Back to School Shopping 2015-2016

By Jenn Martin

Back to School shopping… four words that always filled me with anticipation and excitement. From probably the 4th grade on, I just couldn’t wait to go pick out new clothes!! My dad would take us shopping and off to the Cooper Building in Downtown LA. I did not realize that we would go because the clothing was sold at sample sale prices, I just thought it was fun! Shopping and street food all amongst the beautiful skyline of DTLA. Well…Okay… back in the 80’s, it wasn’t QUITE what it is today. It was a bit sketchy, but like I said, it was an adventure!

I have always had my own sense of style and I enjoyed wearing clothing that I picked out on our outings. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own flair. To quote Dr. Charles Stanley: “Look your best. Be your best. Do your best.”
Whether you are in grade or middle school, high school or college, or just want to revamp your closet- here are a few tips and fall trends for you.

First, I recommend cleaning your closet and all your dresser drawers. It’s a big task, I know, but it’s helpful. We all have hidden gems in our closet that we sometimes forget about or haven’t tried on for a while. Sort what you can toss and keep tabs on what needs to be replaced. Try on outfits. See what can be mixed and matched. Pull out all your accessories and make “new” outfits from your existing wardrobe.

Let’s go back to the list that you are keeping. Write down the needs- new jeans, coat, backpack, athletic shoes… and then write what new trends that you want to incorporate into your closet. Thankfully nowadays, there are so many places to shop. You don’t have to go to a mall, you can just go to your local Target, your favorite thrift shop, or Marshalls. You don’t even have to leave the comfort of home; you can check out all the great online shops.

Now take your list and budget, and THEN start shopping!

When trying to incorporate trends, think of things that you will get the most mileage out of. If you love the 70’s look, you can find flared denim at a variety of stores and can be paired with a patchwork cardigan or a velvet duster. You can also just take a tee or blouse you have at home- add a new scarf and a fringe backpack, like this one from Forever 21 and VIOLA! – a new outfit! If you want to expand your athletic wear, joggers are a great relaxed look, but still stylish and you can match them with sweatshirts, tee shirts, tennis or you can even incorporate the never out of style, denim on denim look. I am personally a big fan of tennis shoes with the unexpected dress or skirt.

I live in Southern California where we don’t REALLY need heavy coats, but they are a splendid way to spice up your wardrobe. Try a faux fur coat on. Find a tribal print or embellished coat. Two different looks that will bring a POP to a pair of denim or black jeans. You can even top a simple black dress.

There are SO many more options and trends that I can write about, but let me finish with accessories. Each piece adds a new element of your own style to your looks. Try a beanie, a statement necklace, and/or rings to complete a look. I didn’t even get started on shoes! But we can save that for another time… I need to end with the most important info.

Whatever you decide to purchase, your outfits should reflect your personality and should reflect who you are in Christ. I may be taking this verse a little bit out of context- but, 1 Timothy 4:12 says, “let no one despise your youth, be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” No matter what grade you are in, live out this verse, even through your outfits. Be an example of Christ by rocking’ a fierce outfit and sharing His love with others.

Have a blessed 2015-2016 school year!