LUST vs BARGAIN: back to school stationery

As children, teenagers and students prepare for the new academic year, I thought it was the perfect time to indulge in a little fantasy "back to school" shopping. Looking at both ends of the financial spectrum, I splurged a little at Smythson and was frugal at Paperchase:

From left: 'Happiness is Shopping' notebook, Sterling Silver fountain pen, 'Girl Notes' notebook, solid silver pencil.

From left: fountain pen; pretty notebook; pretty ballpen; exercise books.

What do you think of my selections? Do you go nuts for a new notebook? I always feel that its blank pages are full of promise and new beginnings*.

For anyone heading back to school or college or university soon, good luck.

*Incidentally, "new beginnings" is the theme for British Style Bloggers in September.