We’ve already seen the signs in the slowly changing leaves and dropping temperatures: a time dreaded for most students is here once again. Target and Forever21, among other retailers, have begun to announce their back-to-school specials. And so it begins. Going back to school can certainly be a drag, but shopping for it doesn’t have to be! With our tips, you’ll get the most out of your experience and your allowance!
WHAT YOU NEED
Of course you’re going to need notebooks, pencils, and maybe a good old trapper-keeper, but there are likely some other, less general items you’re going to need. Check the list you’ve inevitably received by now, and use it to figure out what do first. (If you haven’t gotten a list, make one!) And check your own stock—you might have some supplies left over from last year.
HOW TO GET IT
The first thing you can do is check your local newspaper for store flyers. See which stores are offering back-to-school specials, and compare prices! Target, Kmart, and even Amazon are always good places to find a deal.
If you’re going to college, finding books is probably one of your top priorities. Your school might offer discounted used books as well as new ones, but it’s a good idea to shop around online as well. Check College Book Renter, Campus Books, and College Swap Shop.
THE FUN ESSENTIALS
We haven’t forgotten about the items that are the most enjoyable to shop for—backpacks, jackets, a good pair of shoes….the pieces you can customize to fit your style! Look to some Chictopian Style Icons for inspiration when buying these things, and keep in mind: these are items that will last you all year, so if you’re going to splurge on anything…make it one of the following.
You Need: A BAG
The Inspiration: Kani of kisforkani
Whether you pick a backpack or a messenger bag, we know you need something large and sturdy to hold all your books, binders, pencils, and maybe even your lunch. Kani, a university student, always has the chicest schoolbags. Shop the look at stores like Romwe, Dillards, and Urban Outfitters.
Retro Doctor Bag
Fossil Vintage Backpack
Kimchi + Blue Printed Backpack
You Need: GREAT SHOES
The Inspiration: Lissa of lissakahayon
Lissa might not be in school anymore, but from her posts here on Chictopia, we’ve gathered that she’s a working girl who is always on the go. And in cute shoes, usually heels at that! She is the queen of the wedge, which we think is the best school heel—they’re comfortable and easy to walk in. (If you prefer flats, we’ve got recommendations for those too.) Shop the look at Solestruck, Anthropologie, and Piperlime.
Jeffrey Campbell Tick
Triangle View Wedges
Chryslis Tie Wedge
(For the flats lovers)
Steve Madden KARABANA
Aldo CWIK Oxford
Repetto Suede Ballet Flats
You Need: A JACKET
The Inspiration: Iris and Daniel of irisanddaniel
As the fall breeze starts to ruffle your maxi skirt, you may realize that you need to invest in a light jacket. Have no fear—we’ve got some great options, inspired by Chictopia’s too-cool-for-school duo, Iris and Daniel. Even though they reside in sunny California, they still have awesome taste in outerwear! (Have you seen their article on How to Wear Your Boyfriend’s Jacket?) Shop the look at Revolve, Urban Outfitters, Topshop, and Forever21.
Free People Anorak
Silence & Noise Blazer
Western Style Denim Jacket
Boyfriend Letterman Jacket
Other Fashionable Supplies
A Scarf
Like we said, it gets cool in the fall. Grab a great scarf and keep it in your new backpack! You can wrap it around your neck, or like a turban around your head if you don’t have time to brush your hair in the morning. flattery wore a cute pink scarf with an oversized cardigan. We’ve heard great things about American Apparel scarves, if you’re in the market for one.
Laptop Sleeve
You have to have something to protect your Chictopia posts! And, er…your homework. meggstatus has a cool thrifted laptop case.
Patterned laptop sleeves are available at Cool Computer Bags.
Umbrella
If Autumn is your area’s rainy season, it’s always good to be prepared with an umbrella. lordofthecakes has a cool monochromatic striped one!
From clear bubble styles to rainbow colors, Target has all the umbrellas you could ask for.
FINAL CHECKLIST
Just to reiterate: Be a savvy shopper. Don’t be embarrassed of being “cheap,” because at the end of the school year, you’ll just burn those old notebooks, your pencils will be stubs, and your folders will fall apart. Do invest in key fashion basics like backpacks, jackets, and shoes in classic styles that will last year after year. Stay in school and don’t stress (too much)! Here’s wishing you the best of luck, whether you’re a freshman in high school or a senior in college.
What are your tips for back-to-school shopping? Leave a comment or send us a tweet @everybodyisugly.
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by Heather (headbandit)
image via Heritage81 Fall 2010
