Have you done any back to school shopping with the kids yet? If you’re wondering what the new trends are, be sure to check out the end of this post where we have the scoop from area style experts.
The teen and I hit the Tacoma Mall and got him all set for the new year, or until he grows another couple of inches, so…….November (sighs).
We always try to load up on basics he can wear year round, and then splurge on a few must have items. No matter what you’re after, the Tacoma Mall has it, so you can get it done in one stop.

Let’s go to the mall! We love the bright, wide spaces at the Tacoma Mall!
Moms need back to school clothes too, right? I usually go through the drop off lane in yoga pants, but I’d be willing to put on real clothes to justify these.

Pretty things at Buckle
We hit a whole bunch of favorite stores but ended up getting most of the kiddo’s finds at two of our longtime favorites, Old Navy and Macy’s. I was proud of how he stayed on budget and really thought about what he needed. If you’re shopping with someone old enough to dress himself, it’s a good chance he has his own opinions! My advice before you go on any shopping trip is to have your kids go through their closets, try things on, and do an honest assessment (which you can trim down), of what they really need. Remember: No matter how much you love something, if your kiddo won’t wear it, there’s no reason to buy it!

Yes, you have to try it on!
I also think it’s super smart to try and find out what’s in style. You don’t want to spend your budget only to find out in September that you bought all the wrong things! Lucky for you, our friends at the Tacoma Mall sent over some picture from their back-to-school fashion show to give you some ideas. Prepare for cuteness overload. Also? I need that gray jacket. I wonder if that comes in my size…..
I love that the looks this fall are all about fun combos and layers. I mean, layers are pretty much a necessity around here, right? Awesome that it’s finally a look that’s in style! How cute is that dress over the printed leggings? Stylish and still comfy enough to crush a kickball.
I do believe the South Sound has the smartest and cutest kids around. Well done, Tacoma parents! Whatever your kids have to have this year, you can find it at the Tacoma Mall. As always, we loved the bright, big aisles, the variety of stores, and the friendly folks, too. We’d love to hear what’s on your kiddo’s back to school list this year!
Disclosure: I was provided a gift card to facilitate this review and our shopping trip. As always, the opinions are my own. The fashion show pictures are courtesy of the Tacoma Mall.