The first thing I think of when I look at this Chloé Edith Satchel is that it looks like a backpack — but it sits on the shoulder with straps!

What a 100% improvement on the old school style! That is why I have a second Edith posted today, the day after labor day, when school is just starting. The really cool (older) “kids” (okay a lot older and rich college adults) might just want to carry this roomy (unknown dimensions), lightly pocketed satchel in a new school way.

Imagine this bag on one shoulder, instead of (uck) a nylon, leather, or designer monogram pack on the back!

Maybe I’m crazy, but I like this bag for that purpose. But of course, it’s still expensive for a school bag (or is it to you?) at $1,560.

Popularity: 7% [?]

Clutches, clutches, clutches. I know we’re seeing a lot of that for the holiday season (and we’re not done, yet!), but I’ve got something different for you—very different. It’s a nicely-sized Red Leather Tote Bag, going for $65 (Buy it Now) on eBay. But the real difference is that this seller’s donating 100% of the profits to the Red Cross.

It’s the perfect way to give–to charity–while receiving (and saving!).

And if your holiday’s going to be cut a bit short, by perhaps a mid-session Winter college course, this is a great foundation to get you ready for your unconventional start. Who cares what time of year it is? I, Ella, have decided that I should always care about the plight of the school-bag-needy.

The listing claims this tote has “several smart pockets: cell phone, pen and pencil pockets, etc.” It’s also sized 12″ x 12″, which is great for the need, as well.

So while you’re lucky enough to go to a school of higher education, and you’re moving up in the world, why don’t you give some back in a way that fits your “poor college student” sized budget!

(You can find more Mission Fish Red Cross Auctions here.)

Popularity: 4% [?]

Ooh, Ra Ra! This Silver Tasseled Satchel by Anthropologie makes me want to cheer with school spirit. As a full-load college student, my current tote is ready to drop out. But this genuine leather bag is sure to be sturdy, and in a crackled tan, it has an already broken-in feel. Style-wise, it’s satisfactory, but I do especially like those side buckled belts (major in class, right now). And I like that it definitely gives off a graduated vibe. Will it pass the true test of toting-time? It works hard with 2 front “cargo” pockets, an outside zipped “pouch”—inside; 2 accessory pouches and a zippered pocket. At 14″ x 11.5″ x 4″, it’s my book-&-essentials lugging dream! But at its near-$300 price tag, it may remain just that without some “financial aid.” I’ve added it to my Birthday List on Kiss Me, Stace, so maybe I’ll get a gift certificate to help me wake up and get going!

Popularity: 5% [?]

What do college-bound fashionistas need? A school tote that’s practical, stylish, cheap and yes, stepping into sophistication. This Liz Claiborne tote says all-that-and-a-bag-of-books. Any lady on-the-go can use this bag’s nifty little features: three inner compartments and plenty-o-pockets. Oh, did I mention, “cheap”? This “Hot Commodity” is on sale for $59.99.

Popularity: 5% [?]

So my psycosisly challenged self was thinking the other day,

Is it wrong to desire a laptop bag, without exactly owning my own laptop? Knowing full well it will probably make me want to then buy a laptop? I don’t know what’s more expensive! the bag thing or how much the laptop would be! Hmm.. the bag thing.

The good news is that I can settle on hunting down a stylish and sophisticated - and longlasting - school tote, instead. And I have until next August!

But the hunt is not going well. I want places for my phone, my thingies, my pens. I’d like protective feet on the bottom. And I NEED it to be sized 14″ x 11″ in order to fit my notebook.

Even though my current bag is corduroy, inexpensive, not-so-stylish, and NOT designer or leather, or any such thing - and also has a couple of stains on the interior - it does its job. It has so many nice pockets. It is the perfect size.

So I may settle on keeping it. Besides, I’ve decided on buying a nice little wristlet to keep my money in. See, I can’t bring my wallet to school, ’cause I’ll forget to put it in my purse, but I need a little bit of money for drinks, lunches and snacks. So with this plan, a little bit of me can show off designer, can show off style, can show off something cute. And I’ve decided on just the thing.

To be continued …

Popularity: 5% [?]

Since I’d like this blog to go to work for me, while I work hard on it, I’m waiting for some affiliate applications to process before I publish some more designer entries. DIFFERENT designers! lol. So, for now, I went on a bargain hunt.

It is HARD to find cute and stylish handbags on some low-price stores, especially when it comes to totes. But THIS bag. The Vanessa Bag caught my eye a while ago. I’m not much for large totes (except I’m hunting down one for school), but the mixture of trendy elements tickles me.

The grommeted allover criss-cross “straps” are unique, and the best part of the bag. Also, according to the description, the hearts are glittery.

The size is perfect for school and the price - $25 - is well under my budget, but it doesn’t hold the sophistication I desire for school (it’s professional, like work!) It’s definitely a teen to 21 bag, or for the whimsically young at heart, nothin’ wrong with that!

- 16″W x 11″H x 5″D
- Cotton with PU Handle

Obviously, the cuteness and bold style earned the spot on the blog.

Popularity: 3% [?]