I’m officially the mom of middle and high-schoolers! My 6th and 11th grade cuties marched out the door Monday for their first day…actually, to make things even more surreal, one actually drove himself to school! How’s that for a change of events?! So far their excitement levels for the new schools are high, so fingers crossed it stays that way.
They both grew like weeds over the Summer, so we had to do some pretty heavy shopping last week to get them dress-code compliant, and our first stop was one of my favorite spots, J.Crew Factory. I love the preppy styles and bright colors, not to mention, the fair prices and amazing sales!
But before I show you all the cute styles, can we just pause a second for these darling faces?! My gosh these two make my heart happy. Creating this post is a favorite every year…see last year’s (and how much they’ve changed!) here.
Ask Little Miss what she’s most excited about with Middle School, and she’ll tell you dressing out for PE! For years her outfit was dictated by PE class, but now that they change clothes for it, she’s free to wear whatever she likes for the rest of the day. She was over-the-moon to find these jeans that actually fit her petite frame, and we promptly ordered a second back-up pair.
Striped Dog Sweater | Dot Puffer Vest | Jeans
This dude fluctuates between skater and preppy styles…I know which I prefer, but I think we’ve found a happy medium! He won’t likely wear button-down shirts to school, but these slim fit styles are his favorites for dress-up occasions.
Flutter Sleeve Top | White Jeans | Similar Nude Sandals
And since their jeans and pants start at size 28 waist, J.Crew Factory became our go-to source once he started growing. And growing.
J.Crew Factory is also my favorite spot for dressing the entire family for Christmas cards, since the colors and patterns are so easily coordinated. (See my tips for styling family Christmas cards here.)
Plaid Shirt | Slim Fit Jeans | Striped Dog Sweater | Dot Puffer Vest | Jeans
Striped Dog Sweater | Dot Puffer Vest | Jeans
He’s partial to the Driggs fit, and was thrilled to see they carry it in both jeans and chinos. And it was too hot to actually put this hoodie on, but trust me, it’s a good one! And he’d know…he’s kind of a hoodie aficionado.
V-Neck Tee | Chino Pants | Henley Button Hoodie | Sunglasses
Utility Dress | Glitter Cat Ears Headband | Similar Sunglasses
V-Neck Tee | Chino Pants | Henley Button Hoodie | Sunglasses
I wish I could take credit for the rocket ships, but crazy socks are his thing!
I think this experience opened Little Miss’s eyes to new styles, because she surprised me by choosing this darling utility dress as one of her favorites! She’ll wear it now with booties or sandals, and layered over leggings when it cools off. (I’m tempted to get the Women’s version for myself!)
Utility Dress | Glitter Cat Ears Headband | Similar Sunglasses | Jean Jacket
I shared these two quite a bit on my Instagram Story when we were on vacation, and got a lot of comments about how well they get along…and they really do. Of course they get under each other’s skin and push buttons sometimes, but there’s real love between them. I think a lot has to do with their age gap and different genders, but we’ve also always insisted they treat each other with kindness and respect.
Growing up as an only child (I didn’t get siblings until high school), I’m amazed watching their relationship, and pray they always stay close.
More new arrivals just hit J.Crew Factory today, and it’s all 40% off, plus free shipping…so now’s a great time to stock up! Oh, and great news, they’re offering a Student & Teacher Discount online for back-to-school season! It’s available until September 30, and can be stacked with other promotions and codes. So students and teachers, get your shop on!! Have your littles gone back to school yet?
{Shop His Teen Style}
{Shop Her Pre-Teen Style}
{Shop My Mom Style}
*This post was created in collaboration with J.Crew Factory, but all outfits, opinions & overwhelming pride are my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors!*
