patterned skirtIf there's one thing I'd love to carry with me forever, it'd be my childhood fashion sense. Fashion was fun, the clothes were stylish, and mixing and matching was a must. If you think that as you grow and evolve, you graduate from the leggings, the Mary Janes, and the floral prints of yesteryear, you're wrong.
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It's time to reach back and revive those super cute styles you sported as kids. The goal isn't to dress like children, 'cause that would be really awkward. But don't be afraid to mix those grade school looks with the fashions that are around today. If you've ever been rummaging the shelves of a department store and thought, "I remember wearing this as a kid!" you're in good shape. It's all about reusing styles from our youthful days.
So pull up a chair, a Capri Sun, and ready your Etch A Sketch 'cause I've got the details on how to stay stylin' in eight of the best childhood frocks:
Mary Janes
Image via ModCloth
Mary Janes
A pair of Mary Janes (Feminine Mystique Pumps, $39.99) doesn't make you look out-of-touch with the trends. Though the style was cute and innocent when we were younger, adding a heel makes it sexy and chic for grown women.
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Leggings
Image via Forever21
Leggings
Who didn't wear leggings as a kid! Your favorite non-pants are back and they're better than ever. Pair leggings (Zippered Knit Leggings, $19.80) with a tank, a tunic, a sweater, or under a skirt to keep warm during winter. Or slip into a comfy pair and head to the gym.
Keds
Image via DSW
Keds
Slip-ons are not just for kids -- adults need the ease and comfort of them just as much. Thank the heavens Keds pulled together these sneaks (Keds Calico Floral Printed Slip-On Sneakers, $39.95) for an adorable, chic, and comfortable shoe that matches any on-the-go lifestyle.
Barrettes
Image via Urban Outfitters
Barrettes
As a kid I haaaaaaated barrettes. Now, I love them. A simple, fun, and flirty accessory like a barrette (Leather Bow Barrette, $12) adds a hint of flair to whatever you're wearing. Opt for smaller barrettes with minimal detailing -- nothing too noisy -- and use it to accentuate your mane by adding it to an updo or sweeping your hair into a half-up, half-down 'do.
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Denim Jackets
Image via Old Navy
Denim Jackets
All hail ye denim jackets (Jean Jacket, $29). Just about everyone sported one through grade school. It was cool, comfortable, kiddie chic. Want to know what's changed? Nothing -- jean jackets are still spot-on and hot as hell.
Mixing Prints
Mixing Prints
It's like that time when we were 4 and our parents let us dress ourselves for school and we came out with polka-dots (Right Foot Green Sweater, $34.99) on top and stripes on the bottom (Kate's Tomboy Howdy Pants, $79.99). These days, mixing and matching prints together is the sign of a keen fashion eye, so don't be afraid to try it out.
Floral Patterns
Image via ModCloth
Floral Patterns
Centuries ago, in a galaxy named Childhood, floral patterns (Bloom and Blush top, $37.99) were youthful, fun, and innocent. In the 21st century, the flowery print has graduated to a look that's elegant, classic, and sophisticated. And it's a simple way to splash some color on your outfit.
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Sweetheart Shades
Image via Urban Outfitters
Sweetheart Shades
I'm willing to bet we all have a picture wearing sweetheart shades (Sweetheart Sunglasses, $14) while blowing a kiss to mom or dad. The look has made a huge comeback, and it's a funky, flirty, and fashionable touch to any weekend look.
What's one style you can't seem to let go of from your childhood?
Top image via lizbadley/Flickr
Written by Kylie McConville for CafeMom's blog, The Stir.
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