Tips for Buying Back to School Shoes for Girls

In addition to notebooks, pens, pencils, and other school supplies, girls must also consider a new pair of shoes for the start of the new school year. When shopping for a new pair of shoes, there are a few factors to consider. An ideal pair of shoes provides comfort and versatility to the wearer. Through research of the available styles, girls are able to find an appropriate pair of shoes that lasts for the entire school year. By considering brand and style preferences and making sure they align with the school's dress code, shoppers can simplify the process of finding shoes to start the year off on the right foot.

Choose a Brand of Shoes
With a number of different brands on the market, parents must decide on a reliable brand when purchasing a new pair of shoes for their little girls. Many brands known for their adult sizes extend to children's sizes, like Nike and Converse, while other brands cater more exclusively to children, like Skechers and Stride Rite. Above all, parents must consider the comfort level of the shoes provided by their favorite brand. Shoes must also be fit to last the entire school year to avoid replacement in the upcoming months. Buying from the right brand the first time around saves both time and money.

Consider Shoe Style Preference
In addition to the brand, parents must consider the style preference of their child. Some little girls like very pink and pretty shoes, while others prefer a more casual or basic style. Velcro is a good option for girls who attend elementary school. These avoid the hassle of having to tie laces in the morning before school.

When considering style, parents must also choose the shoe option that fits the season. In some cases, sandals are appropriate, especially during the beginning and the end of the years in most climates, but a good pair of sneakers works well for the entire school year. Allowing children to pick shoes in their favorite colors or featuring their favorite cartoon characters allows them to engage in the selection process.

Follow the School Dress Code
When considering a new pair of shoes for going back to school, parents should carefully review the provided dress code for their school. Many schools have a dress code in place that only allows students to wear dark colored shoes or Oxfords to class. They must also bring a pair of dark or white colored sneakers or athletic shoes for gym class and outdoor activities. This keeps students less worried about brand names and everyone attending feels uniform to their peers. Good options for girls shoes that follow most dress codes include Mary Janes and ballet flats.

Find the Right Size Shoes
A good way to ensure that a child is getting the best fitting dress shoes for back-to-school season is to check her size. Measuring for shoes is easy to do at home and only requires a few different materials. First, trace the child's foot onto a sheet of paper, and then mark the top of the toe with a line and the bottom of the heel with a line. Take a ruler and measure between the two lines. The heel-to-toe length determines the child's shoe size. In addition, children are also able to have their feet professionally measured at a local shoe store. Lastly, measure the child's foot during the evening hours, this is when feet are at their biggest, and helps to find the best fitting shoe.

Choose Between Athletic or Dress Shoes
Lastly, parents need to make the choice between athletic or dress shoes for their girl. Although many girls prefer a dressier style, they are not always the practical choice. Shoes should have a padded midsole, which provides comfort to the child throughout the day. Having dress shoes on hand is also a good idea because they are ideal for wearing to school concerts or assemblies. Good athletic shoe brands for girls include Nike, New Balance, and Converse, while good dress shoe brands include Steve Madden and Keds.