Mother Daughter Style: Vintage Looks for Back to School

School Days

Clothing designer and mom of seven Kayce Hughes’ fashion career began by transforming vintage fabrics into dresses for her daughters. The results were so cute she began making them for women too. Read on for this stylish mom’s back-to-school must-haves.

Kayce's Look

"The versatility of this 1970s-inspired dress makes it my go-to. I pair it with suede boots and this just-the-right-size tote while i run my—many!—errands."

Favorite Splurge: Something special like a fabulous cocktail dress.
Can't Part With: The red cowboy boots I bought at age 18.
Never Leave Home Without: I'm always forgetting something I need—gas, credit card, permission slip, you name it.

Clare's Look

Kayce's 9-year old daughter Clare is ready for school! Or at least her closet is. "Red is my favorite color so this outfit is perfect. The shirt has pretty flowers and the ballet flats have cute bows. The owl backpack will be fun to carry on the first day of school."

Favorite Subject: Art. I'm very creative.
When I Grow Up: I want to be an actress. I love to re-create movie scenes with my sisters.
Dream Outfit: A fancy red dress and fur coat to wear to the Oscars.

The Clothes

Kayce's Look
This Kayce Hughes creation marries the comfort of denim with the polish of a classic day dress.

• Denim Dress, $138; kaycehughes.com

Clare's Look
With its long sleeves and lightweight fabric, this colorful blouse makes a perfect transition piece. Pair it with chino cargo pants for a look that’s chic but also playground durable.

• Margaret Blouse, $46; kaycehughes.com
• Capris by Mossimo, $14.99; target.com

The Shoes

Kayce's Look
Brown boots are a fall essential. Try wearing this comfy suede pair with your favorite skinny jeans or a flattering shirtdress.

• Dalia Boots by Me Too, $139; hsn.com

Clare's Look
Your little one will go wild for these fun, animal print flats. And you’ll love the affordable price tag.

• Ballet Flat by Brash, $24.99; payless.com

The Bags

Kayce's Look
Save face with this roomy handbag. The sophisticated red leather elegantly conceals the to-do lists, permission slips, and Cheerios that lurk within.

• Daniella in Rouge, $188; hobobags.com

Clare's Look
Kids will happily carry these animal bags (even if they are stuffed with homework).

• Owl Zoo Pack, $20; skiphop.com

The Accesories

Kayce's Look
These horn cuffs—handcrafted from natural scraps—make the perfect statement piece for fall. Bonus: They’re designed in Nashville, Tennessee!

• Horn Cuff, $80; allstrungoutdesigns.com

Clare's Look
Say goodbye to big poufy hair bows, and tame your daughter’s tresses with these adorable barrettes in various colors and designs.

• Felt Hair Clips, $5 each; sundropclips.com

Planners & Notebooks

Kayce's Look
This made-for-mom’s day planner lets you keep tabs on the whole household’s schedules in one convenient spot.

• Desktop Day Planner, $43; momagenda.com

Clare's Look
These made in Virginia notebook covers will brighten up a ho-hum composition notebook. Plus, the machine washable fabric allows you to use them from year-to-year.

• Notebook covers, $24 each, watermelonwishes.etsy.com