The Best Online Stores for Back-to-School Shopping for Teens This Year
One of my fondest childhood memories is getting back-to-school clothes with my mom every fall. I remember how excited I’d get to model outfits and trends for her in the mall and then show off everything I’d gotten to my friends. Today, things are a bit different—but the kids still love to shop! Gone are the days of teens thumbing through clothing racks and trying on whatever draws them in like I did in the nineties and early aughts. With the rise of social media, back-to-school shopping is more about scrolling through TikTok. And as a result, far more calculated.
Our Top Stores for Back-to-School Clothes for Teens
Best Athleisure: Lululemon
Best Basics: Walmart
Best Deals: Amazon
Best Designer Dupes: Target
Best Graphic Hoodies: Hollister
Best Product Selection: Nordstrom
Most Eclectic Styles: Urban Outfitters
Best Throwback Brand: Aeropostale
Best Celeb-Loved Brand: Asos
Best Return Policy: American Eagle
Best Everyday Prices: H&M
Most Sophisticated: Zara
Best Shoes & Accessories: Zappos
Best Splurge: Madewell
Best for First Day of School: FP Movement by Free People
If your teen is trend-driven, it can be helpful to get on the same page as them ahead of your back-to-school shopping trip (digital or otherwise). As a parent, you’re likely thinking about things like dress codes and budgets, while your kid is probably solely focused on the looks they want to buy. We’re here to help bridge that gap.
We’ve rounded up 15 of the best online shopping destinations for scoring the trendiest, most TikTok-viral threads within a reasonable budget, along with some of their hottest pieces. Read on to learn how to get your teen the looks they want—without spending a fortune or stocking up on one-hit wonders.
Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Lululemon and Walmart are SheKnows sponsors, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
Lululemon
When Gen Z discovered skorts, Millennials and Gen Xers might have had a collective meltdown, but now we’ve arrived at a sweet spot where skorts are the athleisure of the moment. Lululemon specializes in the skort, along with a whole slew of pieces — yoga pants, T-shirts, sweats, tracksuits — that combine trendy aesthetics with the comfort and movability of sportswear. So much of Lululemon’s styles are made with features like four-way stretch and buttery soft fabrics, and these clothes are built to last.
What to expect: Chic activewear to suit many body types and sizes
Why it’s great for teens: Many of the brand’s styles serve as the blueprint for TikTok trends
Price range: Best-sellers start at about $14 for accessories and $38 for clothing
Shipping options:
Standard: 2-6 business days (Free)
Express: 2-3 business days ($20)
Priority: 1 business day ($30)
Return policy:
Within 30 days of purchase
Full refund, exchange, or store credit
Align High Rise Skort
The fashion girls of TikTok are wearing their skorts everywhere from pickleball practice (you can thank Taylor Swift and the movie Challengers for that one) to gym class, getting them in every color, and declaring it officially skort season.
The internet-famous Align skort by Lululemon is on the radar of many a teen. Sizes come in and out of stock, and new colors debut from time to time, but this style is a constant in the Lulu lineup. It features the brand’s signature Nulu fabric—a lightweight, buttery soft material with four-way stretch. A high-rise waist and built-in shorts for added coverage make it perfect for just about any outfit—as well as PE.
Deine Cropped Jacket in Strawberry Milkshake
When Lululemon debuted its Strawberry Milkshake color—a soft, cool pink—TikTok was in a tizzy. “This color has me in a chokehold,” one creator wrote. “Not a drill: Strawberry Milkshake’s back,” another said of the recent restock of this sweet hue.
Undoubtedly, it’s The Define Jacket—both regular and cropped, seen here—that’s a must-have piece. It’s made with Nulu fabric fans love, and the cropped length and tailored fit make it perfect for layering over workout gear or pairing casual classroom outfits. It even has thumbholes for added warmth and a secure fit.
Walmart
Pretty much all the styles trending on TikTok—from flowy maxi skirts to patterned boxer shorts (your teen girl will swoon)—can be found at Walmart at a price point everyone will love. Walmart is the home of some “really amazing, quality outfits that are very trendy,” as one TikToker put it.
What to expect: Well-priced basics and trendy outfits
Why it’s great for teens: Lower prices mean you can stock up on of-the-moment styles without making a huge investment
Price range: Prices start as low as $10 for basic items like T-shirts and can go up to around $50 for more premium pieces
Shipping options:
Standard: 3 to 5 business days (Free for orders over $35, with a $5.99 fee for smaller orders)
Two-Day: 2 business days (Free for orders over $35; a $5.99 fee applies for orders under $3)
Next-Day: 1 business day (Available for orders of $35 or more on eligible item)
Express: As fast as two hours ($10 express fee plus standard delivery fee of $9.95)
Return policy:
Returns within 90 days of purchase or delivery for most items
Can start the process online and print a return label
Joyspun Woven Pajama Boxer Shorts
Have you heard of the viral Walmart shorts? Don’t let the word “pajama” fool you—your kid will be pairing these patterned boxers with everything from sweatshirts and sneakers to jackets and sweaters. These Joyspun shorts come in so many fun prints too, like these tigers and crescent moons.
No Boundaries Seamless V-Neck Tee with Short Sleeves
“My teenage daughter loves this top I got her from Walmart! It’s $7.98 fits nice and looks real cute on,” wrote one TikTok mom about these ribbed basic tees that come in a range of colors; for just $5, you can easily get ’em all. Walmart is your go-to for building the foundation of your kids’ back-to-school wardrobes.
Amazon
Is there anything you can’t get at Amazon? The store is packed with back-to-school finds to keep boys and girls of all ages well-dressed from head to toe. Amazon’s prices are famously low, and the site runs sales all the time. There aren’t many places where you can stock up on household must-haves along with kids’ clothes!
What to expect: Well-priced basics and trendy outfits that arrive on your door steps as quickly as the same or net day
Why it’s great for teens: Lower prices mean you can stock up on of-the-moment styles without making a huge investment, and many designer dupes can be found
Price range: It varies. Basic items like tees and leggings can start from as low as $5, while mid-range options such as dresses, jackets, and activewear typically range from $30 to $60. Premium and designer pieces can go beyond $100.
Shipping options:
Same-Day: Free for Prime members on qualifying orders over $25
One-Day: Free for Prime members on millions of items
Two-Day: Free for Prime members on millions of items
Amazon Day Delivery: Prime members can choose a specific day of the week for all their deliveries, allowing for convenience and consolidation of shipments
Return policy:
Most items to be returned within 30 days of delivery
adidas Boys' Athletic Tricot Jogger Pant
Adidas track pants are everything right now, and your teen boy or girl will be stoked to have a pair to wear to school in any color—both neutrals and bright hues are trending. Amazon has an entire adidas store filled with finds like this, which are made of quick-dry fabric and are great for looking cool and staying cool.
Target
It goes without saying that Target is a never-ending treasure chest in retail store form. So of course their back-to-school selection is bursting with the cutest picks for your teen, whether it’s from their popular in-house brands, like Wild Fable and A New Day or other recognizable brands like Levi’s.
What to expect: Well-priced basics and trendy outfits from in-house and out-of-house brands and affordable dupes.
Why it’s great for teens: Lower prices mean you can stock up on of-the-moment styles, like everything ’90s, without making a huge investment. Target’s young adult section makes it easy to find the styles they love.
Price range: Prices start as low as $10 for basic items like T-shirts and can go up to around $50 for more premium pieces
Shipping options:
Standard: 3-5 business days (Free for orders over $35, with a $5.99 fee for smaller orders)
Two-Day: 2 business days (Free for orders over $35; a $5.99 fee applies for orders under $3)
Next-Day: 1 business day (Available for orders of $35 or more on eligible item)
Same-Day: $9.99 per order or free for Target Circle 360 members on orders above $35
Return policy:
Returns within 90 days of purchase or delivery for most items
Can start the process online and print a return label
Wild Fable High-Rise 90's Relaxed Slashed Straight Jeans
Teens on TikTok are loving a good Target haul, and you’ll find many of them in ’90s-inspired baggy and straight-leg jeans like this par by Wild Fable. We love how size-inclusive these jeans are, in sizes 00 to 30.
Hollister
“Run to Hollister,” TikTok teens will tell you, where you can find all the latest trends and clothes they’ll want to be seen in. Everything from activewear to everyday wear lives here, and the company abides by sustainable practices so you can feel good about shopping here.
Hollister is stocked with sweatshirts that can go from school to practice to sleepovers with ease. If you opt for a graphic sweatshirt, which is in right now, aim for something timeless so the garment can stand the test of time.
What to expect: Sustainably made clothes for prices that work
Why it’s good for teens: Teens love edgy athleisure, and Hollister has plenty
Price range: $10 for tees to $60 for sweats and dresses to $100 for coats
Shipping options:
Standard: 5-7 business days ($7)
Two-Day: 2 business days if ordered before 12 PM EST, Monday-Friday ($15)
Next-Day: Next business day if ordered before 12 PM EST, Monday-Friday ($22)
Same-Day: With some exceptions ($10)
Return policy: Refund or exchange within 60 days from the date of purchase
McLaren Japan Graphic Hoodie
Graphic hoodies have been having a moment for a while now, and the Hollister Relaxed McLaren Graphic Hoodie is a chic example. It has a relaxed fit and a McLaren-inspired graphic your teen will love. Made from a soft cotton blend, it’s warm and comfy.
Nordstrom
Nordstrom is the spot to find a diverse selection of teen-friendly brands, from high-end designers to more affordable, mid-range options. Casual clothes, activewear, and even formalwear can be found here. Like any great department store, Nordstrom carries both timeless styles and trends.
What to expect: Generally well-made clothes in a vast array of brands and a vast array of price points
Why it’s good for teens: The styles they carry are cool and trendy, they have popular brands and up-and-coming labels that are definitely buzz-worthy
Price range: T-shirts start at about $20 and prices can go as high as the hundreds for things like dresses and pants
Shipping options:
Standard: 3-6 business days (Free)
Two-Day: 2 business days (Free for Nordstrom cardmembers, $12 for other customers)
Next-Day: Next business day ($20)
Same-Day: With some exceptions ($20)
Return policy:
No time restrictions, but returns are evaluated on a case-by-case basis
BP Rib Crop Cardigan
With the ’90s back on trend, you’ll recognize your teens wearing a lot of the same cardigans you used to wear, like this ribbed on by BP. It’s cropped, so it goes well with all those high-waisted straight-leg pants you’re seeing everywhere. Snap up this versatile piece in one of four colors (or all of them).
Urban Outfitters
That store that was the coolest place on Earth when you were a teen is holding strong for your own teens. Urban Outfitters is the destination for funky clothes and all the items that’ll make your teen the “It” girl or boy in school. They frequently updates their inventory, too, to reflect the what teens want, from vintage-inspired pieces to the latest streetwear.
What to expect: Everything cool and trendy at mid-range price points.
Why it’s good for teens: Urban Outfitters has unique and eclectic pieces that allow teens to express their individuality. And they carry a diverse range of brands, including popular names and exclusive labels.
Price range: Prices start at $20 for a tee and go up to about $200 for jackets and coats
Shipping options:
Standard: 5-8 business days ($6.95 for orders up to $74.99; free for orders $75 and over)
Express: 2-3 business days ($14.95)
Rush: 1-2 business days ($21.95)
Return policy:
Online purchases can be returned by mail or in store within 30 days of the delivery date
21 Savage European Tour Tee
Urban Outfitters specializes in concert tees, like this tour T-shirt for rapper 21 Savage—and there are so many more to suit almost any teen’s musical tastes, from classic to modern-day artists. It has graphics in the front and back and a relaxed fit for comfortable all-day wear.
Aeropostale
Aeropostale was everything in the ’90s, and now that the ’90s are everything, so is Aeropostale again! One teen on TikTok declared it “@Aeropostale comeback era.” Nowadays it’s known for its budget-friendly pricing, making it accessible for families looking to buy back-to-school wardrobes without breaking the bank.
What to expect: Casual, youthful and trendy clothes for tweens, teens and young adults—and frequent sales
Why it’s good for teens: Aeropostale keeps up with current fashion trends that resonate with teens. The brand focuses on comfort and is packed with items teens live in, like jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, dresses and activewear.
Price range: From $10 to $15 for tees and shorts up to $60 or $70 for rompers and jackets
Shipping options:
Standard: 3-7 business days ($8)
Express: 2-3 business days ($13)
Next-Day: Usually 1 business day ($20)
Return policy:
Items purchased online can be returned by mail or to any Aeropostale store within 60 days of the delivery date
Solid Tiered Maxi Skirt
The tiered maxi skirt is having an undeniable moment for summer 2024, and TikTok says it’ll go straight into back-to-school season. This tiered skirt embodies the look and gives feminine flair to any outfit. Pro-tip: pick up a few concert tees to pair with this skirt.
Asos
Get Asos on your radar for up-to-the-moment trends for teens, including pieces spotted on celebrities like Bella Hadid. This is the destination for styles currently making the rounds on TikTok, including chunky white sneakers and Nike training socks, which you’ll spot on the feet of every guy and girl in gym class this semester.
What to expect: Teen-friendly clothes and accessories with inclusive sizing options. Also, mid-range prices, lots of sales and a loyalty program with free shipping on all orders for a mere $19 a year
Why it’s good for teens: You can browse the site by trending products or by Gen Z trends, like Streetwear, Main Character and even As Seen on Social
Price range: From $10 for basic tees to $100 for brand name activewear and $150+ for outerwear
Shipping options:
Standard: 5-8 business days ($6.95 or free on orders above $50)
Express: 2-3 business days ($12)
Next-Day: Next business day if ordered by a specific cutoff time ($20)
ASOS Premier Delivery: Unlimited next-day delivery for a year ($19 annually)
Return policy:
Full refund with 28 days and gift voucher from 29 to 45 days
Nike Killshot 2 Suede Sneakers
Teens into streetwear are no doubt looking for casual sneakers to pair with all their back-to-school outfits, and these Nike Killshot sneakers are in keeping with the retro tennis and skateboarding sneakers all over the streets at the moment, right down to their cool gum soles.
American Eagle Outitters
Affordable, trend-driven and basic clothing for young adults is American Eagle‘s bread and butter. They’re known for high-quality denim and outfits that range from casual to dressy, as well as size-inclusivity and body positivity on their social channels as part of the brand.
What to expect: A mid-priced assortment of staples like jeans, bodysuits, tee shirts, cargo pants, everyday dresses and more boys and girls
Why it’s great for teens: They pay attention to what Gen Z is into: trends, size inclusivity and sustainable/eco-friendly clothes and manufacturing processes
Price range: From $15 for T-shirts and accessories to $100 and $150 for coats and shoes
Shipping options:
Standard: 3-5 business days ($7.95 or free for orders over $75)
Second day: 2 business days ($15)
Overnight: 1 business day ($25)
ShopRunner: 2nd-day shipping, free for ShopRunner members on orders over $75
Real Rewards Members: Depending on the membership level, Real Rewards members may receive additional benefits like free standard shipping on all orders
Return policy: No time limit, but items must be new with tags
AE Bow Bodysuit
A lot of brands make bodysuits, but American Eagle’s Bow Bodysuit is the latest viral sensation. Bows are still very much on trend, and this bodysuit is just one of many at AE. It comes in two colors and can be pair with wide-leg pants, maxi skirts, sweats and more.
H&M
The affordability has always been H&M‘s strongest selling point, and it’s the kind of store with such a vast inventory that your teen is bound to find things he or she loves. Just look at the countless H&M haul TikToks for inspiration. It’s great for stocking up on basics for the school year, too.
What to expect: Low-priced, durable clothes in a wide range of styles from a company committed to sustainability
Why it’s good for teens: You can invest in all the things they’ve been begging for without breaking the bank
Price range: From pants for $15 to dresses for $50 and coats for $70
Shipping options:
Standard: 3-5 business days ($5.99, but free for orders over $60 for non-members and over $40 for members)
Expedited: 2-3 business days ($14.99)
Next-Day: 1-2 business days ($19)
Free Shipping for Loyalty Members
Return policy:
Items can be returned within 30 days of purchase for a refund or exchange
Loose Fit Printed T-shirt
You can’t go wrong with a closet full of graphic tees, and H&M has the motherlode. Old-school bands like The Talking Heads and Nirvana, cool organizations like NASA and brands like the Discovery Channel: if you don’t get it, it might just be ironically cool.
Zara
If you’re teen’s on TikTok, then they probably love Zara and know the store’s whole inventory already. Zara’s social media presence does a great job of showcasing its styles, which are edgy and mid-priced.
What to expect: Everything from everyday basics to fancier outfits, with a focus on the latest trends and styles. Their product line includes dresses, tops, pants, and accessories
Why it’s great for teens: All the trends are represented, and the clothes are high-quality and suit a sophisticate teen
Price range: From $20 for basic tops to $200 for coats and shoes
Shipping options:
Ship to Zara store: 3-5 working days (Free)
Standard: 2-4 working days ($6.95, free for orders over $70)
Same-Day: For orders placed before 6pm ($19.95)
Return policy:
Refund within 30 days of the shipment date
Short Animal Print Dress
Leopard print will be everywhere this school year, and Zara does the trend justice with this leopard mini dress that’s cinched at the waist. Your teen will probably pair it with black tights (those are back, too) and boots for a school-friendly look.
Zappos
Everything you loved as a kid and everything your parents loved as a kid is back in style. Uggs, Converse, and other classic kicks are all part of the most lusted-after back-to-school outfits for teens on TikTok. You’ll find almost all the accessories and shoes your teens want over at Zappos, and you might even find them on sale.
What to expect: Excellent 24/7 customer support line and a hassle-free return policy along with great prices on all your teen’s favorite styles
Why it’s great for teens: The inventory is vast
Price range: Casual shoes range from around $50 to $100, athletic shoes and designer shoes can be $250 or more
Shipping options:
Standard: 4-5 business days (Free)
Expedited: 2-3 business day (Free for Zappos VIP members)
Next-Day: Next business day ($25)
Return policy:
Free for returns within 365 days of purchase, with no shipping charges
Fjällräven Kånken Rainbow
The Fjällräven Kånken Rainbow backpack is more fun than your average backpack and lets your teen express their individual style. The rainbow strapped bag comes in several colors and is designed for durability and style.
Madewell
If you have a bit of a bigger budget or want to spoil your teen with a few of their favorite pieces, Madewell is the place. Their back-to-school selection includes on-trend items like high-waisted jeans, graphic tees and cool jewelry.
What to expect: High quality clothes, both basics and trendy pieces, and denim that will last for years to come
Why it’s great for teens: They’ll get their trends but they’ll also get mileage out of these clothes
Price range: From $20 for tops to $228 for jeans (they’re so worth it)
Shipping options:
Standard: 3-6 business days ($5)
Expedited: 2-3 business days ($15)
Overnight: 1-2 business days ($25)
Madewell Insider Program: Free standard shipping and returns for all members
Return policy:
Refund within 30 days of the date of purchase
The 1991 Straight-Leg Stretch Selvedge Jean
One pair of Madewell jeans are all your teen will need for the school year. They’re coveted for their high-quality materials, perfect fit, and timeless style. The 1991 Straight-Leg Stretch Selvedge Jean is a classic straight-leg cut in a versatile Loyola wash that gives it vintage (yes, the ’90s are now vintage) appeal.
Free People
Whether they’re filming a dance for TikTok, hanging with friends, or actually working out, teens basically live in athleisure. FP Movement, Free People’s activewear line, is one of the hottest brands on TikTok right now. And it’s a bit of a lower price point compared to the rest of the brand’s teen-friendly styles.
What to expect: Clothes that work for gym class, sports practice and beyond
Why it’s great for teens: These clothes combine the latest styles with comfort and breathability, so they can be as active as they want
Price range: From $30 for tops and tanks to $150 for sweatshirts and jackets
Shipping options:
Standard: 5-7 business days (Free)
Express: 2 to 3 business days (Free for orders over $150 placed through the app)
Expedited: 1 to 2 business days (typically around $15 to $20 more than the standard shipping fee)
Return policy: Refund within 30 days of purchase
FP Movement Carpe Diem Shorts
These shorts are super lightweight and sweat-wicking, so they’re great with a big t-shirt for gym class, especially early in the school year when it’s still super hot outside. Alternatively, since the rise is ultra-high, your teen can pair them with a slightly cropped top for a less conservative weekend look.