Back-To-School Clothes Shopping Tips for Students in Houston, TX

In many parts of the country, back-to-school shopping includes buying long-sleeved shirts and warm winter coats, but we're a long way from cool weather in Houston, Texas. Since students might be wearing short sleeves and sunglasses well into November or even December, back-to-school shopping in Houston is not much different from summer shopping. However, you have to keep school dress codes in mind.

Sandals, Not Flip-Flops

Department stores such as Target, J.C. Penny and Macy's often have sales on kids' sandals when back-to-school shopping in Houston starts. Since kids aren't allowed to wear flip-flops at school, you might want to check out their selection of leather sandals. Not only are they allowed at school, but they are also more attractive with jeans or slacks.

The Longer, the Better

For girls, schools are really cracking down on the length that is acceptable for shorts. When embarking upon your back-to-school shopping expedition in Houston, keep this in mind. Generally speaking, shorts that reach the knees are acceptable, while anything shorter is taking a chance. Explain to your child that it is better to wear longer shorts than to be sent home in embarrassment later on.

Light-Weight Shirts

Regardless of the fashion trends, don't let your children talk you into heavy-weight clothing for back-to-school shopping in Houston. Even though students spend most of their time in pleasantly air-conditioned classrooms, it still gets mighty hot on the playground or when riding the bus home from school. You can find button-up cotton shirts for boys with short-sleeves and cotton tee-shirts for girls.

Water Bottles for Walkers

If your child walks home from school in the afternoon, remember that dehydration can become a problem. As you're planning your back-to-school shopping trip in Houston, consider purchasing an insulated water bottle for your child to carry in his or her backpack. It can be filled up at the water fountain before leaving school in the afternoon and will ensure that your child is properly hydrated.

Don't Forget the Hair

Your daughter might enjoy wearing her hair down for school, but this can get hot on the playground or when walking home from school. To keep your child comfortable, you can purchase a dollar-pack of plain black hair ties that will keep your daughter's hair off her neck. You can also experiment with fancier hair styles, such as French twists or pig tails, if she's worried about her looks.

Avoid the Weekends

Houston, TX is swarming with parents and their children in the weeks before going back to school. If you try to shop for school supplies and clothes on the weekends, you'll be waiting in mile-long lines. The best time for back-to-school shopping is at around 10 am, when stores are just opening. Not only will you have fewer people in the stores, but it will also be a cooler time to shop.