Back to School Shopping Trends 2012: Shoes for Boys and Girls

Back in June, I attended a press preview held by the Fashion Footwear Association of New York (FFANY) in order to preview the fall fashion footwear trends for children. I like simple, classic styles, so I was pleased with many of the trendy options.

1. Classic takes on iconic adult shoes
-Equestrian styles and ballet flats for girls
-Nautical styles as well as saddle shoes, chukka boots and penny loafers for boys

Top picks:

I love this versatile boot. Girls can wear it as a bootie or add the removable shaft (as shown) to wear it as a full boot. I want the adult version!

2. Prints
-Polka dots, plaids, stripes, hearts and animal prints (especially leopard) were prominent in the girls’ shoes
-Plaids were incorporated into the boys’ shoes

Top picks:

3. “Bling” on the girls’ shoes
-Metallic (especially silver), sparkles and crystal

Top pick:

4. A play on fabrics
-Textured panels and outsides (i.e. boiled wool and knits)
-Linings (including fur)

Top picks:



I was able to pick one style of shoes (from all that I previewed) to take home as a gift. These are the ones that I chose. I love the classic style with the unexpected twist of the herringbone panel. I also like the Nike Air enhanced footbed (because I know that little boys like to run around…even when they are “dressed up”).

5. Fit and comfort ability remained supreme
-Shoes that are easy to slip on and off are prevalent
-For girls who want a little extra height, there are several wedge flats on the market. (The lift isn’t as noticeable because it is in the interior of the heel.)

What are your favorite back to school shoe styles this year?

{Post images courtesy of Amazon affiliate site.}


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