Lifestyle expert Carly Ostroff appeared on CTV News to share her trend watch for the upcoming back-to-school season [1].
These insights arrive as parents navigate a complex retail environment where personal expression and rising costs collide. Understanding these shifts helps families balance student desires with tightening household budgets during the annual shopping surge.
Ostroff's analysis focuses on the intersection of fashion and consumer behavior. This aligns with broader industry data showing that parents' expectations and spending levels are shifting. According to a July 16, 2026, report from Forbes, back-to-school spending is on the rise [3]. This trend is further supported by the 2026 JLL Back-to-School Shopping Report, which notes that redefining value has become a primary factor for consumers [4].
While spending is up, the drivers behind the purchases vary. Some industry data suggests that style, confidence, and self-expression are the leading forces for Gen Z and millennial families [2]. This focus on personal identity was highlighted in a 2026 survey conducted by SHEIN [2].
Cultural events also play a significant role in shaping what students want. While fashion remains a dominant force, some reports indicate that the FIFA World Cup is influencing current back-to-school trends [5]. This suggests a move toward athletic and globally inspired apparel in the classroom.
Beyond clothing, the focus on novelty extends to nutrition. Trends from 2026 emphasized global flavors, and budget-friendly "box fun" for school lunches [6]. For the 2026 season, seasoned mothers report that children's preferences continue to evolve, blending traditional needs with new lifestyle influences [7].
Ostroff said her goal is to inform viewers about these upcoming fashion and consumer trends to help them prepare for the new school year [1].
“Back-to-school spending is on the rise.”
The 2026 back-to-school season reflects a tension between aspirational spending and economic pragmatism. While cultural milestones like the World Cup and a desire for self-expression drive demand for specific styles, the reliance on 'redefining value' suggests that consumers are becoming more selective about where they allocate their increased budgets.
