London schools reopened this week, and the city has felt positively joyful (well, our household certainly has). We've rounded up some of our favourite pieces to add some edge to those school uniforms. Here's what you need to kit out your 'back to schooler' in style...
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Getting a backpack for a child starting a new school year is a rite of passage. Getting the right backpack takes some trial and error - what was "cool" a few months ago can suddenly become terribly unhip in a child's eyes (we learned this the hard way). One of our proudest achievements this month has been managing to impress our tween with a new backpack from Hype. With a fantastic selection of prints and colours, from holo to jungle, as well as fun collabs (this season's Disney partnership appeals to kids of all ages), it's undoubtedly the place to go for all of the kids' homework-toting needs. Bonus: Hype do lunch bags, too.
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While we did have fantasies of moving to a rural idyll over lockdown, we'll happily settle for the next best thing: Le Chameau's beautiful wellies, made from natural rubber with tartan jersey lining. Perfect for splashing, jumping, running - and any toddlers who want to be Peppa Pig.
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No jacket feels more appropriate this season than a varsity letterman bomber jacket which practically screams "back to school" (incidentally, that's something parents are shouting with excitement right now, too). Stella McCartney's childrenswear range is the perfect combo of quality and quirkiness, designed to last for years, or through multiple kids. We love that this green jacket with cute patches from Childrensalon is boy and girl-friendly, too.
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Face masks for children have become essential in lots of situations, worn everywhere from airports to some secondary schools. Those with kids under 11 are stocking up, too - we've noticed that people seem more comfortable in shops when our children are wearing them. We've also learned that comfort is key - and a cute print helps, too. This reusable mask from Oliver Bonas is made with three layers of fabric, elasticated ear loops and a metal nose adjuster and is finished with an antibacterial treatment.
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Scamp & Dude and Superga are a match made in trainer heaven - and the second collab between the two brands just launched this month, in kids and adult sizes. Think mono leopard prints and pops of colour - we love the double Velcro style for younger kids who haven't mastered laces yet.
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Over lockdown, parents have had countless discussions about real-world issues with their children, from fears around COVID-19 to understanding - and combatting - institutionalised racism. This lovely handmade sweatshirt is perfect off-duty wear for your budding activist.
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If there's one thing we've done with the kids over lockdown that we hope to continue long into the future, it's our outdoor explorations together, rediscovering London's green spaces and venturing further afield when we can. Which is why a good all-weather essential is on our must-buy list for autumn: Polarn O Pyret's waterproof fleece is soft, snug and - bonus - made from recycled plastic bottles. If you want a triple-layered coat for rainy days, just attach it to the matching shell - genius.
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Have you noticed that since lockdown, adults seem to have two sartorial moods - relaxed leisurewear or full-on cocktail party? This fan headband should do the trick when the kids feel the need for some bling (in person, or on a Zoom).
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Prioritising our children's mental health is top of our minds right now as we navigate these uncertain times. A gratitude journal that gives kids an outlet for their thoughts and worries can really help, as well as creating the space for important conversations and discussions. We love the HappySelf journal, which is beautifully designed and makes a great gift for your own kids and others.
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We absolutely adore Milledeux's back to school hair accessories collection, which includes pencil, crayon and apple-themed barrettes and gift sets.
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This leak-proof lunch box is great for anyone giving their kids packed lunch or snacks during the school day. Made of steel and inspired by vintage camping accessories, this lunch box can go in the oven or store pre-cooked food in the freezer. It's the perfect size for your child's lunch, and so stylish that you'll want one, too.
For parents fed up of leaking plastic water bottles that are forever losing those little straw bits, you'll be pleased that there are now more affordable versions of reusable stainless steel designs. Paperchase happens to have a great selection of colours and prints. We've also found some cool shapes like the Lund Skittle bottle and triangle water bottle designs.
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Twinning dressing is still going strong, but you don't really need an excuse to get one of these 'Strong Girls Club' tees for yourself or your daughter (or both).
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