Back-to-School Toddler Outfit Ideas + Tips for Mixing, Matching & Layering

We want our kids’ back-to-school outfits to be cute & practical… meanwhile they want to wear their favorite princess or superhero costume. (And honestly, we can’t blame them.) Finding toddler outfits that feel magical and withstand playground chaos is no small task.

The good news? With the right fabrics, layering pieces, and a little Scoots magic, your toddler can be both comfortable and classroom-ready. Below are outfit ideas for boys and girls — with links to some of our favorite back-to-school staples.

Girls’ Back-to-School Outfit Ideas

1. Everyday Essentials

• Cherries Flutter Dress — Why it works: soft, long sleeves for chilly mornings, easy to layer & super versatile. Feeling cool? Throw on a denim jacket & combat boots! Feeling girly? Pair it with a pink zip-up and your kiddo's favorite glittery Crocs. 

• Pair with our Cherry Bow Clip for extra flair!

2. Picture Day Ready

• Midnight — Fall perfection in one simple, soft & stretchy slip-on romper. The perfect color scheme for autumn photos. 

• Style tip: add a Black Bow Clip for the perfect finishing touch.

3. Playground-Proof Layers

• Wonderland Cardigan — Easy to throw on, and an adorable print that's sure to make your morning dressing battle easier 😅

• Shop our array of Terry Sweaters that are excellent for layering.

Boys’ Back-to-School Outfit Ideas

1. Comfy + Cool Basics

• Route 66 Pocket Tee — Tagless & breathable, featuring their favorite characters in warm autumn tones.

• Pair with the coordinating Terry Sweater for a simple and stylish set.

2. Special Occasion Style

• Sorcerers Apprentice Polo — A thicker hand-feel than our traditional bamboo, this polo has an elevated look.

• Style tip: works for family photos, meet-the-teacher night, or school events.
  
  
  

3. Active Day Must-Haves

• Home Run Short Set — Durable enough for running, climbing, and every game day.

• Pair with Waylon, our cotton sweater/short set for a mix-and-match capsule wardrobe.

Extra Tips for Parents

• Stick to breathable fabrics like Scootsie™️ bamboo (keeps kids comfy in hot & cold temps).

• Keep an extra set of clothes in their backpack — accidents happen.

• Choose neutral bases (gray, cream, camel) and mix in pops of color or fun prints.

• Opt for Velcro shoes or Crocs to support independent dressing.

Need help putting together a capsule back-to-school wardrobe for your toddler? Drop their favorite color(s) in comments or send us a message — we’ll help you mix & match from your existing wardrobe (and our coming drops 😉).

If you found this helpful, share it with a mom who’s stressing over what to dress their little one on day one. Happy school year from Scoots!