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14 BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLIES FOR ADULTS

While I loved summer break as much as the next kid, I also secretly looked forward to its end because that meant it was time to go back-to-school shopping. I loved stocking up on new notebooks and colorful pens, and picking out a fresh planner for the year. The whole thing was so energizing.

Who says it has to stop with graduation? As someone who works from home and spends more time at her desk than anywhere else, I’m well aware of how important it is to make your workspace a happy one. I find that fresh supplies – whether it’s a new leather notebook, a chic wastebasket, or just better-looking versions of the basics (pink file folders!) – are still just as energizing as they always were.

If you’re in need of a productive push, now’s the time. Embrace the back-to-school season by jazzing up your workspace with stylish supplies. Below, a hit list with all of my favorites.

SMYTHSON CHELSEA NOTEBOOK

When it comes to notebooks, nothing is more classic than a Smythson. Simple and elegant, it’s the perfect place for jotting notes and lists. They come in so many fabulous colors – from can’t-go-wrong black to this perfectly-perfect shade of pink. Finish it off with personal touch by adding your initials or a motif to the lower right corner.

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AN ARCHITECT’S PENCIL SET: THE COLORS OF MICHAEL GRAVES

Featuring a rainbow of shades in renowned architect Michael Graves’ signature palette, this happy set of colored pencils would add an instant punch of color to a desk – not to mention, would make a great gift for a designer.

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PAPIER LE MODERNE LIST NOTEPADS

From grocery lists to what-to-watch, list making is made easy – and chic! – with these notepads. Sold in sets of three and with the option to personalize, they make great gifts, too!

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BERNARD MAISNER CUSTOMIZED OVAL PAPERWEIGHT

Add a personal touch to your desk with one of Bernard Maisner’s delightful paperweights. Make your choice of either a classic calligraphy style or opt for Maisner’s playful style for something a little more whimsical. You can’t go wrong.

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AMANDA LINDROTH WAVY WICKER TRAY

Make your mess a little prettier. This tray serves as a chic catchall to coral all the things – keys, paperclips, charging cords, and more.

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LEATHEROLOGY PERSONALIZED MODERN DESK PAD

With plenty of room for all of the desktop essentials (laptop, mouse, notepad, and more!), this personalized leather desk pad fits it all on to one single work surface. Bonus: the leather is water-resistant so there’s no need to fear the inevitable iced-coffee spill.

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BRIDIE HALL ALPHABET BRUSH POT

These initial pots make happy homes for pens, pencils, scissors and the like.

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AMAZON FILE FOLDER

A better version of the most boring office essential, these pink file folders are a level up from manilla.

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HERMAN MILLER HANDMADE WIRE BASKET

As a self-proclaimed magazine hoarder, I’m always looking for stylish storage. These basket would make a great catch-all for everything from catalogs and newspapers to wrapping paper rolls.

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DEAR ANNABELLE WILD NOTECARDS

Complete with gold-painted edges!, these super chic initial notecards come with envelopes and are perfect for quick thank-yous.

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VINTAGE BRASS SHELL LETTER OPENER

I always like to mix in a little vintage where I can. This shell letter opener is as functional as it as fabulous.

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BLINGPINK OFFICE CALCULATOR

A little bling goes a long way. This bejeweled calculator makes number crunching a little more fun.

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HERMAN MILLER PAPER BIN

Finally! A chic wastebasket does indeed exist.

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HAY MATIN TABLE LAMP

Let there be light! If you spend any time at all sitting at your desk then you know how important good lighting is. Hay’s Matin lamp offers exactly that, plus doubles as desktop decor.

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