The first thing I think of when I look at this Chloe 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.

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.)

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!

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.

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 …