Go '80s Crazy
Add Bold Stripes
Always a staple, stripes are going bright this season with pops of color—and when in doubt, go bold. "Bright stripes are really, really big this spring," says Walker. "They're sort of always around, but now it's that French girl-inspired Jean Cheever striped Ts. If your kid's a bit less bold, opt for an easily hidden layering piece or even fun stripe-y socks.
To buy: 1. Henley Dress, $20. 2. Textured Stripe Sweater, $40. 3. Patterned Knee-High Socks, $5.
Amp-up Athletics
No, we're not talking gym socks and sweatpants. This season's take on sporty has a much more feminine edge. "We're talking tennis-inspired dresses," says Walker_._ "It's like the shorts and T-shirt combo, except it's an easy-to-wear dress. Those are great, especially for active kids who run around a lot—and for tween girls who are sportier but still want to look like girls. It's a nice transition."
To buy: 1. Pique Polo Dress, $12. 2. Drop-Waist Pocket Tee Dress, $14.
Get A Wedgey
Thankfully, flats are still on-point this season. But if your kid needs a new shoe fix, the wedge is the new thing for spring. Go for a great pair of chunky platforms or a cool pair of wedge sneakers," says Prabhakar. Wedge sneakers? Yup, adds Walker, "They're really a thing." But, "the biggest thing is neon wedge sneakers." For some of the more "out there" fashion fads, which may only last one season, Walker suggests going with a cheaper option from a store like Target or Forever 21. "Those products are made to only be worn for a season."
To buy: 1. Neon Strap Wedge Sandal, $23. 2. High Tide Low Wedges, $33. 3. Quid Patrol-02 Wedge Sneaker, $40. 4. Ankle Strap Wedges, $27. 5. Hidden Wedge Sneakers, $38.
Know Where to Spend
Classics and staples are worth spending on. "I will always splurge on a well-made jacket and a pair of stylish shoes," says celebrity trend expert Rachel Florio. "Your child can be in designer jeans or a pair of sweatpants and still look stylish if she has on hip outerwear." And know what to cheap out on. "Anything that you know is going to be a quick trend should be shopped for online at flash sale sites, or from a brand that quickly makes knockoffs. If it's a lime green T-shirt with a fun graphic, I'd rather pay less, considering the number of wears it will get."
To buy: 1. Cole Haan Kids Air Nancy, $68. 2. Tamarack Jacket, $70. 3. Jeggings, $60.
Know Your Kid
They're still kids, after all. "So skip anything that's ridiculously overpriced just because it's a hot trend, as well as anything uncomfortable," says Florio. "There is no point in purchasing items that won't get worn." And Walker reminds parents that tweens are still growing—and fast—so it's not worth overspending if something might not fit tomorrow. "I never really recommend a splurge for a child who's still growing," she says. "Size up a bit or go for something classic that won't be done next season—like black and white." And it's easy to find the latest runway-inspired looks on-budget at places like H&M, Forever 21 and Wet Seal, Walker notes, as well as in Target's and Kohl's special lines.
To buy: 1. Top, $15. 2. Pants, $20. 3. Shirt Dress, $25. 4. Boots, $30.
Accessorize
One place Walker would put some money is into classic accessories that'll carry from season to season—and won't be outgrown. This season's must-have? "Sunglasses! The big, bold ones. They're always around," Walker says, "but they're a statement piece this season. So splurging on one really good quality pair that your daughter feels Hollywood-esque in is a good bet." But don't limit it to one. "They're really accessories," adds Walker, "so you can splurge on one expensive pair and like five really cheap-o pairs and mix it up. It's a really fun place to play."
To buy: 1. Xhiliration Aviator, $13. 2. F0050 Square, $6. 3. Arnette Fire Drill, $70. 4. RB2140 Original Wayfarer, $150. 5. F0032 Square, $6. 6. Xhiliration Gradient, $13. 7. Mossimo Gradient, $17.
