Pencils, books, and the look

Don't know much about history? Biology?

What about Style-ology?

Before beginning back-to-school shopping this year, parents and teens might want to take a few notes. What's blazing hot? What's sooooo 2007? Read on for some hints from a few local retailers.

Overview: Themes this year are one extreme or the other: guys and girls will either prefer the preppy look - ties, vests and polo shirts - or they'll fall hard for an edgier look with rocker-inspired patterns and colors.

Colors: Certain color combinations will make a statement this fall in school hallways: in particular, be on the lookout for black, gray, magenta and purple pairings to mix it up in color block tops and dresses. Dark jewel tones are popular, with the occasional pop of bright yellow, orange and pink. Two consistently favorite shades for guys should come as no surprise: navy blue and light blue have returned.

Patterns: Girls and guys, say "yes" to patterns this season. Bold stripes are everywhere, in girl's vests and guys polo shirts, and bright-hued plaids look good in Bermuda shorts and preppy-style pleated skirts. Tired of stripes? Invest in some pieces with square checks or a houndstooth pattern. Another favorite shape this season: the skull and crossbones. Get it on a screen-printed graphic T-shirt, hoodie or other accessory.

Pants: The skinnier, the better this season. While previous years have seen the rise and fall of the flare leg, fall 2008 is all about skinny jeans and leggings. With denim, opt for dark rinses. With leggings, think about black or charcoal colors and a little "hardware" like zippers, rivets and more. For boys and young men, fitted is the new baggy: think straight leg or boot cut jeans (in a variety of styles like sandblasted or distressed), and leave the two-sizes-too-big pair at home.

Tops: Preppy is back in a big way this fall, with prep school looks making a big splash with girls' fashions. Knit tops and dresses (particularly those with an empire waist) will maintain their staple status. For young men's fashion, graphic T-shirts continue to be a constant favorite.

Extras: Instead of embellishment this year - rhinestones, glitter, etc. - this year's pop will come from extra apparel items. Style icon alert: guys and girls can rock the prep school look by sporting a vest to school. Vests can be cropped and fitted or long and loose. Match them up with a button-up shirt and skinny tie or a plain T-shirt. Not feeling the vest? Try a skinny striped scarf on for size, wrapping it around your neck and letting the long ends dangle.

Sources: Elisabeth Yospur-Daniel, general manager of Elder-Beerman, and Julie Caudill, assistant store manager of soft lines at Sears