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It’s that time of year! Back to school shopping. To lend a hand, we’ve curated a list of the best fashion and accessories brands for kids for back to school this year, including bookbags, tops, shirts, dresses, and more.

The best brands for kids to start the 2023 school year in style

It’s almost time to put away the beach bags and take out the lunch boxes, because the new school year is just around the corner.

The best brands in fashion and gear for kids for back to school this year, including bookbags, tops, shirts, dresses, and more.

Whether you’re dreading the return to the classroom or counting down the days, your little ones will need some new gear and clothes to kick off the new school year. Time to hit the stores together for one last bonding activity together!

Regardless if you shop online or in stores, you can make it a special day with their favorite meal and a treat. It also helps to come armed with a little knowledge about some of the newest must-have brands and trends so that you can help steer them in the right direction when it comes to choosing their new wardrobe.

The best brands for kids, including bookbags, tops, shirts, dresses, and more.

To help guide you (and ultimately them) in the right direction, we’ve found 12 emerging brands in pint-size ready-to-wear that both you and your child are sure to love – no need to worry about scowling faces or rolling eyes.

Which brands will have them ahead of the style curve? Read on.

The best brands for kids to start the 2023 school year in style

1. lola + the boys

Model turned entrepreneur Irina Ovrutsky founded colorful Lola + The Boys after the birth of her daughter Lola and two sons. Her goal was to create clothing for kids to have fun in and feel good in, to express their personalities and know that it’s okay to be a little extra. This Rainbow Daisy Turtleneck ($48) will brighten anyone’s day.

the best brands for kids to start the 2023 school year in style including bookbags, tops, shirts, dresses, and more.

BUY NOW – $48.00.

2. reiss

Just like its adult counterpart, Reiss childrenswear transcends time and trends. Case in point: this striped sweater style Milton Half-Zip Polo ($60) that will have them looking extra dapper.

the best brands for kids to start the 2023 school year in style including bookbags, tops, shirts, dresses, and more.

BUY NOW – $60.00.

3. classic prep

Based in Connecticut, Classic Prep creates timeless silhouettes that have been reimagined for today for your little ones. From seersucker stripes and dainty ginghams to the classic blue and white Liberty print on this twirly Sabrina Skirt ($89), it’s an effortless style.

the best brands for kids to start the 2023 school year in style including bookbags, tops, shirts, dresses, and more.

BUY NOW – $89.00.

4. barrow

Italian brand Barrow aims to embody the spirit of a digitally advanced, mysterious, rebellious youth, characterized by a strong desire for individuality and self-distinction. Does this kid sound familiar to you? Then they might like one of the brand’s distinctive graphic Printed T-Shirts ($116).

the best brands for kids to start the 2023 school year in style including bookbags, tops, shirts, dresses, and more.

BUY NOW – $116.00.

5. sea new york

Lean into the girly vibes with Sea New York’s Kids line of romantic dresses and jackets. With a smocked bodice, ruffle trim and puff sleeves, the Delphine Kids Dress ($155) has a vintage flair for fashionistas in the making.

BUY NOW – $155.00.

6. deux par deux

While Deux Par Deux may not be new, it’s taken the children’s fashion world by storm. Featuring vibrant colors and original patterns, it’s a perfect addition to your mini’s wardrobe. Our pick is this cozy retro style Sherpa Half-Zip Pullover ($43).

BUY NOW – $43.00.

7. barefoot dreams

Leave it to the makers of the CozyChic blanket to make a must-have Cozychic Barbie Sweatshirt ($128) for your little one. And if you want in on the Barbie fun as well, there’s even a Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Barbie Robe ($168).

BUY NOW – $128.00.

8. snapper rock

Award winning New Zealand Based brand Snapper Rock is best known for their UPF50+ and chemical free swimwear but their outerwear shouldn’t be overlooked. The brand’s mountain inspired Peak To Peak Waterproof Jacket ($80) is made from recycled polyester and will ensure they stand out from the crowd.

BUY NOW – $80.00.

9. mon coeur

Made from reclaimed cotton and/or recycled materials, Mon Coeur is a sustainable children’s lifestyle brand born to imagine a world where the planet comes first. These ultra soft Skinny Jeans ($60) are a timeless style that will go with everything from t-shirts to sweaters and blazers.

BUY NOW – $60.00.

10. tiny cottons

Based in Spain, Tiny Cottons crafts stylish and bold collections inspired by nature, art and culture.  The deep pockets on these Corduroy Pants ($99) make them perfect for exploring and collecting everything from rocks to pencils and other small treasures.

BUY NOW – $99.00.

11. flower mountain

Inspired by harmony with nature, Flower Mountain is a colorful Japanese shoe brand that was born at the Fuji Rock Festival. Encourage your little ones to play outdoors with the brand’s fun, yet functional Lace-up sneakers ($119).

BUY NOW – $119.00.

12. bari lynn

Chances are your kids may need a new backpack and lunchbox. Skip the same old, same old with one of Bari Lynn customizable ones. Simply apply the brand’s patches on the Distressed Denim Backpack & Lunch Box Set ($95) and you’ve got a completely unique bag and lunch box that will be hard to misplace.

the best brands for kids to start the 2023 school year in style including bookbags, tops, shirts, dreses, and more.

BUY NOW – $95.00.

best brands for kids for back to school this year

That’s our take on the best fashion and accessories brands for kids for back to school this year, including bookbags, tops, shirts, dresses, and more. The must know brands for boys and girls that parents need to know this year, including Lola + The Boys, Flower Mountain, Snapper Rock and more. Happy shopping to the back to school crew! Here’s to starting the year off with an A+ in style.

Jillian Tangen

Jillian is a lifestyle editor at Dandelion Chandelier covering topics like fashion, travel, entertainment and on occasion, even finance. She thinks there’s no such thing as having too many sweaters.