Back-To-School at West Acres
Ready or not, here comes school! When the timeless tradition of back to school shopping rolls around, let us help ease the transition from summer to school with a few of our top tips for gearing up to head back to class.
Shop For Back-To-School Like A Pro
1. Do an audit of the closet
Before you go stock up on school-day styles, take a look at the closet to see what you already have. It also never hurts to try on a few pieces from years prior to see if they still fit properly, and donate items you no longer want or need. This is also a good time to take note of items you really need, and additional styles to put on your “want” list.
2. Check out our website and make a game plan
Before you head out, check out the directory on our website to make a game plan for hitting all your favorite stores while you’re here.
3. Know your budget
While a limitless budget for a new wardrobe would sure be fun, it’s important to know how much you want to spend on your back-to-school shopping. This is where your list of needs and wants comes in handy – get the needs first and if there’s room left in your budget, go ahead and splurge on those wants. Stay up-to-date on current store sales to get more for your money!
Know when to splurge and when to save: If you’re buying a staple item like jeans, t-shirts, and jackets that you know you are going wear a lot, go ahead and splurge on those styles! When it comes to those trendier pieces that might not be in style next year, see if you can snag it during a sale.
4. Mix & match to make it versatile
When choosing items to buy, pick items that can mix & match with other things already in your closet or with other items you plan to buy. By buying versatile items, you’ll be amazed by how many outfits can be made from that one item! Buying items in neutral colors like white, black, or tan can also help maximize the versatility of your closet, since those hues match with almost everything!
Bonus Tip: Shop some of our favorite kids stores!
Depending on your size, style, and budget, we’ve got stores that every kiddo (and parent!) will love. Here is a list of some of our must-visit stores when shopping for big & little kids:
- Aerie- A great tween/teen store for girls
- American Eagle – A great tween/teen store for boys and girls
- Athleta – Did you know Athleta has a girls section?
- Buckle – Did you know Buckle has a kids section?
- Claire’s – The cutest kids accessories
- Evsie – A girls store for sizes 7-14
- francesca’s – A great tween/teen store for girls
- Hollister – A great tween/teen store for boys and girls
- JCPenney – Kids and teen sections
- Journey’s – Did you know Journey’s carries toddler and kids shoes?
- Macy’s – Kids and teen sections
- Stride Rite – A kids shoe store
- Tradehome Shoes – Did you know Tradehome Shoes carries kids shoes?
Make A Day Of It: Do More Than Just Shop At West Acres
1. Share a meal or grab a snack
Soaking in those precious summer days with your kids before the school year starts is all about the little moments – like sharing laughs and memories over a meal together. Grab a quick bite to eat in our food court or drive-thru options at Chick-fil-A or Panera, or enjoy a sit-down meal at CRAVE, Granite City, or Chili’s. Looking for a snack to-go? Swing by Pretzelmaker, Orange Julius, Moxie Java, or one of the many other eateries around the mall for shopping fuel for you and your family! See a full list of dining options here.
2. Explore the activities & amenities around the mall for all ages
Each season, our West Acres team and local creative groups partner together to bring unforgettable experiences to our guests. This fall, find stunning, handmade creative installations hanging in Center Court, Buffalo Court, Fountain Court, and Aquarium Court – the perfect backdrop to snap a selfie with your student! For kiddos, a stop at our Aquarium and Fountain is a must. And for all ages, attractions like the West Acres Cinema, The Market @ West Acres (on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 9am-3pm in our west parking lot), and your family’s other favorite mall stops deserve a place on your to-do list while you’re here.
We can’t wait to welcome you this back-to-school season! Want to be in the know about all that’s going on at West Acres? Follow along on all the fun on Facebook and Instagram.
Aug 1-Aug 31, 2023
West Acres
