It’s that time again! Summer is winding down quicker than you can say, “Are you ready for a heat wave?” and it’s almost time to head back to school. The yom tovim come early this year and that means the first day of school is likely still in the midst of August. What does this mean for you? It means heading out early to pick up clothes for the kids to start the new year off right.

Most of the yeshivas in the area have a dress code which makes it a little easier to narrow down the shopping trips and get to the places that have what you need. Of course, this also helps save time on those hectic mornings where everyone slept just a little too late.

Although all of the local schools have different particulars with regards to their dress codes, there are a few places that will meet everyone’s needs.

A fantastic resource for a wide selection of modest yet fashionable apparel is koshercasual.com. A girl can never have too many skirts and when it comes to options, Kosher Casual doesn’t disappoint. With dozens of skirt styles in an array of colors, you will most certainly be able to stock up on whatever you need to meet even the pickiest dresser’s needs and still adhere to the school dress code requirements. Some of the options include stretchy pencil skirts starting at $18; double layer knee-length flair skirts for $32, and A-line long skirts for only $26. Girls’ tops include an assortment of layering pieces including sleevies sleeve extensions, shells and high neck cover-ups, as well as long sleeve layering pieces for really reasonable prices. In addition, they offer a basic, solid 3/4 sleeve cotton tops for only $12 in a rainbow of colors.

On the more traditional end of the spectrum, check out French Toast. (www.frenchtoast.com) These are the go-to people for every uniform or dress code you might need. Long sleeve, short sleeves, polos and button downs, there is nothing they don’t carry in a wide range of sizes—from 2-4 through Young Women and Men—all at prices that can’t be beat.

Don’t overlook The Classics. Gap and Old Navy all stock up on uniform-style school-friendly apparel for boys and girls. From navy pleated skirts and classic khaki trousers, you’ll find any and all your back-to-school apparel here. Gap prices range from $17 for a short sleeve polo to about $30 for boys pants; there is a wide assortment of options. With far less options, Old Navy is a great place to pick up a few well-priced polo shirts and accessories. With polos on sale for as low as $8, it’s really hard to go wrong. Target also carries some uniform basics with brands including French Toast, Classroom and Cherokee. Girls’ polos are all priced at under $10 and boys range from about $8 for tops to $17 for pants. Don’t forget to hop over to the Gap and Old Navy outlet store to find even better deals on their most popular items. A great deal is waiting for you there!

You can also check out Lands’ End (www.landsend.com), where prices here range between $18 for a polo shirt and $40 for trousers.

While finding polo shorts and trousers is easy, finding longer skirts for your girls may still be a challenge. In addition to Kosher Casual, one option that you may not have considered is American Apparel (americanapparel.net) Though they are known for their racy and less-than-modest advertising campaigns, they do have a number of perfectly modest skirts in the knee-length and longer categories. Though the options available are in the women’s department, AA is a junior brand and their garments are cut small enough to fit your junior high and high schoolers. A pleated knee length skirt is currently on sale for only $15! A perfectly chic circle skirt that hits well below the knee is on sale for $40, and a textured mid-length accordion pleated skirt is available for $52. A long, interlock cotton skirt is a great, fashionable, everyday wearable at $42. All of their skirts are available in black, navy and an assortment of other colors. They also have a wide assortment of long sleeve button down shirts to match every personality and style. Be sure to check them out.

You can also search locally. Brooklyn’s on West Englewood Ave in Teaneck is a great bet, as is Karly’s Kraze on Cedar Lane or Denny’s in Englewood.

When it comes to shoes, there is a little more room for personal style. Check out:

Jenny Jon Shoes at Fashion Center Mall in Paramus—Stocked with all the best brands of long lasting European shoes.

Nordstrom—Prices can be steep,but the assortment is tremendous and historically full of the best designer names for little ones.

Of course, don’t forget Zappos. Check their site frequently for great deals and be sure to become a Zappos VIP. Shipping is free both ways and you can send back anything that doesn’t fit. (Insider Tip: Head to Nordstrom to get properly fitted, and then check if Zappos has the same styles at a lower price.)

Sketchers at the Bergen Town Center is a great option for adding a little flair to little feet, with durable, long lasting and well-fitting shoes at reasonable prices.

Stride Rite might be just what you’re looking for. Check them out at Paramus Park Mall, Bergen Town Center or Garden State Plaza.

With a colorful and fun assortment, Piperlime.com may be worth a look. A great way to add some flair and personal style!

When looking at all of these easy back-to-school separates, it’s easy to see why schools have initiated dress codes. These styles are easy to find and alleviate so much of the stress and competition that goes into selecting a school wardrobe.

As parents, one thing we all want is to allow our children the opportunity to express their individuality and despite what you may think, uniforms are a great way to actually encourage that! Creative accessories, colorful backpacks, even just replacing the buttons on a simple polo shirt can offer a great, “kosher” way to explore a personal sense of style. Of course, check with your school to see what their rules are regarding adding these personal touches to your kid’s wardrobe. If there are no objections, check out The Gap, H&M, Target, even Claires at Garden State Plaza for inexpensive accessories that are full of fun and colorful personality!

Hope you enjoy your Back-to-school shopping!

By Tova Gold