With school starting in only a few weeks, it's time to start planning that A-plus wardrobe that will give you a head start in making top style grades. There are basic essentials for all ages this fall that make rolling out of bed every morning and getting dressed as easy as ABC. Here's the short list of the top trends:

— Jeans. This is where you start. Find a pair or two from your favorite brands with a comfortable fit and go from there. Ripped denim is still a popular trend with the younger crowd, but colored denim is also making news in earthy greens, reds and oranges. High-rise "mom" jeans are also a cool choice.

— Cargos and joggers. Jeans aren't the only choice for back-to-school. Cargo pants (shorts if the school dress code allows them) and sporty joggers are also options. Camo prints are big. The athleisure trend is still going strong, too, especially in the elementary grades, when comfort is key on the playground; try leggings and sweatpants.

— Cropped jackets. A jean jacket is another back-to-school basic that's a versatile layering piece for all ages. Don't be afraid of teaming denim jackets with jeans and denim skirts. The denim-on-denim trend is an easy way to dress for every day. Shorter jackets update this look, teamed with T-shirts and even dresses.

— Graphic T-shirts and hoodies. More ageless basics for back-to-school, T-shirts and hoodies emblazoned with graphic designs are ways to stretch a wardrobe when paired with jeans and joggers. This fall, the newest basics are printed with colorful ombre stripes, graphic logos, color blocking, tie-dye and florals. Play with color, mix patterns and layer, layer, layer.

— The shiny stuff. How about a new T-shirt sparkling with sequins? Or a metallic backpack? Or a brocade pair of sneakers? It's all about shimmer and shine — and yes, even at school. Students can add a touch of whimsy to their basics by just adding some glitter to their wardrobe.

— Utility vests. This is another genderless basic that pumps up the cool factor when layered over graphic T-shirts and jeans or even floral dresses. When the weather gets cooler, puffer vests will be making a comeback. In bright colors, these vests are a great alternative to heavy coats.

— Plaid flannel shirts. You can buy these new, or you can scope out your local vintage market. Flannel shirts give back-to-school wardrobes a shot of retro cool, especially in oversize "grandpa" silhouettes that easily morph into versatile layering pieces that can be tied at the waist, around the neck or worn by themselves, buttoned or not.

— Floral dresses. From floral babydoll silhouettes to long maxis, flowers are the print of the season. In dark colors for fall, the florals are blooming in breezy dresses that are dressed down with sneakers and boots and then topped off with cropped jackets or vests. For a totally different spin on the tried-and-true denim back-to-school outfits, try something different by wearing one of the new floral dresses.

— Fun footwear. Picking out a new pair of shoes for a new school year may be one of the best parts of shopping for back-to-school essentials. This fall, slip-on sneakers make the top grade in a host of colors and styles. Think bright neon colors and shining metallics. Lace-up booties update last year's favorite cowboy boots. And utility combat boots are still marching around campus for guys and girls who are really serious about making those A-plus style grades.

The new back-to-school uniform: flannel shirts, T-shirts and jeans. Urban Renewal recycled bleach-splattered flannel shirt at Urban Outfitters.

To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com.

Photo credit: Free-Photos at Pixabay