Check Out This Year’s Must-Have Essentials for Back to School

It’s back-to-school season, baby! We’d be lying if we said we weren’t excited about stocking up on stylin’ school supplies for the new year. The trick to smart BTS shopping? Keeping our class needs *and* our workspace in mind. With the help of Office Depot, we’re bringing you tips and tricks for a sweet schoolwork setup, chock full of customizable supplies that will maximize study efficiency and are also pretty dang cute.

THE ULTIMATE ORGANIZATIONAL NOTEBOOK

When shopping for back-to-school supplies, we make sure to invest in tools that are just as smart as we are. :) We’ve waxed poetic about the TUL® Brand before, and we’ll happily do it again — the TUL™ for School discbound notebook is vital to keeping hectic school life in order. We consider it our master hub for *all* schoolwork. And it’s the first thing we check off our BTS shopping list :)

Y’all, Office Depot has made a special, limited-edition version of our favorite work PIC just for students! The TUL™ for School discbound notebook is designed to be customized to your personal needs, with eight cover designs, multiple types of paper inserts, weekly and monthly agendas, task pads, tab dividers, page flags, and more. The discbound element makes it a cinch to rearrange notes as needed. It’s a note-taking game changer. Don’t forget to scoop up additional fun flair, like rad stickers, key chains, and other fashion accessories!

P.S. The feeling of using TUL® Brights Retractable Gel Pens on that notebook paper is *SO* satisfying. Seriously, it’s a match made in heaven. (Their mechanical pencils are pretty bomb.com too :)

BUILD A SMART WORKSPACE

First up, we’re tackling the dorm-room desk debacle. How can we transform our tiny space into an uber-productive work zone that *also* houses all of our school essentials? Read on to find out!

Fact of life: Dorm rooms are inevitably small. But just because your room isn’t exactly ROOMY doesn’t mean it can’t be a productive spot for your study jams. We’re all about maximizing vertical space *and* creating a comfortable workspace by way of smart storage — AKA a big pegboard and wall hooks galore. Instead of cluttering your desk, hang notebooks, photos, pencil pouches, and your other essentials on hooks.

Be sure to fill your home-base study zone with items that motivate you *and* that you’re excited to use. For us, that’s a combo of utilitarian tools, like notebooks, power banks, and other smart tech; and inspiration, like our go-to inspo quote and a photo of our favorite people. And TBH, these school essentials are so good-looking that we’re stoked to display them!

Psst: See that calculator? There’s a fun marble maze game on the back! It’s the BEST little game to play while you’re bored in class ;)

FEATURED PRODUCTS

TUL® Retractable

Gel Pens

$23
Divoga Banana

Pencil Pouch

$5
Cactus Erasers

3 Ct

$1

We’re also quite partial to pouches for school accessories. They’re basically mobile drawers, you know? This clear banana pencil pouch (with the fuzziest pom-pom key chain ever) is a winner because we can see the contents inside… and we love banana prints. Duh :)

When outfitting your workspace with school essentials, remember to grab smart analog AND tech tools to get the job done right. Exhibit A: this tiny but powerful USB hub that’s a must-have at the library.

Scroll on for some of our favorite details of this smart school workspace.

Yep, those are erasers!

ON-THE-GO ACCESSORIES

We know, we know — studying in our dorm is not *always* an option. The smartest tools are ones that we can toss in our school bag… without giving us back problems :) So our SECOND go-to workspace? The backpack.

Again, the trick here is to invest in school supplies that won’t bog you down. The do-it-all TUL™ for School discbound notebook is a planner and to-do list all in one, so it’s ideal for those who work on the go (ahem, we students). Toss in a class-specific notebook (banana printed, because that’s how we roll) and that clear catchall pouch (also banana printed!), and be on your way.

There you have it — smart study tools and workspace tips that’ll help you be your best self this school year. Now go on and kick this school year’s academic booty!

Have any tips for smart workspace organization? We want to hear ‘em! Share with us on Twitter by tagging @BritandCo, #TULforSchool and #TCOBusiness!

Production + Styling: Maddie Bachelder, Torii Burnett + Cassidy Miller

Design: Torii Burnett

Photography: Brittany Griffin

December always has a way of sneaking up on us with a frenzy of cute holiday decorating, festive gatherings, and dreaming up the best gifts for our besties. If this month has you feeling more frazzled than festive, don’t worry—we’ve got you (and them) covered.

Charles Chocolates

Charles Chocolates Winter Fleur de Sel Collection

We partnered with Charles Chocolates, the award-winning artisanal chocolate brand, to create a gift guide filled with unique and just-a-little-bit bougie finds, because everyone deserves to treat themselves once in a while, holiday season or not! From a plushy robe and scented candles to a box of the most creative handmade chocolates, including a chocolate box you can actually eat, these picks are perfect for everyone on your list — and maybe even a little treat for yourself.

Score a FREE Charles Chocolates Bar when you spend $25 or more!

The Coffee Lover

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Winter Collection Edible Chocolate Box

These coffee-lover gifts, including a colorful French Press and adorbs mug, are sure to perk up your day — and theirs! Pair your morning cup with a delicious piece of handmade chocolate for the ultimate sensory experience. You can literally eat the box in this Winter Collection from Charles Chocolates filled with Fleur de Sel Caramels, Peanut Butterflies and Milk Chocolate Caramels. SO good!

Featured:

The Cozy Homebody

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Holiday Collection

For the pal who loves to stay in and get cozy, here’s a cute kettle for steeping her favorite tea, some cozy wears, and Charles Chocolates Holiday Collection with flavors like Pecan Fleur de Sel Caramel, Cinnamon Spice Truffle, Orange Zest Truffle, and Maple Truffle. Charles Chocolates are all natural so it’s real chocolate vs. a sugary (read: cheap) substitute. The flavors are so unique and fun to taste-test. It’s the perfect gift for when you’re feeling indoorsy!

Featured:

Your Holiday Crush

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Peppermint Bark

Sneak a fancy chocolate bar, like Charles Chocolates Peppermint Bark Bar, made with homemade peppermint candy, in your S.O.’s stocking, plus some essentials for the camper, music lover, and beanie wearer!

Featured:

The Sweet Tooth

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Bittersweet Chocolate Santa

Sweet tooth be gone with Charles Chocolates Bittersweet Chocolate Santa Clause. This thing is not small, weighing in at 3 lbs. of deliciously rich chocolate. Adults will actually enjoy this vintage-style Santa as much as kids! Pair with a bottle of wine dressed in an adorable bow, a cake stand candle (so cute!), darling dessert plates, and/or a baking lover’s cookbook! Toss some mint chocolate almonds in stockings too!

Featured:

Your Jewish Bestie

Brit + Co

Charles Chocolates Hanukkah Collection Edible Chocolate Box

There’s a lot of talk about Christmas this time of year, but not all of our friends celebrate. And this year, Hanukkah starts on Christmas day so we can celebrate together! Gift your bestie who celebrates the Festival of Lights with this Hanukkah Collection Edible Chocolate Box filled with flavors like Fleur de Sel Caramel, Passion Fruit Heart, Espresso Caramel, and Meyer Lemon Yankee. They might also enjoy a new cookbook celebrating their heritage, cozy slippers, jewelry, and an artful wine decanter for the holidays. Candle-lighting matches are a perfect stocking stuffer or White Elephant gift too!

Featured:

Score a FREE Charles Chocolates Bar when you spend $25 or more!

Colleen Hoover stans, listen up! While the announcement that Anne Hathaway would lead CoHo's Verity movie broke the Brit + Co group chat, it has nothing on the announcement that was made today: she'll be joined by the one and only Dakota Johnson. And we freaked out. Dakota is a master at intrigue and suspense, and I can't think of anyone else who'd be able to draw us into the story like she will.

Verity follows it-girl author Verity Crawford (Anne Hathaway) and her husband Jeremy, who hire Lowen Ashleigh (Dakota Johnson) to finish the remaining books in Verity's series. But as Lowen starts to take a closer look at their lives, she comes to the horrifying realization that not all is as it seems. While It Ends With Us is Colleen Hoover's most popular and widely-known title, Verity is regarded as one of the wildest — and I'm sure the movie is going to be the same.

You already know Anne Hathaway, meet the rest of the Verity cast before the movie premieres!

1. Anne Hathaway as Verity Crawford

John Nacion/Getty Images

The Princess Diaries' Anne Hathaway leads the new movie as Verity Crawford, author, wife, and (apparently) secret keeper.

2. Dakota Johnson as Lowen Ashleigh

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

Dakota Johnson stars as Lowen Ashleigh, a down-on-her-luck writer who's confident working for Verity is her big break.

The actress is also starring in Celine Song's upcoming rom-com Materialists, and told Brit + Co just how much she loved working with "big idiots" Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans.

3. Josh Hartnett as Jeremy Crawford

Theo Wargo/Getty Images

We'll also see Trap's Josh Hartnett as Jeremy Crawford, Verity's husband.

The Verity movie isn't the only Colleen Hoover book adaptation in the works! Read up on the latest news on Regretting You, starring Allison Williams and McKenna Grace.

'Tis the season to look your glowiest. We’re diving into our favorite beauty picks for the season to moisturize and refresh. It’s the perfect time to embrace self-care with the impending festive hustle and winter chill. Friday night facials, anyone? From hydrating cleansers to rich body butters and everything in between, here are 18 beauty essentials bringing us a boost of joy this holiday season. They make great BFF gifts and stocking stuffers too!

City Lips Plumping Lip Gloss

This festive Holly-colored lip gloss gives you an instant plumping look while it also moisturizes, and it comes in a slew of gorgeous colors. Plus, the lip gloss keeps plumping over time! City Beauty products are Leaping Bunny-certified (AKA cruelty-free), and made without irritants or harsh chemicals. Win-win.

Steve Madden Goldie Fragrance

Feminine and sweet, this fragrance is a mix of fruit and floral scents like pear, jasmine, gardenia, and sandalwood. It's a lovely reminder of summer mid-winter and perfect way to feel officially dressed up.

Dieux’s Baptism Gel Cleanser

Reset your winter skincare routine with this gentle cleanser that moisturizes, protects, and deep cleans. It has a rich, creamy foam that actually removes makeup and sunscreen so you feel so very refreshed!

Sweet Relief Overnight Barrier Balm

Your bedtime routine just got better with this moisturizing mask and balm. It features nutrient-dense seed butters and antioxidant-rich apricot kernel oil to protect your skin barrier so you wake up all glowy and pretty.

City Lips Night Oil

City Beauty's City Lips Night Oil is another essential for your bedtime routine. You can feel the deep hydration that helps your lips look naturally radiant and it works to add volume while you sleep. Sweet!

LOOPS Clean Slate Detoxifying Mask

Spend your Friday night in with this 10-minute detox mask that feels so refreshing and really soothes your skin. It has a mix of mineral-rich volcanic ash to help remove dirt, while aloe vera and bamboo water add all the vitamins, electrolytes, and nutrients your skin craves. Try it a few times a week for fresh-looking skin!

Glossier You Fragrance Discovery Kit

Traveling for the holidays? Pick up this limited edition travel spray trio of Glossier You (our fave), a creamy, clean scent; Doux, a woody blend; and Rêve, a lush, dreamy fragrance. Bon voyage!

Wild Refillable Deodorant

These planet-friendly refillable deodorants come in fun seasonal cases and scents, like this Fresh Cotton & Sea Salt, inspired by freshly washed linen drying by the seaside. And they actually work!

Davines OI Hair Oil

Before you head out to the holiday party, run this multipurpose hair oil through your 'do. It detangles, reduces frizz, and leaves all hair types so soft and shiny.

City Beauty Lid Lifting Treatment

This lid-lifting cream makes you look awake even when you've been tossing and turning all night. It lifts and firms the appearance of saggy eyelids and feels like an instant lift!

Liquid Panacea Centella & Kombucha Firming Recovery Booster

Skin looking a bit dull and tired, or red and dehydrated? Try this firming serum with anti-inflammatory kombucha. If you suffer from really dry winter skin, THE MOST Hyaluronic Super Nutrient Hydration Serum is your winter superpower with hyaluronic acid, kombucha and organic safflower oil to relieve stressed and dehydrated skin.

Lush Lemony Flutter Cuticle Balm

Upgrade your mani and give dry, cracked cuticles a little love this season with this lemony butter made with beeswax, shea butter, avocado oil and lemon! You can also use it on feet, elbows or knees.

Rinna Beauty The Perfect Party Eye Kit

Party season has begun so you can go all out on the eyes with this shimmering eye shadow and complementary mascara and lip makeup.

Ogee Complexion Perfecting Tinted Serum

This tinted moisturizer is organic and cruelty-free and glides on smooth. It's the perfect blend of plumping gooseberry fruit, refining daisy flower, and brightening vitamin C Concentrate to give your winter complexion a healthy boost!

OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil

This seaweed-infused body oil is a staff favorite (I keep it on my desk) because it never feels greasy but instantly makes your skin look soft and nourished. It also smells amazing.

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

This award-winning concealer is super light and gives you that no-makeup makeup look. It helps soften dark circles and keeps your skin hydrated and glowy. It's also vegan and cruelty free.

Yaman Medi Lift 3D Microfiller Micro-Tip Patches

Need a little skin boost for the holidays? Fit in a micro-beauty-moment with an at-home facial using these beauty patches that hydrate and help firm up skin with collagen.

Mutha Body Butter

This whipped butter made with shea, cocoa, and mango butters smells citrusy and hydrates skin for up to 48 hours. It's great for after the shower and helps improve the look of stretch marks. Indulge and treat yourself!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives totally dominated the reality TV space in 2024 — and season 2 is will be here before you know it. The show premiered on the Hulu on September 6, and quickly became the year's most-watched unscripted season premiere. Well, MomTok watchers: drop everything (except your phones) because Taylor Frankie Paul and Whitney Leavitt just teased a crazy season 2 of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

Here's what Taylor Frankie Paul and Whitney Leavitt said about The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2.

Taylor Frankie Paul & Whitney Leavitt say season 2 is "better" than the first.

"With the second season, you're having conversations constantly with your peers and sitting in your interviews or confessionals where they're constantly asking you questions about yourself and about a scenario. It can be very therapeutic," Whitney Leavitt tells People.

Taylor Frankie Paul admits she has some nerves around filming season 2, considering they're not in total creative control. "It's exciting but I guess I'm always a bit nervous," she says. "We're used to making content that we can control and edit and we don't have control with this. It's nerve-wracking going into it knowing that what happens isn't exactly how the edit might make it look."

"But I do think this one is going to be just as good, if not better, than our first season," she continues. "So far, I think everything has been so fun and entertaining to experience for myself."

And one detail we'll see from both ladies in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2 are their new babies! Taylor Frankie Paul had her third baby Ever on March 19, 2024, and Whitney Leavitt gave birth to her third baby Billy on October 24, 2024.

"It was a beautiful moment that you'll see more of in season 2. I'm so thankful for him," Taylor says.

And they're still getting used to their 'Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' fame!

Despite their cult followings on social media, both women admit they're still getting used to their fame in the TV space, and how wildly successful the first season was. Taylor says she's "at a loss for words sometimes."

"I remember thinking, 'This will do okay. It should do well, given that we all have a story that people haven't heard about, and all of us do have a following," she adds. "I didn't know the extent of how well it was going to do, so it was shocking as it happened."

And it wouldn't be a show about MomTok without some surprising DM's! "The people that are in your messages reaching out, just unexpected people that you have fangirled over, we've all fangirled over," Taylor continues. "So that was really cool to see. And sometimes I just forget that people are out there watching it. It's a nationwide thing. To this day, I still don't think I even realize it, to be honest."

Maybe season 2 will reveal who's sliding in their DM's. 👀

Have you seen all of this month's incredible December TV shows? They make for the perfect weekend watch.

If there’s one recipe you 100 percent need to crank out some seriously festive Christmas dessert ideas, it’s the classic, basic sugar cookie. Some of the most intricately ordained, masterpiece cookies (like pink Christmas decorations, jolly reindeer, and llamas) begin with a simple foundation. Let’s start with this recipe we love for a vanilla-bean-speckled version that’s sure to hold its own under all that royal icing.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter (room temperature + cubed)
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
  • 1 egg
  • 3 cups flour

Directions

Using an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add vanilla bean and egg. Mix until just incorporated. Stop mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.

Gradually add flour (you may not need the full three cups), and mix until dough forms and pulls away from the bowl. Divide dough into two even discs and wrap in cling wrap, then refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.

When ready to roll dough, pre-heat oven to 350°F and line baking trays with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Using a rolling pin, roll cookie dough between two pieces of parchment paper to 1/4-inch in thickness, and use cookie cutters to cut out cookie shapes.

Transfer cookies to a baking tray using a lightly floured spatula. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before baking.

Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or when edges begin to brown. The time will be dependent on size and thickness of cookies.

Allow to cool on tray until warm to touch, then transfer onto a wire cooling rackbefore decorating.

Decorate your easy Christmas cookies to you and your family's liking!

Check out our baking and cooking classes for more recipes to make at home!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

See our ‘Grammable Holiday Cookie Guide.

Recipe via Vickie Liu; photos via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co