear, the classic peacoat – with a wide lapel and large buttons – has made a comeback in junior fashion. Variations on the theme include micro-thermal nylon or wool versions, with or without faux fur trim. Hooded, twill military-inspired jackets in navy blue, olive green and gray are also a hit with the kids, as are skull-prints or vampires on pretty much anything. Hoodies will be pre-washed, faded or bright and worn loose with thin-striped knitted long scarves. Thin sweater vests with buttons will provide boys and girls with an added layer of warmth on chilly fall mornings.
Sweet and Sour
Tween and teen gals can get that not-quite-edgy-but-just-a-bit-funky look by combining short military tie-up boots with thick, colorful ankle socks and black tights. Top it off with a ruffle-bottom mini with a cotton shirt, open argyle button down and a short down vest in muted colors. Add a peace backpack and blue argyle beanie from the Upper West Side Tweens-only shop, Berkley Girl, and your little diva is ready for the runway. Rainy day? Trade in the army boots for lollypop-colored rain boots.
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