Fall fashion do’s and don’ts
A season known for inspiring fashion expression in both young and old, fall’s style offerings — from big-name brands to smaller-scale fashion houses — don’t disappoint. Whether your student prefers to rock well-known labels or go the locally designed and produced route, here’s how to help style savants play it cool when temperatures start to dip.
Do: Help them hone their personal style skills.
Fashion stylist and editor Ingrie Williams says when you start with items that look and feel great, throwing together an outfit becomes so much easier — even on the busiest of mornings.
“Forget about matching everything and anything, and focus on helping kids build a roster of pieces that work harmoniously,” she says. “Hone in on details that your kids are excited about, like a favourite colour or motif. This will help them develop a sense of selfexpression through the clothing they choose to wear.”
Do: Invest in fall’s three fashion necessities.
Williams says garnering an A-plus back-to-school wardrobe is all about pairing basic pieces with trendier items for a truly individual look.
“There are three key pieces particularly worthy of your attention each fall,” she says. “Specifically: denim, jackets and shoes.”
When it comes to jeans, consider them an essential for every year-round wardrobe, with black, indigo blue and dark washes most on-trend this season.
Jackets are another must since they’re great for layering, transforming an outfit from casual to less-casual instantly, helping to update classic pieces and adding style detail to items needing a dose of cool.
As for sneakers, though they’re a perennially popular way to personalize individual style, Williams says there’s a special focus on chunky soles, retro-inspired high tops and high-shine and ultra brightly hued versions among the schoolyard set this fall.
Check out stores such as H&M, Old Navy, Gap, Winners and Joe Fresh for a host of perfect-for-the-school-yard options.
Do: Inform yourself on the styles trending for fall.
While vibrant colours, prints and embellishments are standout themes in girls’ fashion this fall — think pops of magenta, bright takes on animal prints and faux fur accents — boys can expect bold touches of colour and updates to classic prints, including everpopular plaid and gingham.
Another trend to watch for, says Williams, is the growing popularity of gender-neutral garments.
“There’s an increasing availability of unisex items and casual basics in the market, such as track suits, which are made to fit and suit all kids,” she says. Don’t: Be afraid to pass on trends.
While staying current is never a bad style move, personality and individual preference should always win out when it comes to wardrobe selection.
“Don’t be afraid to inject your outfits with hits of vibrant colour, unexpected patterns, textures or other statement-making pieces,” says Williams.
Don’t: Assume backpacks must be utilitarian and boring.
While there’s no shortage of options when it comes to backpack styles, don’t assume these carryalls can’t be fashionable.
“More than any other backto-school item, these present a perfect opportunity for kids to really hone in on and craft their own sartorial voice. With iron-on patches featuring various characters, graphics and letters, it’s easy to help or encourage them to flex their creative muscles through customization.”
Don’t: Always opt for big-name clothing brands.
As much as there is to love about recognizable and nationwide clothing stores, there’s something about supporting Canadian retailers and designers that invokes a serious case of the warm and fuzzies. A few in-city options with Canuckcentric clothing worth checking out are Stephanie’s Kids and Purple saurus. With varying lines catering to a range of ages and sizes, each offers options for every kind of style preference.