We’re trading in the swimsuits for new shoes and getting ready for back to school! This year is super special because Gracyn, my oldest, will be heading to Kindergarten! I want to make sure she is super prepared with all the supplies she might need and a few new outfits. I know so much stress can come with back to school clothes shopping, looking for the perfect combination of affordability, quality, and fashionable. Here is a quick list of where I shop for my kids that meet all the above!
Shirt / Overalls / Shoes / Backpack
When we found out that our second was another girl, I immediately thought that she could have all the hand-me-downs and we wouldn’t really have to buy anything. For the most part this has been true, but I’m totally guilty of wanting them to match or of buying a few cute new items I see in stores! So now they are pretty much always in coordinating outfits, even when they insist on dressing themselves. I’m totally loving this stage because I know one day they won’t want to dress alike anymore or will be fighting over clothes.
The Top 5 Stores I Shop For My Kids
Zara – I loooove the kids section at Zara! They have some of the most unique, trendy items and are great quality. I shop here for pieces they will wear often (such as denim jackets) or for special occasions like family photos. They can be more expensive then some of the other places but they do run sales a few times a year and when they do I like to stock up. I have noticed their sizes run large and most often I have to size down for my kids.
H&M – This is a great place to buy affordable basics. I love their $5 dresses and they are always coming out with new patterns. My girls will wear these dresses year round with everything from swimsuits underneath to leggings and a jacket. I also buy almost all my kids denim pants from here. They are great quality, have adjustable button waistbands, and are always super on trend (I mean how cute are toddler sized distressed skinny jeans!!). H&M also has great, affordable accessories for kids.
Target – This is my go-to place for leggings. The Cat&Jack brand are our favorite and some of the only leggings that fit them. Both my girls are pretty tall and lean so finding leggings with BOTH the right length and waist can be a challenge. We also love their $5 graphic tees and fun swimsuits.
Old Navy – This is also a great place to shop for affordable and trendy items. They always have the cutest dresses and jumpsuits for girls. I love their outerwear for layering! Most of my kids pajamas are from here as well. I have even seen some really cute mommy and me coordinating patterns, so cute! Old Navy is always running sales and giving out “super cash” to use on your next visit, so you can find some great deals.
Nordstrom / Nordstrom Rack – I buy almost all my own clothes from Nordstrom and the kiddo clothes are sooo stinkin’ cute! However, they are more expensive and that isn’t really practical for us when they are growing out of them so fast. The one thing I do always buy for them from Nordstrom is their shoes. I prefer to buy them one pair of quality shoes that they can wear everyday instead of multiple cheaper pairs. Nordstrom carries all my favorite brands of shoes for kids such as Converse, Native Shoes, and Salt Water sandals.
I think we’re all ready for schedules to be set and for routines to be back in play, but getting there isn’t always simple. I hope these shopping suggestions are helpful and make it a little easier for you. Now all we need are backpacks and some school supplies! Anyone else a HUGE fan of all new school supplies? I always loved this part of back to school shopping!
Good luck with the new school year!
Photos By Brittany Szabo Photography