We’ve all been there during back-to-school shopping: Buying anything cute that catches our eye, and ending up with 10 tees, two pairs of jeans, and one adorable, bulky sweater that can’t be worn for five more months. This fall, use our tips to build a capsule wardrobe for kids that they can wear all season long – and beyond.
1. Create a List
Short-circuit the over-buying impulse with a list of your must-haves. Here’s a sample list to get started. You might need more or less, depending on how often you do laundry, how temperate your climate is, and how messy your little one is.
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10 pairs of pants
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8 tops (a mix of long-sleeve and short-sleeve)
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2 dresses
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3 or 4 layering pieces (for unpredictable fall temps)
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2 pairs of shoes (indoor and outdoor).
2. Take Stock
Go through your mini’s closet and dresser. What still fits and will carry over to next season? What’s ready to be passed on or recycled? Subtract these from your original list. Bonus: fewer items to buy means you can splurge a bit more on the rest!
3. Pick an Organizing Principle
Here’s the key to avoiding overflowing drawers and pieces that are only worn once in a blue moon. Sticking to one theme ensures everything goes with everything – and therefore you don’t need as many clothing items to mix and match. Opt for solid bottoms and go wild with colorful patterned tops, choose a single palette (like pastels) or select a couple key colors to pair with neutrals (like aqua and emerald with gray) for a cohesive, versatile wardrobe.
4. Plan Your Splurges
Before you start adding to cart, decide what you’re willing to splurge on. Whether it’s playground-tested essentials, like durable denim and tees, or designer logos so the whole fam can step out in style, having a plan for the items you’re willing to spend a bit more on will let you stick to your budget while still giving your stylish kids a closet they deserve.
Written by Jaclyn Pillitteri
