Dan's Papers - August 10, 2007 - Ahead of the Class

It's almost time for the back to school shopping frenzy. Parents love the fact that the kids will be sitting in their classrooms all day instead of in front of the TV playing video games. The questions this season are what to wear, what colors and fabrics, what trends and accessories? Back to school 2007 features a wide variety of trends that are easily mixed and matched for a truly extensive wardrobe. The focus is on clothing that is fashion forward, yet comfy.

For girls, dresses this season are far from simple. Look for ruffles, prints, wraps and hoods in bright colors like cobalt blue and my favorite, deep purple. Baby doll dresses and kimono tops add a stylish flair and the plaid jumper (remember those?) makes a strong comeback. Shift dresses (they used to be my favorites), are perfect for layering. Everywhere there is a vintage feel that is "oh so modern." Hemlines start at mid thigh and never go below the knee, (thank goodness), a throw back to the Mod Squad of yester-year. For the smaller set, try the sneaker dress, a printed look with a hoodie, paired with rolled leggings. It's perfect for the classroom or the playground.

For the special look, tops mirror many of the trends found in jumpers and dresses. From baby doll floral to kimono tops in solids and geometric prints, blouses and fashion tops really stand out. Detailing includes pockets, buttons, hoods, long and short sleeves and the ever-popular three-quarter length sleeve.

Pants come in a wide variety of styles and lengths. Summer styles make their way into fall with Bermuda shorts, skimmers with rolled cuffs and Capri's are still on the playground. The athletic looks goes to school in knit bottoms and sweatpants, often worn rolled up at the bottom. Denim is forever. It's always in and this season the looks are more streamlined with less detailing. The pant scene on the whole is neutral in color. Favorite jackets, sport ruffles, buttons, front pockets, double-breasted, hound's-tooth, plaid and even metallic versions. All are cropped and fitted, the perfect accompaniment to today's wide-legged pants. Pair skinny pants with long tunics and waist-defining details such as a wide sash belt. Do wear form-fitting tops with wide pant legs and flowing baby dolls with skinny trousers.

For boys, the news is tried and true - good old-fashioned polo's and rugby shirts are the staple of choice. Layering is key, with short-sleeve polo's and T-shirts under sweaters, hoodies or button-down shirts. Fleece makes a comfort statement on the inside of hoodie sweatshirts, and zippers are everywhere. Active wear features sports teams T-shirts, jerseys and long wind pants found in darker colors such as black, navy and charcoal. The newest color on the teen boy's scene is apple green and denim jeans and cargos appear to be here to stay. Pants with zip offs at the knee and elastic waists are practical for the sport enthusiast and the younger sibling.

For accessories and footwear, don't leave home without them. Headbands with tails (wraps that tie underneath) make a fashion statement this fall and are important and available in a wide variety of patterns, stripes, polka dots and colors.

Backpacks and lunch totes have become a fashionable accessory. What's new? Oversized totes in nylon fabrics featuring holograms and bold designs. Lunch totes with comic book and cartoon characters top the pop lists.

For teen girls, the footwear options are exciting and varied, but the ballet flat is the must have. Comfortable and stylish, the flat is everywhere in glitter, soft leather and suede, animal prints, plaids and even with ceramic embellishments. Wedges also give height and comfort and are found in shoes and boots. Bright colors are everywhere in shoes, a way to make the season's more neutral clothing really "pop." Gray is the new black, but bold cobalt, emerald green, deep purple and even fire red shoes are available this season.

"What is different this fall is the breadth and depth of styles, patterns and colors. The options reflect a true combination of multiple eras of fashion," explains Sonya Cosentini, T.J. Maxx Fashion spokesperson.