While Pokemon is still very much in demand, the new trends have more to do with unusual colors and fabrics. One hot characteristic this season is bright color, said Eileen Dunn, a spokeswoman for Office Depot. Most items come in brilliant, new shades. Pens are fluorescent and glow in the dark, while others have different aromas. According to Nicole Dowswell, a spokeswoman for Kmart, backpacks are all about convenience.
Some models work especially well for students who carry laptops or CD players.
Some backpacks come in metallic gray and orange with bungee straps, which are going to be extremely popular for the fall season. Binders are also getting a lot of attention. They come in denim and other fabrics, in numerous shades and in different designs. Nike products like zippered binders and pencil pouches are also a hit in Kmart stores. The items come in yellow, navy, black, green and red, and they all sport the Nike logo.