It’s almost that time again – for many of you, your [possibly] dreaded education is once again ringing your bell, and you’d better answer the door looking damn good.

This list goes for both genders.

• Large book satchel and messenger bag. Let’s face facts – backpacks aren’t the most chic accessories out there. A book satchel is like a high functioning cousin of the messenger bag; it’s hands free and has all the folds and pockets to store your learning materials that you’ll ever require. I suggest hunting for a vintage leather bag that will fight through the elements better than fabric.

Try something like the leather pyramid lock bag from Topshop ($170), the Bselah foldover bag (£40) or perhaps this Proenza beauty if you can afford it ($1,595)

• Leather boots. When the weather chills, you won’t want to be stuck in sneakers. Grab an insulated pair of flat leather boots with a high enough shaft to fend off snow if that is a problem in your area. Black is the best color, because being a student I assume budgeting and practicality is in play. After all, a black boot goes with everything and almost looks better soiled!

Look for a boot akin to the likes of the Topshop Deakin stirrup boot ($180), Lennox patent boots (€395) or the covetable Golden Goose riding boots ($756)

• Wellies. While the weather remains temperate, the risks of rain are considerate in many regions. If you’re in as soggy of a region as I am, I highly recommend a pair of well constructed rain boots. I would recommend a solid color, though there are certain patterns that are not all awful. Also, avoid heeled wellies as they are incredibly tacky.

Stomp about in Chooka VooDoo wellies ($52), Celine rain boot ($440), Mod dot rain boot ($25)

• Colorful sweaters. Keep warm and vibrant through fall and winter ’09 with a set of lovely sweaters in varying shades. Remember, now is the time for rich color and not neons or pastels.

Keep warm with the help of the Rose sweatshirt ($60), Bold Stripe cardigan ($25), Leopard jacquard cardi ($50)

• A dependable, [ideally] leather messenger bag. Yes, this is still necessary in addition to your book satchel. You won’t always be carting around your brain food so it’s best to have a smaller, less painful to the shoulder bag for wear when you aren’t needing to haul a massive text load. Opt for a lighter, more compact design as to not wear on your shoulders as much as a book bag

Slub around bags like these; Donna Karan leather messenger ($1,495), Arturo bag ($176) or the Matt & Nat patent crossbody ($193)

• Colorful leg wear. This can be tights and leggings, slacks or denim depending on your style (and gender comfort). While the rest of last year’s FW09 blacks and grays can be re-integrated this year, shining and vibrant legs will keep you current, eye catching and warm.

These purple LNA leggings ($99) are a perfect addition to your wardrobe, as are the Betsey Johnson’s tights ($40) and purple Harem trousers ($70)

Shopping tip:

Try your hand at thrifting for these goods before you hit boutiques looking for new stock. Vintage pieces are unique, more affordable and chances are you won’t be caught with the same piece on as your rival (bonus!)