It's Time To Grow Up: Bags And Totes

By Olivia Kaiser on March 5, 2014

There comes a point in your life when you need to let go of the sparkly, sequined bag you got for buying so many bras and panties, and find something a bit more … say, grown up. That’s not to say there is anything wrong with sequined bags, so long as you are under the age of 15, using it for a game of dress-up, or using it as part of a costume for a party. Needless to say, these bags should not be used for class or anything else that reflects your future, and I see them shuffling around campus every day.

As much as many of us college students hate to admit, and sometimes refuse to admit, we are growing up. We are reaching the point or are already to the point where our parents don’t pay for everything any more. We are to the point where internships, connections, and future employment are crucial for our next step in life. So, I apologize if this makes me the bearer of bad news for some, but how you present yourself matters, and carrying around a bag that looks like it should be in an edition of Toddlers and Tiaras probably isn’t the vibe you want to put off.

Fortunately, there are some bags out there that can still tailor to your personality, as well as be practical, classy and fashionable.

The Classic

Photo Courtesy of The North Face

First we have the classic backpack. It yells out college student, and if you are one of those students who carries your computer, 50 pounds of books and notebooks, then you should probably stick with this bad boy. It will be able to carry your materials like no other bag or tote can. My favorite brand is The North Face, but you can try other brands too like JanSport, Nike, Under Armour and so on. Regardless of what brand you buy, there is a great selection of styles and colors to choose from to best fit you!

The Sparkle

Photo Courtesy of J.Crew

For you glitter girls who are mad I dissed your sparkly sequined bag, I have a solution for you. To get your sparkle fix, instead try a different style that is less pre-teenager and more boss lady. With a style such as the bag from J.Crew in the photo, it gives the sophisticated look without making you feel drab and boring.

The Minimalist

Photo Courtesy of Younkers

For those of you who are minimalists and simply take your iPad or notebook and possibly the required reading to class, I suggest using a classy and simple tote that will go with virtually everything you own. You want one that is casual enough to use while wearing jeans or leggings, and one that is nice enough to use if you have a presentation or meeting that requires you to dress up. You can find some great and affordable ideas at JCPenney, Younkers, Nordstrom and Etsy.

The Globally Aware

Photo Courtesy of Stone + Cloth

Are you globally aware and always looking for ways to help children in third world countries? If so you should definitely check out Stone + Cloth. Grouped with the non-profit organization, The Knock Foundation, this program helps to provide scholarships to children in Tanzania, Africa, who can’t afford to go to school on their own. It should also be mentioned the founder, Matthew Clough, did an internship with TOMS which helped him learn the ropes of taking on such a business.

The Edgy 

Photo Courtesy of Fashlets

For all of you ladies who like to add a little edge to your outfit, don’t forget to have a tote to tie it all together. Try outlets like Fashlets. You will find bags with a great use of studs and spikes without being overly crazy. Bags like these are great for days you feel like you can do it all and refuse to take ‘no’ for an answer.

The Budget 

Photo Courtesy of Forever21

Generally, most college students are on a budget, and finding bags that not only look nice but also hold up nicely can sometimes be difficult. Straps break with no warning, zippers forget their function, and the wear and tear of everyday life shows up pretty quick. However, it is still possible to find a bag that works with you and that will hold up. Some great stores to check out are Forever 21, and H&M. Just remember to really look at the bag before you buy it – check out the stitching and the handles; if you are shopping online read the reviews.

Finding bags and totes that fit your style and personality while at the same time being presentable and fashionable is something everyone should strive to do. Instead of carrying around the ratty backpack you’ve had since the beginning of high school or the overly sequined bag you got for free, take the time to find something chic that you can use in a variety of settings.

 

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