When one thinks of school supplies, many words may come to mind: binders, pencils, paper, and most importantly, book bags. Whether they are chosen for brand, pattern, or color, they are always at the top of any school supply list. Book bags must withstand long years of wear and tear, and for many students, they must also be stylish. So let’s take a look at what the Warriors are wearing.

As most everyone knows, it’s essential to have a reliable and practical backpack. In fact, the majority of backpacks at NAHS are sturdy JanSport or L.L.Bean bags. Fans of these brands say they are roomy enough for books, strong enough to last for years, and have a classic look to them. Junior Virginia McClatchey has had her plaid L.L.Bean since she was a freshman and the durability is what drew her to it. “It’s big and sturdy because I take IB and it’s special because I’ve held onto it for so long,” she said.

Alternatively, many students at North Atlanta have a fun lively side and express their creativity through colorful book bags. A defining brand of this style is Vera Bradley which features flashy floral patterns that stand out and that appeal to women. Junior Mary Carson sports a pink and green floral Vera Bradley book bag that she’s had since fourth grade. “The design is simple so it helps me stay organized,” she said.

In contrast to the fem-focused Bradley bags are sporty bags that appeal to men and women equally. These brands include The North Face, Patagonia and Nike. They are popular because of their simple look and strong designs. These bags are the definition of versatility as they are often used for sports, travel, and outdoors in addition to storing books.

Another stand out bag is the Sprayground Wings Backpack. These popular and usually sold out bags are premium priced at $75 and they feature wild designs and attached wings. Freshman Nick Gaitan is among the Sprayground aficionados. Around school he sports the brand’s Phoenix Fire Wings backpack. The design and the wings appeal to him but he does concede these noteworthy totes are lacking in functionality. “It doesn’t fit all of my stuff and I have to squish everything in there,” Gaitan said.

Last but not least are the illustrious luxury book bags. In this tony category are the redonkulous pricy MCM backpacks which feature metallic studs not to mention jaw-dropping price tags that range from $500 and $900. Not everyone feels such costly bags are worth it. “They’re cool but they cost too much,” said freshman Callie Perciful. “You could buy three grocery trips of food with that money.”

Perciful’s had a classmate who agreed. “With that money you could buy 620 packs of gum,” said freshman McKenna Eavenson, who obviously did her math.

It’s common for students to express their style through their accessories, but with so many creative students at NAHS, the hallways are always lit up by fun unique book bags. In the end, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what matters is what’s on the inside of the backpack. So get studying Warriors and keep on rocking your backpacks.