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The Ultimate Back to School Shopping List

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Back to school shopping list
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Tomorrow is the first day of August and that means back-to-school is fast approaching. While some of you may be starting school in a week or so, most east coast schools won’t start for another month. That means right now is the perfect time to do back to school shopping, and I’m here to help make it easier!

Over the next week or so, I’ll be breaking down everything you’ll need for back to school, from clothes and accessories to school supplies and more. Start this year off in style by shopping the CF back to school shopping list.

Everything on the list below will get its own article over the next week – this is just a sneak peak of what’s to come!

The Ultimate Back to School Shopping List:

* Denim, denim, denim. – Jeans in different styles & washes, trendy cuts as well as classics. Dressy & casual denim. So many options. Check back tomorrow for a BIG fall denim article! There’s something in there to fit every style.

* Plenty of cute tops. – Casual tops for daytime, the hottest sweaters for fall 2009, basic tank picks, and more will all be featured in an article to come this weekend.

* Dresses – From trendy dresses perfect for nights out to casual dresses for during the day, dresses are a fall must-have. This weekend I’ll be showing you guys some dresses you’ll love that won’t break your budget.

* Skirts – Dressy and casual skirts are such a fall essential. From pencil to mini, which will be your best bet for fall?

* Outerwear – Jackets are HUGE for fall and on Monday we’ll talk about the hottest jackets for fall ’09 as well as how to wear them.

* Shoes!! – There are so many shoe trends going on for fall, but which are really wearable? I’ll show you a mix of cute and comfortable for walking to class, going out at night, and everything in between.

* Dormwear/pajamas – When you’re in college, sleeping in a big tee shirt isn’t gonna cut it when there’s a fire alarm at 3AM and a cute boy down the hall. Look great while you lounge with some of my cute dormwear picks for fall ’09.

* Underwear – Self-explanatory, usually. Except which types of underwear should you wear with different outfits? It’s easier than you think to find the perfect underwear for everything you’ll be wearing this fall.

* Accessories – A cute bag to hold your books, a wristlet/small bag for a night out, cute jewelry, etc…. there are so many types of accessories to consider getting when you’re shopping for back to school. I’ll help you make sense of all the different trends going on and figure out what’s your best bet.

* Beauty and hair products – I’ll cover the hottest fall 2009 beauty trends and the newest & most fab beauty products you’ll want to stock up on for back-to-school next week.

* Dorm decorations – Whether you’re going to college for the first time or returning for a second, third, or final year, cute decorations for your dorm or apartment are always fun and worth picking up during your back to school shopping.

* Notebooks, planners, and other school supplies – I don’t know about you, but I LOVE buying new notebooks, pens, and planners. There’s just something exciting about that blank notebook. I’m sure some of you know what I mean. Next week I’ll be featuring some cute planners, organizers, and notebooks to make that first day of class a little less painful.

* Electronics & accessories – From the best laptops to the cutest computer bags and iPod covers, see this year’s most stylish electronics and find out how to dress up your existing gadgets for fall.

So there you have it – a list of all the back to school articles that will be posted here over the next week! Hope you’re as excited as I am. Check back tomorrow for the first installment.

Be sure to leave a comment if there’s anything else you want to see covered during CF’s back to school shopping week! I’ll be happy to answer questions, help you find specific items, etc. Let me know what you think!

Posted on on July 30, 2009 / Filed Under: College Life / Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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69 Responses to “The Ultimate Back to School Shopping List”

  1. 1
    July 30th, 2009 at 7:21 pm

    I always think its nice to see all the back to school items come together for an actual look. Would you mind throwing together some the the must have back to school pieces into outfits? I know how it is to want to look good the first day, especially when you’re going to a brand new school. You want to look cute and pulled together but not like you’re over-doing it. I’d really appreciate it!

  2. 2
    July 30th, 2009 at 7:42 pm

    I think the shopping list is going to be awesome! Do you think you could include some hair colors and styles/cuts that will be hot this fall? Thanks!

  3. 3
    July 30th, 2009 at 7:53 pm

    I don’t know any college students who have the money to buy all of this for back to school :(

  4. 4
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:04 pm

    Nor do I Chelsea, but isnt the whole idea of the ultimate shopping list too fabulous! I cant wait Zephyr!
    And yeah could you write about sales on the electronics especially, DSLRs and Laptops?

  5. 5
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:14 pm

    well any student could have enough money for one thing from each list. (:

    I’m really looking forward to this, although I was thinking there would be something like…what to buy on summer sales article (:

    xoxo

  6. 6
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:17 pm

    i was hoping you can make an article on plaid shirts since they’re so popular right now. can you also some stores that sell them at a cheaper price? Its almost 50 bucks if you buy them at hollister or abercrombie. i know that 21 forever sells some cheaper kinds but can you give more suggestions, and how to style them and wear them with?? thankya

  7. 7
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:21 pm

    I don’t think I’ve ever commented on your website before, but it’s probably my absolute favourite fashion website ever. Your timing is SO PERFECT – every time I check your site, there’s a new article about something I’ve been thinking about. Can’t wait for these lists – I absolutely LOVE back-to-school shopping!

  8. 8
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:21 pm

    cute tees are definitely a must. the cartoons kind, the v neck or anything. can you give some advices and where to buy them cheaper? and some suggestion how to wear them? thanks!

  9. 9
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:24 pm

    I’m so excited to go back to college in a bit less than three weeks. So naturally, I’m excited for these posts :)

  10. 10
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:26 pm

    This list came at a perfect time! I was just thinking about back to school shopping, I’m so excited to read this!

  11. 11
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:26 pm

    oh I can’t wait even though I’m done with school lol. Can you do something about business wear what suits to wear for different body type and how to wear them thanks

  12. 12
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:46 pm

    I move out in 4 weeks and I have so much to buy–unfortunately not a lot of money though. I would appreciate it if you could post some cheaper alternatives for each category :)

  13. 13
    July 30th, 2009 at 8:58 pm

    The fresh smell of a brand new composition notebook…beautiful lol

    Also, I was also wondering if you could possibly write an article about shopping on a budget (ex. $400). When you’re on a budget what things should you focus on? I personally have a problem with not being focused when I shop, so I waste money on unnecessary things thus I end up not liking nor wearing my clothes.

  14. 14
    July 30th, 2009 at 9:06 pm

    graduation may have ended my school shopping days, but new fall looks is still a great excuse to shop ;)

    but i do miss that new notebook feeling!

  15. 15
    July 30th, 2009 at 9:19 pm

    I take all my college classes online because I hate sitting in class. Sometimes I wish I attended classes just so I could wear nice outfits to school! Haha! But I’m still very excited for all your upcoming posts about back to school shopping. I know I’ll be doing a ton of shopping for fall!

  16. 16
    July 30th, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    Yay! I don’t pay a lot of attention to trendsm but it’s nice to get an idea of what I might want to look for. When Care Bears and Happy Bunny t-shirts become a trend, I’ll be the first one on it since I have plenty of them!

  17. 17
    July 30th, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    I can’t wait for your list on notebooks, pens and planners. I love buying those things. Also I want to see the post about shoes and about tops. So essential for college, even when you still live at home n_n.

    I agree with Alex, I would love to see a shopping on a budget post. Maybe a series with several examples on how to shop with a budget when you want to focus on different things. That would be pretty awesome.

  18. 18
    July 30th, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    I’ve never put a comment on here but I just had to thank you in advance for these articles! I’m so excited!!!

  19. 19
    July 30th, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    I look foward to all of these upcoming articles, esp the shoes and notebooks/planners, a guilt pleasure of mine as well.

  20. 20
    July 30th, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    woo hoo! I’d really like to see your thoughts on itmes that aren’t mentioned in all the magazines. Things you’ve noticed that are big right now, but aren’t exactly “trends.”

  21. 21
    July 30th, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    I love back to school shopping! I was just looking at jeans tonight but was all confused on which ones to buy lol. I can’t wait for these articles they sound great!!

  22. 22
    July 30th, 2009 at 10:37 pm

    Yay I can’t wait until next week, then!

  23. 23
    July 30th, 2009 at 10:42 pm

    Love your blog! Can’t wait to read all the back to school stuff. I expecially can’t wait for the one on dorm wear, sweaters and accesories because that’s i still need to buy. I agree with one of the people above me that i’d like to read an article on outfits to wear w/ plaid.

  24. 24
    July 30th, 2009 at 10:44 pm

    Yep! It’s that time. I love shopping for everything to go back to school. I look forward to reading your articles!

  25. 25
    July 30th, 2009 at 11:15 pm

    I am so excited for these articles! :)

  26. 26
    July 30th, 2009 at 11:37 pm

    I won’t be going back-to-school shopping for the first time this year (which feels very strange) but I’m really looking forward to shopping for the fall. And yes there is something really exciting about a blank notebook, I absolutely agree!

  27. 27
    July 30th, 2009 at 11:56 pm

    I look forward to reading these articles! Just what I’ve been looking for!

  28. 28
    July 31st, 2009 at 12:13 am

    Tomorrow isn’t the first day of august!
    Tomorrow is the last day of July.

    Haha. sorry… i’m just not ready for school yet. I’m trying to stretch out my summer as much as possible.

  29. 29
    July 31st, 2009 at 12:14 am

    wohooooooo! Another GREAT post!

  30. 30
    July 31st, 2009 at 12:25 am

    Excited!!! although i am already back in college (We call it uni in Australia), but this will definitely be handy for next semester next year! Cant wait!!

    Maybe another suggestion: how about cute gear for the campus gym? Also, you could talk about the types of bag trends this fall (this could be similar to the accessories!). Please talk about the importance of NOT wearing stilettos on cam pus and that they should only be used for going out etc…

  31. 31
    July 31st, 2009 at 12:56 am

    what i fine extra helpful is buying a bunch of pieces that can easily transform into night/club wear as well and can be used for 5 different outfits… maybe you could do something with that? but i know what you mean about the blank notebook!!

  32. 32
    July 31st, 2009 at 1:25 am

    I love your site. I’m so excited about your articles!

  33. 33
    July 31st, 2009 at 1:40 am

    Wow! I’m so excited for everything here! Just hoping for major consideration towards bargains [ pleaseee!!] =)
    Cute tops > tees/t-shirts. Lol I have too many t-shirts as it is.
    As far as plaid goes, I was facebooking and came across a friends picture with this girl in it and adored her outfit! Do you think you could find something along these lines, including the belt? : http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a301/starsbrite222/asdf.jpg
    Thanks! : )

  34. 34
    July 31st, 2009 at 2:06 am

    I’m looking forward to several of these features, but especially the denim one. I have several pairs of boot cut jeans but have been looking for an affordable pair of straight cut jeans. Hope you have some featured!

  35. 35
    July 31st, 2009 at 3:34 am

    Hey! Could you write something about ‘what to wear on you first school day’ (for freshers)? thanks a lot, I love your blog!!

  36. 36
    July 31st, 2009 at 5:47 am

    I’m excited! I already finished my school shopping (ahem, overspender and impulsive buyer) but I’m looking forward to seeing how well I did on what I bought.
    I also already bought my school supplies. My favorite part of school shopping is shopping for a new planner:) I love it.

    Anyway, I’m so stoked for these articles. Can’t wait<3

  37. 37
    July 31st, 2009 at 7:31 am

    Thanks for posting this blog series! This is extremely helpful especially since I’m an incoming freshman and I’m clueless as to what to buy for college. Looking forward to it!

  38. 38
    July 31st, 2009 at 7:42 am

    I get back to school in 3 short weeks, I’m so exciteddddd!!!!!!!!! Yay, can’t wait to start on my back-to-school shopping :-)

  39. 39
    July 31st, 2009 at 9:38 am

    That’s really great! I really can’t wait to read the posts :)

  40. 40
    July 31st, 2009 at 9:46 am

    WOW I am so excited!! You have impeccable timing, Zephyr. Please do add something about fashion for campus gyms, affordable options in each category, and budgeting tips for different money ranges.
    I love buying new notebooks and school supplies too. Just the thought of possibilities is exciting! =)

  41. 41
    July 31st, 2009 at 9:47 am

    WOW I’m excited! You have impeccable timing, Zephyr. Please do add something about fashion on college gyms, affordable options, and budgeting tips for different money ranges.
    I also love buying new notebooks and school supplies. The thought of possibilities! =)

  42. 42
    July 31st, 2009 at 9:59 am

    I LOVE this article. Buying school supplies is one of my fav parts of returning to school. My boyfriend makes fun of me but it is nice to know someone out there shares my obsession! I cant wait to see what else you put out… thanks!!!

  43. 43
    July 31st, 2009 at 10:06 am

    I am so excited to get to college eventually(:
    I found the cutest crayon rings too!! They are so chic, and in the cutest box, I think most girls would like them(:
    http://yovia.com/blogs/kimberly/2009/07/31/crayon-rings/

  44. 44
    July 31st, 2009 at 11:42 am

    i can’t wait ti read more :) x

  45. 45
    July 31st, 2009 at 12:40 pm

    You are a genius!!! THANK YOU

  46. 46
    July 31st, 2009 at 12:43 pm

    im really looking forward for the upcoming post.
    im slaving myself working this summer, and am just ready to go shopping for back to school!!!
    yay!!

  47. 47
    July 31st, 2009 at 1:08 pm

    I love Back to School shopping! This is one of my favorite times of the year. I can’t wait for all of your upcoming posts!

  48. 48
    July 31st, 2009 at 1:24 pm

    I know this isn’t fashion related but I would LOVE to see a post about food. Sounds funny but ever since I’ve been on my own I’ve had issues with food. I always end up eating out and spending WAY too much on take-out. I’d like to start eating healthier and bringing a lunch to school. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.

  49. 49
    July 31st, 2009 at 2:28 pm

    i think im in love with you

  50. 50
    July 31st, 2009 at 2:29 pm

    I have a back-to-school shopping list that is probably over 100 items long, but I’ve been working on it since school ended. I think I get more excited for the back-to-school shopping than actually going to school, especially since this year is going to be such a bittersweet year for back-to-school (bitter: school work etc, sweet: first year of university!).

  51. 51
    July 31st, 2009 at 3:18 pm

    I’m still only a high school junior, but I LOVE your blog!!!!!!!!! I’m trying to get a jumpstart on my “look” though, so that I can have an easier transition to my college wardrobe. I was just about to comb through your old articles to help me start my shopping list, and whaddya know- there’s my email telling me you’ve got all new articles coming!! Yea!

    PS- An article about shopping on a budget would be great!

  52. 52
    July 31st, 2009 at 3:46 pm

    i love going back to school and the little time before the actual work starts!
    this will be my second year at university and i’m anxious and have those jittery feelings. i never did like having to make new friends all the time. But those new supplies and clothes make it bearable!

  53. 53
    July 31st, 2009 at 4:47 pm

    Could you also talk about the boots that are going to be trendy this fall! :)

  54. 54
    July 31st, 2009 at 5:38 pm

    where is this post?I really can’t wait!

  55. 55
    July 31st, 2009 at 5:43 pm

    Can’t wait to read the rest of the blog; I love your site! A bunch of people have already said this, but please be sure to talk about shopping on a tight budget…and maybe what’s worth investing a little more $$ in.

  56. 56
    July 31st, 2009 at 9:04 pm

    So awesome at the top of your photo list is veganomicon! You should post more often with eco and animal friendly fashion tips.

  57. 57
    July 31st, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    I agree with Casha, I know an article on food isn’t really fashion related but its definately an issue with college kids and affects the body that wears all those cute clothes.

    Healthy things that are easily packable, what to buy in the caf vs. what to bring from home, etc.

  58. 58
    July 31st, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    Yep, I think an article about food would actually be very helpful!

    The list sounds great…it’s always fun to see fresh new trends for sporting to classes. I always get inspired by those posts!

    I know I must sound like a broken record at this point haha, but shopping on a budget could be amazing too.

    All in all I look forward to all the new style trends that you plan to share with us – the party looks, school looks, business meeting looks (for us business majors! Or I guess anyone in general) etc.

  59. 59
    July 31st, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    I’m really looking forward to reading your articles. I’ve been taking a look at some of the fashions for the fall and I can tell plaid is really in (I’d like to read an article on that). Can’t wait, all your articles are great reads!

  60. 60
    July 31st, 2009 at 10:39 pm

    I’m so excited about these articles!

    For everyone concerned about budget shopping, one of my fave budget friendly stores is Old Navy- it’s not just for soccer moms!
    I just picked up some cheap work out clothes and a cute printed tee, and I’ll be heading back before school because I saw some really cute boots:
    http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=42717&vid=1&pid=675415&scid=675415012

  61. 61
    August 1st, 2009 at 10:22 am

    i can’t wait!
    it’s time for me to start doing college shopping!
    and it is always to know what to buy with such a tight budget as a college student :)

  62. 62
    August 1st, 2009 at 11:09 am

    Food would be definitely helpful. As well as cute exercise outfits for campus gyms…. i have a blog that covers the different types of outfits that would be suitable to exercise (all u need to do is click on the name link) ;)…..

  63. 63
    August 2nd, 2009 at 4:15 am

    ooh i’m so excitd for all those!!

  64. 64
    August 3rd, 2009 at 5:04 am

    i love this list! i can’t wait for more articles!

    could you list us some cute hoodies to wear in college? do most college students wear Juicy Couture?

  65. 65
    August 8th, 2009 at 2:19 am

    Could we discuss the buffalo/lumberjack plaid trend I’ve seen lately in Austin? Is this catching on everywhere, and if so, who started it and why?? Can it ever be cute or even polished?

  66. 66
    August 10th, 2009 at 5:23 pm

    Wow! I just discovered this website googling gossip girl fashion, and have been reading everything for like two hours!! Amazing articles, this is by far the most informative fashion site I ever found! Keep up the excellent work, Zephyr!! xxx

  67. 67
    August 12th, 2009 at 5:53 pm

    i loved this idea of making a list. I normally don’t do that, but it really helped. Not only did it make me more excited for school, but it helped my organize my thoughts[and clothes] to see what i really needed and wanted for this up coming fall.

  68. 68
    August 26th, 2009 at 1:25 pm

    I was wondering if you could do a post on packing–how many jeans to pack, how many dresses, ect. I hate wearing the same thing over and over, and I have a LOT of clothes. I want to bring them all, but I know I can’t!

    Help! >.<

    P.S. Parisa I found this when looking for gossip girl fashion too, lolz.

  69. 69
    September 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 am

    I just discovered this site and I m amazed!It s brilliant and every post is grabbing my attention!

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