Essential Fall + Winter Kids Clothes to Stock Up on Now

Send your kiddo out the door with a jacket that stands up to chilly air. This heavyweight fleece hoodie with elastic bindings around the hood, cuffs and hem will keep her toasty warm. It's a great alternative to bulky jackets that don't allow kids to run, jump and move around. We'll leave the overboard outfitting to A Christmas Story.

BUY IT: Backcountry, $64.99 (was $98.99)

No fear of little one catching cold with this quilted, water-repellent snowsuit, designed for below-freezing temperatures. Not only is it lined in cushy fleece, but it also comes with removable mittens and booties. Plus, the interior keeps Mother Earth in mind. The warm poly-fill is made from about eight recycled plastic bottles.

BUY IT: Gap, $78

Good shoes are a must during yucky weather. Often, heavy-duty boots aren't enjoyable to wear all day at school. We love these lightweight, waterproof shoes that are as comfortable as they are durable. Rest assured there will be no soggy socks from running around on the playground or a weekend hike with the family.

BUY IT: Columbia, $60

It may be an old wives' tale that most of our body heat escapes from our head, but nevertheless, it's still important to have your head covered on a cold day — at the very least for your ears' sake. Have a couple cute and cozy hats on hand for kids to throw on as they walk out the door. You can't beat this classic polka dot one with a pom-pom for $10.

BUY IT: Target, $9.99

A good foundation always sets you up for success, especially when dressing your kids for cold weather. This Dryride Ultrawick fleece set is a super soft baselayer that wicks away moisture and dries quickly. Since it's designed to wear snowboarding, it gives your kid freedom of movement no matter where his adventures take him.

BUY IT: Backcountry, $49.95

Winter allows your kid to accessorize in style while also adding a little warmth to her outfit. This adorable, leopard print scarf features kitty cat faces on each end for a playfully purrfect design.

BUY IT: Target, $12.99

Vests are smart transition pieces that add extra warmth before you have to bundle up from head to toe. They can be layered when colder weather sets in. This hunter green vest with faux shearling collar has an extra pop of fall style with its plaid liner.

BUY IT: Oshkosh B'gosh, $36

You can't go wrong with a little flannel in their wardrobe. For boys, look for never-goes-out-of-style button-ups that they can pair with jeans or khakis. For girls, we love this tunic paired with oh-so-cozy fleece-lined leggings.

BUY IT: Oshkosh B'gosh, $36

You will not make it to spring without a couple lost gloves. We suggest stocking up on several affordable pairs at the beginning of the season. Though you need specific gloves for skiing, snowboarding and outdoor winter play, these simple knit ones are all you need for everyday to-and-from school use. At this price, you won't be upset when they lose one (or two or three).

BUY IT: Target, $4.99

Cold, rainy days require rain boots with insulated liners to keep those toes on the toasty side. Easy to pull on, these fun boots come in several different patterns, including this cute design with a penguin floating on an iceberg.

BUY IT: Zappos, $34.95

And, of course, we can't send our littles off to dreamland without snuggly, warm pajamas. These tartan flannel pajamas make for a classic pairing and are also available for every member of the family, including your puppy!

BUY IT: Target, $11.99

Tiny feet are guaranteed to stay extra warm in made-for-baby wool booties. This trio of socks is printed in a variety of geometric designs and also comes in shades of pink and primary hues. Available in big kid sizes, too.

BUY IT: Zappos, $25.95