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Back to school - in style, on budget

It all begins with an idea.

Here are the key back‑to‑school trends for 2025, covering everything from fashion and accessories to tech and budgeting:

🎒 Fashion & Style

✨ Accessories & Bags

  • Character bags & keychains: Disney, Hello Kitty, Troll doll charms stay popular — a playful way to personalize everyday gear Your Observer+1Parents+1.

  • Platform sneakers & chunky loafers: Retro sneakers and loafers with thick soles bring edge and utility Willtiptop+5Teen Vogue+5Marie Claire UK+5.

  • Ballet flats & thong-style sandals: Balletcore revival continues through square-toed flats and padded-sole sandals Who What Wear+15Teen Vogue+15Marie Claire UK+15.

  • Utility backpacks & slouch totes: Malia‑Obama‑style slouch totes and utility backpacks like classic Jansport combine fashion with function Teen Vogue.

💻 Tech & School Supplies

  • Tech-enabled backpacks: Built-in USB charge ports are trending; wearable tech (smartwatches, fitness trackers) doubles as style Coresight+2SMCDress+2Wikipedia+2.

  • AI in classrooms: Schools are integrating AI literacy programs for fall 2025 — tech readiness is on the rise Kiplinger.

  • Price hikes expected: Backpacks and supplies are ~20% more expensive vs. 2019, driven partly by tariffs KPRC+1NerdWallet+1.

  • Smart budgeting: Many families are using coupons, BNPL services like Klarna, and shifting brands/store loyalty to save The Sun+13OUTFRONT+13NerdWallet+13.

💡 Shopping & Budget Behavior

  • Early purchasing: 32% of parents now shop early (at start of summer), up from 14% in 2024 SuperAwesome.

  • BNPL & credit use: 23% plan to use “buy now, pay later” methods; 63% expect to pay via credit cards NerdWallet.

  • Resale & thrift popularity: Off‑price retailers and thrift stores are seeing big traffic gains—value-seeking is in full swing Placer.ai.

✅ Quick Strategy for Students & Parents

TrendHow to Embrace ItStart earlyShop summer sales and Prime Day (check Prime Day shoe deals!) ParentsMix basics with trendsCombine thrifted or everyday pieces with one statement item (e.g., Y2K platform sneaker)Focus on accessoriesAdd character charms, a trendy tote, or tech‑enabled backpack for personalityBudget smartUse coupons, shop resale/thrift, and leverage BNPL only for necessitiesStay tech-savvyGet a smartwatch or charging backpack—not just stylish, but practical

In Summary

Back‑to‑school 2025 is all about self-expression—combining nostalgic early‑2000s style, oversized comfort, standout accessories, and tech that works for today’s digital classrooms. Smart shopping and budget mindfulness will help families stretch their dollars in an inflation-conscious season.

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