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IN MODERATION
Top 10 good 'looks'
Denim: Jeans are especially popular in blasted colored washes or vintage dark denim. Target offers jeans that fit the bill from $22.99.
Active sport: The group includes vintage jerseys, numbered and logoed jerseys, sweat pants and track suits including hoodies for girls. Girls' tops are cut up and pieced back together, says Nicki Gondell of New York-based Trend House Inc. The Gap has jerseys and sweat pants from $16.50-$24.50.
Utility: Cargo pants for boys and girls are practically a classic. For girls, they come with ribbons and ties. For boys, they have the look of no-nonsense work gear. They are at most stores in a wide range of prices.
Vintage: Say hello to miniskirts borrowed from Carnaby Street in the '60s. Worn with tights or high socks, they give a comforting sense of some other place or time. And if you need inspiration, watch old movies. Lands' End offers a corduroy miniskirt that's a skort ($24).
Feminine touches: A little bit of froufrou such as satin and lace shows up in all fashion areas this fall. Gap is selling a lace-trimmed shell for $19.50. In another frivolous vein, count chandelier earrings, borrowed from the 1940s and available at every price range.
Punk accessories: Studded and chain belts, a spillover from the punk influence, are should-haves for back to school. No Boundaries at Wal-Mart has belts for $8.83, as well as gold-tone hoop earrings for $3.83.
Camouflage: Even with military action under way, the print is popular for boys. Wear it with a polo shirt or big sweat shirt.
Corduroy: Maybe it's because it's reminiscent of the past or because it's soft and feels good. In any event, corduroy makes a strong return this fall. The Gap offers corduroy jeans from $40.50.
Preppy: Polo shirts, V-neck sweaters and cotton blouses have a comforting clean-cut look. Target has sweaters and shirts in one from $19.99.
Bags: The variety in backpacks and messenger bags is endless. Wal-Mart has backpacks with speakers to plug in CD players and backpacks that light up when shaken. Target offers messenger bags for $19.99.
Kansas City Star