Outfitting the Smallest Back-to-Schoolers

Checking off those long back-to-school shopping lists can feel like an endless chore, especially if you're new to the school supplies scene.

Patch sought some advice from local mothers and children's fashion experts on what clothes and supplies are a must this year and what mistakes to avoid when getting ready for that first big September. Don't hit the mall or Babylon Village's downtown stores without their expert advice.

Joleen Kelskey is the owner of Daisies and Tutus, a homemade tutu and girls' fashion accessory line, and a mother to two young children. Kelskey is one of those enviably organized moms, so we knew she'd have some insider knowledge to pass along.

Beverly Blum is the owner of recently opened children's boutique Sweet Autumn, and mom to a toddler, the store's namesake, Autumn. Blum sees firsthand what clothing and accessory trends are hot with moms and young kids, and tries to match her inventory to reflect what's in demand..

What are the biggest trends for girls and boys this year?

Kelskey: "The trends for girls are skinny jeans with a slim-line cardigan and her favorite summer tee. Leggings in every style: bright colors, animal prints, with embroidery, with lace, capri-length. To update leggings, pair with tuxedo shirts, tunics, skirts or dresses from the summer with long-sleeve shirts underneath or a cardigan on top."

Blum: "Dresses with leggings, handkerchief tops and boys' shirts with prints, rocket ships, cowboys, and rock shirts (think the Beatles or Aerosmith)."

If you don't want to break the bank for a pint-sized fashionista, Kelskey recommends updating staples you already have, like jeans and leggings, with trendy pieces like a reversible tutu.

"Mix old summer pieces with a few new pieces and your little one can wear that favorite tee or dress and still be trendy," she advises.

For boys, Kelskey notes that dressing your little man like an actual little man, copying Dad's vintage rock tees, preppy colors, and layers of plaid and stripes, is popular.

Backpacks, lunchboxes, clothes, shoes, accessories: it can get overwhelming to shop for school season. What are the basic must-haves and what can parents cut out?

Kelskey: "Backpacks and lunchboxes are a must but try holding out until the first week of school is over. Your little one will come home begging for the backpack their friends have. Backpacks and lunchboxes go on sale the weekend after the first week of school."

What about practical items? As a mom, what tips and tricks have you found to be helpful?

Kelskey: "Anything personalized is a great way to keep your kids' accessories from getting lost: buy a backpack with a name tag already in it as a time saver."

Blum agrees that labeling lunchboxes and backpacks is essential. Especially for preschoolers, who may not remember or notice which pink Dora the Explorer backpack belongs to them.

Some other advice for parents Kelskey offers is to make, and stick to, a budget; "check out what's cool in high-end stores and then look for a less expensive version," and lastly, to take the dictates of fashion lightly.

"Don't buy too many trends at once. They come and go really fast. Accessorizing is key: headbands, flower brooches, flower clips that can be worn in hair, on clothes, or even attached to shoes will jazz up any outfit. Watches make a little boy or girl feel big when they pretend to read the time."

What about actually getting your kindergartener awake and dressed in that adorable outfit in time for the school bell?

Kelskey, mercifully for those of us with chaotic morning routines, claims mismatched outfits are actually in vogue.

"Your little one will love to create outfits while you save money. Use some old pieces and layer with new pieces. "

Or, if your household is instead a little too calm, try getting crafty and tackle another current look yourself:

"Tie-dyed tees are back. Have a craft day with your little preschooler and make your own tie-dyed top, dress, or leggings."

Joleen Kelskey sells her homemade clothing online. Beverly Blum runs in Babylon Village.