TREND TRACKER: Patching up

Plaid and patchwork in particular, will be gracing the closets of kids across America.

Mass players including Target, JCPenney and Kmart have ensured that their merchandise selection is filled with picnic-friendly dresses, shorts and tanks that sport the classic patterns. Styles like the Cherokee dress (pictured) sold at Target work well alone or paired with basic tees for a more casual look. Since the fabric is multi-colored, pairing the patchwork styles with items already in kids’ closets is a cinch.