Back to School Essentials

Keeping back to school enchanted

Edited by Amalia Keramitsis

The back to school drama is a frantic two-way street, with harried moms on one end and children unwilling to relinquish summer freedom on the other. Shakespeare infamously captured this moment with “the whining school-boy, with his satchel. And shining morning face, creeping like snail. Unwillingly to school.” And it’s no different for tantrum-prone schoolgirls, who, after the initial fervor of seeing their friends again, start to sulk over reading lists and math problems. In the midst of all this, having some essentials like a book bin and cubby cups from The Land of Nod will (undoubtedly) help you get organized—and keep it all together.

After the summer recess your little lady might not be ready to hand in her plaid summer dress, beach jelly shoes, and bucket and spade, so make it easier for her with our back to school basics. This fall is all about piquantly interspersing neutral and classic looks with bold colors and detailed clothing. Our selection of Bonpoint’s flared, flannel moon skirt paired with pretty Ralph Lauren cable-knit tights, adds subtle texture to a traditional look. And try pairing this smart Oscar de la Renta blouse, and drawing out the red-accented Peter Pan collar, with youthful bright red Converse. However, clothes will only capture her initial enthusiasm as the school year wanes on, so don’t forget about all the stationary trimmings to keep her excited about digging into her workbooks. Get her a colorful Pepillo mini-scrap book to brighten up school projects, and a Shinzi Katoh pencil with a Little Red Riding hood motif to make her BIC-carrying classmates envious. Finally, even Shakespeare appreciated that the true pièce de résistance of school children was the humble satchel. Get your summer-nostalgic adventurer this nature inspired Pottery Barn Kids backpack in vibrant pastel tones and she’ll be itching to carry all her stationary treasures and coveted school assignments in this functional accessory. —Meena Iyer