Shop for back-to-school season

August 10, 2026

With summer coming to an end, it’s time to start thinking about heading back to school. To make shopping easier, we’ve put together a list of local businesses that have everything you need to make the school year ahead a great one. 

 

All Things Cyclone 

Found inside the Memorial Union, the Iowa State Bookstore is the one-stop shop for everything you need this school year. You’ll find textbooks, MacBooks, school supplies, and a whole bunch of Iowa State goodies all in one place. 

From trendy gameday outfits to Iowa State accessories, Barefoot Campus Outfitter has the perfect style for every Cyclone fan. Don’t miss the cut and cropped section, where you can transform your tee into a cropped style, tank top, off-the-shoulder top and more to create a one-of-a-kind game day outfit. 

Looking for even more Cardinal & Gold? Strawberry Patch in North Grand Mall carries everything from iconic t-shirts to cozy hoodies, while Dogtown University specializes in customizable, embroidered, and classic Iowa State styles. 

 

Dorm & Room Essentials 

Whether you’re moving into a dorm or refreshing your apartment, The Shops at Clark & Main has everything you need. Find stylish home decor, stationery, and more! It’s the perfect place for modern and sustainable home essentials. 

Homegrown is filled with handcrafted decor and products created by local artists. From hand towels and prints to glassware and candles, there’s no better place to find unique decorations to spruce up your apartment or dorm room. 

Furniture Mart has everything you need to furnish your home away from home! Find desks, beds, comfortable sofas, sectionals and more to create a space that feels stylish, cozy and uniquely yours. 

 

Revamp Your Closet 

Offering fresh, stylish clothing, b.e. good is the perfect place to refresh your closet for the new semester. Find the latest trends and seasonal styles, then complete your look with a statement necklace, cute hat or other fun accessories. 

Start the school year in style at Moorman Clothiers, where you’ll find quality clothing for every step of your college journey. Whether you’re preparing for a class presentation, internship or career fair, you’ll find polished looks and expert guidance to help you feel confident wherever the semester takes you. 

Elevate your wardrobe at The Loft Resale, where you’ll find a curated selection of quality clothing, accessories and shoes at more accessible prices. As a consignment shop, The Loft is always bringing in new pieces, so every visit is a chance to discover something special to add to your style. 

 

Find the Fun this Semester 

You’ll need a good book to unwind after a long day of classes, and Dog-Eared Books has something for every kind of reader. Browse bestselling thrillers, nonfiction, children’s books, and find your next favorite read. You’ll also find journals, bookmarks, and stickers that make great additions to anyone’s backpack, laptop, or pencil case. 

Unwind and get creative at Prairie Rose Needleworks! Browse everything you’ll need for your next embroidery or cross-stitch project or sign up for a Sip & Stitch class to learn something new while relaxing after a busy week of school.

 

Written by Amiah Marshall-Johnson, Marketing Intern

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