Of all the types of shoppers in our consumerist society, perhaps the most prevalent is the hunter-gatherer — this specimen acquires new wardrobe items sporadically, picking up a new piece here and there. But while this methodology may yield a carefully curated closet, as fall approaches, we recall another genus known for its efficiency and occasional fearsomeness: the Parent in Back-to-School Season.
With a singleminded determination to check off an exhaustive list containing everything from page dividers to gym socks, this is the energy we're channeling this autumn, in particular the perennial stocking-up on crisp new jeans to last the year — and long after, especially if they're Levi's, the OG leader in denim. (You already know about their trend-defying staying power — plus just think of the cost-per-wear.) Ahead, see how we’re applying this tradition now as adults who could really reap the benefits of a one-and-done shopping expedition — having a rotation of fresh trousers at your disposal! not having to shop for jeans until next year! — while throwing in a few clothing extras (just as we would when we were kids).
Levi's 501® Cropped Straight-Leg Jeans, $, available at Macy's
Levi's Willa Cotton Trapeze Dress, $, available at Macy's
Levi's Women's Mile High Super Skinny Jeans, $, available at Macy's
Levi's Short-Sleeved Polo Sweater, $, available at Macy's
Levi's 721 High-Rise Skinny Jeans, $, available at Macy's
Levi's T3 Utility Loose Denim Overalls, $, available at Macy's
Levi's High-Waisted Straight Jeans, $, available at Macy's
Levi's Alice Cotton Denim Blouse, $, available at Macy's
Levi's Low Pro Straight-Leg Jeans, $, available at Macy's
Levi's Louise Short-Sleeve Denim Blouse, $, available at Macy's
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Update: The second Proenza Schouler x Birkenstock collection is now available.
This story was originally published on August 2, 2021.
As the American workforce gears up to get back to IRL work, the daunting reality of uncomfortable stiletto pumps is creeping up. But in a post-quarantine world, when athleisure is still the dominating dress code, confining footwear can be a thing of the past. Just ask Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, who are dropping their second partnership with “ugly” sandal pioneer Birkenstock, available for pre-order now.
Functionality is the central theme of this new collection, which features reworked models for Birkenstock’s Arizona and Milano styles, in cobalt blue, rust burgundy, black, and ecru. In keeping with Proenza Schouler’s utilitarian style, McCollough and Hernandez used industrial contrast topstitching from their past collections for the collaboration.
“Birkenstock and Proenza Schouler both share a common respect and admiration for the craftsmanship and detailed work that is integral to all of our products,” said McCollough and Hernandez in a press release. “We are excited to pick up where we left off and expand on the collection with fresh colorways that feel very in the moment and true to our brand.”
Back in 2020, the two brands collaborated on a ‘90-inspired collection that included canvas material for a summer-ready sandal closet. This time, McCollough and Lazaro are building their new styles from leather, resulting in a more polished look.
“Founders Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez have been valuable partners that are completely aligned with our core values, two creatives that strive to find the perfect balance between form and functionality,” said Oliver Reichert, chief executive officer of Birkenstock.
With the rise of “ugly” shoes and clogs, Birkenstock has expanded its roster of designer collaborations over the past few years. The brand has partnered with designer names like Rick Owens and Jil Sander, cementing popularity within the fashion circle.
Retailing between $300 and $450, the new models are now available.
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Fall is just around the corner, and if you're the smart shopper we know you are, you've already started to prep for the colder months ahead. Well, get your credit card ready because here's one deal you don't want to miss out on: Backcountry — home to all the outdoor and cold-weather must-haves — is hosting their Semi-Annual Sale from today through August 29. That means up to 50% off Patagonia, The North Face, Barbour, Beyond Yoga, Vans, and more.
Whether you plan to spend the colder months exploring the great outdoors or just hibernating in comfort, there's something for you on sale. In addition to an impressive array of fall jacket and winter coats, the sale includes softer-than-soft lounging apparel, comfy sneakers, and more. Not sure where to start? We've plucked only the best deals from Backcountry's iconic sale. All you have to do is click ahead and add your favorites to cart.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Cozy up with Patagonia's iconic fleece jackets, vests, and hoodies with this steep discount of up to 55% off. This performance-focused brand has become a normcore staple — see what all the hype is about (and stay warm doing it).
Patagonia Pack In Jacket, $, available at Backcountry
Patagonia Los Gatos Vest, $, available at Backcountry
Patagonia Out Yonder Coat, $, available at Backcountry
Patagonia Woolyester Fleece Pullover, $, available at Backcountry
Patagonia Woolyester Fleece Jacket, $, available at Backcountry
Who else is stocking up their fall and winter closets with these famous The North Face jackets, layering shirts, and sweatshirts for up to 65% off? You know we are!
The North Face Saikuru Insulated Jacket, $, available at Backcountry
The North Face Flight Night Long-Sleeve Top, $, available at Backcountry
The North Face Liberty Cragmont 1/4-Zip Fleece Jacket, $, available at Backcountry
The North Face Berkeley Corduroy Pant, $, available at Backcountry
Whether you're going to in-person classes or doing still practicing yoga at home, get yourself a new pair of super-soft leggings from ALO Yoga for up to 50% off.
Alo Yoga High-Waist Vapor Legging, $, available at Backcountry
Alo Yoga High-Waisted Airbrush Legging, $, available at Backcountry
Alo Yoga High-Waist Lounge Legging, $, available at Backcountry
Alo Yoga High-Waist Moto Legging, $, available at Backcountry
Barbour's classic jackets are designed to last for years — and a personal favorite of the royal family's. Now you can live out your English countryside fantasy for up to 55% off.
Barbour Elizabeth Quilt Jacket, $, available at Backcountry
This rarely-on-sale, yoga brand is perfect for your next vinyasa — or just hanging around the house. Get 15% off Beyond Yoga's customer-favorite comfortable jumpsuits, sports bras, and leggings.
Beyond Yoga Everyday Lounger Midi Jumpsuit, $, available at Backcountry
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Slim Racerback Bra, $, available at Backcountry
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Midi Jogger, $, available at Backcountry
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging, $, available at Backcountry
Columbia's iconic windbreakers, sneakers, and jackets are suited for your next camping trip or subway commute. Lucky for you, they're up to 30% off for a limited time only.
Columbia Side Hill Windbreaker, $, available at Backcountry
Columbia Vitesse Slip Shoe, $, available at Backcountry
Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange Hooded 3-in-1 Jacket, $, available at Backcountry
Columbia Autumn Park Down Hooded Jacket, $, available at Backcountry
You could never have too many pairs of leggings. PrAna also sells super-soft joggers that are, dare we say it, polished enough to wear to work. With up to 40% off, it's hard to go wrong.
Grow your collection of Vans with some of the brand's stylish pairs on sale for a limited time only. Get up to 50% off Pride designs, a updated takes on the traditional checkered print, and more.
Vans x Parks Project Old Skool Shoe, $, available at Backcountry
Vans Ultrarange Exo Shoe, $, available at Backcountry
Vans x Parks Project Authentic Shoe, $, available at Backcountry
Pop quiz: How would you make shopping an inclusive experience? Maybe it would look like clothes shown on more types of bodies. Maybe it would mean not paying more for the same item in a larger size. Maybe it's even being able to find your size. Why do we ask? Because with Old Navy's landmark BODEQUALITY initiative, ideas like these have become reality, with all styles in sizes 0–30 sold at the same prices.
"We met with and listened to plus shoppers around the country," says Alison Partridge Stickney, head of women’s and maternity merchandising, on the development of BODEQUALITY. "One of the most consistent things we heard is that no one wants to feel excluded. These women motivated us to start this fashion revolution — to create an environment where all women feel safe and welcome."
That also includes mannequins in a range of sizes, along with a new and improved fit modeled on 3D avatars of real bodies, seen in stores and online. Ahead, take a look at what to expect from the launch before you experience the more equitable future of fashion for yourself.
Old Navy Floral-Print Split-Neck Poet Blouse, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Button-Fly Straight Raw-Hem Jeans, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8-Length Run Leggings, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy UltraLite Racerback Performance Tank, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted PowerChill 7/8-Length Leggings, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted PowerChill Biker Shorts, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Breathe ON Mesh-Racerback Tank Top, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Crop Leggings, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy PowerSoft Shelf-Bra Tank Top, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Crop Leggings, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8-Length Side-Pocket Leggings, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Straight Button-Fly Ripped Jeans, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy High-Waisted Button-Fly Slouchy Straight Jeans, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy High-Waisted Slouchy Straight Button-Fly Cut-Off Jeans, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Straight Button-Fly Ripped Jeans, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Scoop-Neck Rib-Knit First Layer Tank Top, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Specially Dyed Fleece Sweatpants, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Vintage Specially Dyed Crew-Neck Sweatshirt, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Biker Shorts, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Mid-Rise StretchTech Jogger Pants, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Vintage Mid-Rise Jogger Sweatpants for Women, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy High-Waisted Garment-Dyed Street Jogger Pants, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Luxe Slub-Knit V-Neck Tank Top, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Ripped Light-Wash Jean Jacket, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy PowerSoft Strappy Shelf Bra Tank Top, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Hooded Long-Sleeve Sweatshirt Shift Dress, $, available at Old Navy
Old Navy Ripped Light-Wash Jean Jacket, $, available at Old Navy
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