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Michigan gets kicks-high tops $69.99 |
Two things we know for sure-Back to School is the second if not tied for first, retail shopping 'event' of the year-right along with holiday times…six months later…
AND
…that college sports for certain schools-dominate and get school spirit and alum support BIG TIME. We def. get the notion of NCAA players in a union…the $ machines are huge.
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Jordana Schrager |
And we thought of that when we went to a smartly planned out preview of SKICKS-ignited by a passionate junior in college--and a devoted Wolverine (University of Michigan) who secured the rights to collegiate colors and mascots/logos-for basic sneakers…high tops and low tops.
Nothing fancy production-wise really---plain ole' Chuck Taylor like canvas with rubber white outsoles, in whole sizes only (women's 5-10, Men's 7-13 no tall people versions yet though gals can wear guys' sizes)-
But the point being-the concept's execution is well done and timely,..the school colors are true, the fresh takes on mascots/logos are fun---and tonal interpretations like patterns and stripes eye-catching---
and the fact that the they are affordable for even students on loans...--at $59.99 or $69.99…
now that gets an A+.
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Univ. of Wisconsin $69.99 |
Hint---High Schoolers should wear to college interviews…if it aligns with their first choice.
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meow-Clemson University High tops $69.99 |
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back details include stripe…. |
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University of Miami low tops $59.99 |
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Univ. of Miami Skicks $69.99 |
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University of Cincinnati low tops $59.99 and high tops $69.99 |
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Penn State Univ. low tops $59.99 |
FOR smaller humans ---there are now outerwear choices that are as weather tough as the ones made for grown-ups.
One new to us brand-Stio-out of Wyoming-makes multi-tasking lifestyle friendly jackets -tees-hoodies- that can withstand kids' active endeavors..including playtime jaunts in the snow as well as trips to winter wonderlands, anywhere.
The patterns and colors are on-trend…a must---and the techy features-including using performance fabrics…keep wearers warm when wet-in style…and make the slight premium prices worth it.
ALSO-durable and easy clean...
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STIO---plaid packable water/wind resistant jacket sports Western vibe with those pockets… and super soft tee underneath-great cobalt blue. Price ranges around $25-$139 (on sale $79) for DownTek® hooded jacket… |
Even basic merino wool base layers…get rocking' colors and style points- from performance wear specialists
Helly Hansen. We wish they did this exact style- for adults too…so cute.
FYI: This company sells entire collections of footwear and apparel...
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no itch and allergy friendly-this base layer top comes with matching long john bottoms $75…with LIFA® fiber technology and primo naturally blessed merino wool…for superior insulation and moisture-wicking/anti-odor. AND 100g Polartec® fleece reinforcements for durability at knees and elbows. |
CLARKS is a big fav of ours---and their Fall collection of kids footwear is just as top notch as the adult versions. Not pictured-Clarks' iconic Desert Boot comes in boys/girls versions...
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Western style boot-with pull-on tabs…rubber outsoles are durable and grip in icy conditions |
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Velcro tops…easy on/off on a lace-up high top look…in all leather |
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plenty of fashion-y flats…with sparkly trims and sweet bows |
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outsole is made to last |
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high tops with sparkling glitter insets and ribbon laces just get exactly what girls want. Colors are spot-on too |
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not quite school-bound yet- but Clarks intros a new toddler collection... |
CLARKS
KIPLING is massive in Europe=a choice brand for hauling anything around. USA wise-it is gaining favor ---one reason, the color waves, patterns and artists' collaborations (see below for two examples…) are trendy and eye-catching.
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fav or a nightmare flashback…no matter-the collection is cool |
Recently, we went to a rather toasty but fun event at The Old School that intro-ed the Back To School- Kipling selections -a terrific well made assortment of richly hued accessories, carry-alls, luggage …a dazzling collab with Megan Nicole…(YouTube persona)
BTW Kipling's offerings have features like padded laptops/personal electronics compartments, adjustable shoulder straps on backpacks and cross-bodies, a nifty insulated lunch bag, magnetic closures and cinch closures (easier)…and all lightweight.
#Back2Kipling
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pencil case---or for for cosmetics…this is a durable pouch…monograms add a special touch |
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the roll on luggage is over head bin size…but it will stand out on a baggage carousel too.Love the outsized zippers-in bold contrasting colors. |
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great way to perk up a wardrobe with bright tones…all sizes available...
KIPLING |
What else from Kipling…in our inbox… (price range is $99-$349)
Kipling x Natalie Joos:
The Travel Collection by Natalie Joos /Kipling….
compact toiletry bag, a weekender shoulder bag and a trolley bag in two different sizes. Inspired by Natalie's favorite vintage colors each bag shines in a sophisticated color blocking style. In addition, Natalie Joos' crafted the Blue Joosy-refined lining -a pink palm-print and personalized white Monkey.
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