Back-to-School Style on a Budget: 5 Key Trends from Joe Fresh

Forking over your hard-earned money on a wardrobe that kids are likely to grow out of quickly doesn’t always spark joy but spending less on key pieces they’ll love wearing on repeat until they outgrow them sure does. Joe Fresh is your one-stop shop for next-level style and incredible value. We tapped their experts to help us unpack five of this year’s trends along with items to help your little one achieve the perfect first day look.

Preppy is a classic style that leans into a tailored profile with pretty pastel colours and a nod to nautical and equestrian details. Think stripes and cozy knits like this dusty rose Cable Knit Dress ($29) which is comfy and structured with striping detail around the v-neck, cuffs and hem. Wear it as-is with a pair of Chelsea Boots ($32) or buy it oversized to layer on top of a white collared blouse and tights.

Athleisure has changed the way we think about activewear. Sets like this sweet lilac-hued Active Jacket ($24), Longline Sports Bra ($14)—which lends itself as a great layering piece for fall, winter and spring—and High Rise Active Leggings ($19) are as comfy and breathable as they are stylish. It’s the perfect look for sliding into a desk in math class or showing off moves on the monkey bars.

What makes prints so loved is the incredible spectrum of options they offer. Go all out with a power clash and bright colours or create a monochromatic look as seen here in this subtle off-white leopard Fleece Pullover ($19) and Fleece Jogger ($19). Kids can rock them together with tube socks, a coordinating toque and ultra-light puffer. They can also break up the set by pairing the Fleece Pullover with jeans or layered over a shirt dress, or pairing the Fleece Jogger with a fave tee or hoodie.

Facts are facts, if you have a cool jacket on, you’re feeling good about yourself. The subtle-but-bold indigo and tan colourway of the lightweight Varsity Jacket ($35) enables a world of styling possibilities. Layer the jacket on top of a sweatshirt, tee or hoodie and pair with a trusty pair of jeans and sneaks. Now the only debate is whether they’re one-strapping or two-strapping their backpack.

Utilitarianism favours practicality over style, but the utilitarian fashion trend highlights how function and comfort can also be beautiful and cool. Take these charcoal Jeans ($24), for example, which are practical and subtle enough to go with high-pattern prints or more subtle pops, like a classic gold-and-white Colour Block Tee ($14). Here’s the formula: when a base is simple, it’s easy to build on.

Speaking of simple, don’t forget about the basics. A great graphic tee and the perfect hoodie are like the white button-up of a kid’s closet.

Ever heard of a capsule wardrobe? It’s less, but done better. Buying a few new staples can rejuvenate an outfit and add a bit of pizzazz to your little one’s wardrobe.

Hoodie
This cozy unisex hoodie is available in multiple colourways and is the perfect layering piece and it’s part of Joe Fresh’s collaboration with the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, which protects freshwater, ocean and public land. These are perfect to wear out in nature.
Joe Fresh x CPAWS Explorer Hoodie, $24

Graphic Tee
Nothing portrays interests quite like a graphic tee. Pick a few unisex tees from multiple colourways and graphics to pair with joggers, jeans, dresses and those wide-leg overalls!
Graphic Tees, $19

Denim Overall
Heard the ’00s were back, plus overalls are just plain fun. With spacious legroom and adjustable shoulder straps, kids can play around with styling with one strap fastened or folded at the waist converting the shoulder straps into a belt for extra security.
Denim Overall, $29

Shoes
You can’t argue with a classic. Gracing the style charts for decades, these faux patent-leather slip-on loafers go from jeans to dress to shorts and offer a nice reprieve from laces. Grab a pair of crisp white socks for a preppy look.
Loafers, $26

Backpack
Backpacks need to be reliable, but they should also be stylish since they’re in the spotlight. Choose a roomy canvas bag with adjustable straps and pockets to spare. And with that camouflage print, not being able to find your homework is a valid excuse.
Camo Backpack, $19

Cap
Similar to the “wrong shoe theory,” which is where you pick an unexpected choice, the “wrong hat theory” is a great one for kids to adopt. This moose-decaled unisex cap can be paired with anything and everything like a dress or overalls, making an otherwise simple ‘fit fun and unexpected.
CPAWS x Joe Fresh Faux Leather Cap, $14

Raincoat
Not just for drizzly days, this high-low hemmed slicker has a hidden zipper and is fleece-lined with a flapped hood. It delivers grey-day Scandinavian vibes but will ward off fall’s chill on clear days too.
Raincoat, $39

Fanny Pack
TikTok is into the cross-body look and this vibrant pouch fits the bill. An adjustable strap enables wearers to style across their torso or around their waist. It’s perfect for the small items you don’t need a backpack for like pencils, a phone, lunch money or lip gloss.
Colour Block Fanny Pack, $19