Back to school finds
Airing 8/11 on FOX5 NY!
1) Princess Polly – Viral Trends & Campus Cool
Princess Polly is the go-to for viral trends and campus-ready style, and their newest back-to-school range makes it easy to nail that Gen Z cool-girl look. Known for fast shipping, easy returns, and a SoHo store for NYC locals, the brand delivers effortless outfits for any mood. The Elevated Everyday Outfit pairs baggy jeans with a chic belt detail and a fitted check-print button-up, while the Sporty Chic Outfit features a striped jersey top in chocolate brown and baby pink styled with mid-rise denim shorts — both perfect for fall. Shop the full collection at princesspolly.com.
2) CEAN – Wearable Wellness That Works
Founded by Lauren Dovey, creator of viral wellness brand Heat Healer, CEAN™ is the first compressionwear line made from 70% plant-based yarns. Each ethically made piece features patented 3D compression patterns to support lymphatic drainage and circulation, helping reduce puffiness while sculpting your shape. Soft, breathable, and versatile enough for brunch, the gym, or lounging, CEAN blends style with function. Prices range from $48–$168 at cean.com.
3) St. Ives Rose Water & Aloe Micro Face Exfoliant
For smooth, glowing skin all semester, the St. Ives Rose Water & Aloe Micro Face Exfoliant is a gentle, budget-friendly choice that’s perfect for sensitive skin. Made with 100% natural micro-exfoliants plus soothing rose water and aloe, it buffs away dead skin without redness or irritation — delivering results that rival $70 exfoliators for just $4.99. Ideal for keeping skin fresh between late-night study sessions and early classes, you can find it at Walmart, Amazon, and most drugstores, making glow-getting skin more affordable than ever.
4) POND’S Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E & B3 Gel Face Moisturizer
One of my top picks this season, the POND’S Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E & B3 Gel Face Moisturizer delivers instant, lightweight hydration that never feels heavy or greasy — perfect for busy mornings, long days on campus, and everything in between. This gel-based formula keeps skin feeling fresh and looking dewy all day, whether you’re running between classes or studying late into the night. At just $9.99, it’s an affordable skincare essential available at Target, Amazon, and Walgreens, making it an easy fall upgrade for any routine.
5) Bright Air Super Odor Eliminator
The Bright Air Super Odor Eliminator is a plant-based gel that continuously fights unwanted odors for up to 90 days, leaving any space fresh and fragrant. Infused with essential oils, it comes in a variety of scents — from the rejuvenating Cool & Clean and bright Mandarin Orange & Fresh Lemon, to the calming Lavender & Fresh Linen, plus a cool citrus option specially designed for pet areas. Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, dorm rooms, lockers, and laundry areas, it’s safe to use around kids, pets, and the office. Shop online at Amazon and Walmart, or find it at Dollar General, Staples, and learn more at bright-air.com.
6) House of Noa – A Soft Place to Land
Thoughtfully designed in NYC, House of Noa creates stylish, family-friendly pieces that blend safety, comfort, and artful design. Their Soft Furniture Collection is the first modular line that transforms from playtime forts to refined living in minutes, made in machine-washable upholstery-grade linen weave or boucle. With a variety of colors from neutral to bold, and mix-and-match flexibility, these pieces meet European safety standards while looking beautiful in any home. Explore more at thehouseofnoa.com.
7) Scottsdale, Arizona – End-of-Summer Getaway
Scottsdale, Arizona is the perfect spot for a late-summer family escape, with resort rates up to 60% off peak season prices and starting as low as $79 per night. Enjoy five-star luxury at three-star prices and use the savings to splurge on epic water playgrounds, bucket-list outdoor adventures, world-class golf, rejuvenating spa days, or top-rated dining in Old Town Scottsdale. When the desert temperatures rise, the prices drop — and with Arizona’s famously dry heat, you can still savor early morning hot air balloon rides, afternoon pool time, or evening hikes without the sticky humidity of the East Coast. There’s plenty to do indoors too, from exploring the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art to shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall. Most deals last through Labor Day weekend — find more ways to stay, play, and save at SummerinScottsdale.com.