MAKE IT CUTE

It's back-to-school time, babes! And whether you're mourning the end of summer or getting all pumped up for the new year, redoing your desk will give your room a fall refresh *and* give you some serious inspo if you're striving for a Rory Gilmore semester.

We've rounded up our fave easy ways to spruce up a desk for the new school year. to keep your room's vibes as high as your grades!

Reorganize your pens and pencils.

@homducts.pk

If you're anything like us, the things you use most often tend to get thrown all over the place... and stay there.

Stop the clutter before it starts with a pencil cup or two (like these coastal granddaughter-core wicker rattan woven ones, $15 for a set of two). Pencils, pens and scissors will stay neat and tidy, while supplies you use less often (like that floral-patterned duct tape) can go in the drawer.

Keep the surface clear.

@aasthaeticss

Lots of papers and books? Not a lot of drawer space? Instead of keeping your papers all piled up on the desk, try stashing them in a magazine holder. Keeping your desk surface free of stuff will free up your mind to focus on your work.

Add a candle or two.

@mel.amartinez

Give your desk a *literal* glow-up with a scented candle to brighten things up! Lighting a candle (or two, or three...) feels luxurious, and the warm cozy glow might just help you concentrate.

Aromatherapy is your friend: try this eucalyptus spearmint candle for stress relief ($26). (And check out these cute candle holders!)

Just make sure you blow the candles out every time you leave the room—or try battery-powered candles (like these, $8 for two) if you're skittish.

Do a weekly purge.

@journalingbri

Because staying organized = staying productive! To keep papers from piling up, go through your desk once a week. All done with that permission slip or algebra scratch paper? Throw it in the recycling to make room for next week's haul.

Tag us in your glowed-up desk pics @girlslifemag!

Looking for more school inspo? We've got you covered:
📚 5 things to do this summer to make back-to-school season less stressful
🚌 Your guide to romanticizing school (even when it feels overwhelming)
🎒 How to cope with a bad grade

Slider and top image: @potterybarnteen

by Ava Slocum | 8/8/2024