Top 10 Trends for Back-to-School Fashion

Community Manager — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 12:29:00 GMT

Camps are ending, summer internships wrapping up. Time to hit the mall for back-to-school fashion before hitting the books in September. Surprise your student with your style savvy by boning up on these top ten trends. Smart parents know what's what before opening their wallets.

1. Backpack Plus: Sure backpacks are for hauling books, but the newest, grooviest backpacks do more. Look for fleece-lined audio pockets with headphone exits and padded laptop sleeves. Some bags even sport skateboard straps to secure your wheels while at school.

2. Ethical Fashion: Green your student's wardrobe with eco fashions featuring sustainable materials such as bamboo and banana fabric or vintage clothing. Major retailers are promoting eco fashion as a major trend: witness fashion giant H & M launching a line of organic and recycled fabric.

3. Look Good, Do Good: Many fashion brands now link sales to fundraising for specific charities. Hot shoe purveyor TOMS will donate one pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair purchased. Google "ethical fashion" for other brands raising money for charity.

4. Mad for Plaid: Plaid is still rad; check shirts and plaid clothing are all over the stores so mix a few items into your wardrobe for major style points.

5. Preppy Looks: The letterman sweater is back in a big way. Retailers are showing cardigans and 1950's style letterman sweaters for both sexes. Yea team!

6. Tribal Matters: Global fashion is all the rage as ikat and tribal patterns grace everything from clothing to accessories.

7. Sneaker Authority: Snazzy sneakers come in every price point so make a style statement with your kicks. If your budget allows, buy two pairs, one for style, the other for substance.

8. Duh, Denim: Some things never go out of style: denim for example. Jeans are a wardrobe staple but think outside the box by mixing in denim dresses and shirts.

9. Tech-Cessorize: Make a style statement with eye-catching cell phone cases and iPad skins. Even headphones can be customized to make a personal statement.

10. Shop Your Closet: Who says you need all new? Take time to review the clothing in your children's current wardrobe. Find out what fits, what needs to be handed down and what can transition into fall.

Beyond Folders : fashion

Top 10 Trends for Back-to-School Fashion