From clothes to accessories, find out what the essential style items are as you head back to school. Go back looking, and feeling good.
Back to school essentials
The following are clothes, accessories, and grooming items that you need to have as you go back to school.
1. Polo
When you want to dress up a little but not too much, wear a polo. A polo shirt is more formal than wearing a t-shirt while still just as comfortable.
If you want to dress more formally, wear it tucked in. If you want to wear the polo casually, leave it untucked.
Be aware of its design because there are polo shirts that are longer on the back than the front. It’s designed to be tucked in.
When you’re buying a polo, avoid big logos, and stick with polo’s without a logo or a small logo. Big logos are very distracting and don’t look good.
Buy Amazon Essentials Polo Shirt from Amazon (opens in a new tab).
2. Dark jeans
One of the top back to school essentials are a fresh pair of dark jeans. A good pair of dark denim is versatile and can last you a few years.
After you purchase a pair of dark jeans, get them tailored to fit you perfectly. Not only is tailoring jeans affordable, but it’ll also immediately make your jeans look better.
Buy AG Tellis Slim Fit Jeans from Nordstrom (opens in a new tab).
3. Watch
A nice watch that matches your outfit will make you look significantly better.
Watches are great accessories that do much more than tell time. In fact, they portray who you are because there are specific things about a watch that made you purchase it.
A good-looking watch is also a great conversation starter. This is beneficial because it can lead to meeting new people and leaving great first impressions.
Buy T-Classic Gentleman Bracelet Watch from Nordstrom (opens in a new tab).
4. Chelsea boots
Chelsea boots are versatile, timeless, and stylish. They’ll immediately make you look better and take your footwear to the next level.
The clean and sleek design complements many different outfits. By their nature, Chelsea boots are warm which is helpful during autumn and winter.
If you’re looking to purchase your first pair of Chelsea boots, go for a brown or black leather pair. These two colors are the most versatile. Therefore, it would be a great first choice.
Buy Black Chelsea Boots from To Boot New York (opens in a new tab).
5. Card case
A card case is perfect if you don’t carry many cards, especially if you utilize mobile payment methods. If you’re using a card case instead of a wallet, you can still fit a few cards and a few bills.
This is an immediate solution to the bulky wallet problem and can make you feel lighter since you’re carrying less.
Buy Amazon Essentials Card Case from Amazon (opens in a new tab).
6. Backpack
It’s important to choose a high-quality and durable backpack because you’ll carry it with you all day long.
When looking for a backpack, it’s crucial to find one that protects your back and shoulders. You don’t want an injury to come from a backpack, imagine trying to explain that one.
Buy Osprey Farpoint 40 from Amazon (opens in a new tab).
7. Athletic shoes
Athletic shoes are great for daily wear and physical activity. The exception to this is running because you’ll need shoes specifically made for running to protect your feet and knees from an injury.
Simplicity is key when it comes to athletic shoes. Neutral colors like black, white, or grey are the most versatile which means they can be worn most often.
Buy Adidas Originals NMD_R1 Sneaker from Nordstrom (opens in a new tab).
8. Chinos
Chinos are great to have because you can wear them in semi-formal settings and in casual settings.
Having chinos and jeans in your wardrobe will allow you to alternate between the two. Chinos also allow you to dress up without being overdressed.
9. Button-up
It’s important to have a button-up because it gives you a more formal look. A button-up can be dressed up and down, which makes it versatile.
It can be worn to school, parties, and anytime you want to turn your outfits up a notch. Its versatility makes it a must-have.
Buy Eton Print Dress Shirt from Nordstrom (opens in a new tab).
10. Cologne
First impressions matter, your scent is something people will notice immediately. In school, you’ll meet hundreds and possibly thousands of people, having a good first impression is important.
During this season of your life, you’ll also figure out how scent. Don’t be afraid to try out different colognes. As far as application, make sure you aren’t overdoing it. You just need a subtle scent. It doesn’t need to overpower the room.
Buy Tom Ford Noir de Noir Eau de Parfum from Nordstrom (opens in a new tab).
11. Headphones or earphones
Regardless of whether you prefer earphones or headphones, they’re great back to school essentials. You can listen to music, watch a video, listen to an eBook or podcast.
A high-quality pair of earphones or headphones is important because it can help you focus, isolate the world around you, and better sound quality.
Buy AirPods from Apple (opens in a new tab).
12. Notebook
Although many things are digital in today’s world, there’s still a place for physical writing. When you write things on paper, it can be easier to process your thinking and improve your focus.
A physical notebook is also great for times where you want to take a break from technology. You can take notes, write down your goals, tasks for the day, and any ideas that you have.
Buy Moleskine Classic Notebook from Amazon (opens in a new tab).
13. Diffuser
Aside from looking cool, a diffuser can help in many ways. It can make your room or apartment smell better and certain essential oils can benefit your health.
Buy Vitruvi Stone Diffuser from Vitruvi (opens in a new tab).
14. Tumbler
A tumbler is one of the best items when it comes to back to school essentials because of its durability. You can reuse a tumbler many times and with good care, they can last years.
This is also essential because you’ll eliminate waste. You can use a tumbler for hot or cold drinks which also makes it the perfect water bottle.
Buy Yeti 20-ounce Rambler from Yeti (opens in a new tab).
15. Speaker
A Bluetooth speaker is a great item to have at your home. With great sound quality and Bluetooth, you can play your music, ebook, or podcast anywhere in your home.
One of the biggest reasons Bluetooth speakers are a must-have is because it’s portable. You can bring it anywhere and play music as long as you connect your phone.
Buy Sonos Move from Sonos (opens in a new tab).
Conclusion
For a successful school year, make sure you have these back to school essentials. They’ll help you look good, feel better, and be more productive.
Featured photo by David Em/Next Level Gents.