By Bailey Hovland

The days are getting shorter, the weather is beginning to cool down, and the school year is fast approaching. Goodbye warm summer nights, and hello to hometown football games, pumpkin-spice lattes, and cute, cozy sweaters. Although the nights spent listening to the calm buzz of cicadas will be missed, the crisp fall air beckons with excitement. And with fall comes back-to-school shopping, an adventure for parents and kids alike.

The Happy Sol has variety, showcasing floral prints, flannels, and comfy long sleeves side by side.

Maybe you’re a local teacher in need of a few new dresses for open houses and parent-teacher conferences. Or maybe you’re a college student who’s looking for a few pairs of classic skinny jeans and a new pair of earrings that’ll match just about anything. No matter your age or your shopping needs, the Willmar Lakes Area has something for you.

The Happy Sol, stationed in the middle of Main Street in downtown New London, is a fabulous place to get started on your back-to-school shopping list. Their fall features are already in store, showcasing items like bomber jackets and embroidered sweaters. The Happy Sol also offers a men’s clothing line featuring both fashion and active wear. The Happy Sol puts their primary focus on functional and high-quality clothing, as well as top-notch customer service that is a staple at small businesses in the Willmar Lakes Area.

Along with their adorable shoe selection and versatile clothing options, Ali J Boutique has great jewelry that complements any outfit!

Ali J Boutique, a trendy option just a block away from The Happy Sol, combines comfort and class into outfits perfect for autumn weather. This year, fall looks include puff vests, blanket scarves, and wedge booties. If you aren’t quite sure how to piece together a full ensemble, don’t worry! Their Facebook page posts pictures of outfit ideas using their current clothing inventory to help you create fashionable looks on your own.

Good lighting and cute clothes—is there a better place than Urban Escape to spend the day shopping for new looks? We don’t think so!

Over in Spicer just across the street from Green Lake is Urban Escape. This shop has a fresh aesthetic that can’t be matched. With abundant natural light and a modern boho décor, this boutique has a bright environment that leaves you feeling refreshed long after you leave. Whether you’re looking for a classic twist on a chunky sweater or a new jumpsuit to make a statement this fall, Urban Escape has exactly what you need (and maybe more).

As you head into Willmar, make sure you stop at Lotus on Burlington. Located in historic downtown Willmar, Lotus on Burlington is a women’s boutique specializing in quality and fashion forward clothing and accessories. Their goal is to offer functional pieces that can be worn multiple ways. They are ready for fall with a variety of unique blazers, button ups and denim. And don’t forget to accessorize! Lotus on Burlington carries handcrafted, local jewelry you’ll love!

If you only have time for one afternoon of shopping, we suggest stopping at Uptown Willmar. At this one location, you’ll definitely find that perfect outfit for that first day of school, parent/teacher meeting, or your kids’ sports banquet. Your fall wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without those cozy flannels, shackets, sweaters and boots. With many of your favorite stores including Kohl’s, Maurices, and Glik’s, you’ll find that outfit everyone will talk about!

Regardless of what you’re searching for, the Willmar Lakes Area has plenty to offer for back-to-school shopping. From New London’s Main Street to Green Lake all the way to the shops in Willmar, there is a plethora of options to help you prep your wardrobe for the coming fall. So get ready to say goodbye to those beautiful summer nights and to say hello to cool fall days with your best foot (fashionably) forward, courtesy of the wonderful boutiques in the Willmar Lakes Area.