Back to School
Aug 31, 2021

The Back-to-School Shopping List: 26 Things for Your Most Stylish Semester Yet

by Yusra Siddiqui

I may have graduated from college in 2020, but getting ready for going back to school is still fresh on my mind. It might be the fact that I lost half of my senior year to online schooling or that there's just an immense amount of nostalgic joy in picking out a new pair of shoes for class. I think I'll leave it to the latter. My college experience wasn't your "average" one. I went to fashion school in NYC but commuted, so I really had to balance style and comfort. This meant doing things like pairing dresses with sneakers, opting for leggings 99% of the time, and curating a solid selection of basics.

While I may not be thinking about textbooks, I can't help but peruse the new-arrivals sections for stylish basics, versatile shoes, and carryall bags that could put Mary Poppins to shame. Below, take a look at my fashion editor–approved back-to-school shopping list. From knit tanks to on-trend cowboy boots, there are a whole lot of wardrobe essentials in this roundup. Despite what your campus looks like this fall, you're going to want to take a look at the list of items I put together. Consider it your guide to your most stylish semester yet.

Nike Daybreak Sneaker

Daybreak Sneaker

These are both chic and comfortable.

H&M Cable-Knit Sweater Vest

Cable-Knit Sweater Vest

The styling options for this vest are endless.

Ariat Heritage Leather Cowboy R-Toe Boot

Heritage Leather Cowboy R-Toe Boot

Game-changing boots. Trust me and the reviews.

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

Large Le Pliage Tote

This fit everything I could possibly need in college, and I still carry mine around for work.

H&M Mom Loose Fit Pants

Mom Loose Fit Pants

These will be a fall wardrobe staple.

Misho Convertible Pro Pods

Convertible Pro Pods

Why not have your AirPods be an accessory?

H&M Shirt Jacket

Shacket season is here.

Vagabond Kenova Loafer

Chunky loafers aren't going anywhere. Even if they were, I'd still be wearing mine.

Zara Sleeveless Knit Top

Sleeveless Knit Top

A simple knit set you'll gravitate toward often.

Levi's Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans

Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans

These jeans are an editor favorite.

Baggu Duck Bag

Baggu deserves the hype it gets.

Beeager 8 Color Large Matte Hair Claw Clips

8 Color Large Matte Hair Claw Clips

You can never have too many hair clips, especially in fun colors.

Zara Straight Cut Faux Leather Blazer

Straight Cut Faux Leather Blazer

I bought this in college and wore it over almost anything. T-shirt and leggings? Check. Midi dress? Check. It was the perfect "cool" outerwear piece.

Collusion High Waist Legging Shorts

High Waist Legging Shorts

Prioritize comfort on campus, always.

Everlane The Modern Jean Jacket

The Modern Jean Jacket

A classic loose-fit denim jacket is needed.

Zella High Waist Studio Lite Pocket 7/8 Leggings

High Waist Studio Lite Pocket 7/8 Leggings

You're always going to need a trusted pair of leggings.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Start Lift Sneakers

Chuck Taylor All Start Lift Sneakers

These aren't your average Converse. They're much cooler.

Wildflower Bloom iPhone Case

Bloom iPhone Case

Your phone could use a stylish upgrade, too.

Project Social T Skateboard Skeletons Sweatshirt

Project Social T

Skateboard Skeletons Sweatshirt

I loved getting cute graphic sweatshirts for early morning classes. (I don't miss you, 8 a.m. courses.)

New Balance 574 Classic Sneakers

574 Classic Sneakers

How fun are these? They'll make any basic outfit look good.

Zara Cropped Knit Top

Cropped Knit Top

Get this in multiple colors. You won't regret it.

Jeffrey Campbell Maximal Bootie

Jeffrey Campbell

The square toe is so refined.

Emory Park High Waist Pants

High Waist Pants

When you want to switch it up from leggings or jeans.