Sponsored by JCPenney and ShopStyle

Back-to-school shopping was a little different for us this year. The supply list for our third-grader looked like this: a microscope, lots of vintage books, nature study notebook, colored pencils, modeling clay, watercolor paints, and an abacus. Yep, we’re homeschooling. But my cool kid still needs back-to-school clothes, shoes, and a backpack for outdoor adventures. I want super comfy clothes that will withstand lots of play.

I found so many great things at JCPenney: cotton dresses and shorts in fun prints, sporty pants and jackets, quality sneakers, and the perfect backpack! Brands I always check out when I’m in the kids’ section: Arizona for jeans and basics, Xersion for activewear, and Reebok for sneakers. Take a look at Back-to-School at JCPenney for lots more inspiration.

Here are links to Julia’s outfit: tie-dye dress, sporty jacket, pink sneakers, and paisley backpack.

I loved shopping with her and letting her pick her favorites. We both loved this outfit and we agreed this is the most awesome nature backpack. This “mini” backpack is smaller than lots of other kid backpacks out there, but it’s the perfect size for her outdoor adventures; there’s plenty of room for sketchbooks, her pencil bag, snacks, and water bottle.

Here’s to a great school year!