Back-to-School Staples!

I know I literally say this every year, but I cannot believe how fast this summer flew by! The back-to-school season has snuck up on me as usual. Even more unbelievable is the fact that it'll be my last - unlike Cygne (who's in her first year at USC!) I'm a college senior graduating in December and the gravity of that statement has yet to hit me. In any case, this semester I am determined to go back to class with all of my favorite necessities from Trocadero!

1.] The MZ Wallace "Kate," $390.00

It is shocking how often we talk about this bag (it's Cygne's back-to-school pick as well!), but when Travel & Leisure stamps it's 2010 award for "Best Travel Accessory" on something, it's for good reason. Although I could search around for a boring backpack, as a graduating senior I'm looking for something that will carry me into my post-college career. Water-resistant nylon, Italian leather trim, roomy pockets, an optional crossbody strap....it's everything you could possibly want from a travel bag/diaper bag/school bag/work bag. We'll be getting it in the basic black (which we have to reorder at least once a month) and a gorgeous chocolate brown for fall.




2.] Attic Journals, $18.00/each

photo: urbancraftuprising.blogspot.com

Another often-talked-about Troc item, these journals are vintage and forgotten library books that are cut and spiral-bound. The hardcovers keep my precious notes protected from rain and inevitable coffee spillage. Plus, they're a million times more chic than a standard college-ruled Hello Kitty notebook, and the blank pages allow for optimum freedom to doodle as I choose!

3.] DV By Dolce Vita "Brody" Desert Boot, on sale for $95

I am an all-season boot wearer, and every fall I need a new class-appropriate version. This one is such an easy neutral that would go with everything and I absolutely adore the buckles on the back - slightly reminiscent of the Vivienne Westwood pirate boots but for a super small fraction of the price! 

4.] Cavallini Sticky Notes, $17 (Office & Kitchen)

I am notoriously absent-minded, and this semester is my busiest one yet. The ONLY way I'll be able to keep track of everything is with these adorable versions of Post-Its. In multiple sizes and variations, this is definitely the cutest way to remember even the smallest detail!

5.] Harajuku Lovers Trompe L'oiel Cupcake Cosmetic Case, $42

I absolutely hate the tacky plastic pencil bags that mass retailers provide for back to school. Instead, I'll be toting a cute canvas version, like this one from Harajuku Lovers. It's the perfect size to carry my black pens, pastel Sharpies, chapstick, quarters for parking, granola bar, etc., and it will last me a whole lot longer than a plastic one will!