THE BACK TO SCHOOL EDIT

Is there anything better than back-to-school shopping? I swear I looked forward to it every year. I can still feel it when August rolls around, long after my ambitious self-tan has faded, after the scent of freshly cut grass and chlorine-soaked swimsuits has worn out its welcome, and after I’ve grown tired of my favorite shorts. That moment when the lazy days give way and the sting of summer’s end is replaced with the thrill of a fresh start. A new year, a clean slate, and the perfect excuse to find those just-right pieces that make the first day feel like the best day.

This year’s trends are equal parts style and self-care: Instagram-worthy water bottles, TikTok-famous bag charms, and wearable staples that quietly nod to streetwear. Here’s what’s in for 2025 and how to make it yours.

First-Day Flex

Fresh sneakers, the perfect backpack, confidence on cue. Everyone remembers the one piece that made us feel invincible on day one. These are the modern-day upgrades built to last the year, make the right first impression, and earn a proud spot in a What’s in My Backpack TikTok.

REI | The North Face | Jester Backpack in Leather Brown

New Balance | 9060

REI | Osprey Nebula 32

Plan Like a Pro

2025 might be the year of digital everything, but even the “study aesthetic” crowd on Pinterest and TikTok is still stocking up on paper planners. There’s something about cracking open fresh pages, lining up a favorite glitter gel pen, and color-coding the week ahead that makes us all swoon. Even the sleekest iPad can’t top that.

Paper Source | 2026 Butterfly

Cold and Collected

Stanley cups have officially crossed from millennial kitchen counters into middle and high school hallways. They’re part hydration tool, part status symbol—a way to say “I’m on top of my game” without saying a word. And Hydro Flask still holds its own thanks to that perfect balance of “now” aesthetics and durability.

REI | Stanley | IceFlow AeroLight

REI | Hydro Flask | Wide-Mouth Vacuum Water Bottle

Tiny Trendsetters

Bag charms are having a serious moment. TikTok-famous plushies like Labubu and foodie-inspired Jellycats are topping wish lists, turning a basic backpack into something personal. The right hair accessory can pull the same trick, with claw clips that feel current, playful, and add just the right amount of oomph to an outfit. All are affordable enough to collect and almost guaranteed to get a “where’d you get that?” in the hallway.

Paper Source | Jellycat | Amuseables Baguette Bag Charm

Paper Source | Jellycat | Jack Plush Bag Charm – In Store Exclusive

South Moon Under | Claw Clip in Multi

Find Your YOU-niform

If 2024 was the year of micro-trends, 2025 is about the personal uniform—pieces you can wear on repeat without them ever feeling tired. Think quiet luxury meets “I got dressed in five minutes and still look pulled together.” These mix-and-match staples earn their place in the rotation and work as well for Friday night football as they do for first period roll call.