How to Integrate the Soft Style Trend into Your Child’s Back-to-School Wardrobe

By Felicia Czochanski

Soft style has been trending this year, (think Easter basket pastels as an all-season look.) Synchronous with preppy and inspired by vintage brands like Limited Too and Juicy Couture, soft style continues to trend for not only Gen Z but also the younger generations. When parents are waiting in line to meet the teacher on the first day, they will be sure to see children in preppy plaids and softer looks with pops of color. By shopping at Goodwill, you can bring this trend into your child’s wardrobe in an affordable way. It’s also the perfect time for a parent-child shopping trip together before the frenzy of a new school year.

1. Pearly Girl

As any parent knows, the younger the children, the quicker they seem to outgrow their clothes. It can be rare for children to fit in the same clothes that they wore the year before, and as a result, it can feel like shopping for new clothes is constant. That’s why shopping at Goodwill is the perfect solution — not only for donating clothes that your child may have outgrown but also for shopping for like-new or even brand-new clothes for a fraction of the cost.

I took a trip to my local Goodwill store in Brooklyn, NY, and wanted to share some outfit inspiration below for any parents looking to start sourcing their child’s back-to-school wardrobe. Somehow, the new school year is already around the corner!

2. Jumper Dress

Jumpsuits and overalls aren’t just in for Gen Z, your children can wear these looks too from a soft style perspective. Just pull something like this mauve jumper with adorable bunny pocket detailing above. I paired it with a three-quarter sleeve white bodysuit underneath to stick with a more neutral look, letting the pink of the dress stand out as the statement color of the outfit. When it comes to getting your child through the day, let comfy and cute be your guide in selecting an outfit.

3. Soft Style for Middle Schoolers

If your child has advanced into secondary school, soft style can still be for them. Let your child select some new t-shirts that stick with the trend. Pastels like the pink Buffalo David Bitton top above with ruffles on the sides can pair with some comfortable denim shorts. You’ll also start to see some throwbacks from when you were in middle school (I know, I can’t believe it either) with looks based around plaid skirts and even skorts in bright and light colors. If you’re lucky, you might find a vintage Limited Too version that was just like what you might have worn back in the day.

We want to see your child’s first day of school outfits sourced from Goodwill. Be sure to tag us @goodwillintl in your photo or video on Instagram for a chance to be featured.