School like a pro with Meems Gillette’s back-to-school picks

Fun and stylish with these savvy selections.

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It's back-to-school season! While it can be chaotic with endless emails, paperwork, and supply lists, it's also a chance to refresh and renew with some back-to-school clothes shopping. Mother of two and lifestyle influencer Meems Gillette, with the help of her 6-year-old and 9-year-old kids, found 12 closet must-haves from Walmart to help start the school year with confidence and style.

Here’s what’s in their fashion lineup — snag these for your cart too.

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; The Children's Place

The Children's Place Boys Basketball Shorts, 5-Pack

Function, fashion, fun

Is there ever enough basketball shorts? My son is extremely active and loves being comfortable. This 5-pack is the perfect closet staple! It’s lightweight, easy to put on and off, and comes in multiple colors.

Buying Options

$24.99 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Athletic Works

Athletic Works Girls Active Legging

Tried and true

Leggings are a girl’s best friend. If your kiddo doesn’t like “pants,” you’ll want to stock up on these from Athletic Works, especially at this price. They’re thick and not see-through, and we all know a good pair of black leggings will make anyone feel happy and confident.

Buying Options

$6.98 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Crocs

Crocs Toddler & Kids Baya Clog

Less is more

Whoever invented Crocs, thank you. The last thing any parent needs is to be fumbling around with laces or Velcro or the dreaded “I’ll do it,” especially when you’re trying to get out the door. These easy slip ons make everyone’s life easier, so let’s keep these trendy for years to come!

Buying Options

$29.95 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Wonder Nation

Wonder Nation Boys Relaxed Fit Jeans, 2-Pack

Rough and tumble

I’ll be honest, my son goes through phases of wanting to wear jeans everyday to despising them (he’s a lot like me). And since kids love to keep parents on their toes, you have to be prepared. So, take it from me, grab this set and save yourself from unnecessary drama.

Buying Options

$14 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Wonder Nation

Wonder Nation Girls Waffle Knit Henley Top

Simple, not basic

These waffle knit tops are a must-have for any girl’s wardrobe. Fun, adorable, and available in a range of colors and patterns — why not grab them all? This style may be simple, but it’s effortlessly charming and pairs perfectly with any bottoms.

Buying Options

$6.98 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Wonder Nation

Wonder Nation Boys Short Sleeve Elevated Graphic T-Shirt

Crazy about graphics

My 6-year-old is all about graphic tees. He loves fun designs, and when I asked him why he chose this print, he said, “I like the picture, and it’s fun.” Walmart has many affordable graphic tees for both boys and girls, so don’t miss out!

Buying Options

$6.98 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Disney

Disney Lilo and Stitch Girl's 3-Piece Backpack Set with Headphone

Head of the class

Back to school isn’t complete without a new backpack. This Lilo and Stitch 3-piece set will keep all the homework, snacks, and hopefully jackets contained. Headphones are included in this set, so that’s just one less thing you need to buy!

Buying Options

$24.98 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Wonder Nation

Wonder Nation Skate Sneakers

The overachiever

If you only buy one pair of shoes, let it be this one. This basic sneaker is the most versatile and will go with every outfit and every occasion. It is a true closet staple, and it comes in a ton of colors and designs, so you’ll probably want to grab a second pair.

Buying Options

$12.98 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Wonder Nation

Wonder Nation Girls Wide Leg Cargo Jeans

Trendy plus comfy

My 9-year-old is in her pre-tween era and has become more interested in fashion trends. She has never liked jeans or pants, but this year, she is all about these wide-leg cargo denim. She says, “They’re cute, comfy, and not tight.” Hear it here: the millennial skinny jeans trend is definitely out.

Buying Options

$16.98 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Wonder Nation

Wonder Nation Girls Fleece Set

Keepin' it casual

A matching set — do I need to say more? School mornings are hectic enough, so keep it simple with a stylish, adorable, and, most importantly, comfortable matching set. It’s the ultimate no-fuss outfit solution that looks great and makes mornings a breeze.

Buying Options

$18.96 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; LICENSE

Hello Kitty Girls Glitter Fleece Zip-Up Hoodie

Hi, Hello Kitty!

Why am I not surprised by my daughter's pick? She is all about “cute, cozy, and trendy,” and Hello Kitty is returning. I know she’ll be living in this sweatshirt all year long! They can easily slip on and off or be tied around the waist when it gets too warm.

Buying Options

$14.98 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Wonder Nation

Wonder Nation Girls Short Sleeve Cami Dress

Bring back the '90s

The '90s are back, and I’m here for it! It comes in two prints, and I can see it paired with boots or sneakers, depending on what style your kiddo is feeling that day. Also, this would be absolutely adorable for back-to-school pictures.

Buying Options

$14.98 from Walmart