Denim, Big Watches and More Denim Top Back-to-School 'Must Have' List

If you've seen the Target commercial featuring the nerdy, off-key school music teacher singing about must-have back-to-school items, you already know denim is on the hot list.

In addition to jeans, jeans and more jeans, there are a few items that your kids are probably asking you for. Whether your kids wear a school uniform or not, it's easy to get the hottest looks this fall season.

According to Laguna Niguel Patch blogger and high school fashionista Samantha Larsen, even if you wear a school uniform, you can jazz it up.

If your child wears a uniform, consider:

1. Sperry top-siders (anywhere from $45 to $150, depending on the type).
2. A thick, chunky crewneck or cardigan sweater in school-approved colors (Jack Willis Lyttelton Cardie, $169).
3. A large men's wristwatch to be on time for class (Nordstrom, $20- $300).
4. Fun and colorful headbands that not only keep hair out of your face during class, but also make any hairstyle snazzy (Forever 21, $4).
5. A classy pink nail polish to keep fingers looking polished inside and outside the classroom (Essie Mademoiselle, $8).

For non-uniformed students, Larsen recommends this uniform-friendly list:
1. Embossed faux snakeskin and faux alligator skin flats (Tory Burch, Reva flat $195-$255).
2. A classic blazer in a fun color, such as poppy or caramel  (J. Crew, $188).
3. A rough denim shirt that is the ideal, easy transitional summer to fall (J. Crew, $60).
4. A toggle jacket (zappos.com $50-$300).
5. Bright red, magenta, forest-green or purple pants (Paige Denim, $169).

"My secret steal store is . They have great button-downs for about $20 that are very flattering and look like a much more expensive brand. Also, they have the best white T-shirts around, for about $8.
Very cute pea coats for about $60 in a very flattering cut and a variety of colors," Larsen said.

She also likes Target for clothes that are partnered with designers. For example, this fall, Target is doing a collaboration with Missoni, and they have some "very cute zigzag patterned flats and makeup brushes featuring Missoni's signature print for a fraction of what similar items normally cost."

Other Laguna Niguel students heading back to the classroom have suggestions, too.

Catherine Swanson, 9, a fourth-grader at Aliso Viejo Christian School, said her must-have items are "an organized binder and Tom’s shoes."

Sister Shannon Swanson, 12, a seventh-grader at said her must-haves include "high-top Converse sneakers, great organizational skills, flash cards and a flash card holder."

Mom's List

And for those moms who are counting the seconds down until their kids return to school, Laguna Niguel mom Agnes McGlone said kids need "a great attitude, limited TV viewing and a big smile."

And McGlone has her own must-have list.

"Healthy brown-bag-lunch items, patience and a great group of people to carpool with."