Back To School Fashion 2020: A Return Like No Other

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Tammy Severino is the President of RPC Development, LLC, a boutique consulting firm specializing in small businesses and nonprofit organization. She has more than 20 years of experience as a writer, and is a speaker on women’s empowerment issues and philanthropy in America. In her spare time, this fashionista follows and writes about fashion, travel, parenting, and other lifestyle topics.
    Some years it seems as though back to school ads begin as soon as the last day of school has come and gone. This year, amid COVID-19, the end of the school year was just another day of virtual learning, and the first day of school is an unknown. How, then, do you shop for your child when you don’t know if they will be walking into their school building or learning from home? Until we know what to expect, the best suggestion is to choose comfort.
    Hmmm… is comfort a style? Comfort means getting up and out of pajamas in the morning and putting on something fresh to start the day physically and psychologically. Whether classes are in person, via Zoom, Google Classroom,  or another platform, having your child up and ‘put together’ gives them a sense of purpose and the ability to show off their sense of style – even if it’s just for themselves.
    So, without knowing if they are walking out the door, here are some of the fashion trends that will keep them comfortable, cozy and stylish. Logo, branded sweatshirts from top sporting goods lines are always in fashion. This year, hoodie and zip-up styles are popular, as long as they are oversized and a brand your child likes. Graphic T-shirts are a top pick every year; whether it has a favorite band or TV show, funny saying, sports team, or fun design, this choice always works – in both short and long-sleeved looks. For girls, T-shirts with tulip hems – rounded on the edges and with the back longer than the front – are expected to be a trendy look. Jogger pants will also be a big hit for both guys and girls, as will jeans – skinny, ripped and traditional straight leg. Girls will love the overalls which are available at many stores and suited for every budget. Tracksuits are back again, especially for girls, as are warm, chunky cardigan sweaters (but no buttons). Slim-line fuzzy sweaters are a great option for fall, especially with short sleeves. Pair with jeans and your girl will look great. Your guy will love a soft, plaid shirt over his T-shirt and jeans. There will be lots of prints and colors to choose from this year, so why not pick up a few.
    It is almost guaranteed that your guy is hoping to add new sneakers to his closet. Top picks for this fall are: Nike Air, Air Jordan, Vans and Converse Chuck Taylor. Ask which styles they want because trust me; they are particular in their brands. Your daughter’s top sneaker choices this season might include: Vans, Fila and Adidas. Once the weather cools down, boots will be a must-have for leaving the house. The top three for her this upcoming season are above-the-ankle lace-up boots, riding boots (landing above the calf but below the knee) and warm, furry boots (Uggs, BearPaw, etc.) which are available in a variety of shaft heights. 
    Keep them looking good and feeling great, so they start the school year off right – no matter where school takes place this fall. Stay safe and be well.