STYLE

Backpack Beauty
First thing first, you need something to carry all your new textbooks! Be it a classic backpack, messenger bag or tote, this school basic is essential for everyone.

Quirky patterns can give your standard book bag some extraordinary character. Channel your inner Pretty Little Liar with argyle prints.

Rock the halls with a roomy and fab tote bag. Vibrant patterns — coupled with a sturdy design — will make your bag stand out from the crowd.

Lunch Lady
You’ve got your books packed, now what about lunch? Instead of brown bagging it daily, this year go eco-chic. Washable containers keep your lunch fresh and save your ‘rents money. The bigger plus? They’re cooler for the Earth — literally.

When buying a container, go for one that has separate compartments or mini containers for snacks so you can keep food separated. A built-in cooler keeps all your food chilled from the bus ride to school to your afternoon lunch.

Book Babe
From notebooks and composition books to textbook sleeves, we’ve got the list that’ll keep your reading and writing covered.

Tired of paper textbook covers that rip and tear halfway through the year? Fabric textbook sleeves keep your books protected year-round. Opt for eco-friendly covers that are washable and can be reused next school year too!

Popular brands like Mead offer recycled notebooks. Opt for eco-friendly notebooks that keep a good cycle going by looking for the recycled shield.

Just because it’s made from recycled materials doesn’t mean your binder has to be boring! Look for binders with modern, strokes of color for museum chic!

Oh So Organized
Stay together with cute pencil pouches and folders to keep track of the assignments in your life.

Make one person’s trash your treasure chest, literally! Recycled pencil poaches made from food wrappers are not only cool but a sweet way to prevent recyclable materials from spending the rest of their lives in a landfill.

Now that you’ve got the basics, pack them up, stick them in your backpack and you’re set to dazzle on your first day at school. Don’t forget to double-check your school’s checklist, too.

by Alyssa Bailey | 2/1/2016