Going back to school or college after a long holiday means starting fresh once again. It is time to get busy with studying, assignments, and deadlines. For any high school or college student, there are a lot of things to prepare to cope with a busy semester ahead.
There are a lot of things to buy in advance including school supplies and notebooks. However, don’t forget to buy new clothes and accessories. They will give you a brand new look and make you more confident. Check our list below for 7 most essential back to school item for high school and college students.
The back to school essential for high school and college students
1. Polo
For the top layer, one of the most versatile items is the polo. Polo shirts are of the casual style. But they also look very fashionable. Many male students might like wearing a basic tee. However, a polo shirt can do a wonderful job to make you feel comfortable just like a tee. But it is smarter and more elegant.
Hence, a classic-cut polo is a perfect option for you to wear when you go to school or to a night out. You can wear it when you play tennis or golf. A polo t-shirt will go nicely with a pair of Jeans or shorts. It is a perfect item for the summer. You can also wear it as a base layer when it gets cooler outside.
How to choose a polo shirt?
- You can choose either a polo shirt of regular fit or slim fit. Make sure you pick a polo shirt of your size. Wear it fitted, not too tight or too loose.
- Avoid wearing a polo shirt with a big logo embroidered on the chest of it.
- You can choose from many types of materials including cotton and polyester. Cotton is more breathable but polyester is more durable.
- There are many options of colors for you to choose from. However, keep in mind that basic colors will always work. If you look for a polo shirt to wear on a variety of occasions, go for one with neutral colors.
Take a look at some of the best polo shirts that you can find on the market
Pau1Hami1ton T-05 Men’s Casual Classic Pure Cotton Solid Golf Short Sleeve Polo Shirt
This short-sleeve polo is made of 100 % of cotton with two-placket. There are 4 options of colors for you to choose from including black, blue, grey, and dark grey.
Why Do We Pick It?
- This polo is made of high-quality cotton to be very comfortable and breathable. It is also very lightweight.
- If you like a polo shirt which is snugly fit, this one is for you. Not to mention that this polo T-shirt can stay in its original shape for a long time. The collar is roll resistant to help the shirt look crisp through any range of motion.
- It is well made with very solid sturdy stitching lines.
- This is definitely a great choice for a summer day.
U.S. Polo Assn. Men’s Classic Polo Shirt
This short-sleeve polo is made of 60 % of cotton and 40 % of polyester. It features 2-button placket and an embroidered logo on the chest as well as a ribbed collar and cuffs. It is sports flex stretch. There are more than 20 colors for you to choose from including white, red, blue, and black.
Why Do We Pick It?
- Made with high-quality materials and technologies, this men’s classic polo shirt has a quick-drying performance and is very easy for a busy student to care for.
- It is also cool and breathable. It can wick moisture and sweat away to keep your body cool and fresh all of the time, even on a hot summer day.
- Last but not least, this polo shirt is very durable and can resist stain really effectively.
IZOD Men’s Advantage Performance Solid Polo
The material of this polo is 60 % of cotton and 40 % of polyester It features the button closure with 1 button as well as an embroidered logo on the chest. Like other 2 polo shirts above, this one also has short sleeves. It has a natural stretch. This polo shirt is available in many colors from Mazarine blue, Blithe blue, to pink.
Why Do We Pick It?
- This polo shirt is capable of wicking moisture away effective to keep your body cool all of the time.
- It can stretch naturally and allows you to have a lot of movements and flexibility while wearing this polo shirt.
- In addition, the collar is roll resistant to stay in the same shape for a long time.
- Finally, this polo is rated 15 + for the Ultraviolet protection factor to keep your body safe while you have to stay under the sun.
2. Dark denim
Just like the polo shirt is the staple for the upper, a pair of dark denim jeans is an essential piece of the bottom. A pair of dark denim can be worn to classes or for your day out. It can be worn if you like the casual style, street style as well as the smart style. If you want to incorporate it into your vintage style, it is also perfectly fine.
How to choose a pair of dark denim?
- You can wear a pair of dark denim to a casual event or a more formal event. The main difference is the style and the cut of the denim. If you want to wear a pair to a casual place, go for a pair which has the classic style. On the other hand, if you want a pair of denim Jeans for your smart casual outlook, go for one which is more of the tailored-cut style.
- It is better to go for a slightly tight pair of Jeans than a loose one. A loose one will get out of shape over time and will mess up your overall shape. On the other hand, a slightly tight pair of Jeans will break in after a few times, making it fitter.
- Pay attention to the waistband as well. When you try on a pair of dark denim jeans, do your finger check. A pair of Jeans is considered to be fit when you can’t put more than 2 fingers in the waistband.
Here are our top picks for the best dark denim Jeans you can find on the market:
Levi’s Men’s 550 Relaxed-Fit Jean
This pair of dark denim jeans features the zipper closure. There are several colors for you to choose from including dark stonewash and Fonzie. The legs of this pair are slightly tapered. It sits at waist with the relaxed through thigh.
Why Do We Pick It?
- This pair of Jeans is machine washable, making it easier for a busy student to care for the Jeans.
- There is extra room in seat and thigh to make it more comfortable for you to wear, especially for a long time.
- It is very durable with the high-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship.
- In case you are looking for a pair of dark denim of relaxed fit with an all-around style, this pair of Jeans is for you.
Wrangler Authentics Mens Classic Regular-Fit Jean
This pair of Jeans has the button close system. There are 8 other options for you to choose from including Twilight flex and black. It features the classic straight-leg jeans with 5 pockets and a logo embroidered on the back of the waist.
Why Do We Pick It?
- This pair of Jeans is cut nicely and carefully with solid stitching lines to bring the perfect shape.
- The material is very tough and durable. It is also very easy to care for- you can either wash it by hand or with the washing machine.
- Moreover, it can complement your build perfectly with enough flexibility for your movements.
Men’s Slim Fit Black Stretch Destroyed Ripped Skinny Denim Jeans
You can choose among 10 different options of colors- from the dark ones such as black and grey to the colorful ones such as red and wine red. This pair of dark denim Jeans is made of syndicate premium material.
Why Do We Pick It?
- The material is of premium quality as it is very soft, comfortable, and lightweight.
- In case you are looking for a pair of denim Jeans with an elegant and trendy look as well as the slim fit cut to order, this one is for you.
- Last but not least, this pair of Jeans can break in quickly and bring a perfect fit to you in a short amount of time.
3. Watch
For a student, being able to manage time more effectively is one of the most important skills that she or he needs to master. Hence, having a watch will make it easier for the student to be on time for the lecture or work.
A watch is not just for you to use to tell time, it is also an essential accessory. A suitable watch will help to enhance your style significantly. To many people, a watch is also a symbol to show off their social status.
Choosing a suitable watch that meets your needs and requirements is quite a challenging task. Here are a few things that you need to consider when choosing a watch as well as how to wear them in style.
The types of the watch
First of all, you need to think about the type of the watch that you would like to buy. There are several types on the market including dress watch, sports watch or smart watch. Think about your needs and where you are going to wear the watch. If you are a student who often plays sport, you can go for a sports watch. If you like technology and want to keep track of your body’s movement, go for a smart watch.
The prices
The prices of a watch can vary a great deal. A watch might only cost you about 20 dollars. On the other hand, some will cost you more than thousands of dollars. For a student, you shouldn’t spend much on a watch. An expensive watch is quite formal and doesn’t quite suit the school environment.
The colors
You can choose among black, silver, and gold. Think about your current style. If you like the minimalist style, go for black and white. On the other hand, if you prefer something fancy, you can go for silver or gold.
The size
Consider the size of the watch’s face to make sure the watch can stay nice and proportional on your wrist.
Finally, be careful when you buy a watch. There are a lot of fake watches out there. Make sure you only buy watches from a trusted retailer. In addition, don’t be tricked by great deals and promotions. A high-quality watch of Rolex that only cost 100 dollars? It is definitely a fake watch.
4. Joggers
A pair of joggers is also called as the warm-up pants. This item is worn when you need the extra comfort, regardless of whether when you stay at home or when you go out. Some pairs of joggers can be worn when you need a pair of pant for running or exercising. Any student would need such a functional and versatile pair of joggers like that. And if you don’t have any, it is time for you to shop for one.
What you need to pay attention to when you go shopping for a pair of joggers:
Materials
The 3 most common types of materials that you can find in joggers are cotton, polyester and the blend of these two. In general, cotton joggers are thicker and warmer. On the other hand, polyester joggers are easy to care for. They are also very comfortable and well-ventilated. They are not just as warm as cotton joggers.
Colors
Most of the pairs of joggers on the market come with dark colors such as black and grey and you should opt for them. These colors make it easier for you to incorporate that pair of joggers to other clothes in your wardrobes.
You can wear a pair of joggers with your basic fitted tee and a pair of sneakers. You can also pair your joggers with other dressier items such as your blazer. The contrast between two items can help you to create a unique expression.
Take a look at some of the highest-quality joggers on the market:
MOFEVER Men Black Joggers Athletic Fleece Pants for Workout Training Ribbed Ankle with Pockets
This pair of joggers is made of 100 % of polyester. It features an elastic waistband and 2 sides seam pockets. It has the style of a pull-on jogger pant with ribbed ankles.
Why Do We Pick It?
- This pair of joggers is made of the durable and high-quality material as well as the breathable lining and soft mesh fabric.
- It is very well-ventilated and comfortable.
- The elastic waistband makes it easier for you to adjust the waistband to your most comfortable fit.
- The 2 seam pockets are large enough for you to put in a lot of things.
Hat and Beyond VW Mens Jogger Pants Biker Slim Fit Casual Fleece Active Elastic 1VWA5001-18
This pair of joggers is made of 55 % of cotton and 45 % of polyester. It features an elastic waistband, cuffs, 1 back pocket, and 2 sides seam pockets. It has the style of a pull-on jogger pant with zipper closure.
Why Do We Pick It?
- This pair of joggers is very comfortable to wear thanks to its relaxed fit. It also allows you to move around or sit down without feeling any tightness.
- The materials are of high-quality to bring the highest level of comfort and durability to you. It is also durable and washable in the washing machine.
- In addition, this pair of joggers is capable of ventilating air well and wicking moisture away to keep it cool and comfortable for you all of the time,
Mooncolour Men’s Casual Skinny Jogging Harem Pants
This pair of joggers is made of 55 % of cotton and 45 % of polyester. It features an elastic waistband and 2 sides seam pockets. It has the style of a pull-on jogger pant with ribbed ankles.
Why Do We Pick It?
- The blend of cotton and polyester makes this pair of jogger warm and cool enough all of the time.
- It features a drawstring and an elastic waistband to help you adjust the size of the joggers to bring a perfect fit for you.
- While this pair of joggers is more snug fit than two other pairs of joggers on the list, it is very flexible for you to move around wearing this pair of joggers.
5. Sneakers
5a. White sneakers
A pair of white sneakers is a trendy item of this year. And if you want to be trendy and fashionable, you should have one in your wardrobe. Besides being a fashionable item, a pair of white sneakers is also a very functional and versatile item. You can incorporate it with a lot of clothes in your wardrobe. In addition, you can wear a pair of sneakers on a lot of occasions- when you go to work, when you go shopping or when you hang out with your friends. If you like the minimalist style, a pair of white sneakers is definitely a must-have item.
Tips on choosing a pair of white sneakers:
- The most important factor when you choose a pair of white sneakers is to make sure it fits your feet perfectly. You should try on the pair you like and walk a few steps on it to see if you are comfortable wearing this pair or not.
- Pay attention to the construction of the sneakers. Not all of them are built in the same way. Go for one with the design and the construction that you like the most.
- There are several types of materials on the market for you to choose from such as leather and suede. Real leather is more expensive but it is definitely a worthy investment as this type of materials is tougher and more durable. On the other hand, suede leather is cheaper and is much easier to care for.
Let’s consider some of the most popular white sneakers on the market:
PUMA Men’s Suede Wrap Color Blocked Sneaker
This pair of white sneakers is made of 100 % of suede leather featuring rubber soles. The shaft measures about low-top from arch. The upper part of the sneakers is of the wrap style featuring embossed tonal logoing and pebbled Formstrip.
Why Do We Pick It?
- The innovative and advanced sock liners bring the highest level of comfort and extra cushioning to support your steps.
- The outsole is highly resistant to help you walk on different types of terrains without any difficulty.
- If you prefer a pair of white sneaker which is quite different in style with other pairs of sneakers that you can find on the market, take a look at this one.
- The construction of this pair of sneakers is very solid with excellent craftsmanship.
Lacoste Men’s Lerond Fashion Sneaker
This pair of white sneaker is made of 75% of leather and 25 % polyester. It features rubber soles and mesh linings. It has the sports design with tonal laces and the iconic crocodile embroidered on the side of the sneakers.
Why Do We Pick It?
- First of all, with the mesh linings, this pair of white sneakers is very breathable and well-ventilated. The mesh area also prevents moisture from developing effectively.
- In addition, the sole of this pair of white sneaker is padded with extra cushioning to help support your ankles as well as your feet.
- This pair of white sneakers is suitable for anyone who is looking for the most classic and traditional sneakers on the market.
TIOSEBON Lightweight Mens Casual Sneakers Breathable Athletic Running Shoes
This pair of white sneaker is made of 75% of leather and 25 % polyester. It features rubber soles and mesh linings.
Why Do We Pick It?
- The materials of this pair of white sneaker are very lightweight and comfortable.
- Thanks to the mesh linings, the shoes are comfortable and breathable.
- Moreover, the outsole of this pair of sneaker has the non-slip properties to help you walk on slippery and wet surface without any difficulty.
- Most importantly, this pair of white sneakers has the high elastic MD outsole which is soft and bendable, providing you with enough buffers between your feet and the ground.
5b. Athletic sneakers
If you take part in exercises such as walking, training or running, it is important to buy a pair of athletic sneakers. They support your feet better than normal pairs of shoes or sneakers. In addition, they will help to prevent injuries from these activities more effectively.
Here are some tips on choosing a pair of athletic sneakers for you:
- As I mention above, athletic sneakers are worn when you take part in many types of sports. And different sports will require you to wear different types of athletic shoes. So think about the sports that you often take part in- field sports or court sports in order to find the most suitable pair of athletic shoes.
- You should go to store and try on the pair of athletic sneakers that you like to see if it is a good fit for you. In case you buy a pair of athletic sneakers online, make sure you can return it or exchange it in case it doesn’t fit.
- The best time for you to go on and try on athletic sneakers are in the evening when your feet is t their largest.
- Wear the pair of athletic shoes that you would like to buy and try to walk a few steps on these shoes, jumping and performing other movements to see if you are 100 % comfortable with these shoes before you buy it.
6. Lots of (cheap / affordable) Accessories
Clothes and a pair of shoes are just a fundamental part for you to build your image. In order to enhance your style, you would need to buy a lot of accessories including a pair of sunglasses and a belt.
6a. Sunglasses
A pair of sunglasses is a great assistant for your eyes. First of all, it helps to block the UV rays from getting into your eyes and damage it. In addition, with a polarized pair of sunglasses, you can avoid seeing glares when you have to walk or drive in a sunny day. And most importantly, a pair of sunglasses can highlight the good features of your face and hide the not-so-good one. In the end, your look can change significantly when you have your sunglasses on. And finally, a trendy pair of sunglasses makes you look cool and fashionable.
Are you tempted to buy a new pair of sunglasses, here are a few things that you should remember:
- The design of the frame: Since a pair of sunglasses can enhance the great features of your face, it is important that you can choose a pair which can complement the shape of your face. Different face shape will be suitable to different designs of glasses. For example, if you have a square face, you will look best in a pair of sunglasses with a rounded frame or an aviator frame.
- The color of the frame: Another factor that you need to take into consideration when you choose a pair of sunglasses is the color of the frame. You can choose this aspect based on 2 factors- your skin tone and the color of your hair. Normally, If you have a fair skin tone and lighter color of hair, you can go for brighter colors such as brown or yellow. On the other hand, if you have dark skin tone and dark hair color, you can go for a pair of darker-colored sunglasses.
- The color of the lenses: Different colors of the lenses are suitable for different occasions. For example, if you often taking part in snow sports, you should choose a pair of sunglasses with red lenses. On the other hand, go for blue lenses if you often play tennis outside.
- The material of the lenses and the frames: Finally, you need to pay attention to the materials of a pair of sunglasses including the material of the frame and the material of the lens. Lenses which are made from glass are heavy, durable and expensive. On the other hand, polycarbonate lenses are cheaper but they are less scratch resistant and couldn’t help you to see as clear as with glass lenses.
Another factor is the materials of the frame. Titanium frames are tough, scratch resistant and hard to be broken. But they also make a pair of sunglasses more expensive. If you are tight on money, you can buy a pair of sunglasses with polyester frame. It is flexible and lightweight.
6b. Belt
Many people don’t pay much attention to the belt. In their opinion, a belt is just a small addition to their outfit. You can choose either to wear it or not. But I urge you to think twice the next time you choose a belt. A belt has its own practical value that no one can deny. In addition, it can add more emphasizes to your style and is an important transitional piece of accessory between your top and your bottom. Last but not least, a belt will coordinate with your pair of shoes to enhance your look.
Hence, you need to spend time and effort in order to search for the perfect belt. Here are some things you need to consider while buying a belt:
- Go for leather belts. Leather is classy and looks very elegant. Not to mention that this material is of the highest quality among all types of materials. It is soft and smooth on the tough. In addition, it is scratch resistant and durable.
- Measure your belly and choose the belt with the appropriate length. If you wear a 32-inch trouser waist, you can wear a belt of 34 to 36-inch in length.
- The color of the belt is also very important. As I mentioned above, it would coordinate well with your shoes. If you have shoes in mostly black, you can go for a black belt. Black is also the color that you should opt for in case you look for a functional and versatile belt to wear to a wide variety of occasions.
- Finally, it is worth noting a belt is a classical and functional accessory that you are going to use for a long time. Hence, you shouldn’t pay too little for cheap belts. Cheap belts will be worn out quicker and you need to spend more money on buying new belts, eventually.
6c. Jewelry
Who says that men can’t wear jewelry? Forget all of the old-fashioned rules. Men can wear jewelry and they can look elegant in these pieces as long as they know how to pick one and wear one properly. Some types of jewelry you can consider buying including necklaces, bracelets, pins, cufflinks and rings.
Here are some features that you need to consider in case you decide to buy some pieces of jewelries before you coming back to school:
- Color: Think about the color of the piece of jewelry that you want to buy: Doo you want it to be gold, silver or other bright and colorful colors? Think about the colors that you like and decide.
- Metal: Besides colors, you can also think about the metal of the piece of jewelry that you would like to buy. If you don’t want metallic jewelry, you can also go for wooden jewelry. They tend to be more vintage and casual. With wooden jewelry, you don’t have to worry much about polishing or taking care of the jewelry to ensure they look nice all of the time.
- Price: Jewelry, just like watches, can be expensive. If you intend to buy a lot of jewelry and want to change your looks as well as your accessories frequently, there is no need to pay a lot of money for them, especially when you are just students with a tight budget.
- Finally, it is important that you choose a reputational retailer to purchase your jewelry from. Even cheap jewelry can look expensive and last for a long time as long as you know where to buy. Research carefully and check for reviews from other people before you make your final decision.
Remember that no matter how many pieces of jewelry that you have, it is important that you keep it as simple as possible. Don’t wear a lot of jewelry. Match the colors of the jewelry with other pieces of your accessories as well as your clothes.
Here are some of our top picks for the best pieces of jewelry for men:
Top Plaza Jewelry Lava Rock Stone Matte Black Agate Mens Gemstone Beads Elastic Bracelet W/Gold Lion Head
This package comes with 4 bracelets, 1 top Plaza velet and 1 jewelry pouch. The size of each bracelet is 4 inches.
Why Do We Pick It?
- These 4 bracelets have very unique design with the gold lion head gemstone beads.
- They are elastic and stretchy to fit most of the sizes of the wrist and ensure that you can feel comfortable wearing them.
- In addition, the gemstones are well-made to bring a perfect look the bracelet.
- A very unique design to wear with your casual and fun outlooks.
ORAZIO 4-12Pcs Wooden Beaded Bracelet Leather Braided Bangle for Men and Women Elastic 5-8MM Beads
The package comes with options of 4 bracelets and 12 bracelets. The sizes of the beads are from 5 mm to 8 mm. The beads are in brown and coffer colors.
Why Do We Pick It?
- If you like the vintage style of bracelets, this package is made for you. These beads are suitable to be paired with both of your formal and informal wear as well.
- Moreover, these bracelets are super elastic which can adjust to different sizes of wrists. It is also easier and more convenient for you to wear the bracelets on and take them off.
- Each of the beads are handmade carefully and polished well for the perfect look.
- The material of the band is made with real and high-quality leather to be soft and smooth on your wrist.
- The seller of this package of jewelry offers a lifetime warranty on it.
Leather Bracelet for Men with Magnetic Buckle
This bracelet features details made from 316 L stainless steel with braided leather band.
Why Do We Pick It?
- This bracelet has the magnetic buckle, which makes it super easy for you to take the bracelet on and off in a short amount of time.
- It is firm and durable, which can last for a long time thanks to the high-quality material of highly resistant stainless steel as well as the premium leather band.
- Moreover, it is lead and nickel free, keeping you safe and prevent irritation from occurring on your wrists.
- It is very lightweight and comfortable to wear all of the time.
6d. Hat
Just like a pair of sunglasses, a hat is not just a functional item. Of course it can help to protect your head as well as your face from the harmful UVAs and UVBs. Moreover, it can also be a very stylish item- as long as you choose it right. In the winter, a beanie hat is capable of keeping your head warm and helping your body to retain the heat. And last but not least, a hat can help you to cover your bad hair. Students are busy and sometimes when deadlines come, there is no time to take a proper care of their hair. And wearing a hat when they go out is the best and quickest solution.
Here are a few things that you need to know when you buy a hat on the market:
- Know the shape of your head. Different shapes are more suitable for different styles of hat. If you have an oval hat, lucky you. You can wear mostly all types and designs of hat. On the other hand, if you have long face, go for one with low crown and vice versa.
- Know the size of your head. It is important that you can find a hat that fits your perfectly. When you go shopping for a hat, you should try to put the hat that you like on and see whether it is a perfect fit for you or not. Try to nod your head backward to see if the hat falls down. If it doesn’t and you feel comfortable wearing it, it is a perfect fit for you.
- In case you buy a hat online, measure your head’s size accordingly and check with the sizing table of the manufacturer in order to find the size which is the best fit for you
- There are many designs and materials of hats on the market for you to choose from. You can base your decision on the formality that you want from a hat as well as your personal preference. If you like something formal, go for a fedora hat or a trilby hat. On the other hand, if you want some hats which are more casual, you can try the snapback hat.
- Different materials also determine the formality of the hat. Take the fedora hat, for example. A wool or felt fedora hat is more suitable for formal events. On the other hand, a straw fedora hat is more casual.
6e. Backpack
The last item on the list is the backpack. I don’t have to say much about the importance of a backpack. It helps you to carry a lot of stuff thanks to its spacious room. In addition, when you carry the backpack with both of your shoulders, it is better for your posture. And you don’t have to worry about back pain any more.
Take a look at some of the most important features that you need to look for in a backpack:
- The size of the backpack: Think about what you need to carry with your backpack. Do you need to bring along your laptop or your lunch? If you tend to carry a lot, it is reasonable to buy a big backpack. On the other hand, if you don’t carry much to school, you don’t have to spend much money on a big backpack.
- The compartments of the backpack: A backpack with a lot of compartments will make it easier for you to organize all of your stuff. If you tend to have a lot of small items (like pens and pencil), books, notebooks, and water bottle, it is better if you go for a backpack with separate compartments for different items of different sizes.
- The zippers: You need to check for how heavy-duty the zippers are and whether they are double-headed zippers. Double-headed zippers help to provide you with convenient access from 2 ways.
- Straps and padding: They are among the most important factors that you need to consider. High-quality backpacks would have wide and padded straps to help reduce the burden of the weight that you have to carry on your back. In addition, the straps should be adjustable to your comfortable length. You should go in a physical store and look for a backpack that you like. Try to wear it to see if you like the padding as well as the length the straps provide you or not.
You may concern : Best Leather Backpack for Men
Conclusion
Here is the list of 12 most essential items that a student should consider buying before going back to school or college. These items are functional and useful. For example, a watch can help a student to tell time or a pair of sunglasses can help to protect him from the harmful sunlight. In addition, these items are as versatile as they can be used for a wide variety of occasions- just a pair of Jeans and a polo shirt can make a suitable outlook for work, school and day out.
I hope with all of the information above as well as the tips on buying these essential items, you would be able to quickly buy the ones which are suitable for your needs and preferences. When you finish preparing all of these items, you will see that your next semester will be much more awesome.
