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What Your Kid's First Day of School Look Says About Them

What Your Kid's First-Day-of-School Look Says About Their Personality

August 10, 2018 by Kathleen Harper Owens

advertiser content from Kohl's

Ensuring your youngster starts their school year off with a bang begins with helping them look, and therefore feel, their best. We’ve teamed up with Kohl’s to share first-day approved looks that will help your little one stand out, no matter what they’re into.

The start of a new school year is synonymous with first impressions, fresh starts, and new opportunities. When it comes to your child nailing a perfect first-day-of-school look, confidence and individuality is key. While polos and sundresses are great, let’s be real, some kids feel way more comfortable in graphic tees and joggers. But have no fear, there’s still a polished way to make even the most casual items feel back-to-school appropriate! After all, you want your little one’s personality to shine through every day, which means helping them put their best foot forward starting from day one. No matter your child's personality type, we've rounded up 10 key looks that fit their style while impressing both you and your wallet!

SPORTY, ATHLETIC, TEAM PLAYER

If your kid prefers athletic shorts to jeans, you’re probably well aware they have a sporty streak. You also probably know all too well that the struggle is real when it comes to dressing them in anything other than moisture-wicking polyester. Luckily, athleisure is one of the biggest trends out there right now, and it’s not only comfortable, it’s fashionable.

For the first day of school, let your little athlete stay true to themselves while giving their style a polished boost. Instead of shorts, opt for flattering joggers or leggings with stylized details like side stripes or tapered ankles. Bonus points for color coordinating their tops with their sneakers.

For Boys

Nike Brasilia XL Backpack ($50) Nike Jersey Joggers ($30, originially $35) Nike Dri-FIT Legacy Top ($25, originally $30) Nike Air Max Axis ($70)

For Girls

Nike Hayward Futura Backpack ($44, originally $55) Nike Vintage Athletic Pants ($33, originally $45) Nike Split Back Tee ($30) Nike Revolution Sneakers ($52)

PREPPY, ORGANIZED, CLASSIC

A more traditional first-day look suits kids who tend to lean towards preppy clothes and styles. Think classic blouses, plaid-print anything, and Mary Janes. Not only does this child have no problem dressing up, they feel most confident when rocking a pretty dress or crisp button-down. Not to mention their impressive attention to detail and organization skills show through in their schoolwork; therefore, it's no surprise they'll be super excited about their first day back.

For Boys

OshKosh B'gosh® Striped Button-Down Shirt ($12, originally $24) Chaps Twill School Uniform Shorts ($16, originally $28) Boys' Boat Shoes ($30, originally $45) Boys Nike Reversible Belt ($18)

For Girls

Fit & Flare Short-Sleeved Dress ($21, originally $30) Grosgrain Bow Hair Clips ($6) Mary Jane Shoes ($25, originally $30) Lace Turn-Cuff Socks ($9)

FASHIONABLE, OUTGOING, DETAIL-ORIENTED

This is the kind of kid who breathes fashion. Getting dressed in the morning is not only an entire ordeal, it’s the best part of their day. If your youngster is a fashion enthusiast, it’s likely they put time, thought, and energy into planning their outfits every day, down to every detail. They’re pros at pattern mixing, and already have an impressive eye for coordinating. If this is your child, the best thing you can do — especially for first–day-of-school dressing — is allow them to take the lead. Shopping, picking out clothes, and styling outfits is fun for them. They already know what they enjoy wearing, and they’ll feel best knowing they chose every piece themselves.

For Boys

Levi's® Non-Stretch Denim Jacket ($25, originally $58) Printed Button-Down Shirt ($13, originally $26) Indiana Jones Fedora ($38) Comfy Waist Pants ($15, originally $26) Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Street Slip Low Sneakers ($35, originally $40)

For Girls

Sequined Star Jeggings ($17, originally $28) Glitter Bomber Jacket ($40, originally $58) Bow Back Tank Top ($9, originally $12) Gladiator Sandals ($16)

OUTGOING, BUBBLY, COLORFUL

If your child has a bubbly personality, loves to chat, and seems to make friends effortlessly, you most definitely have a social butterfly on your hands. For this type of kid, a first-day-of-school outfit calls for colorful standout pieces that are elevated yet playful. Help them pick out clothes that have fun sayings — hello conversation starter — and allow them to move freely on the playground. For girls, opt for a cutesy skort rather than a skirt, and for boys, make sure their sneakers make a stylish statement — think bold colors or prints. You want your youngster's clothes to match their sparkly, bright personality.

For Boys

Super Mario Bros. Graphic Tee ($8) Straight-Leg Jeans ($22) Red Sneakers ($40) Under Armour Lunch Box ($28)

For Girls

Varsity Graphic Tee

from kohls.com

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Chambray Tiered Skort

from kohls.com

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Confetti High Top Shoes

from kohls.com

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JanSport Backpack

from kohls.com

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CREATIVE, ARTSY, INNOVATIVE

If your child gravitates towards edgier pieces, make sure their first-day ensemble reflects that creativity. To ensure their confidence is through the roof, allow them to wear the skinny jeans, but buy them a pair in black for a more dressed-up feel. To give basic denim extra style, pair it with a stretchy headband and throw on a chambray button-down instead of a traditional cardigan. This is the type of kid who aims to dress how they feel, no matter the trends. Help them by picking out pieces that are unique, and styling them in unexpected yet put-together ways.

For Boys

Levi's® Skinny Jeans

from kohls.com

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Plaid Button-Down Shirt

from kohls.com

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Solid V-neck Tee

from kohls.com

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High-Top Sneakers

from kohls.com

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For Girls

Mudd® Denim Leggings ($25) Chambray Shirt ($12) Ankle Boots ($35) Mudd® Head Wrap ($14)

For Boys

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For Girls

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