Back-to-School Classics for Any Age

Men's classic jeans and white T-shirt

Back-to-School Classics for
Any Age

Updates on your fall favorites, all under $100

It doesn't matter how old you are—whether you're gen-Z, millennial adjacent or long removed from any formal education—this time of year always feels like a fresh start. A time to stock yourself with staples that will suit you all year. And if you can get those basics on a budget? Even better. To get you started, we've pulled together 10 essential pieces that will work now, they'll work through the fall and even into next spring. From updates on the requisite new shoes and backpack to fresh pieces like elastic-waisted chinos, there's something for everyone. What's more, they all ring in under $100 each. How's that for smart?

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Men's Essential
Fall Staples

A T-shirt is just a T-shirt, right? Wrong. Because every detail of this one has been carefully considered for the best fit and feel.

Slub vintage pocket T-shirt,
$34 by Buck Mason

The beige color of this classic hoodie gives it a more modern, fresh feel and you'll be surprised how often you find yourself throwing it on with all sorts of pant options.

Reverse weave hoodie,
$69 by Champion

Easier and more affordable than that leather biker jacket, but just as cool. And it only gets better the more you wear it.

Denim jacket,
$49.99 by H&M

A versatile autumn essential that can be worn a myriad of ways. Layer it over your tees or under your jackets or tuck it in with chinos.

Brushed flannel shirt,
$75 by J.Crew

Fresh kicks to start the year off right. These throwback Nikes look as good with jeans and sweats as they do with proper trousers.

Air Tailwind sneaker,
$90 by Nike

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An affordable jacket that always looks more put-together than you'd imagine. Plus, this rolls up and packs away nicely if the sun comes out.

Voyage coach's jacket,
$69.99 by Herschel Supply Co.

A classic pair of jeans that look and fit just they way you want them to right now. Plus, there's a touch of stretch to make them even more comfortable.

501 Straight denim,
$90 by Levi's

A graphic outerwear option that makes easy work out of layering and can stand up to windy, rainy fall afternoons.

Challenger windbreaker,
$79 / $49 by Columbia

The perfect pants for school, work or the weekend, these are hard-wearing, comfortable and stylish but not too dressy.

Easy chino,
$88 / $68.98 by Wellen

A reliable and roomy everyday bag that's easy to carry. This is cut from ballistic nylon and trimmed in leather for a more modern and grown-up look.

Padded Pak'r backpack,
$70 by Eastpak

Grooming Staple

Never run out of essential grooming supplies again with Gillette's money-saving subscription service. You tell them how you like to shave and how often. Then they'll suggest the best blades and how often they'll send your replacement cartridges. You can also set up your subscription to send shaving cream, face wash and deodorant too.

More on
Dressing Well

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