Lesson Five: There is a time for a backpack...

And there are times when you should take it up a notch with a stylish laptop bag, or purse. I have found that when dressed up in more than a tshirt and shorts for class, a backpack is uncomfortable to wear and does not compliment my everyday outfits. Also, I have found that having stylish accessories motivates me to create outfits to show them off.  So, a couple years ago I decided to experiment with large purses instead of the backpack. However, I have found that the best substitute is not a purse, but a laptop bag. Not only can you find ones that are stylish (see picture below), but they are extremely roomy and are made out of very durable material.

You should be able to carry all that you need to use for your day at school in one of these bags. If you can't, then either your course load is ridiculous or you need to reassess what you deem as a necessary day to day item.

By using one of these instead of a backpack, you now look like a professional student rather than just a college kid. PLUS, when you are interviewing for a job you now have the perfect accessory to top off your business professional outfit! I would suggest getting a bag which is red or has a red tint (depending on the material of the bag). Red is a great primary color which compliments practically outfits in any color palette, and a bag of this bright hue will add style to all of your everyday outfits.

Note: You should be able to carry all that you need to use for your day at school in one of these bags. Now, I know what you are going to say to me.  "But I NEED my backpack, because nothing else will hold all of my necessary daily items!"  False.  All of your personal items that you carry in your purse like cell phone, keys, lotion, antibacterial, etc... should fit into a quart size plastic bag or smaller.  Besides that, you should need your planner, a single notebook or 1inch 3 ring binder that contains the notes for your classes that day, and the necessary items to complete one homework assignment in between classes (don't overdo it and think, 'Oh yeah I'm going to carry ALL my homework with me every day so I can work on it all in between classes.' Yeah, that doesn't work.  You will be more productive if you focus on one assignment at a time, plus you will have less baggage.)