Why Does the “New Backpack, New Wardrobe” Myth Refuse to Die?
Back-to-school season often feels like a wardrobe emergency, even when our kids haven’t grown an inch. It turns out the strain is real: American families are expected to spend about $858 per household on back-to-school needs in 2025—covering clothing, supplies, electronics, and more (National Retail Federation, Reuters). Many parents (56%) say the season brings financial stress, and nearly half report that they’d go into debt just so their child can fit in (NerdWallet). Yet for many, last year’s clothes would do just fine. Last year's clothes may still fit. We often buy clothes for holiday gifts, birthdays, milestones, sports team needs, etc. Most of us buy clothes for the family all year long. Where does this pressure come from? Is it a sweet memory, a family tradition passed down from generation to generation?
Scoring “Cool” on Social Media: Helpful or Harmful?
Social media isn’t just for scrolling—it’s shaping wardrobes too. Around 75% of Gen Z parents and 46% of millennials use social platforms during back-to-school shopping, and those shoppers spend 1.8 times more than others (Deloitte+1). Even kids feel the pressure: 60% of parents say their children are influenced by peers or social media on what to buy, and half of them end up relenting. When influencers and “haul” videos rule the feed, suddenly that same hoodie becomes yesterday’s news—even if it still fits. I witnessed my great-nephew watching unboxing videos on YouTube since he was 4 years old, and it wasn't just toys he was interested in. Fashion was exciting for him as well.
Overparenting or Compensation for Absence?
Some parents may use shopping as a proxy for time. When long workdays or other obligations limit daily contact, splurging on a “must-have” outfit can feel like proof of love. Yet surveys suggest children actually benefit more from time and connection—not trendier kicks. Plus, with 53% of parents willing to go into debt for fitting in or extracurriculars, the message may be we’re buying happiness instead of building it.
So, What If We Changed the Script This Year?
Maybe it's time to flip the tradition. This year, let’s shift spending toward meaningful—and cost-conscious—choices. Even brand-new basics bought early and on sale can do the trick, while letting kids keep favorite items (especially if they still fit). These practices may starts the year with ease and authenticity for both generations. Set budgets, involve your kids in decisions, and remind them—and yourself—that confidence isn’t in the label but in the love. That’s the trend worth starting and maintaining.
I want to hear from you!
In Gratitude,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
@SuperiorSelf channel on YouTube
@superiorselfwithkjlandis on TikTok
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
Back-to-school season often feels like a wardrobe emergency, even when our kids haven’t grown an inch. It turns out the strain is real: American families are expected to spend about $858 per household on back-to-school needs in 2025—covering clothing, supplies, electronics, and more (National Retail Federation, Reuters). Many parents (56%) say the season brings financial stress, and nearly half report that they’d go into debt just so their child can fit in (NerdWallet). Yet for many, last year’s clothes would do just fine. Last year's clothes may still fit. We often buy clothes for holiday gifts, birthdays, milestones, sports team needs, etc. Most of us buy clothes for the family all year long. Where does this pressure come from? Is it a sweet memory, a family tradition passed down from generation to generation?
Scoring “Cool” on Social Media: Helpful or Harmful?
Social media isn’t just for scrolling—it’s shaping wardrobes too. Around 75% of Gen Z parents and 46% of millennials use social platforms during back-to-school shopping, and those shoppers spend 1.8 times more than others (Deloitte+1). Even kids feel the pressure: 60% of parents say their children are influenced by peers or social media on what to buy, and half of them end up relenting. When influencers and “haul” videos rule the feed, suddenly that same hoodie becomes yesterday’s news—even if it still fits. I witnessed my great-nephew watching unboxing videos on YouTube since he was 4 years old, and it wasn't just toys he was interested in. Fashion was exciting for him as well.
Overparenting or Compensation for Absence?
Some parents may use shopping as a proxy for time. When long workdays or other obligations limit daily contact, splurging on a “must-have” outfit can feel like proof of love. Yet surveys suggest children actually benefit more from time and connection—not trendier kicks. Plus, with 53% of parents willing to go into debt for fitting in or extracurriculars, the message may be we’re buying happiness instead of building it.
So, What If We Changed the Script This Year?
Maybe it's time to flip the tradition. This year, let’s shift spending toward meaningful—and cost-conscious—choices. Even brand-new basics bought early and on sale can do the trick, while letting kids keep favorite items (especially if they still fit). These practices may starts the year with ease and authenticity for both generations. Set budgets, involve your kids in decisions, and remind them—and yourself—that confidence isn’t in the label but in the love. That’s the trend worth starting and maintaining.
I want to hear from you!
In Gratitude,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
@SuperiorSelf channel on YouTube
@superiorselfwithkjlandis on TikTok
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
RSS Feed