Long gone are the days where parents picked out their children’s clothes for back-to-school. Today, kids, especially those 13-18, definitely have autonomy when it comes to picking their swag for the new school year.
Of course, there are certain must-haves – like a fly backpack or the new Jordans. But when parents try to hone in on a particular look for their star pupil to start school, they will be in for a rude awakening. Back-to-school style is truly an open playing field where the student is the captain of the team.
This year’s back-to-school style coverage profiles three area students who have unique style perspectives when it comes to looking fresh for that first day back.
Haley Rose, Niya Moore, and Madison Henderson are not your typical teens. They keep their grades above average, volunteer in the community, play sports and have turned their individual hobbies into lifestyle brands.
They are definitely not caught up in labels and name brands, but they each take pride in expressing themselves by looking fly – especially during the first day of school.
Haley Rose
14, entering 9th grade
DR: What’s your must-have item for the first day of school? Oh, you’re starting high school, so your gear has to be on 1,000!
Haley: Hmm … I think I’m going to play it cool for the first couple of days. I don’t want to be cliché by trying too hard and looking like everyone else. So mainly, my hair has to be on point, and everything else will fall into place.
DR: So how will you be rocking your hair on the first day?
Haley: I’m going for the natural “beach wave” look that’s in right now.
DR: How would you describe your personal style?
Haley: My style is really chill, sporty but sassy. I primarily wear high-waist jeans, a fresh pair of tennis shoes and whatever cute tops I come across, whether they be my mom’s or cute T-shirts I take from my uncles. LOL.
Niya Moore
13, entering 8th grade
DR: Do you have your “first day of school” look already picked out?
Niya Moore: Absolutely not! As long as I have on my favorite jeans, earplugs and phone charger, I can worry about the rest later.
DR: So, what makes your style stand out from everyone else?
Niya: I’d like to think of my style as being carefree. I have two older sisters, so of course I get to go through their stuff and revamp it to fit my taste.
DR: So since you’re so chill when it comes to your style, do you have any back-to-school must-haves?
Niya: I definitely have to have the Jordan 7 Marvin the Martian sneakers.
Madison Henderson
14, entering 10th grade
DR: Being that you have to a wear a uniform to school, how do you express your individual style?
Madison: I love to wear unique jewelry that I find from different places.
DR: Where do you usually shop?
Madison: It just depends. I like the usual places like Forever 21 and Claire’s, but I also like vintage and thrift pieces.
DR: That’s cool! I was heavily into vintage at your age. So, do you get to express your style outside of school?
Madison: Oh, yeah! Most definitely. I like to wear colorful clothes that are chic, but chill. I’m not the type of girl to wear short skirts and crop tops. I like to be able to be comfortable and move around without looking awkward.
As we can see, all the kids want for back-to-school is to have their favorite pair of jeans, a cool pair of sneakers, phone charger and poppin’ hair. Maybe us adults should take a cue.
For more info about back-to-school style, follow Danie Rae on IG and Twitter @Style_brokers.
