Style School NYC: Shiny Fall Fashions

Liv rockin' the accessories - thanks 77kids!

Well, we are back and LOVED Style School, and especially loved meeting the brands, bloggers and nice folks at 77kids, American Eagle's new brand just for kids from infant to age 14. Many thanks to Remington, Lands End, Motts, Goody, Mabel's Labels, Zulily (great clothing drive), Suave, Cameron Hughes, McDonald's, Children's Advil, Play-doh, and to Audrey McLellan for telling me about the event in the first place via Boston Parent Bloggers.

Trendspotted: 

• Hot colors for this fall: blues and purples, 80s neons, "dipped" styles (think tie-dye dip), and rocker styles with graphic tees, boot/flare/skinny jeans, and plenty of rockin' accessories, from hip hats, scarves, bangle bracelets, custom belt buckles, and even temporary/henna tattoos for older kids!
• Tops are layered and luscious this fall: big hoodies and wrap cardigans with ruffled tanks underneath (great for those warm September classrooms); wild print and striped tunics over leggings, and layering stripes and solid tees.

J. Crew's cupcake ruffle. A cute, preppy look.

Jeggings and rose denim - 77kids' 80s flashback!

 Ruffles, stripes, colors... create your own look blending clothes in the same color palette.  Kind of Molly Ringwald-esque, moms!

On the bottom, check the new super flare jeans, always flattering boot cut pants and denim, and still, skinny jeans for the long legged tucked into a boot or with a ballet flat.

• Dark denim washes are definitely in for girls and boys - and they dress up and down.  And here's Teen Vogue's guide to denim.   
• If grandma asks to buy one thing for back to school: ask for a cool graphic zip-up hoodie in fleece, terry or just soft cotton. Perfect for layering, and tweens love to hide under the 'hood! :)
• Boys looks are classic: fleece, athletic, plaids, rock shirts, sports styles, thin horizontal stripes, and vintage.  
• Shoes: kids still need to wear sneakers or flats to school to be able to run and play safely, but that doesn't mean they have to be boring! Check out this slide show from Teen Vogue on 100 shoes for back to school... love those newsprint style ballet flats!

Overall, I'm thrilled to see that this fall's fashions stress independence, individuality, and creating a look that is as unique as you are... there are no "cookie cutter" back to school looks so express yourself.  Rock on, shiny monkeys... good luck and have fun!