TAHLEQUAH — The onset of August means most students in the area will be returning to school within the next two weeks.

With that deadline approaching, more than a few parents are putting up with moans and groans from their tweens and teens.

Arguably one of the best ways to nip that groaning  in the bud is the promise of a new wardrobe. After all, most youth believe their appearance is key to success in the dog-eat-dog world of middle school and high school.

According to tweenteenfashion.com, this year’s “must-have” piece is jeggings – leggings that are made to look like jeans.

“They are extremely versatile, and can be word with long tanks, tees, asymmetrical vests and much more,” wrote Nia Stanley for tweenteenfashion.com. “Juicy Couture has a very popular pair.”

Other popular items for girls include striped tees, flowing layering pieces, billowing dressed, plaid button-down tops, denim mini skirts, embellished flat shoes and funky accessories.

Alice Maples, supervisor at Tahlequah’s Stage department store, said they’ve been extremely busy in the past week.

“We’ve just been swamped,” said Maples. “The Cherokee Nation provided back-to-school vouchers for youth, and they’ve really been putting them to good use. It’s good to stay busy, especially in these times.”

Maples said girls in this area are opting for screen-printed T-shirts with embellishments; filmy, layered blouses, light weight printed jackets and distressed jeans.

“These embellished T-shirts with matching sequined neck scarves have been popular, too,” said Maples. “We also have a great deal on many of the jeans. It’s buy one, get one free. The skinny jeans, along with the distressed jeans always sell really well.”

Maples said young men and boys have been selecting khaki and plaid shorts, and are pairing them with polo shirts and screen-printed tees.

“They really, really like the plaid shorts,” said Maples. “And some of the popular brands of shirts are U.S. Polo, South Pole, and Echo. They’ve really been selling well.”

Stage sales associate Jericka Gilbert pointed out the latest color trends.

“Purple is really, really big this year,” said Gilbert. “We have lots of layering options, and plaid and the military look seem to be selling well.”

Maurices is another good option for teen and tween girls in the area, and offers residents a big selection without a big price tag.

One of the most popular styles is the thin, tie-dye print blouse, and Maurices has its own house brand specializing in this area. Whether you’re a size 1 or 16, Maurices has a wide variety of options for back to school.

Tweens may be the most difficult to please when it comes to finding just the right “look” for back to school. Often, this age group relies heavily on pop culture, TV and movies for their fashion advice.

Emily Woodard, 12, is a die-hard Twilight fan, and is building her fall wardrobe around the “Team Edward” accessories she’s collected.

Hot Topic specialty store is her favorite place to shop.

“I got my Ed Hardy shoes there last school year, and they have lots of stuff you can’t find anywhere else,” said Woodard.

Indeed, a quick glance at Hot Topic’s website reveals clothing and accessories from teen faves such as “Alice in Wonderland,” Hello Kitty, Invader Zim, “The Last Airbender,” and, of course, “Twilight: Eclipse.”

School wouldn’t be school without rules, and Tahlequah Middle School has its own dress code. According to the student handbook, skirts, dresses and shorts must not be  more than 2-1/2 inches above the knee.

Any shirt, blouse or sweater must meet the following conditions: anything filmy or opaque must be worn with an accompanying garment, such as a camisole or T-shirt. Shirts and blouses must be properly buttoned and cannot expose the midriff. Any article of clothing which exposes the back while standing or sitting is not permitted. Sleeve openings must not expose the torso, cleavage or undergarment. Tank tops and spaghetti straps are not permitted.

Pants must be worn at the waist. Sagging and oversized clothing is not permitted. Form-fitting, stretch material may not be worn as the primary outer garment. Tights and leggings may be worn only under garments which meet the dress code. Pants may not have holes or tears above 2-1/2 inches above the knee. Pajama pants are not permitted.

As far as accessories are concerned, students may want to think twice before donning a hat. Hats are not allowed on campus. Hoodies and stocking caps may not be worn in the building.