Back to School Style & Survival Guide: For Students and Teachers!!

The school bell’s about to ring, and whether you’re stepping back into a classroom or logging on from home, one thing’s for sure: a fresh start deserves fresh style. This year, let’s blend fashion, function, and a little fun to help students and teachers feel confident, comfortable, and ready to take on the new semester.

From wardrobe upgrades to wellness routines, this guide has everything you need to step into the school year looking and feeling your best!

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👗 First-Day Fits: Back-to-School Fashion for All Ages

📚 Students: From Playground Cool to Hallway Chic

👶 Elementary School:

Let kids express their personality through bold colors, fun prints, and accessories that bring joy to their school day.

  • Bright sneakers and comfy slip-ons

  • Backpacks with flair (think sparkles, patches, or superhero themes)

  • Matching sets or mix-and-match prints for easy mornings

  • Hair clips, scrunchies, and hats for a pop of fun

🧑‍🎤 Middle School:

Middle schoolers are all about trends and individuality. Balance style with comfort:

  • Graphic tees and hoodies layered over jeans or joggers

  • Oversized flannels or shackets (shirt-jackets) for that laid-back cool

  • Bucket hats, canvas totes, and DIY-decorated notebooks

  • Sneakers or slip-on Vans/Converse for hallway-approved swagger

🎓 High School:

It’s all about self-expression with a little trend awareness:

  • Thrifted jeans + baby tees or oversized sweatshirts

  • Cargo pants, layered jewelry, or minimalist fits

  • Platform sneakers or retro New Balance

  • Tiny shoulder bags, claw clips, and layered chain necklaces

🍎 Teachers: Practical Meets Polished

Let’s be honest—teaching is a full-body sport. Your wardrobe should work as hard as you do while keeping you confident and comfortable.

  • Stretchy midi skirts + breathable blouses

  • Chic sneakers or cushioned loafers

  • Blazers over T-shirts for a casual-professional blend

  • Watches, statement earrings, or silk scarves to elevate any outfit

  • Neutral palettes with a pop of color (cardigans, headbands, or flats)

🧠 Pro Tip: Keep a backup pair of flats, a mini lint roller, and a stain stick in your desk drawer—you’ll thank yourself during parent-teacher conference week.

🛍️ Where to Shop (Without Breaking the Bank)

🧒 For Students:

  • WalMart, H&M Kids, Target, Old Navy, and Uniqlo are go-to’s for cute and comfy staples.

  • Thrifting apps like Depop and Poshmark are great for trendy teens.

  • Don’t sleep on Amazon basics—especially for socks, accessories, and backpacks.

👩‍🏫 For Teachers:

  • J.Crew Factory, Madewell, and Loft offer polished yet comfy teacher-friendly staples.

  • Teacher Discounts to check out:

    • Madewell – 15% off with a valid school ID

    • Staples – Classroom rewards and special educator pricing

    • Michaels & JOANN – Great for classroom décor and supplies with educator discounts

🌈 Reset Your Routine: Daily Habits That Set You Up to Win

🕗 For Students:

Morning Hacks:

  • Lay out clothes the night before (yes, even socks!)

  • Keep a “launchpad” area for backpacks and shoes

  • Add a 2-minute stretch or mindfulness app before breakfast

Study Space Upgrade:

  • Cute desk accessories = more motivation

  • Use color-coded folders or binders for a visual boost

  • Add a mood-boosting playlist or study tunes on repeat

Mindset Check-In:

  • Keep a “confidence journal” or sticky-note mantra wall

  • Practice deep breathing or quick meditations (try Headspace or Calm)

💼 For Teachers:

Classroom Reset:

Daily Self-Care Practices:

  • Keep protein-packed snacks or calming teas at your desk

  • Try a 5-minute body scan meditation during lunch

  • Stay hydrated with a big, insulated water bottle (bonus: fewer refills)

Wellness Boosters:

  • Add a rollerball essential oil or desk diffuser for quick aromatherapy

  • Create a “win list” at the end of each week to celebrate the small stuff

  • Don’t skip breaks—you can’t pour from an empty cup!

🎤 Final Word

Whether you’re stacking textbooks or lesson plans, back-to-school season is about more than a new wardrobe—it’s about a mindset reset. A few thoughtful changes to your look, your space, and your habits can make a huge difference in how you show up this fall.

Here’s to showing up as your best self—sharp, stylish, and centered.

Have a go-to outfit or classroom tip you love? Share it in the comments or tag me on Instagram @famously_amy with your #BackToSchoolStyle!

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