(BPT) - From varsity vibes to cozy textures, it's fashion-forward and parent-approved.
It's officially go-time for back-to-school shopping. While you're still wondering how summer flew by, the first-day countdown is on - and that means it's time to refresh closets, pick out that perfect first-day 'fit, and stock up on the styles that'll get them through the school year.
This season, Carter's® and OshKosh B'gosh® are combining the trends kids are excited about (hello, varsity and '90s revival!) with the comfort and quality parents count on. Introducing the brand's 2025 back-to-school fashion report: what's in, what's comfortable and what'll fly off the shelves.
Legendary Denim Since 1895
OshKosh's heritage denim takes center stage once again, this year in new fashion silhouettes - think baggy, wide leg, barrel and more - plus, updated washes and even some vintage throwbacks. And don't worry, tried-and-true faves like straight, skinny and tapered can also be found at the iconic denim bar, making it easy for kids (and parents) to find their perfect fit.
"We're leaning into our roots with denim and elevating it for today's kids," said Linda Chiwona-Jackson, Carter's senior vice president of design. "There's so much happening in washes, details and silhouettes, and customers are really responding to it."
90s and Y2K are so back, and this year's Carter's and OshKosh collections are fully embracing the throwback energy. From baby tees and ribbed tops to cheetah prints, it's all about expressive style and fun silhouettes. "You'll see more and more throwback looks showing up as a back-to- school trend," said Chiwona-Jackson. "Baby doll tops, ribbed knits and looser-fitting bottoms create that classic '90s silhouette, and we've leaned into those textures and proportions in girls' styles."
Expect fitted band tees, animal print hookups, acid wash denim - plus more "fetch" style from the glory days: cargos, crew necks, bucket hats … you know the drill.
And it's not just about silhouettes. Textures and colors tell the story, too. Dusty pinks, berry tones, and mid-wash denim help modernize these throwback looks, while cozy knits and brushed fabrics bring the comfort today's kids expect. It's truly a millennial parent's dream.
Bench the basics - varsity and sporty-prep styles are taking the field this year. Inspired by classic campus looks, this trend blends comfort with attitude: pleated skirts, varsity jackets, rugby shirts, sweater vests and more varsity-inspired graphics and styles. "Varsity continues to be strong," said Chiwona-Jackson. "You could call it sporty prep or more than varsity - but it's a trend we've been seeing for a while, and it still resonates."
Add a little yeehaw to their wardrobe this school year: Western details are hitting hard this fall. Think soft flannel shirts, mini barn jackets and workwear-inspired chore coats that nod to OshKosh's rich heritage. For toddlers and kids alike, these durable pieces offer playground-ready performance in styles that feel fresh and distinctly fall. You'll see more vests, utility details and denim, all designed to layer easily over basics and bring a little frontier flair to the classroom.
Looser Fits, Bigger Style
This year, fit is fashion. Across the board, silhouettes are getting looser, roomier and more relaxed, especially in boys and big kid styles. "Fit tells the trend story. Looser, baggier silhouettes are back, and they're here to stay," said Chiwona-Jackson.
Expect joggers with more ease, oversized crewneck tees and roomy jeans with major '90s attitude. For girls, tighter baby tees and rib knits balance out the baggier bottoms, making every outfit an expression of personality.
Cozy is the New Cool
Move over graphics, this season fabric is doing the talking. From heavier jerseys that hold their shape to brushed fleece that feels like a cloud, this year's cozy textures are about comfort, ease and layering potential. "We're simplifying the graphics and letting the fabric do the talking," said Chiwona-Jackson.
Soft hoodies, French terry joggers, ribbed long-sleeves and plush textures make everyday dressing feel good (literally).
Color Crushes: Green, Caramel & Dusty Pinks
The season's color palette is grounded in earthy neutrals like sage, oat, caramel and olive alongside moodier shades like berry, plum and evergreen. Dusty pink continues to trend in girls' styles, while pops of butter yellow and denim blues add brightness. "Neutral doesn't mean boring," said Chiwona-Jackson. "Caramel, sage and dusty pinks are adding richness to every collection."
From '90s and varsity vibes to iconic denim, buttery-soft knits and more, Carter's and OshKosh's 2025 back-to-school styles are made to stand out and hold up all year long. Whether your kid wants to rep the retro trend or keep things cozy and classic, this year's collections have something for every personality.
Shop in store or online at carters.com. And don't wait too long, key styles will go fast.