Some kids couldn’t wait for the last day of school so they could clean out their backpacks and throw out all their binders. Me, on the other hand? I dreamed of the start of fall because it meant filling my backpack with fresh notebooks, pencils, and erasers. Back-to-school season was my favorite time of the year, and if I’m being honest, it still is (even though I’m a grown woman with a full-time job). I still make a list of all the things I need and want for my work bag and desk, go to the store, and show my deskmates (OK, my coworkers) my new planner. Still, I feel incredibly qualified to put together a list of fall desk essentials with a purple glitter pen in hand.
As you return your focus to your desk this season and set your sights on your year-end career goals, consider this your best opportunity to restock your must-haves, invest in quality items that will enhance your workday, and treat yourself to something that will make you smile during your busiest weeks. Below is a list of desk essentials that will delight you as much as the treats at the Scholastic Book Fair once did.
Etsy | CastingTheory
Your paper clips, rubber bands, pencils and sticky notes have never had a more modern, elegant place on your desk. They come in more than 10 colors and we love them for their functionality and aesthetics.
Rifle Paper Co.
For all your personal and professional obligations this fall, keep this pretty to-do list notepad handy so you don’t miss a thing.
Amazon | Intelligent Change Store
These productivity planner cards keep your most important tasks in view at the center of your desk thanks to their minimalist presentation stand.
The Everygirl X Day Designer
Everyone needs a reliable planner or calendar to keep their life in order, especially now that we are approaching the last months of the year. Count on our weekly and monthly calendars to help you do just that.
Amazon
Whether your pens are out of ink or not, you need this set of fall-colored pens. They’re earthy, they’re moody, and they’re perfect for this time of year.
Paper
From shopping lists to project plans, a set of notepads is essential, so when I saw these beautiful colors of paper, I immediately added them to my cart during my fall stocking up.
Etsy | FleursOnSunday
Taylor Swift fans and readers alike, I hear you. Before you dive into your fall reading list, treat yourself to a Folklore bookmark.
Amazon
If you’re looking to make your weekly planning more fun, this sticker book is for you. It contains 24 sticker sheets to help you spice up your week and stay on track.
The Everygirl X Day Designer
Your old-fashioned pencil case just got an upgrade. This zippered pouch can hold everything from your favorite pens to cables, sticky notes, and even your phone.
Amazon
Transparent sticky notes are a game-changer and this set features soft autumnal tones. Keep them handy so you never forget tasks or big ideas again.
Goal
This mug is trendy, keeps matcha warm on a chilly day, and only costs $7, so of course I plan on buying several. I recommend you do the same.
forbid.do
These whimsical banana paper clips remind us that we’re allowed to have a little fun at work, and will make even your longest report seem less scary this season.
Goal
You know what they say: a clean space makes for a clean mind. This canvas desk organizer keeps all your pens and small items tucked away, yet within easy reach.
Amazon
If you haven’t invested in a laptop stand yet, you should do so now. With Q4 deadlines fast approaching, you’ll want to make sure your setup is as good as it can be.
Baggu
This puffy laptop sleeve lets you keep your laptop safe and look cool while doing it. It comes in tons of patterns, but we’ve got our eye on this Ditsy Charms print for fall.
Manakurist
Girls with dry hands, unite. This hand cream absorbs easily and doesn’t feel sticky, so you can apply it liberally and type on your keyboard without getting oil stains everywhere.
BruMate
I own a lot of water bottles, but I’m in my Era era. BruMate’s Era tumbler will be your new favorite way to stay hydrated throughout the day, and it comes in lots of colors too!
Amazon
Whether you’re a pro at time blocking or need the pressure of a stopwatch to get your work done, this timer is the perfect accessory to have on hand at all times.
Amazon
Whether it’s too rainy to go for a walk outside or you’re too busy meeting deadlines to leave your desk, this walking pad is a must-have this season and beyond.
Calpak
If this lunch bag had been around when I was a kid, I would have had it. The pockets, waterproof lining, and drawstring closure actually make me want to pack my lunch.
Unusual goods
With 52 easy-to-follow exercises that promote energizing stretches, mental clarity, and more, this yoga deck is perfect for your desk no matter where you work. Namaste, sister.
Amazon
Keep these stylish bobby pins in your desk drawer for those days when you have to run an errand or just don’t feel like doing your hair.
Beis
Stylish, comfortable, and with compartments for all your essentials, this work bag can easily take you from the office to happy hour.
The specifications
An editor’s favorite: These glasses with blue light filter from the popular sunglasses brand for cool girls prevent headaches and eye strain.
Etsy | YoungLoveApparel
This minimalist sweatshirt comes in nine gorgeous colors, but we can’t help but be drawn to this gorgeous forest green for fall.
anthropology
This wouldn’t be a list of fall must-haves without mentioning Anthropologie’s iconic Caramel Apple Cinnamon Candle. Lighting it at work is basically a rite of passage.
Amazon
Even more cables on your desk? No thanks. This wireless desk lamp makes all the difference when it gets dark earlier outside. Plus, it makes your workspace so cozy.
Etsy | MOONWICKSCANDLES
Need a little motivation? Light this candle when you need to be reminded of what you’re working so hard for.
Rifle Paper Co.
I don’t know when cherries became “that girl,” but now I can’t get enough of them. Treat yourself to this adorable porcelain mug to sip from this season.
Unusual goods
No matter what your zodiac sign is, you’ll love cozying up in this high-quality astrology blanket when it’s chilly in your office.
Modern picnic
Spending your hard-earned money on takeout is so summer 2024. You’ll love packing your own lunch in this grown-up version of your childhood lunchbox.
ACORUS
This set of 60 tea bags features unique herbal blends inspired by seasonal flavors like apple, chamomile, and more. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll have something warm and seasonal to sip while you work.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Hailey Bouche, Co-Editor
As Associate Editor for The Everygirl, Hailey Bouche oversees, writes, and edits content across various categories on the site. From pitch stage to publication, she works with the team to ensure the content our readers see every day is inspiring, relatable, and timely.