As the lazy days of summer gradually give way to crisp autumn mornings, you can almost hear the collective sound of alarm clocks being set earlier, accompanied by the anticipation of reconnecting with old friends and forging new relationships. Above all, this is your year––an opportunity to reinvent, revitalize, and flaunt those fresh ensembles with the flair of a modern-day Rory Gilmore. Explore our back-to-school shopping guide for outfit inspiration, essential supplies, and must-have dorm items before your next trip to the mall!

Trendy Outfit Ideas for School

School outfit ideas for teenagers are going to be heavily inspired by TikTok trends. One of the most prominent trends on the platform is "dark academia," a style that revolves around higher education, classic literature, vintage architecture, and studying in darkened libraries and coffee shops. With a palette primarily composed of autumnal hues such as browns, blacks, greys, mustards, and maroons, this aesthetic seamlessly aligns with the back-to-school season. This trend can also be perceived as a gothic take on traditional ivy league and preppy school fashion. Think: Cher Horowitz from Clueless meets Harry Potter. The trend places great emphasis on layering and favours fabrics like wool, plaid, corduroy, and tweed. Key clothing items associated with this trend include blazers, long coats, vests, sweater vests, button-up shirts, ornate blouses, turtlenecks, tailored pants, pleated skirts, pinafore dresses, sheer tights, loafers, and oxfords. For added flair, carrying a briefcase or a book completes the look with finesse. The trend’s counterpart, “light academia,” is a softer, more romanticized version of the trend, perfect for students who prefer wearing lighter tones. Another noteworthy TikTok fashion trend that is popular in the context of back-to-school is “grunge,” a style of dressing popularized by rock band influences. This aesthetic embraces the combination of oversized graphic tees paired with distressed cargo pants or jeans, along with an abundance of layered chunky jewellery, and combat boots.

Essential Supplies

Below, you'll find specific items that hold particular significance for both secondary and post-secondary students. Be sure to consult your program's requirements and supplement the list accordingly.

• Post-it notes are useful for jotting down quick, colour-coded notes or reminders—whether they're affixed to textbooks or on your locker.

• Flashcards are excellent aids for exam preparation, active recall, and presentations.

• Planners are especially beneficial for structuring your semester's workload, extra-curriculars, and adhering to deadlines.

• A scientific calculator is needed for advanced math equations.

• A compact stapler is a handy tool for fastening essays, assignments, and handouts.

• Fine-tip pens are perfect for precise and intricate handwritten notes.

Useful Accessories

• A combination lock for high school students is crucial to secure your belongings.

• A laptop is necessary to accommodate all your assignments and projects. Opt for one with ample storage capacity, as you’ll likely be downloading various files and software.

• An adjustable laptop stand will enable you to switch positions while studying, whether you’re in class, your room, the library, or any other location.

• Blue light glasses are worth investing in to safeguard your eyes during class lectures and from screen-intensive assignments. They help prevent eye strain caused by negative light exposure, ultimately boosting productivity.

• A tech backpack is indispensable for organizing and storing your electronics, including your laptop, adapters, headphones, and more, without encroaching on the bag's overall space. For a more stylish option, consider a tote bag with dedicated compartments for your laptop.

• A tumbler ensures your beverages stay hot or cold throughout the day, making it ideal for on-the-go classes.

• Noise-cancelling headphones are useful for concentrated study sessions.

• A digital pen allows you to digitize handwritten notes and even record audio from your lectures.

Dorm/Study Space Essentials

• Desk organisers are a practical way to keep stationery, like pens, highlighters, and staples, orderly.

• A balanced-arm lamp provides ample light and flexibility for late-night study sessions.

• An ergonomic desk chair is crucial during extended study periods.

• A dry-erase wall calendar or whiteboard is handy for noting assignments and class-related reminders.

• A compact wireless printer is great for on-demand printing.