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What to wear during the secondary school years: outfit ideas and tips

Joining secondary school is an exciting time for both children and parents, with new friends to make and new subjects to explore. We know you want your young person to look and feel their best as they delve into this new chapter – so we've assembled our best outfit ideas for secondary school to make this transition as smooth as possible.

European chic

Chances are, the new school start means conquering a new language. Embrace your teen's burgeoning foreign language skills with the French-inspired prints in our Happy Kids range. This Sonia Rykiel printed blouse features a print with iconic Parisian motifs such as the Eiffel Tower, a street café and croissants to give it that certain je ne sais quoi. The loose fit and elasticated cuffs ensure it's as comfortable as it is stylish. Pair it with a pair of colour-blocked jeans for an understated yet elegant look.

Inject some colour into your teen's knitwear collection with this elegant wool and cashmere jumper dress from Zadig & Voltaire in hot pink. Branded details include a discreet ZV monogram on the front hem, eye-catching shoulder buttons and contrasting illustrations on the upper back. The wool-cashmere blend is partially recycled, making it a sustainable choice.

Bang on trend

Keep up with the latest fashions thanks to our Back-to-School Trends collection. With a wide variety of staple pieces and accessories, you’re sure to find everything your child needs for starting secondary school.

Take these bold chunky trainers by BOSS for example. Their hook-and-loop strap features the brand's iconic stripes and is ideal for busy mornings when you just need to pull on an outfit and go. In a design inspired by the adult collection, these practical yet funky trainers will set your tween off on the right foot for secondary school.

If your young fashionista is looking to update their school bag for the new year, look no further than this multicoloured leopard backpack from MARC JACOBS. Featuring an all-over animal print and patch pocket in contrasting colours, your child will always be able to find their school bag in the cubbies, allowing your kid's individuality to shine through even with a school uniform. The padded adjustable straps make this rucksack kind to their back as well as fun.


Back to School

Need further inspiration? Then head to our Back-to-School page. Whether your secondary school-age kid needs a new bag, shoes, joggers or a coat, you can find them all in one handy place. Why not protect them from the elements with this stylish windbreaker by BOSS? Made of lined, coated canvas with a ‘B’ for BOSS all-over monogram print, this jacket is both cosy and modish. What's more, the piped pockets mean your child can keep all their belongings safe throughout the school day.

If you’re looking for more storage for your teen’s school essentials, a belt bag is not just convenient – it also finishes off any outfit. This Hugo zip-up bum bag is ideal for keeping pens to hand, while the bold Hugo logo on a delicate woven check pattern elevates any look.

We know that secondary school is a big step in every child's life. We hope that our outfit ideas for secondary school children mean that your teen always presents the very best version of themselves.

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