Forget books and back-to-school supplies, the real must-have for a brand new fall semester is killer style. While teenagers are all about trends, keep in mind that most trends are born from the unbridled creativity of teen minds seeking self-expression. The key to a great look is to play around with fashion and mix and match different looks. Here are a few easy pieces to amp up your teen’s wardrobe without spending a fortune.
DAY DRESS
Breeze from late summer all the way through fall in a lightweight frock layered over skinny jeans and a long-sleeved tee or under a sweater. 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target is only in stores for a limited time with lots of funky yet ladylike pieces. This charming Coffee Shop Cutie dress from Modcloth ($84.99) has an adorable Taylor Swift vibe and this groovy, floral shift from H&M ($34.95) is totally mod(ern).
JEANS
Back to school denim shopping is an American ritual. Jeans have come a very long way when it comes to cut and fabric (thank goodness for stretch!) so it’s a snap to find a style to suit virtually any figure. For a cool, laid back vibe, go for slouchy, semi-fitted boyfriend jeans. Gap has a great selection of cords and denim in lots of gorgeous colors at a reasonable $59.95. Printed denim and skinnies in vivid brights or soft pastel hues are all the rage this season. Topshop and Forever 21 have tons of inexpensive styles.
DENIM VEST
When your outfit just seems like it’s missing something, throw on a denim vest to liven it up. They are timeless, cool, and they go with everything. Levi’s Denim Trucker Vest ($54) will last forever. Or turn a little ‘80s with a cropped 2b’s Striped number ($32.95).
JACKET
This season, transitional outerwear is all about moto jackets and relaxed blazers. Think Rebel Without a Cause with a twist in this BKE Chunky Zipper Jacket ($79.95) or modern preppy in a tangerine American Eagle Outfitters Open Cropped Blazer ($69.95).
Read Related: Easy Ways to Wear White After Labor Day
SNEAKS & BALLET FLATS
Comfy shoes are a must for hurrying from class to class. You can’t go wrong with Vans, socially responsible TOMS and the perennial classic Converse (you can even create your own customized version). For a practical shoe that’s a little girlier and a bit more dressed up, ballet flats are a go-to. Check out the amazing selection at Endless.
BOOK BAG
Every girl needs a fashionably roomy bag to carry her books and supplies. Just because it’s called a backpack doesn’t mean it has to look utilitarian. Go for something like this ladylike, convertible Pop Life Satchel ($60). A sturdy shoulder bag with interesting details like Aldo’s Sulmona ($50) is a perfectly stylish carry-all. Or go whimsically chic with a Black Kooky Cat Lily Tote by Lulu Guinness ($79).
