For the last three years, my black Northface backpack was my best friend. I couldn’t be found on campus without it. My backpack carried all of my school, work, and life necessities, and it was easy to lug around when I had to walk around campus all day. I brought it from class, to the Daily Iowan newsroom, to Noodles for lunch, and even to reporting on the scene for a TV story.
A classic, black backpack will probably never go out of style on a college campus. I loved my Northface Jester because it made me look sporty, but at the same time studious. I never even thought of replacing it with a shoulder bag because 1) regular bags/totes can’t carry everything I need, and 2) everyone in college carries a backpack (if not, they carry a Longchamp, and I didn’t really want to do that, either). A backpack just made sense…
…until I found a new best friend, the Madewell Transport Tote.
I had my eye on this beauty for only a week before giving in and buying it — personalized monogram and all. I haven’t looked back since. While I did love my backpack for a long time, and it held up great throughout my first three years of college, here is why I ultimately decided to replace it:
- A simple, yet elegant tote made me feel like I could dress up to class and look normal. With a backpack, I felt like I had to dress sporty or casual to match the large accessory on my back.
- It actually DOES carry all my necessities.
- I started going straight from class to the office of my new job. I wanted to feel more professional as I walked into the building. Since my co-workers are all older and sophisticated, I felt a little young and out of place strolling in with a backpack.
- I’m pretty sure lawyers don’t carry backpacks, so I thought I’d start adjusting to the legal life early.
I’m obviously a big advocate for the Madewell Transport Tote, but here are some other great backpack alternatives to carry on campus (that will probably fit your textbooks and a laptop):
Tory Burch ‘Robinson’ Double Zip Tote, $575; NORDSTROM.COM
(A personal favorite!)
Michael Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Multifunction Saffiano Leather Tote, $298; michaelkors.com
Cedar Street Medium Harmony Bag, $298; katespade.com
ASOS Structured Shopper Bag With Removable Clutch, $38; asos.com
PRICIER OPTIONS:
Balenciaga Flap Satchel Bag, $2,025; neimanmarcus.com
Smythson Panama N/S Tote, $995; barneys.com
Saint Laurent Leather Tote, $3,290; net-a-porter.com
Do you have a favorite tote (or backpack) for campus? Comment below!
HI, just stopped by to say I enjoyed going through your post! Very cool, interesting (and stylish too!!) Keep it up!
Come check out my blog if you get the time, would love to know what you think!
Keep Blogging!
Love,
Mimi
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Hello! Thanks for the love. I’m glad you enjoyed! XO
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i actually love that simple brown tote! although simple but its so eye catching!
check out my look & share thoughts? (: thx!
http://thatfirsthello.com/2015/10/15/bubble-midi/
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Agreed — I’m seriously in love with mine. Simple enough to look good with any outfit!
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Such good ideas! I’ve been looking for a perfect alternative this year and these are all awesome!
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Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed. You’ll have to let me know which backpack alternative you decide on. 🙂
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