There is nothing wrong with tween fashion being fun and stylish. At this age, girls and boys are discovering what clothing styles fit their personalities, and they may be more interested in putting outfits together. Find out how teens can develop and incorporate their own sense of style into their wardrobes by exploring some of the current fashion trends.
Current Tween Fashion Trends
Trends for upper elementary and junior high children may take cues from teen styles, but with a slightly different vibe. Styles that mimic looks in the girls’ or boys’ departments (such as matched sets of tops and pants) are typically unpopular with tweens. Look for pieces that incorporate both contemporary fashion styles and functionality that allows tweens to be active.
It is common for tween girls to begin experimenting with fashion. Choosing clothing pieces that reflect her interests and personality can help a girl define her style, even if she does not identify herself as a fashionista. These are some of the most popular looks for girls this age group.
Skinny Jeans and Leggings
The skinny jeans and stretchy leggings are popular looks for tweens because they are comfortable, versatile, and make great staples. They pair well with a variety of tops and can be worn throughout the year. Wear them with graphic tees, long tunic-style sweaters, loose tank tops, peasant shirts, and more. Shoes such as ballet flats, athletic shoes, and boots go well with these bottoms.
Patterned Jumpsuits and Rompers
Tween jumpsuits combine the sophistication of today’s fashion bloggers with practicality. For this age group, jumpsuits and rompers come in a wide variety of patterns and colors, and are often designed with wide legs to be flowy and comfortable. There are several trends to try, including stripes, checks, and polka dots.
Cold-Shoulder Tops and Dresses
Tweens are also wearing cold-shoulder tops and dresses that are popular among teens and adult women. Tween girls often like the sophistication of this look, and it’s a great look for summer. There is a trend for tops with floral patterns, done in denim, or that incorporate ruffles. If your child’s dress code does not allow cold-shoulder tops or dresses, they make good after-school clothing options during the spring and summer.
Quirky Outfits
Another trend is to create unusual or quirky outfits, whether they are scarf-inspired prints, big ruffles, or on-trend colors like pink and coral. Possibly it’s because tween girls are experimenting with different fashions and trying to find what fits them, and it’s also a way to make current trends more individual. It is also possible for girls to create eclectic outfits inspired by street looks or their favorite tween fashion influencers.
Fashions Trends for Tween Guys
Whether tween boys care about fashion or not, clothing that is comfortable and makes them feel good about themselves is ideal. If he tends to wear athletic wear every day, encourage him to try out a few dressier looks for when he delivers a speech or gives an oral report at school.
Straight Legged and Skinny Pants
Straight legged and skinny pants and jeans look great on tween boys, whether in denim or khaki. They allow you to be active while still looking stylish. They look great with button-down shirts, plain or logo teens, hoodies, polo shirts, and other tops. Shoes that are casual or athletic work well with this look.
Bright Colored Tops
In brighter and bolder colors, guys tops come in geometric patterns, checks, stripes, or Hawaiian or floral prints. These are great for guys who want to express themselves with their favorite colors. Wear these with simple, solid colored bottoms to avoid clashing.
Loose Athletic Shorts and Active Tees
This age group also favors loose athletic shorts and active wear tees, especially from brand name sportswear labels. As well as being practical for boys who play sports, it is also popular for its effortless style. Also popular are loose-fitting athletic shorts and tees paired with colorful crew socks.
Gender-Neutral Trends
The teen fashion list includes many items that are equally popular among girls and boys.
Hoodies and Joggers
It’s common for tweens to wear both joggers and hoodies, and they come in a variety of styles. You can find everything from ultra-casual joggers to dressy khakis. You can find loose-fitting hoodies alongside fitted or structured versions that can be paired with dark denim or dress pants for a relaxed yet sharp look.
Camo Prints
Among the most popular items in tween fashion are camo prints, which can be found on hoodies, pants, shorts, tops, and even underwear. In addition to traditional camouflage prints, blues and other colors are also popular.
Denim Jackets
It’s the 90s vibe again thanks to the denim jacket, and this cool and functional staple is perfect for tweens. Current denim jackets are often simple and unadorned, making them easy to style and versatile enough to pair with many outfits.
Typical Tween Fashion
It has been quite a few decades since trendy tween clothing took its styles and ideals from its older sister — juniors or teen guys. From bell bottoms to screen-printed tees to formal dresses, tween fashion has always found its roots in older fashion. Fashion labels for this age range are equally popular with kids and a concern for parents. Parents can also find staples in the young men’s and juniors department, including:
- Wearing athletic clothing
- Pants and skirts made of denim
- Layering pieces and basic t-shirts
- Sweaters and cardigans
Staying Age Appropriate
Is tween clothing design causing children to grow up too quickly? Some argue that children in the tween clothing industry’s target age range (8-12) should be allowed to keep their fashion innocence for a little longer.
Tween Fashion Independence
It coincides perfectly with this age group’s desire to grow up quickly and become a full-fledged teenager, though the tweens themselves are enthusiastic about the look. Several famous and grown-up clothing labels are hitting tween clothing stores, while others are beginning to succeed here. Fashion for tweens has made a big impact on the apparel industry and has also caused controversy.
Finding a Personal Style
It is important for parents to ensure that their tweens’ clothing follows school dress codes as well as family rules, but they should also prepare to give pre-teens some latitude when it comes to clothing choices. Tweens may want to express themselves through fashion, while parents may want modest, conservative styles. The following tips will help you avoid a clothing battle:
- Talk to your child about what they want their clothing to reflect – their interests, hobbies, and personality. Make sure they choose clothing that reflects their best self.
- Give kids the opportunity to try different clothing styles and put together their own outfits. Self-esteem can be fostered and kids can find clothing that makes them feel and look good.
- Discuss and set some guidelines in advance, but be willing to compromise a little. Perhaps you let your son try on an oversize jacket in a bold pattern while you pick out a button-down. Tweens can also be given a little more leeway when it comes to their after-school attire.
- Personalize clothing with your own style. Kids can feel more ownership over their clothing by using accessories, choosing favorite color combinations, and layering pieces.
Shopping for Tween Clothing
Your options for tween clothing are literally endless if your concern is not how it looks but where to get it. There are countless websites dedicated to tween shoppers, and nearly all major department stores carry a strong tween line. Specials are also designed specifically for tweens. In addition to Abercrombie Kids, Hollister, Mossimo, and American Eagle, there are numerous other trendy and athletic stores that are popular with tweens, ranging from H&M to Old Navy. When shopping for current fashion styles, it is best to take your tween with you.
Keep the Peace With Compromise
In today’s society, where tweens face so much pressure to grow up quickly, it can be challenging to keep them happy and fashionable. In the end, you and your tween will be able to find a balance and a wardrobe that will satisfy both of you with some education, some compromise, and a lot of patience.