Etsy announced their 2020 Back-to-School Guide, based on search data which reveals how parents, students and shoppers are preparing for this unprecedented school season. We’re pretty sure this is the first year in history when face masks have topped the list above pencil cases and lunchboxes. Scroll through to see what else is hot for back-to-school gear in 2020.
Etsy’s 2020 Back-to-School Trends:
Kids Masks & Accessories
Over the last three months, “face mask” was consistently the top search on Etsy, with one reusable or washable face mask-related search every second over the past 30 days. We love the oh-so-cute variety offered on Etsy like this one for dinosaur lovers and this one that comes with a matching sun hat (for double protection).
They’re also seeing new mask accessories emerge on the platform, with sellers offering handy new ways to wear and store masks. Personalized lanyards, carrying cases and “mask chains” are all rising in popularity.
First Day of School Signs, Reimagined
First day of school signs continue to be a popular pick for parents looking to commemorate and share this exciting milestone with friends and family. And while the trend is holding strong with over 24K search results for first day of school signs available on Etsy, they’re seeing new variations, like “first day of distance learning” signs, emerge in light of the times, with pennants and wearables also popping up in addition to the classic posters and chalkboard options.
Teacher & Staff Appreciation Gear
There’s no doubt that teachers and school staff deserve all the thanks in the world. And while gifts for teachers typically spike towards the end of the school year, Etsy is seeing them surge now, with a 26% increase in searches for teacher gifts in the last month. Items like personalized mugs, keychains and care packages are a thoughtful way to show teachers and school faculty you appreciate all that they do to keep kids safe, engaged and on track.
At-Home Learning Necessities
In order to set students up for success with a comfortable and productive place to learn, families are creating new workspaces at home: in the last month on Etsy, searches for desks and desk accessories have increased 131%. Parents are also seeking out new learning tools to keep young minds inspired and motivated like homeschool planners, learning charts and periodic tables.
Wall Decor
While backpacks and locker decorations were once the mainstays of self-expression, kids and teens who are attending class virtually are now showing their personal style with items that stand out on-screen, like wallpaper, wall decals and art. And temporary decor like peel and stick wallpaper is a great non-permanent choice—parents will love that it can be removed. These fun options give virtual learning spaces an extra dose of inspiration, and inject some joy into the school week grind.
College-Bound Gear
The transition from high school to higher learning is a big leap, and today’s college-bound students certainly know how to face any challenge coming their way. Whether they’re decking out dorms or zooming lectures from home, college kids have a wealth of options on Etsy to keep their study spaces stylish, comfortable and tidy—from desk organizers and tech accessories to cozy blankets and colorful notebooks. TBH, we kind of want them all for our home offices.
—Kate Loweth
All photos courtesy of Etsy
RELATED STORIES
9 Busy Boards You Can Buy on Etsy Right Now
