Back to school: 6 tips & trends to pick up as a retailer

We start at the beginning, because of course children need a good - and stylish - school bag or backpack.

This school year, botanical and floral prints are doing well again - especially among secondary school students: think palm trees, embroidered flowers or bright tropical colours. And plain ones continue to score too, especially if they feature a fun detail. An iconic leather strap, a key ring or a cool smiley face provide a fun upgrade for any backpack!

At the beginning of primary school, parents prefer a real school bag in sturdy fabric or leather. Once again, the range of school bags is huge: animal prints, fairy tale characters, dinosaurs or rainbows? You name it, it exists. And trend colours mint, pink and shades of grey dominate this year too.

Toddlers do not yet take much to school. A small backpack or book bag is therefore usually sufficient. Parents of small children often go for a recognisable school backpack - which their child can easily put on and take off themselves: a nice colour, a backpack in the shape of animals or a cool all-over print.

September 1 is often synonymous with new clothes. Admit it, what parent does not like to draw a picture of their spick and span child at the start of the new school year?

As at the start of every new school year, the range of school-proof clothes for toddlers, pre-schoolers and young primary school children is very large. Parents best choose breathable clothes that fit well and are easy to put on and take off. This is especially important for toddlers - accidents still happen regularly. But also for school sports or swimming lessons, it is useful for children to be able to change quickly. Advise parents to choose comfortable clothing and provide simple spare clothes.

This year there is no one specific trend colour, all colours of the rainbow are equally hip! For girls, the dreamy trend continues: floaty skirts, soft colours and shiny details in gold or glitter. Sequins and metallic also remain cool, as do cuddly fabrics and eye-catching prints. Boys and cool girls choose space references or reversible jumpers and jackets.

An outfit is only complete with the right shoes. Remember that kindergarten shoes have to put up with a lot during the school day. They climb, crawl, cycle, walk, trip and fall all over the place. So a sturdy shoe is no superfluous luxury. Parents should be advised to wear shoes that they can easily put on or take off themselves: slippers, a Velcro fastener or a zip. Older children can naturally tie their own laces and look cool and hip in sturdy boots or colourful trainers.

No school without homework or studying. This is why it is important for parents of older children to provide a clearly defined area for schoolwork in their bedroom: a desk or a sitting area with space to write and fun school supplies. Primary school children often still do their homework under supervision in the living room or at the kitchen table, so there is extra space left in their room for playing, reading or chilling out. And a few pretty deco items will give that kids' room another upgrade.