Question: What has happened to backpacks? You know, Jansport, LL Bean and North Face, the brands that used to have their mark all over both high school and college campuses. It has seemed that lately, girls have been switching from the quite conventional backpacks to tote bags. These tote bags are undoubtedly cute; however, are they practical? Totes are fashionable, and they can be used for both a backpack as well as a purse. They may be cuter than backpacks, but I’m not tote-ally (sorry, I had to do it) convinced they are more practical. Try carrying too many books in them, and I think the straps could cut off all circulation to your arms. Then, how are you going to text your friends in class?

Tote bags are all over the shoulders of girls at SMU this fall. The flowery patterns of Vera Bradley still reign supreme on Sorority Row, even though girls are toting a variety of styles. Either way, there is pretty convincing evidence that they are a hit on campus.

Here at SMU we take it to a new level; we don’t just carry tote bags, we carry DESIGNER ones. From Louis to Gucci, Prada and Juicy, SMU girls must go to class in high fashion. My first response to these designer purse turned backpacks is, why spend several hundred dollars on something to put your heavy books in and set on the floor when you arrive to class? Why not buy a real backpack and carry a cute purse?

Then, I noticed something else signature about SMU: The girls here do not only carry designer totes for their book,s but they also have a matching or varying designer purse to go along with their “backpack.” Even though these large purses may not seem practical, they are fashion forward. If you are in the market to buy one and do not mind spending money, I suggest purchasing the Gucci Horsebit Monogram Hobo bag, as seen on Jessica Simpson, that is priced at $1,095.

But, if you are like me and want a cute tote that is still reasonably priced, my advice is to go for the Juicy Couture tote bag, which comes in various two-toned colors and is priced at $195.

If designers are not your thing, I suggest looking around the mall for other cute printed totes that will look just as fashionable.

Crystal McCullough is a sophomore corprate communication and public affairs major. She may be contacted at [email protected].