Back-to-school shopping: Labubu, Stanley, Gizmo Watch and more top 2025 lists

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The school year is still weeks away, but back-to-school shopping is well underway, and kids are getting more involved than ever!

What we know:

Gone are the days of parents simply stocking up on composition notebooks and No. 2 pencil to get their kids ready for the year ahead.

Shopping lists are getting more and more detailed as students request must-have accessories to personalize their school style.

Trends for 2025:

• Backpacks: Keeping them sleek and stylish with the option to customize
• Backpack accessories: The Labubu and Jellycat frenzy is making its way to school with keychains and charms
• Tumblers: Stanleys are still a must, but Owalas are also on the rise
• Age-appropriate tech: Smartwatches can be an accessory for kids of all ages, including the Gizmo Watch for the younger ones.
• Footwear: Everything from the classic Birkenstock to Crocs with Jibbitz and stylish sneakers
• Eco-friendly clothing/ thrifting: Sustainability is a rising trend among younger generations
• Beauty: The Sephora phenomenon is making its way to the classroom
• Digital planners: Paper planners go digital

By the numbers:

Data shows that although traditional school supplies still make up the majority of back-to-school shopping, those trendy accessories are starting to rise:

2025 back-to-school shopping categories

• 24 percent school supplies
• 19 percent clothing and accessories
• 17 percent electronics
• 13 percent safety essentials
• 13 percent extracurricular activities
• 13 percent online resources and subscriptions