4 Fun Ways to Customize Your Back To School Style Staples

Now that fall is in full swing, it's time to let go of those last summer moments and settle into our autumn routines. For students, this is the time to finalize new school schedules, form new friendships, and — most importantly — refresh seasonal wardrobes. While we'll never abandon our go-to fall staples (hi, cozy outerwear and lived-in jeans!), there is always room for a little creativity.

In partnership with American Eagle, we're thinking up fun ways to make your favorite pieces even more you by adding a custom personal touch — so even if you have the same jeans as someone in your class, you're still rocking them in a way that's totally your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started on making your fall wardrobe one of a kind.

Feeling Patchy

Denim is so easy to customize, and one of the best tricks in the book is to add a little personality through patches. Whether you’re actually covering up a hole or just adding decorative elements to your favorite jeans, patches are an awesome way to take your look to the next level. Maybe your favorite emoji exists in patch form or you have a city that you love and you can find a patch of the skyline. There's also no better way to show off allegiance to your favorite band or cause! Scatter them on the back pocket, cluster a few around your waist, or place one or two by the hem for a retro-inspired look.

Pin-spired

A denim jacket is the quintessential layering piece for fall. Wear it over T-shirts before the chilly weather settles in and wear cozy sweaters underneath once the temperature drops. One of the best ways to personalize a denim jacket is with pins! Get super tiny ones for a subtly customized look, or go bold with pins of french fries, cherries, lipstick, or anything else that speaks to you. Rock one or two close to the lapel for a minimal look, or sprinkle them all over the front to create a rock ‘n’ roll vibe.

Get Sticky With It

Placing permanent stickers on your backpack is a great way to personalize the must-have that you’ll have with you pretty much every day of the school year. Find one with a great song lyric on it or maybe one that references your favorite TV show to show off your personality. Place them on the front pocket, along the sides, or even on the straps to add some impact to your look.

Loose Threads

If you’re a basics girl at heart but want to add a subtle touch of personality to your classic pieces, embroidery is a great way to add a bit of punch without going overboard. If you don’t know what to write, you can’t go wrong with your name, your nickname, or even your initials to make it feel super personal. Or if you have a favorite quote, mantra, or saying, here’s your chance to carry it through your day. Pick something short and sweet for the front of the shirt, or embroider it down the sleeve if you need more room.

This post is sponsored by American Eagle.