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BACK TO SCHOOL:SKICKS SNEAKERS, CLARKS Shoes, STIO, HELLY HANSEN, #Back2Kipling

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.

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+.

Univ. of Wisconsin $69.99

Hint---High Schoolers should wear to college interviews…if it aligns with their first choice.



meow-Clemson University High tops $69.99

back details include stripe….



University of Miami low tops $59.99

Univ. of Miami Skicks $69.99

University of Cincinnati low tops $59.99 and high tops $69.99

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...
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...

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...
Western style boot-with pull-on tabs…rubber outsoles are durable and grip in icy conditions



Velcro tops…easy on/off on a lace-up high top look…in all leather 

plenty of fashion-y flats…with sparkly trims and sweet bows 


outsole is made to last
high tops with sparkling glitter insets and ribbon laces just get exactly what girls want. Colors are spot-on too
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.
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 
pencil case---or for for cosmetics…this is a durable pouch…monograms add a special touch

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.



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.