The Connector
The Connector
Illustration by Anderson Carman
Illustration by Anderson Carman

As you transition into college, you realize that you are still in need of a backpack just like in high school, especially in art school. These days, there are plenty of options for carrying your essentials around in something that doesn’t scream “grade-school chic.” From that Design 101 textbook you only read once to the multiple trips to Sam Flax for copic markers and acrylic paints, these bags are sure to pass the test. Luckily, I’ve taken the weight off of your shoulders and found a few types of back-to-school bags for lugging around your charcoal and x-acto blades in style.

  1. The tote bag

If you want a stylish bag that can also carry all your art history notes and graphite pencil cases, then large tote bags like this one from Madewell are perfect for you. If you don’t feel the need for a legit leather bag, then a faux-leather one at a fraction of the cost is easy to find too.

  1. The Herschel Backpack

Herschel backpacks gave Jansport a run for their money when these cool, updated bags first came onto the scene. With room to fit all of your notebooks, textbooks and even a section for your laptop, these bags can’t be beat. This bag is probably the most practical for carrying everything you need. Herschel backpacks also offer more classic-looking Jansport-style bags.

  1. The bucket bag

Something about the shape of bucket bags has always drawn me to them. It’s probably the drawstring component that opens the bag up to reveal a much bigger space. Some great examples of these bags are this burgundy one from Madewell or this dupe from Forever 21.