"Now that kids have been back in school for a little while, the craziness of switching routines yet again is finally dying down a bit. But with the packed calendar that comes with back-to-school season, we also get a full roster of school activities that are just for parents. Whether it’s something more formal, such as an evening fundraiser, or a more casual day of volunteering in your child’s classroom, it seems like there’s always a school-related event to attend—which also means you need outfits to wear to them.
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While we know it’s most important that you’re just showing up for your kids, you might get stuck trying to figure out what to wear for these types of events—or maybe you’re just looking for some outfit inspo to mix things up this school year. That’s why we’ve put together seven outfits for every school event you might attend this year. Check them out below.
How we styled these school event outfits
You know you’re unlocking a new era in parenting when you get excited to dress up for school-sanctioned events more than your kids do. If you think about it, each of these events is a milestone for parents as well. That’s why our goal with these outfits was to take one thing off of our plate. Rely on these easy outfit formulas, and you won’t have to spend the time figuring out what to wear. Whether it’s your first time or you’re well-seasoned in school events, we made sure to create outfits that will have you feeling your best. We included pieces that you may already own, ones that are great investment pieces, and, of course, items and accessories that are versatile enough for many occasions.
Conferences or Orientation Outfit
Perfect for conferences or orientation, this outfit combo will make you feel classy and on-trend. With a neutral color palette, this look can be dressed up or down depending on your personal style. Tie the cardigan over your shoulders for a casual yet sophisticated look.
Shop this look:
1. cardigan
2. button-up vest
3. trouser pants
4. woven tote
5. watch | budget-friendly watch
6. loafers
Chaperoning a Field Trip Outfit
If you’re taking on the task of chaperoning, you’ll want an outfit that’s both comfortable and versatile for any field trip excursion. That’s why we styled this outfit with an on-trend barn jacket that you can stay warm in or easily take off.
Shop this look:
1. polo sweater
2. barn jacket | budget-friendly barn jacket
3. wide-leg jeans
4. canvas tote bag
5. sunglasses
6. sneakers
School Sporting Event Outfit
You’ll never have to worry about what to wear on game days again because of this simple outfit formula. A great option for chillier nights, this cozy fleece vest adds the perfect pop of color to make this look sporty-chic.
Shop this look:
1. sweatshirt | budget-friendly sweatshirt
2. fleece vest
3. flare leggings
4. baseball cap
5. quilted sling bag
6. tennis shoes
Play or Talent Show Outfit
Dressing up for special occasions like a talent show or play can be tricky, but this look passes the dress code for casual-meets-dressy attire. You can truly never go wrong with a classic sweater dress paired with tall boots.
Shop this look:
1. sweater dress
2. trench coat | similar trench coat
3. necklace
4. suede tote
5. tall boots
Volunteering at School Outfit
Who says you can’t use parent volunteer days as an excuse to put on a cute outfit? This adorable look has just the right pieces to make you feel stylish. Plus, it’s the perfect in-between of clean and classic mixed with some textures and fun colors.
Shop this look:
1. quilted vest | budget-friendly vest
2. long-sleeve blouse | similar blouse
3. wide-leg jeans
4. leather tote
5. sneakers
Evening Fundraiser Outfit
Those fancier annual events are a great time to invest in luxurious-looking pieces that can be worn for years to come. With a minimal yet classy approach, this outfit will have you feeling (and looking) like a million bucks.
Shop this look:
1. drop waist dress
2. bouclé jacket
3. statement earrings
4. shoulder bag
5. slingback heels
School Drop-Off and Pick-Up Outfit
Let’s be honest: Most of the time, our school drop-off and pick-up outfits consist of loungewear or an oversized tee. But for the days when you want to feel a little bit more put-together, swap out that T-shirt for a cute quarter-snap sweatshirt and some chic accessories. This look still requires minimal effort, yet will have you looking super cute.
Shop this look:
1. white tee
2. quarter-snap sweatshirt
3. leggings
4. socks
5. sunglasses
6. slouchy bag
7. chunky clogs
Why You Can Count on Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Jessica Welsh, Commerce Editor
As Commerce Editor, Jessica oversees and edits all shopping content on The Everymom—including everything from mom fashion to product reviews. She also writes in-depth styling stories, trend reports, capsule wardrobes, gift guides, and more. She has created editorial content for major brands such as Nordstrom, Old Navy, and Kohl’s, and was previously a regular contributor to The Everygirl. Jessica believes that fashion should be accessible to everyone, so she is very determined to scour the internet for the best looks for less and affordable finds.
Gianna Aldana, Commerce Editorial Assistant
As the Everymom’s Commerce Editorial Assistant, Gianna assists The Everymom editors in the production of new and existing articles, pitches and writes new content, and sources product for shopping listicles. With writing being one of her absolute passions, she enjoys sharing her expertise in all things related to fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Before working at The Everymom, Gianna found her purpose in editorial content creation through internships at Bump Club and Beyond and The Pretty Palm Leaf Event Company.