As families prepare for the return of school, many are refreshing more than just backpacks and schedules. Local business owners Eleece Pink of The Stash and Megan VanEyll of Shape It Up Fitness say this season is all about practical style, versatile pieces, and routines that support busy lifestyles.
Fall Fashion Gets a Refresh
Eleece says one of the biggest shifts in fashion is that trends have become more accessible and easier to incorporate into existing wardrobes.
“Fashion should feel attainable, not overwhelming,” says Eleece.
This fall, shoppers are gravitating toward elevated basics, rich textures, relaxed denim, matching sets, and feminine details mixed with casual comfort. One trend that stands out above the rest is Western-inspired fashion, featuring Western prints, leather accents, turquoise jewelry, and statement belts.
The seasonal color palette includes chocolate brown, olive green, deep burgundy, rust, camel, cream, and charcoal gray. Animal prints are also making a strong appearance this fall.
Rather than replacing an entire wardrobe, Eleece recommends updating existing pieces with a few new additions, such as updated denim, a versatile jacket, fresh shoes, or accessories that can transform everyday basics.
Back-to-School Looks for Teens
When it comes to back-to-school style, comfort continues to drive choices for many students.
“Teens are embracing relaxed, casual styles with personality,” says Eleece.
Wide-leg jeans, graphic sweatshirts, oversized flannels, fitted basics, and sneakers continue to dominate back-to-school wardrobes. Retro-inspired and suede sneakers are especially popular, while chunky loafers and ankle boots become more common as temperatures cool.
At The Stash, high-rise wide-leg jeans, relaxed straight-leg styles, and barrel-leg silhouettes continue to be top sellers as shoppers look for pieces that are both comfortable and easy to dress up or down.
Mom Style Meets Real Life
For moms, versatility remains a priority. Eleece says busy schedules call for pieces that can transition easily throughout the day.
“Busy moms need pieces that work as hard as they do,” she says.
Her recommendation includes flattering denim, soft knit tops, versatile jackets, and stylish sneakers, along with layering pieces such as blazers, cardigans, denim jackets, and lightweight shackets.
Athleisure Continues to Rule
At Shape It Up Fitness, Megan is seeing continued interest in athleisure and performance wear for both moms and kids.
Matching sets, athletic dresses, leggings, and golf-inspired apparel continue to be popular options that easily transition from workouts to everyday activities.
Megan also notes that shoppers now have access to more affordable alternatives that offer similar quality and performance to some premium athletic brands.
“We love giving our customers options,” she says. “Our goal is to help people build a wardrobe they feel great in without feeling like they have to overspend.”
Fueling a Busy Season
As schedules become busier during the school year, Megan encourages moms to prioritize their own health and well-being alongside their family's commitments.
"You can't pour from an empty cup," she says.
She recommends strength training several times per week, focusing on protein and whole foods, staying hydrated, spending time outdoors, and protecting sleep whenever possible.
"More energy doesn't come from doing more,” she reminds us. “It comes from taking care of yourself consistently.”
Megan also encourages moms to schedule workouts the same way they schedule other family commitments.
"When movement becomes a non-negotiable part of your routine, you'll have more energy, patience, confidence, and strength for everything else life throws your way," she says.
She adds that prioritizing health helps model healthy habits for children as well.
As families head into the school year, both business owners encourage people to focus on what works for their lifestyle. From updated denim and versatile layers to movement and wellness, a few thoughtful changes can help ease the transition into fall.