Let’s be honest: the start of school isn’t all about new notebooks and thinking you’ll keep your backpack neat this year. It’s like the Super Bowl for getting great prices on clothes and maybe a few devices that you’ll say are “for school.” If you’re a parent, you’re probably getting ready for the yearly fight in the dressing room. Teenagers? You’re looking for things that don’t say “my mom picked this out.” Students in college? You just want to look good for your 8 a.m. classes without spending too much on ramen.
The bottom line is that timing is everything. Wanna get the excellent stuff before it’s all picked over? Plan ahead, my friend. We’ll discuss when to hit the stores (or your favorite online haunts), what’s actually worth buying, how not to torch your wallet, and honestly, the fine art of telling yourself you “need” that sweatshirt. Heads up: I’m giving you genuine tips, not just that boring “make a list and stick to it” stuff. Let’s plunge in and smash this school shopping thing without ending up poor or stuck with weirdly scratchy clothing.
When to Shop: Timing and Sales
Here’s the real-life scoop:
Back-to-school sales? Retailers basically start pushing deals the second fireworks fizzle out in July. Yeah, it’s early, but that’s when the good stuff drops, think uniforms, jeans, anything that actually fits before everyone else snatches your kid’s size. If you notice a tax-free weekend on the schedule (typically July or August), that’s your cue to pounce. Seriously, nobody enjoys spending extra for socks.
Now, if you’re relaxed about it and don’t mind a little gamble, wait until the late-August clearance rush. That’s when stores panic and slap juicy discounts on whatever’s left, boots, winter jackets, you name it. Sometimes you’ll find next season’s gear hidden in the discount rack, just begging to be adopted.
Don’t sleep on those obnoxious retail emails either. Yeah, they bombard you, but sometimes you receive a nice deal or early access to sales. Same goes for loyalty programs or cashback apps. Stack such bonuses with sale prices and you’ll feel like you’re looting the place (legally, of course).
If you play it right, grab the necessities early, scoop up the luxuries when stores start sweating inventory, you’ll save a chunk of bucks. And hey, maybe treat yourself to a coffee with the leftovers.
Shopping for Younger Kids (Parents’ Guide)
Clothing Essentials and Trends
Honestly, shopping for school kids is somewhat wild blink, and they’ve outgrown everything you just bought. So, don’t go bananas on nice items. Stick to the basics that can take a beating: T-shirts in all the colors, long sleeves for when it gets chilly, and something button-down for, you know, picture day or whatever. Seriously, the softer and easier to wash, the better cotton mixes are your buddy. And if your kid’s still loves dinosaurs or flamingos or whatever, let them rock those prints. It’s school, not a fashion display (unless they want it to be).
For bottoms, you can’t go wrong with jeans or leggings. Just get a couple pairs of each and maybe toss in some shorts or sweatpants, depending on the weather. Stretchy material is a lifesaver, trust me. Uniforms? Ugh, yes, just get a couple of pairs that’ll survive the washer and the playground.
Layering is huge. One light jacket that can deal with an unexpected shower, maybe a fleece for cool mornings, and if you live somewhere that actually experiences winter, don’t scrimp on a genuine coat and snow boots. Cardigans are underrated, warm but not too hot. Perfect for that odd in-between weather.
Shoes, though. Kids need sneakers that can handle gym class and the muck. Maybe one pair of “nice” shoes for special occasions (or, like, if Grandma’s coming over). Stock up on socks and underwear in bulk, seriously, they vanish like magic.
Oh! And don’t forget the extras: backpacks, lunch bags, hats, raincoats. Check with the school because occasionally there’s unusual stuff on the supply list (who knew exercise clothes could be so specific?).
Lately, it’s all about the athleisure look, think sports leggings, hoodies with wacky patterns, and basically anything comfy. Bright hues are everywhere. But honestly, don’t get dragged too deep into trends. Pick up a couple cool pieces your kid loves, then fill the rest of the closet with tough, timeless stuff. You’ll thank yourself next laundry day.
Budgeting and Smart Tips (Parents)
Here’s the deal: keeping kids clothed without torching your bank account is virtually an Olympic sport. You gotta get scrappy.
First off, set a cap on what you’re willing to spend each kid. Don’t just wander into Target and pray for self-control, nuh-uh. Decide ahead: “Okay, $200 tops for you, little dude.” Younger kids? Usually need less, unless they’re mud magnets or going through a big growth spurt. Teens, though? Good luck. They suddenly “need” that $60 hoodie or whatever’s trendy on TikTok.
Do yourself a favor: prepare a checklist. Like, write down what they need: shoes, a jacket, maybe a couple of pairs of trousers. Wants are a whole different beast (looking at you, glitter unicorn tee). Stick to the must-haves. If there’s spare cash, maybe chuck in a “want” or two so you don’t get the death stare.
When it comes to shopping, don’t sleep on those sales. Walmart, Target, Old Navy, sometimes you’ll hit the jackpot. Thrift stores? Goldmine, seriously. Half the time, the items appear brand new, plus you’ll spend, like, $3 on a blouse instead of $18. Oh, and keep an eye out for back-to-school bargains online. Amazon runs deals if you dig a bit.
Pro tip: if you see something on sale, and your kid’s about to outgrow their current size, get the next size up. Kids grow like weeds. Too big? Whatever, roll the cuffs or grab a belt. They’ll fit eventually.
Before you embark on a shopping frenzy, raid last year’s closet. That hoodie might still be kicking. Hand-me-downs from cousins or friends? Yes, please. And don’t forget about those school uniform swaps, sometimes you can grab an entire set for almost nothing.
Honestly, getting the kids involved helps too. Give ‘em a budget and a list, let them pick a couple of things. Teaches ‘em not to squander their cash on something foolish, plus you get less “but moooom, I hate these pants” meltdowns.
Seasonal Shopping Tips for Kids
Honestly, if the weather’s playing good in early fall, don’t go nuts, just grab a light jacket and call it a day. But hey, if you discover a good deal on a hefty coat during those unexpected late-summer discounts, snag it. The same goes for boots and rain gear prices, which tank as the early rush settles down. Pro tip: shop late summer or early fall, right after all the back-to-school rush.
Now, if you’re down south where it’s virtually summer year-round, don’t pack up the sandals and flip-flops just yet. Up north? Yeah, you’ll want to seek for those insulated boots and thick coats. The true move is to wait until the tail end of winter for clearance sales on gloves, snow pants, all that jazz, if you can hold it without freezing.
And don’t sleep on hand-me-downs. If you’ve got siblings or pals with kids, gather up and plan. Maybe your oldest’s boots fit the youngest next year, or your buddy’s kid outgrew their coat just in time. That way, you can chill on certain purchases, and maybe splurge on something finer for the one youngster who really needs it. Sharing is caring, and it saves your dollars, too.
Kids Clothes Sales and Deals
Here’s the thing: back-to-school sales? It’s not only about those shiny displays with pricey backpacks. If you play your cards well, you can absolutely game the system.
First off, clearance racks. Seriously, after Labor Day? It’s like retailers just want to give away last season’s items. You can grab shorts and tees for, like, a third of the price. Doesn’t matter if it’s getting chilly, just save them for next summer. Future you will thank present you, trust me.
Then there’s all those wild sales events in early August. Every ad is shouting about some “doorbuster” deal. Pro tip: Don’t just believe the first one you see. Hit out a couple of different stores, check out internet deal sites, maybe even see if a store will price match or throw in a coupon. Sometimes the real deal is lying underneath all the hype.
Oh, and coupons? Never pay full price if you don’t have to. Scour the internet, look through your mailbox, even peek at those weird grocery store apps, you’d be shocked, occasionally there’s a hidden coupon for a totally different store. And if your kid is fascinated with, I know, Nike or whatever, check if there’s a student discount or some loyalty thing. Milk it for all it’s worth.
Multipacks are another secret weapon. Socks, underpants, basic tees, boring but necessary. You buy ‘em in quantity, save a few bucks, and voila, you’re set for the year. Who wants to constantly run out for more socks? Not this guy.
Oh, and shopping with kids? Yeah, good luck. Unless you love tantrums in aisle five, leave them at home if you can. Or just shop online curbside pickup is a godsend. You get the deals, sidestep the turmoil.
Shopping for Teens
Fashion Trends and Wardrobe Ideas
Let’s be real, teens don’t just want to blend in at school; they’re out here trying to make a statement (even if the statement is “I just rolled out of bed and still look cooler than you”). Back-to-school shopping? It’s simply a balancing act between “Mom, I need socks” and “I literally can’t survive without this neon crop top.”
Here’s what’s actually floating about in a teen’s wardrobe these days:
Tops: Graphic tees are still king, band shirts, sports logos, all that jazz. If it shouts “vintage” or has some esoteric reference, even better. You’ll notice tons of flannels, long-sleeved basics, and shirts with college insignia, even if nobody there could find the university on a map.
Jeans & Pants: Comfort is everything. Skinny jeans? Yeah, those are still hanging on, but mom jeans and anything baggy or “relaxed” are clearly having a moment. Cargo pants, believe it or not, are back, and somehow, capris snuck in too. Don’t ask. Leggings and joggers are very much a uniform on lazy days.
Layers: If you don’t have at least one hoodie that’s three sizes too big, are you even a teenager? Oversized sweatshirts, zip-ups, and classic denim or bomber jackets are everywhere. Layering is an essential because you never know if your classroom will feel like a sauna or a meat freezer.
Dresses & Skirts: For girls, it’s all about easy dresses and skirts you can toss on and go. Midi and maxi skirts are big, and everything gets matched with shoes because, let’s be honest, nobody wants to run around in heels at 8 a.m.
Shoes: Converse, Vans, and chunky sneakers are standard issue. Ankle boots or loafers if they’re feeling fancy. On warm days, slides or sports sandals make an appearance (even though they’ll undoubtedly regret it by third period when their feet are freezing).
Accessories: You’re not properly dressed without a beanie, a weird belt, or a backpack that looks like it’s straight out of the Y2K era. Scarves, bulky jewelry, whatever makes you stand out from the crowd (or at least from your little brother).
2025 Trends? Honestly, there’s a little bit of everything: retro sweatshirts from the ‘90s, glossy metallic backpacks, pastel ruffles and bows that think “cute but make it weird.” But here’s a secret nobody genuinely cares if you’re wearing every trend at once. The best plan? Grab one or two things you’re infatuated with (maybe it’s that crazy jacket or a pair of boots), then fill in the rest with something you can genuinely wear every day.
Shopping Smart: Deals and Discounts
Let’s be real, most teens would rather shop with their friends than listen to lectures on “fiscal responsibility.” But hey, saving a little cash means more to spend on iced coffee or whatever odd TikTok gadget is hot this week, so here’s how to make your budget work without turning into your grandma.
First off, set yourself a limit before you hit the mall or start scrolling. Like, genuinely convince yourself: “I’ve got $50, don’t even LOOK at the $90 hoodies.” Otherwise, you’ll blink and your entire allowance is gone on one silly shirt you’ll loathe in a month. Real talk.
Student discounts are a thing; use them. Unidays, Student Beans, random store student deals just flash your ID or key in some code, and voila, instant 10-20% discount. Don’t be timid, inquire at the register or stalk the store’s website. It adds up.
Sign up for deal alerts from your favorite brands. Yeah, it’ll fill your inbox, but you’ll get notified when Nike or Levi’s cuts costs. Or use one of those price-tracker apps, so you’re not paying full price like a chump. Pro tip: Google “back to school sale” and the store name before buying anything. Sometimes there’s a sneaky promo floating around.
Online shopping? Super convenient. Sites like ASOS and Amazon frequently have their own student deals. Sometimes they’ll even match pricing or chuck in free shipping if you play your cards well. Downside is, you can’t test anything on, so hope your guesswork is solid. If you’re finicky about fit, maybe just hit the actual store instead.
Don’t sleep on inexpensive places. H&M, Target, Old Navy, yeah, you’ll see half your school wearing the same stuff, but it’s cheap and usually kinda cute. Clearance racks are your best buddy. And if you enjoy a little adventure, thrift stores or sites like Depop and Poshmark have some jewels for considerably less cost. You might even score something one-of-a-kind. Or, you know, someone’s old gym shirt.
Seasonal Considerations for Teens
Here’s the deal:
If you’re up north? Just grab a hoodie or a light jacket right away. Trust me, morning chill hits fast. Hold out getting that huge, hefty winter coat till you see it on sale, don’t get fleeced by September prices. Now, if you’re down south, forget the huge coats. You’ll probably never touch ’em. Keep an eye out for end-of-summer bargains and grab up shorts or sandals for next year instead. Easy win.
Now, concerning appearing sharp for school stuff, yeah, you’ll need at least one “good” outfit. There’s always some field trip, dance, or random occasion where you can’t show up in sweatpants. Just one acceptable button-down or a simple dress will bail you out for family meals, dates, or that awful class presentation. Pro tip: right before school starts, shops love to push clothing deals. Or, honestly, just switch with a friend if it’s some formal stuff you’ll never wear again.
Shoes? Early September’s your friend. That’s when boots and closed-toe kicks get marked down. Figure out what you’ll truly wear every day (sneakers probably), versus what’s just for special events (like those fancy dress shoes your mom likes). Oh, and once you’ve handled the basics, reward yourself by grabbing a rad wallet, a hat, a backpack, or maybe the fashionable footwear you’ve been eyeing.
And listen, don’t squander your whole money following every single “must-have” trend the minute it drops. Most of that goods will be on sale by October, however. Lock on your staples: jeans, tees, coats first. Save the wild stuff for later, once your closet (and bank account) can breathe a little. You’ll still look good, and your wallet won’t hate you.
Back to College: Wardrobe and Deals
Building a Versatile College Wardrobe
Let’s get real. College shopping is like a circus show where you’re balancing classes, actual employment (because, okay, rent exists), and pretending to have a social life all on a wallet that’s yelling for help. What do you need? Clothes that don’t suck, don’t break the bank, and won’t make you appear like you got dressed in the dark.
First up, the essentials. Grab a handful of T-shirts or polos, nothing wild, just simple colors. Black, blue, gray, white. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when you’re half-awake and can’t figure out which top goes with which jeans. Toss in a couple of long-sleeve shirts or blouses for days when the weather can’t make up its mind. Jeans? Yeah, you need at least two pairs. Or whichever jeans you genuinely prefer. Comfort is the name of the game.
Speaking of comfort: sweaters, hoodies, sweatpants, leggings, lounge shorts bring ‘em all. You’ll live in these, whether you’re enduring an 8 a.m. class or just lying about binge-watching Netflix instead of studying. Pajamas don’t sleep on these (literally). And please, for the love of hygiene, grab some shower flip-flops or slipper socks for the dorm restrooms. Those floors have seen things.
Outerwear’s a bit difficult. If you’re dealing with true seasons, you’ll require a substantial jacket, fleece, or a bomber works for fall. Winters? Suck it up and get a real coat, ideally something you discover on clearance in January. Boots too, if snow or rain is an issue. If you’re in a place that’s always warm, lucky; you just take a rain jacket and maybe an umbrella. You’ll be fine.
Shoes don’t overthink it. One pair of footwear for daily use, maybe another for the gym if you’re fancy. If you want to look like you’ve got it together, a pair of boots or flats might dress you up a bit. Sandals or slides? Perfect for showers or stumbling to the dining hall.
Don’t forget at least one “real” clothing. You know, for interviews, presentations, or when your folks pop up out of nowhere. A button-down and slacks, or a simple dress, nothing outrageous, just clean and basic. If you’re into sports or pretending you are, bring workout stuff that can double for actual gym time and lazy days.
Accessories are the real MVPs. A bag that won’t murder your shoulders is non-negotiable. Sunglasses, a watch, maybe a hat for bad hair days. Belts, underthings, you know the routine. Don’t be that person who forgets socks.
The secret sauce here is stacking. Weather’s weird, dorms are weird, your schedule’s weird. Learn to stack clothes. A basic t-shirt under a sweater under a coat. Mix, match, repeat. You don’t need a ton of clothes if you can swap ‘em around.
So yeah, don’t overcomplicate it. Stick to something you’ll actually wear, get vintage stuff that won’t get you burnt, and keep your cash for late-night pizza trips.
Scoring College Clothing Deals
Here’s the remix:
Look, if you’re not shopping off-season, you’re basically throwing cash into a bonfire. Winter jackets in July? Dirt cheap. Swimsuits in October? Practically a gift. I know it sounds strange to buy a parka when it’s 90 degrees, but trust me, your pocketbook will thank you when December hits and you’re not out here dropping your ramen money on full-price gear.
Also, don’t sleep on TJ Maxx, Marshalls, or Ross. Those locations are real goldmines like expensive clothes next to a pile of knock-off candles? It’s chaos, but the good kind. Especially if you’re in a college town, there’s probably an outlet somewhere nearby. Go dig around. It’s worth it.
Oh, and don’t forget the student discounts! Seriously, just whack that. edu email on every site you shop. Ten, sometimes fifteen percent off easy money. There are apps like UNiDAYS or SheerID that’ll do the boring verification stuff for you. Don’t be shy, get that discount.
Now, for big events like formals or interviews, renting is the move. Why buy a suit that’ll only rot in your closet? Snag something fancy for a weekend and return it, sans strings. For everyday goods, applications like ThredUp or just straight-up Facebook Marketplace are clutch. Sell your old hoodies, grab someone else’s. Plus, clearing up your closet before school starts? Feels nice, man.
Last thing, don’t underestimate the power of group shopping. If you’re moving in with roommates or you’ve got siblings hitting college too, buy in bulk. Split a bag of hangers, share washing baskets… I mean, sometimes my sister and I just straight-up switch shirts for a semester. No shame. Work smarter, not harder, or broker deals with your pals like it’s the stock market, whatever works.
Seasonal and Dorm Considerations
Let’s get honest about college packing. First off, the weather. Don’t just think winter’s the same everywhere. Minnesota? You’ll freeze your nose off if you show up in a Florida hoodie. Seriously, check the weather for your new zip code and maybe hunt down a coat on sale before you roll up.
Laundry? Yeah, you’re probably gonna be doing your own, unless you’re one of the lucky few with a laundry fairy (spoiler: you’re not). Stick to clothes that don’t make laundry a hassle. Fabrics like cotton blends or those sporty, moisture-wicking ones, the kind that don’t transform into doll clothes after one heat cycle.
Now, about dorm closets… or, more accurately, the glorified shoebox you’ll call a closet. Don’t blow your funds on clothes you’ll never wear. Grab a few basics, move in, and see what you actually need. Trust me, you’ll avoid buying five pairs of “just-in-case” jeans that never see the light of day.
Some dorms are colder than your grandma’s basement and others seem like a sauna. Pack something you can layer, and don’t forget a sweatshirt or some warm slippers just in case your toes turn into icicles.
Oh, and this is probably the first time you’re flying solo with your outfit. Don’t opt for cheap trash that falls apart by Thanksgiving. Invest on robust stuff, a quality backpack, sturdy sneakers. It pays off. Buy once, cry once, you know?
Prioritize Needs vs. Wants
Let’s get real about back-to-school shopping before you squander your entire paycheck on glittery gel pens and three different hoodies. The trick? Actually recognizing the difference between goods you gotta get and something that just looks cool in the basket.
First up: the essentials. We’re talking uniforms (if your school is into that sort of thing), enough shirts and pants to not repeat ensembles every other day, items for the weather (because freezing in gym shorts is not a vibe), and shoes that don’t fall apart in a week. That’s your starting lineup. Don’t even look at the entertaining extras until those are handled.
Split your list into sections tops, bottoms, outerwear, shoes, random accessories. Then, actually label what’s “absolutely necessary” vs. “would be kinda nice.” Like, do you really need a second raincoat? Probably not. One nice jacket will do the job.
If you’re counting pennies (aren’t we all?), you have be harsh with the fun stuff. Maybe one or two trendy outfits per kid, max. They want that wild neon bag or the latest band tee? Fine, but it’s one or the other, not both.
Here’s where you get sneaky: trade-offs. If your kid is dying for those costly sneakers, maybe that means no new video game this time. Gotta learn to select your battles and your splurges.
Oh, and check the calendar before you go mad on snow boots in March. If summer break is in the corner, maybe just wait and grab that stuff on sale for next year. No point dumping cash on something they’ll wear twice.
Honestly, if you stick to needs first and make extras earn their way on the list (or wait for a good offer), you won’t end yourself broke by September. Plus, the kids might finally realize that not everything has to happen right now, sometimes you gotta wait or work for the enjoyable stuff.
Create a Shopping Checklist and Budget Plan
Honestly, the best strategy to not torch your wallet when shopping? You gotta plan. Like, seriously, winging it is just begging for another bunch of weird socks you didn’t actually need.
First up, dig through the closet. What’s already there? Anything that’s still wearable, toss in the “keep” pile. Stuff with holes or odd stains? Maybe you can fix it, maybe not. And hey, if it’s too tiny or just plain worn out, that’s your “replace” list right there.
Now, write down what’s genuinely needed. Don’t just scrawl “clothes,” break it down: tees, pants, hoodies, sneakers, undergarments, the full shebang. Even pajamas and athletic shorts. Put numbers next to them too, like “3 pairs of jeans” or “5 t-shirts,” so you don’t end up with a million of one thing and not enough of the other.
Sizes matter, obviously. Next to each item, scribble down the proper size or, for finicky teens, the style or color they’ll actually wear. No one wants to get stuck with a bunch of clothes that “aren’t my vibe, Mom.”
Let’s talk money. Split your overall budget into categories like, $50 for shirts, $40 for shoes, and so on. Don’t blow it all on some fancy jacket and then discover you forgot underwear. Prioritize the pricier goods first (yes, shoes and coats always hurt the most).
Before you approach the mall, look out costs online or at least think back to last year’s sticker shock. If coats cost $60 a pop and you need two, well, there goes $120. Might have to get creative, maybe just buy one now and the other when it’s on sale.
Plan out when and where you’re actually shopping. Maybe July is for summer discounts, then August for the main haul, and late August for clearance scouring. Mark down store sales, tax-free days, or that one weekend when everything’s miraculously cheaper.
If you’re like spreadsheets or applications, awesome, use one to track what you’ve bought and how much you’ve dropped so far. Not essential, but it’s handy if you don’t wanna do arithmetic in your head while standing in line.
And for the love of all that is holy, stick to your list. If you spot a random “must-have” that isn’t on there, only acquire it if you’ve got wiggle room. Otherwise, swap it for something else, don’t just squander the cash because those neon socks were fun.
Oh, and keep your receipts. Seriously. Sometimes you grab the wrong size or there’s a strange hole you missed. Returns save lives (or at least your cash).
Last thing, when it’s all done, check what’s left on your list. Still missing stuff? Maybe hit up thrift stores or ask for gift vouchers for the next birthday. Gotta hustle to cover those spaces.
Bottom line: a checklist saves your time, your sanity, and your bank cash. No more wandering the aisles like a lost puppy. You’ll get in, get out, and probably prevent at least one meltdown.
Bonus Tips for Avoiding Overspending
Cash Envelopes, Old School Style: Seriously, nothing hammers home a budget like cold, hard cash in an envelope. Give each kid their stash once it’s gone, boom, shopping spree’s over. No whining, no miracle card swipes, just empty envelopes and lessons learnt.
Never Shop Hangry: Trust me, rolling into Target with an empty stomach is a beginner’s error. You’ll start snatching items just to get out faster. Eat first. Or at least keep a granola bar on standby so you don’t end up buying a bedazzled hoodie you’ll regret.
Bring a Buddy: Kids shopping solo? A disaster waiting to happen. Send ’em in pairs or with a friend. They’ll call each other out on buying unsightly goods or overpaying. Plus, kids can share the previous year’s goods with each other, hand-me-downs, but make it cool.
Gift Cards = Free Money (Sorta): Got a gift card burning a hole in your pocket? Don’t just blow it on full-price goods. Hold out for sales and watch that value multiply. It’s like a small power-up for your wallet.
Trendy Today, Cringey Tomorrow: That outrageous fashion trend everyone’s screaming out about? Wait it out. Odds are, it’ll be on sale or in the donation pile by Halloween. Stick with traditional threads that won’t make you cringe in next year’s images.
Growth Spurts Are Sneaky: Kids grow like weeds, so put a couple of basics in the following size up into your purchase. Check the bargain shelves at the end of the season, you’ll thank yourself when shoes mysteriously don’t fit overnight.
Conclusion
Let’s be real, back-to-school shopping can feel like herding caffeinated squirrels. But honestly? It doesn’t have to damage your head or your bank account. Grab a crumpled list, make some form of budget (even if it’s simply “don’t max out the card”), and hit those sales like you mean it. Seriously, just start with the stuff you actually need. No one needs seventeen new hoodies, I guarantee.
Oh, and let the kids chime in, even if their taste is questionable. Teens? You know they’ll conduct a fashion revolt otherwise. College kids? They’re just shopping for deals so they can spend the leftover cash on pizza.
If you play it smart and don’t stress out over the hype, you’ll wind up with a nice stash of items that don’t look half terrible and don’t cost your next vacation. Checklist in hand, anarchy in heart, go forth and tackle those back-to-school aisles.
