Be Both Transparent and Practical with These Bag Essentials

Transparent bags are the perfect springtime tote. However, they can create cognitive dissonance since most people aren’t used to showing off the contents of their bag. Yet, how revolutionary is it to be totally open about what you use throughout the day? Although the transparent bag trend does not resonate with everyone, it does make clear the critical decision of deciding what to carry around during a school day.

Mary Poppins knew the importance of the handbag, but she had a bit more storage room than the average person. For those of us without room to fit a lamp in our backpack, we must be pragmatic about exactly what we give space to other than our laptops and textbooks.

A snack for that afternoon stomach rumble

With only 90 calories and as much caffeine as an espresso, Verb Energy bars are the perfect snack to throw in your backpack. Similar to Brew Bike in that the bars were created by Yale college students, they have three flavors for you to try – all sourced from organic green tea. Another healthy but convenient option is a salad from one of The Farmer’s Fridge vending machines in University Library, Mudd Library, or The Garage.

When the wind at the Lakefill starts to pick up

Cracked lips will just not do in the springtime. As we start wearing sunglasses, attention shifts from our eyes down to the lower parts of our faces, making glossy and smooth lips all the more crucial. Glossier Balm Dotcom lip balm uses antioxidants to hydrate your lips. With flavors from Rose to Mango, these lip balms are sure to get you excited for warmer weather.

To add sparkle and flare to your “just got out of bed” 10 a.m. lecture look

Barrettes are the perfect accessory to spice up a spring outfit. Although they’re small, they work well with both up and down hairstyles. Free People’s gold and silver set match any outfit, while these watercolor hair clips from Anthropologie will accent Lake Michigan during your inaugural Spring Quarter picnic at the Lakefill.

To smell like the blooming flowers

Now that the weather’s getting warmer, it’s easier to sweat during walks to class – and no one wants that to distract from the smells of spring. A travel size of the Gucci Bloom fragrance in your bag is necessary to maintain that fresh, spring scent.

To cure coffee breath

Green tea mints are perfect for keeping your mouth refreshed – without being so overly minty that you can’t drink your water. Unlike most gums, they’re also naturally sugar free. You can order a few packs on Amazon or stop by Sea Ranch Sushi on Dempster Street to pick up these sweet mints.

To hide your eye bags (and avoid awkward eye contact on Sheridan)

The Evanston winter’s lack of sunlight makes it hard to use sunglasses as a cover for your tired eyes when you’re just not feeling it. However, the risk of your favorite pair getting crushed in your book bag can dissuade anyone from wearing sunglasses out to class. Luckily, the Urban Outfitters on Church Street has a great selection of reasonably priced and well-made sunglasses. Try the Bolinas Round Sunglasses for a sturdy pair.

When the sunglasses that protect your eyes (and dignity) on Sheridan aren’t enough

If you’re not applying sunscreen daily yet, I’m here to tell you that protecting yourself from wrinkles in 20 years starts now. Avene USA sells mini SPF 50+ sunblocks that are perfect for on-the-go. The site even has a buy one get 50% off another item sale right now, so you have no excuse not to throw this in your bag!

Now that Brew Bike is returning to the rock

Iced Coffee is back and so is its partner in crime: plastic straws. After hearing everyone talk about the importance of reusable straws, it’s time we actually try one. Amazon offers a set of steel reusable straws that come with a cleaning brush – so hygiene can’t be an excuse. They even come in fun colors that can match any cup you take to class.

Although the transparent bag may not be the most practical for everyday use, now that STITCH has given you the best items to carry on-the-go, you might as well buy one of these trendsetting bags and show off your must-have items!