One item that basically every college student uses on a daily basis but hardly ever puts much thought into is their backpack. With the number of classes we attend and all of the books and papers we need to keep organized for them, backpacks become essential. And with so many options out there, why not stand apart from the crowd with a bag that screams you?

CLASSIC:

If you’re like me, you prefer the classic backpack look we’ve all been familiar with since we first marched through the threshold of kindergarten. So if this is the look you like to stick with, I would say go for either bright spring colors or something with a bold print. Tribal prints are always a great way to get a lot of color and style in a bag, and this way your bag will have style with a hint of personality. I managed to find a great backpack at JCPenny’s for $14 that has style and the capacity to fit my daily haul.

SATCHEL:

Another great look and an upgrade to the standard messenger bag is the satchel. The leather and canvas bags always catch my eye when I walk through the store. I would recommend something slightly neutral, like a white canvas bag with tan leather straps that can be paired with basically any outfit. If you’d like a bit of fun or a different look for your bag, maybe a bright color like fuchsia or animal print satchel would be the way to go. You can even add patterned scarves to the handles to add pops of color and print to your bag.

KNAPSACK:

Finally, a look that many people would say is both stylish and functional is a knapsack. I’ve always had a soft spot for this look. There’s just something about an upgraded traveler’s pack that makes me want to buy one for every day of the week. With a wide range of fabrics, patterns and sizes it’s a look that caters to every individual look. I go for the slightly large leather knapsack with multiple pockets to hold all of my little necessities I can’t ever seem to find a place for.

So, upgrade that bag you’ve been toting around since high school for something that’s modern, stylish and sets you apart from the thousands of other students milling around campus.

— Asia

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Tired of toting around that good ol’ JanSport book bag you’ve had since seventh grade? We thought so! This fall, stride to class in style with these fashionable carry-all options.

The Rucksack

Photo courtesy of Urban Outfitters

Think of the rucksack as the backpack’s stylish and carefree big sister. Although still a backpack in nature, the slouchy, relaxed rucksack is a great way for those concerned with function to carry books and school supplies in style. As one of fall’s hottest items, rucksacks can be found everywhere this season and at every price point, from Target, to Urban Outfitters, to Barney’s New York. This tribal printed rucksack by Dusen Dusen is one of our top picks. You can pick up yours at Urban Outfitters or online at urbanoutfitter.com. ($129 Urban Outfitters)

The Classic Messenger

Photo courtesy of Moop

The classic messenger bag is and always has been the go-to alternative to the backpack. The popular cross-body is perfect for girls and guys on-the-go. This gray messenger from Moop’s waxed canvas collection is perfect for those who love minimal, well crafted design. The sturdy fabric is constructed to get better with age, like leather or vintage denim, and the surprise pop of the turquoise lining makes this a must-have. Log on to moopshop.com to order one for yourself. ($187 Moop/moopshop.com)

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