Back to School Supplies for Teenagers
Must-Haves Include Tote Bag, Tiered Pencil Case, Zippered Pouch
Aug 19, 2008
The end of summer marks back-to-school season, and with the return to school comes shopping for supplies. Some high schools give teens a long list of items to buy for each class (half of which never end up being used), but if a teenager has the ability to choose what they want to buy, the following list can help pair down the essentials while still being stylish:
Bookbag
This is an obvious supply that all teens need, whether or not the school allows teens to use lockers. Instead of a traditional backpack, however, a trendier and more useful option is to purchase a tote bag. It doesn’t have to be a designer brand – stores such as the GAP or Target regularly have large totes with many inside and outside pockets, perfect for organizing school supplies.
A few details to keep in mind: Try to find a tote that has a zipper or at least button/snap closure, so that the bag isni’t always wide open. A reversible fabric is a great way for getting two styles for the price of one. And as great as cloth fabric can look when it’s new, it tends to dirty very quickly. Opt for leather (real or faux) or vinyl material instead.
Binders and Folders
Some school require that teenagers use a binder with dividers to organize their papers. But if teens have a choice, separate folders can be easier to use, as each class remains on its own. Brands such as ROXY make folders with trendy designs. Or buy plain-colored folders from any drugstore or art store and decorate with drawings, stickers or decoupage.
To decoupage folders, purchase a jar of Mod Podge decoupage glue from an art supply store. Cut out magazine pictures (fashion, words, designs) or images from wrapping paper. Use glue to cover folders completely, then add extra coats of glue to seal the folders. Even add flat sequins or confetti as long as there are enough coats of glue to securely seal them to the folder.
Book Covers
Traditionally, textbooks are covered with brown paper – and doodled upon throughout the year. Another option is to use wrapping paper, though it does take away the blank surface on which teens love to add their own designs.
Pencil Case
Teens don’t necessarily have to purchase a case that’s meant for pencils. Any small clutch will do the trick. But an useful trend in pencil cases is the three-tiered version. This gives teens more room to organize and store pencils, pens, paper clips, erasers and any other items. Search websites such as Barnes and Noble for their pencil cases (many come in bright colors such as hot pink) or search the web for “tiered pencil cases”. There’s a large variety of them in Disney themes for younger children.
Zippered Pouch
Finally, teenage girls need an opaque zippered pouch to store the following: lip gloss or any makeup, blotting papers, a mirror, travel-sized deodorant and lotion, mints, facial tissue and tampons or pads. This can also be a good place to store some extra cash, since a wallet can scream “here’s my money” to wandering eyes. Also, a teen can take just this pouch with them into the bathroom if they leave their bag with a (trusted) friend. After all, bathroom floors aren’t the ideal place to put down a new tote bag... but there’s another reason to avoid cloth fabric.
 |
