How to Build a Back-to-School Capsule Wardrobe for Your Kids

Wherever you live, you’re probably going to need a range of refreshed tees for the year, both short and long-sleeve. Shirts tend to be the item in my kid’s closet that, over time, show the most wear and tear. That’s why I recommend using this as a moment to play a round of ‘keep’ ‘toss’ or ‘donate’ to both size up and cycle out anything that’s overly faded or stretched out. The best versions are made from natural fibers for softness and layering, but feel free to invest in whatever colors or patterns your kiddo likes best.

Ditto this category—there’s no greater essential than back-to-school slacks. Skip the stiff cords (unless they love them) and look for pants that offer a little stretch and an adjustable waist to keep up with growth spurts, like jeans or joggers. Psst: Barrel jeans are trending for grown-ups, and also for kids.

There’s the first day of school pics, shot by mom and dad, then there’s the professional variety. This is your moment to splurge on a piece that feels especially frame-worthy. Just keep in mind, you want something that will be especially photogenic from the waist up since kids tend to be photographed in a seated position. (Ask me about the shark sweater my kid wore in kindergarten that got totally cut off.)

The item most frequently replaced in our kid’s closet has to be their shoes—and growth isn’t the only reason. (The soles of the sneakers actually get worn out from overuse.) But footwear is yet another place to showcase fashion and style, whether their choice is sparkly high tops or a more retro-looking sneaker. Just remember to actually measure your kid’s foot before adding to cart and opt for flexible soles and breathable materials.

I’ll admit—this in-between layer (perfect for wearing over a tee, but also ideal for when it’s not quite jacket weather) is the most-requested item in my kid’s closet. It’s also another chance to show a ton of personality and style. After all, there’s a reason adults look forward to sweater season. As long as they’re not super scratchy (a common complaint!), kids do, too. Live somewhere chilly? Add a heavier knit to the mix so you’re covered when temps drop.

We’re not talking about the winter variety—this category covers the kind of jacket that’s best suited for transitional fall temperature fluctuations. A rain jacket or something fleece, these coats provide added warm (or inclement weather protection), perfect for when the weather starts to get brisk.

Can we all agree that these are the most boring things to buy? Still, things like socks, underwear, even shorts to wear beneath dresses are essentials—and, TBH, pretty darn cute and practical, depending on the brand.

September hits and the email reminders about theme days start coming. That’s why it never hurts to pre-shop a selection of seasonal pieces, whether it’s a cardigan that nods to apple picking or a spooktacular sweatshirt or two.

It’s the item that tends to be absent from back-to-school supply lists, but is also the most imperative to back-to-school success: sleep! That’s why it never hurts to mix in a few new pairs of PJs to ensure any first day/week/month jitters are countered with comfort and coziness. The stylish pairs below check every box.