My days of college classes are over (for now) but many of you are heading back to college this semester and I’m actually jealous! I always used to get so excited every fall semester because it meant new professors, new people, new planners and books, and just a general air of change from a long summer. I can remember last fall semester when I was thrilled about organizing my planner, setting up my books, and running off to class on a crisp morning with Starbucks in hand. Call me crazy, but I miss it!

Here are some things I would usually be obsessing over this time of year.

Braids

When I think of braids I think of Lauren Conrad. She helped put braids back into the spotlight as something chic and (seemingly) simple. Instead of spending a lot of time straightening or curling your hair before class like everyone else, braids are a lot faster to do once you get the routine down and stand out more.

Look at this beautiful braid on the left! From the looks of it, it seems to be a half-french braid that goes along the side of the head into a side-pony tail. I love the idea of tying it off with a ribbon that’s also used as a headband. For more ideas like this one and step-by-step guides you can check out The Beauty Department, a blog run by Lauren Conrad and other stylists. This is my personal favorite that I’ve been wearing.

 Pencil Cases

When I was little I’d always carry one of those huge plastic boxes that had all my pencils in them. Then all the cool kids just started throwing pencils in their backpacks so I followed along. When I got to college I decided to rebel against everyone who just brought a pen to class by purchasing a pencil bag. I still have it to this day. Someone in class was always looking for scissors, a highlighter, a Sharpie, etc. and I was the one who pulled out her pencil bag and loaned it to everyone. Hello, conversation starter!

Gim Carry makes little bags and keychain holders. One of her pencil cases are pictured on the left. She’s truly gifted and makes each of these herself. I’ve been dying to purchase one!

Fresh Nails

I would always paint my nails the night before my first class. My favorite polish brand is OPI because of the vast color options, the solution of the polish isn’t hard to apply (unlike others that can be sticky or runny), the shape of the brush is flat which is the only way I can get a smooth coat, and the handle feels comfortable. For that I am willing to pay more!

Pictured on the left is Privacy Please by OPI, a really delicate pink color, and my personal favorite nude Dulce de Leche by OPI. I recommend turning to nudes and light pinks for first day of classes. It will match everything you’re wearing that first week and won’t make an loud statement. Your nails will look fresh!

Cute Outfits

Doesn’t nearly every girl get excited about their “first day” outfit? This was always a big deal in my house growing up. I think it’s funny looking back as an adult… We used to spend so much time preparing the outfit for that very first day yet the rest of the year usually fell flat because we didn’t care anymore.

Now that I have the blessings of adult wisdom, I suggest that if you really need to go out and buy new clothes this year look for things you can see yourself wearing for a long period of time. I personally go for nude minimalistic looks. The key is to look for staples in your wardrobe and go from there. That way you know you’ll be able to rock the outfit all year and mix & match! Don’t go out and buy that cute hot pink shirt if you’ll get sick of it after the first week. We’ve all been there.