Back to School Fashion for Teens

The trendiest looks for the back-to-school season are an interesting mix of casual boho chic, inspired by the fashions of the 1970s, and the 1990s grunge vibe. To mix it up even a little further, there are athletic styles meant to be worn all day and graphic tees for comfort and ease of getting dressed on rushed mornings.

The quilted faux leather moto jacket adds a little edginess to any look, so it can toughen up some of the sweet boho-style tops and dresses from the bohemian looks, or be tossed on top of a button-up shirt or graphic tee. It'll pair well with dresses or jeans, with or without a scarf. The shoe options are endless, from a simple canvas sneaker to black boots of any height.

Jumpsuits are back in style and they take the guesswork out of getting dressed in the mornings. There's no question about the length since they're pants and won't go against the dress code, and there's no worrying about which top matches which bottom in the closet. These look great with simple strappy sandals if the dress code allows open-toed shoes. Otherwise, stick with something low-profile, like simple sneakers or ballet flats.

Boys' clothing is going in two directions this year - athletic and sporty, or dressed up. There's a casual middle ground, but some of the trendiest options are like this one, the slim-fit, plaid button-up with a skinny tie (the tie can be saved for special occasions). Wear with jeans or khakis and sneakers, slip-ons, or another casual shoe in brown leather (or faux leather).

It doesn't get much better than boho chic in the form of a flowy shift dress. Depending on the length, these can be worn alone or with tights or leggings. Any boots, from ankle to knee-high, will work. Sandals are another option for the first month or two of the school year. For hanging out with friends after school, a fedora or floppy-brimmed sunhat make good options.

Soft, lightweight denim is trending in a big way right now, but it's not all about jeans. Look for dresses or tops like this raglan tee and pair them up with more denim (in a different wash and weight), white pants, or khakis. Depending on the length of the top or dress, simple cotton leggings would make a good option as well. Consider simple clog or ankle boot styles if you're going the top/pants route, or wear sandals or boots with a denim dress. Sneakers, like the Converse brand, would also be an option for either type of piece, depending on the style.

Plaid is back, for both guys and girls, and it runs a range between cozy (like the jacket shown here) and more put-together, as with boys' button-up shirts. This jacket has a casual, vintage vibe and will pair well with a tee, fitted black pants, and non-fussy black shoes. Oxfords and work boot styles will look perfect. Keep the jewelry to a minimum since the pattern is busy.

Every girl needs a carefree cardigan, and this one fits right in with the boho and grunge trends. Wear it with a shift dress, bohemian-style dress, a t-shirt and jeans of any color, and have fun with accessories. Soft-textured ankle boots, knee-high boots with or without heels, sandals, or flats in a muted shade (think earth tones) will look perfect.

Some of the trends for guys are a lot more colorful than usual this year, like the hoodie shown here. Patterns and colors make this a standout, trendy selection in a sea of past years' grays, navy blues, and hunter greens. It'll go well with blue jeans, white pants, or khakis, and Converse sneakers (or similar) will finish off the casual cool guy vibe.

Ombre is not just for girls. This ombre t-shirt for guys is another way of incorporating color into a wardrobe that may not have had as much variation last year. It's still basically a neutral, though, so even guys who typically shy away from color may love this one. Wear it with cargo shorts or jeans, and sneakers.

A swingy tunic and leggings make the cut for top back to school trends this year, and with good reason. It's not easy to find an outfit more comfortable, school-appropriate, and perfect for the last days of summer and then fall (and again in spring). Pair with sandals, boots, simple sneakers, flats, or even low heels. This is a versatile combination.

This shirt combines two big things for teens in 2015: graphic tees and movies based on comics. What can't this be worn with? Layer it over a long-sleeved shirt and pair it with jeans, shorts, or a denim skirt, or toss a moto jacket or cardigan on top If it's cool outside.

Unexpected patterns are showing up on t-shirts for guys. This pineapple one is still done in a pretty conservative color, so it's a perfect middle ground between trends and everyday staples. Wear this one with khaki cargo shorts or pants, or blue jeans.

Athletic stripes and inspiration are a fun way to take a traditionally dressy piece of clothing, like a mid-length black skirt, and turn it into something casual enough to be comfortable for the school day. Look for varsity stripes and lightweight fabrics and pair them up with ankle boots, Converse, or Vans slip-ons.

Distressed jeans are back again, and the skinny ankle style will pair well with everything from graphic tees and long cardigans to tunics and moto jackets. The cut lends itself to everything from ballet flats to knee-high boots.

Remember to pay attention to your school system's dress code before making any purchases. Nothing's worse than falling in love with a piece of clothing when you're back to school shopping and then finding out you can't wear it after all.