When it comes to back to school shopping, there’s no question that girls want a stylish outfit to start the year off right. Whether your child is a preppy prepster, a fashionable tween or a sporty teen, she wants to make her mark in her classroom and on the playground. But it’s important to remember that she also needs a versatile wardrobe that works for the gym, the cafeteria and all the other places she’ll be going this fall and beyond. Thankfully, the right wardrobe can keep her comfortable and confident while still looking cool, which is exactly what these back to school dresses will do.
Whether she’s headed to a private, public or charter school, these back to school dresses for girls will help her look prepared for the new year. From easy denim jumpsuits to classic tulle dresses, these ensembles will have her feeling and looking her best for the first day of class and all throughout the school year.
Denim is a fall classic, but this look takes it to the next level with a matching dress and sweater set. The breathable cotton will keep her comfy as she moves around the school, and the Breton stripe—a Parisian signature—is on point for this season’s style.
For a more dressy look, try this girls’ tulle dress in a classic pink with non-itchy tulle and cute star and moon appliques. This style will work well into the winter when paired with tights or knee-high socks. If your child loves a bit of sparkle, you might be able to convince her to wear it with some glitter shoes.
A tunic dress is another back-to-school staple that can be worn multiple ways. The Nikki 5-Way dress from Abi Ferrin features a stretchy, comfortable fabric that can be worn as a tunic top over leggings, as a midi skirt when paired with leggings or shorts or even as a midi dress. It’s also great for layering over a tee or sweatshirt, as the stretchy fabric will keep it from shifting as she moves.
Dresses thrown over a pair of leggings are one of the easiest and most effective ways to make fashion more practical for a school environment. Throw in a puffer vest for when temperatures drop and you’re ready to hit the playground or head into the cafeteria.
If she’s a little girl headed to preschool or elementary, a monogrammed or smocked dress will have her feeling extra special and on-brand for her first day of school. Many retailers offer back-to-school sales in early September, which is a great time to snag these pieces, especially if you’re looking for something that is embroidered, smocked or monogrammed.
If she’s a preppy kid or a tween with a more traditional taste, stores like French Toast and Kohls will have her covered with elevated classroom basics including polos, khakis and sweatshirts. They also carry a wide variety of brands that provide both casual and more formal options for kids whose style skews toward preppy, so you can find the perfect fit.