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 Kailyn models a plaid button front dress ($48, Roxy Girl from Triple Flip) over black leggings ($29, Triple Flip) and bronze patent Mary Jane shoes ($14, Joe Fresh). |
Layered looks built upon basics such as jeans and sneakers anchor most back-to-school wardrobes, but this fall there are new colours and trends to add to the mix.
Girls and boys alike both want to dress like their favourite pop culture icons.
"Disney definitely has a big impact on what kids are wearing these days -- the Jonas Brothers, Hannah Montana, High School Musical and Camp Rock are all big influences on what girls and boys are wearing," says Traci Costa, a Surrey-based designer and the founder of Peekaboo Beans, a line for boys and girls.
Girls are also influenced by stars like Vanessa Hudgens from Band Slam & HSM, and Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato of the TV shows Princess Protection Program, Wizards of Waverly and Sonny with a Chance, according to marketing manager Nadia Casarcia of La Senza Girl
Must-have back to school and early fall colours for girls include chocolate brown paired with dark pink, black and pink together, and purple, says Kevin Meloche, a spokesperson for Zellers.
Other colours for girls that take their cue from the fashion runways include sizzling combos of turquoise and lemon, and pairings of neon green with plum and purple with grey.
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Boys colours are muted earth tones, browns, greys and olive greens, which is generally what boys prefer.
"They want to be individual but not stand out too much from their peers," says designer Petra Fitzner of Vancouver-based Kiki's Kid's Wear.
For boys who prefer brighter colours there are also hits of red, cobalt blue, turquoise and lime, which play well against navy and other dark shades of denim, such as grey and black.
Jeans for boys are most apt to feature a straight legged and slightly relaxed fit.
Clothes for boys and girls both show plenty of pattern play. Plaids and oversized checks run wild on shirts, jackets, skirts and accessories, including bags and shoes.
Boy's graphic print tees and hoodies are particularly apt to feature skull, tattoo-inspired and motocross motifs.
Prints and patterns inspired by the seventies, such as tie-dyed prints and mod florals make for splashy girl's wear.
The tradition of layering tees, hoodies, jackets and quilted vests continues for both boys and girls, with girls gaining a few extra layering pieces, such as leggings and real or faux leather motorcycle-inspired jackets.
Leggings are a popular layering piece for girls and are a viable alternative to the season's all-important skinny jean. They are a versatile and comfy wardrobe option under tunic tops, skirts and dresses.
Girls are also apt to take special delight in the season's many new fashion accessories, which include motorcycle-inspired boots, metallic-trimmed running shoes, leg warmers, arm bands and fingerless gloves.
"Accessories are really key to kicking basic outfits up a notch," says Linda Maslechko, president of Triple Flip, in the West Edmonton Mall.
"Must-have accessories for girls include scarves, fedoras, caps, athletic knee socks, duffle bags and lunch kits that look like purses."