It’s that time again—back-to-school shopping season. While it’s easy to get swept up in the rush of new trends and overflowing racks, this year, I want to challenge families to rethink their approach. As your local fashion expert, I believe one of the greatest lessons we can teach our children early on is how to build a capsule wardrobe—and yes, even kids can benefit from this intentional style strategy.
A capsule wardrobe is built on versatile staples like denim, t-shirts, button-downs, and jackets, with a few trend-driven pieces added to reflect personal flair. Instilling this concept at a young age not only promotes mindful consumption while reducing waste—it also teaches kids creativity, independence, and self-expression. Instead of decision fatigue (cue the dreaded “I have nothing to wear”), they’ll learn to mix, match, and maximize what they already have.
It also gives you, as a parent, a helpful framework when shopping. You’ll save time, reduce spending, and be more strategic in curating a wardrobe that works hard for your child every single day. Style becomes less about keeping up and more about showing up with confidence and clarity.
If you’re heading to big-box retailers to take advantage of back-to-school savings, I recommend focusing on the basics: solid tees, undergarments, socks, and everyday shoes. But when it’s time to add personality-driven pieces that help your child stand out, turn to local boutiques. Supporting small businesses not only keeps your child’s wardrobe unique, it also boosts confidence by encouraging individuality in a sea of sameness. Check out page two for our local recommendations.
With just a little intention and some encouragement, you’ll set your child up for a stylish year and help them discover who they are becoming. Remember to take advantage of Ohio’s extended tax-free shopping from Friday, August 1st through Thursday, August 14th.
- Dolce Vita Baby Boutique – Features classic, elevated styles for young school-aged children with a high-end aesthetic for newborns up to the age of 8. Imagine unique sleeves, playful details, and on-point seasonal prints. If you appreciate a more refined, lady-like or gentleman style then this is the boutique for you.
- Cub Shrub – If you like whimsical styles and imagination this boutique is worth the stop. With color-rich looks and louder prints, this will be a great option to enhance the way your preschooler or kindergartner shows up. Have a shy kiddo? Pairing bright colors will help them stand out.
- City Style Children’s Boutique – If playful prints, graphic tees, and a laid-back, casual vibe is your thing, this boutique shop houses an eclectic assortment for babies all the way up to tweens. If you have a broad age range with your kiddos this might be your one-stop shop for clothing.
- Tigertree – Are your older teens looking for a laid-back, cool-person energy? If so, then you’ll want to stop in this store and start building up their style identity with some of Tigertree's unique assortments. What’s exciting about this boutique is that moms and dads will also find pieces they want, too.
- Peyton & Peppy Boutique – A mix of feminine, fashion-forward pieces for those looking to tap into their more mature age. You’ll discover soft fabrics, a large denim assortment, and trendy pieces to incorporate. Moms and daughters don’t want to shop in the same store but this spot might be the exception.
- The Little Light Collective - Gen Z is embracing second-hand shopping. This collective is ideal for those who love vintage and resale items. Interestingly enough the Y2K style is on trend this year so they might find the OG pieces here. If you know second-hand shoppers, they love a good brag find.
Sur(real) Style with Courtney is a soulful, personalized styling service that blends psychology, sustainability, mindfulness, and an artful approach to your style. Whether you're evolving your look or preparing for a life shift, Courtney helps you dress in alignment to achieve your style goals with confidence, intention, and an unmistakable presence.