Back to School Backpack
Brand: DSG
Role: Lead Designer
Reimagining a classic Elevating DSG’s backpack for a new generation.
This project focused on reimagining a core DSG back-to-school backpack—elevating an existing design to align with the brand’s premium vision. The goal was to enhance functionality, refine aesthetics, and integrate thoughtful details that deliver both durability and style. By blending elevated materials, improved organization, and a modern silhouette, the redesign positions the backpack as a standout choice for students seeking performance and everyday versatility.
Tech pack development
Using the previous backpack as a reference, I carefully reverse-engineered the existing pattern to understand its construction, proportions, and functionality. This process allowed me to identify areas for improvement, from optimizing compartment layouts to refining strap ergonomics and overall silhouette. By working directly with the original design, I was able to make informed adjustments that enhanced usability, elevated the aesthetic, and ensured the redesign stayed true to DSG’s brand identity while feeling fresh and premium.
Available Colorways
Where to Start?
Understanding the Pattern
I started the redesign by taking apart the previous backpack to see how it was built and where it could be improved.
After seam-ripping and laying out each piece, I used the pattern as a guide to reimagine the design. This hands-on process made it easier to spot opportunities for better proportions, functionality, and details to prepare for rebuilding the backpack digitally to start the elevated version.
Marking It Up
Improving the Silhouette
Next was annotating with notes and sketches directly on the surface to explore adjustments to its profile and silhouette. This hands-on step allowed design changes to be visualized quickly, capturing opportunities to refine proportions, shapes, and overall structure before moving into digital modeling for the next iteration.
CLO 3D
Once I had the new pattern, I jumped into CLO 3D to tweak and test ideas quickly. Working digitally made it easier to iterate, and it kept team brainstorms and check-ins smooth and collaborative.
Design Inspiration
Mesh Water Bottle Pockets
Digital Prototype
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Padded Laptop Storage
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Organizational Accessories
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Material Lineup
Main Body Fabric
Back to School Backpack
STYLISH. FUNCTIONAL. FUN.
Reversed Zipper
Material: 10mm Nylon Tape, Metal Pull
Sized For Every Age
Packed with Purpose
From first class to after-school adventures, this backpack keeps all your essentials organized and easy to access.
Stretch Mesh
Material: 4-Way Nylon Stretch Mesh
Material: 500D Polyester
Liner
Material: 200D Polyester
Adjustable Shoulder Straps
Cushioned straps adjust to fit every body, so carrying books and school supplies stays comfortable all day
Waterbottle Storage
Dual mesh side pockets keep water bottles or quick-grab essentials within easy reach, while adding breathable flexibility
Front Valuables Pocket
Two front pockets give quick access to essentials — one fleece-lined for protecting devices, the other with organization for everyday school items
The DSG Ultimate Backpack is thoughtfully designed to fit both youth and adult sizes, offering the same functionality, organization, and style for students of all ages.
Dual Main Compartment
Two compartments include a padded laptop sleeve and interior organizational pockets, keeping devices protected and school supplies neatly in place
Explore now
Back To School Backpack
Now available online and in all Dicks Sporting Goods stores
Black
Team Burgundy
Bouncy Lilac
Navy
Blue Chalk
Peri Sky
Seafoam Sage
Dark Green
Aloe Green
Cloudy Tofu