The Ultimate Back-to-School Clothing Checklist (That’s Stylish, Sustainable & Built to Last) - 2025

As summer winds down, the excitement of a new school year is just around the corner. For parents, this means it’s time to start thinking about the back to school clothing essentials your kids will need. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into middle school, having a well-thought-out clothing list can make the back-to-school season less stressful and more fun!

Here’s your complete guide to back to school clothing essentials—plus pro tips on choosing high-quality, sustainable pieces that will actually last.

Start with a Closet Check

Before shopping, take inventory of what still fits, what’s in good condition, and what’s actually worn. This step saves time, money, and closet space. Once you know what your child truly needs, you can focus on filling in the gaps with thoughtful, long-lasting pieces. Be sure to involve your kid(s) in this process. This is a great time for skills building that will help them down the road!

Back-to-School Clothing Essentials Checklist

A well-organized back to school clothing list can help you stay focused and ensure you cover all the essentials. As always, we recommend starting with pre-loved items where appropriate. Here’s a streamlined list of must-haves to make your shopping efficient—and your kids ready for anything:

Tops

Stock up on versatile, comfy tops that work for both school and play. Look for:

• Durable t-shirts – like our Organic Frankie Tee (yep, it’s kid-approved !)
• Long-sleeve layers for chilly mornings (our Stevie sweatshirts are light weight enough for kids that run hot, but warm enough for cool starts to the day.)
• Polos or collared shirts for schools with a dress code

Bottoms

Prioritize comfort and flexibility:

• Jeans that can handle playground scrapes (our Jules Jeans are a fan favorite)
• Leggings and joggers for all-day wear (our Kai pants are a consistent best seller)
• Dresses and skirts that can be layered over leggings (or even sweats!) for transitional weather (check out our Jo Dress and 2-in-1 Parker Pinafore!)

Pro Tip: Jackalo pants are designed to fit twice as long, thanks to their adjustable design—fewer purchases, less waste.

Outerwear

The weather can change fast, so be ready:

• Lightweight jackets or hoodies
• A winter coat that’s both warm and washable
• Don’t forget **hats and gloves** for colder regions

Shoes

Kids need footwear that keeps up with them:

• Sneakers for everyday adventures
• Waterproof boots for rainy or snowy days
• Dress shoes if your school or social life requires them, I like how Rothy’s skirts the line between dressy and casual, and our kids love an edgy athletic shoe for a fun modern look, even with a suit!

Socks & Underwear

These are basics but easy to overlook. Stock up on socks and underwear to avoid mid-week laundry emergencies.

• Tops for Back to School: A mix of t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and polos. Depending on the school’s dress code, consider adding a few button-up shirts or blouses.
• Bottoms for Back to School: Comfortable jeans, leggings, dresses, and shorts in neutral colors that can be easily mixed and matched.
• Outerwear for Chilly Days: A light jacket or sweatshirt for chilly mornings and a heavier coat for colder months.
• Shoes for the Playground: Sneakers for everyday wear, dress shoes for special occasions, and possibly a pair of boots for winter.
• Socks and Underwear: These are basics but easy to overlook. Stock up to avoid mid-week laundry emergencies.

Choose Clothes That Are Built to Last

Kids put their clothes through everything—from recess to art class to spontaneous puddle jumping. Choose back to school outfits that are:

• Made from durable fabrics like organic cotton and stretch twill
• Machine washable and fade-resistant
• Designed for movement and comfort

Jackalo’s entire line is made for longevity—and when your kids outgrow their clothes, you can send them back through our TradeUp program for store credit. It’s circular fashion made simple.

Shop Sustainably This School Year

When shopping for kids' back to school clothes, consider opting for sustainable brands. Teaching your kids about the importance of sustainability from a young age is a lesson that will benefit them—and the planet—in the long run. Help them learn to choose brands that use:

• Organic or recycled materials
• Ethical labor practices
• Minimal packaging

Every Jackalo piece is made with the planet in mind—so you can feel good about what they’re wearing.

Let Your Kids Help Pick

Involving your child in the shopping process can make it more enjoyable for both of you. Let them pick out a few items that they really like. This not only helps them feel more confident in their new clothes but also teaches them to make thoughtful choices about what they wear. This builds confidence and reduces returns.

Plan for Growth (Because It’s Inevitable)

Kids grow quickly, so consider buying some items in a size up, especially for basics like t-shirts, jeans, and jackets. This ensures they’ll get more use out of their clothes before outgrowing them. Did you know, Jackalo’s pants are designed to fit 2x longer?

Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, keep this guide handy to make sure you cover all your bases. Happy shopping, and here’s to a successful and stylish school year!