By Amanda Harding
Back to school shopping has never just been about school. There is something about fall runways and trends that inspire a need to shop in everyone, school enrollment status notwithstanding. This season can be summed up in one word: classic. From women to teens in lace and pearls to kids donning the perfect denim ensemble, this season is all about clothes that feel like home.
Classic Grace
If Grace Kelly is your style icon, then you are in for a treat. This season’s hottest look for women is the glamorous, refined elegance of a classic movie star. Check out pearls, blazers, and knee-length skirts that offer a sophisticated sexiness that is ultimately more alluring than peek-a-boo miniskirts. Inspired by the buttoned up but never boring models of the fall runways, these ladylike numbers are perfect for long days at the office, but glide easily into evening cocktails with friends. Ann Taylor has the perfect knee-length skirt to fit this trend, and J Crew can top off this look with an exquisitely cut blazer. Try silk blouses in classic colors such as black and grey, but then add a brightly colored patterned scarf to keep things interesting.
Lacey, Not Racey
Even teen retailers echo the ladylike vibe, so expect to see your 15-year-old dressing less like a rock video hopeful and more like your mom. Rose print cardigans, pearl accessories, and plenty of other vintage inspired treasures abound at favorite discount retailers Charlotte Russe and Forever 21. The most style savvy little ladies will also incorporate lace into their looks, which has been popping up in everything from cardigans to headbands. Moms can worry less about their teens becoming band groupies and more about them coordinating an afternoon tea date.
For kids, the focus is the ever versatile, all American fabric that we lovingly call “denim.” From pants to button downs to dresses and jumpers, this classic fabric has taken over kids departments in retailers such as The Children’s Place and GapKids. Pair adorable denim ruffled dresses with brightly colored tights and socks, and even mix different wash tops with bottoms. For back to school, pencils and notebooks are well and good, but the most important purchase will definitely be the perfect denim jacket.
On the Home Front
Home trends continue to feature casual elegance that is equal parts livable and beautiful. Pottery Barn offers country inspired prints and fabrics that echo the coziness of a farmer’s kitchen. In an effort to return to this simple way of living, PB features an array of toile print duvets, table runners, and window dressings that will have even the most mundane room feeling warm and cozy. If your taste is strictly modern, try dressing your pristine white couch with a couple warm hued, brightly colored throw pillows that can easily be switched out next season. Embrace home décor options that evoke long nights of flickering candlelight, surrounded by your loved ones.
