Author: Gina @ Oaxacaborn

I always get excited when the back-to-school sales start. When I was a kid, I’d make sure my folders, pencils and notebooks were color-coded by subject, and then I’d add a matching sticker to the corresponding textbooks. I haven’t outgrown that too much — I’m still an office-supply nerd — and I definitely never outgrew the fresh new-start feeling of the back-to-school season. There’s just something in the air that makes me want to reorganize everything, get dressed up, and then sit down and work like crazy. I’ve got plenty coming up this month, with magazine interviews to write, articles to edit, and a lot of work for my secret project, too.

And then there’s Aveline, whose enthusiasm for “da alphabets” never wanes. She spells everything she sees — loudly, of course — and begs me to write out the letters over and over again. I know this fall is going to include a lot more of “da alphabets” as we delve into letter sounds, phonics, and, oh, counting past thirteen too. For now, we’re savoring summer while singing the ABCs on loop and hanging out with my best friend Lauren, who is vacationing here before launching into the new school year as a staff-member for a study-abroad program.

We three girls have been doing a lot of shopping, and this week we headed to JCPenney to pick out a new back-to-school outfit for Aveline. Aveline’s a perpetual motion machine, and I think the intense color of the changing rooms energized her even more. Phew. She really never stops.

Which #FirstDayLook should Aveline choose?

ONE – Intentionally worn two sizes too large, this modern black and white stripe turns into the perfect toddler maxi. A faux leather jacket completes the look.

TWO – A loose-fitting blouse and cami over cuffed floral denim is a great segue from summer to fall.

THREE – Puppy dog tails and sugar and spice pair up when this boys’ top from the infant section (sleeves are cuffed to 3/4 length) is worn with an off-white tulle skirt.

FOUR – Houndstooth leggings and a ribbed pink tank worn under a faux leather jacket brought out the spontaneous air guitar and crouching tiger — and a James Dean face.

I’m heading back to JCP to pick out Aveline’s #FirstDayLook soon — which outfit is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

Disclosure of Material Relationship: I received compensation in exchange for my participation in the JCP Kids Collection partnership, and the #FirstDayLook and #MakeItYours campaigns. All the photographs, opinions, and experiences shared here are in my own words and are my own honest evaluation. Please be assured, I only accept sponsorship opportunities for brands I personally use would recommend to close friends and family, and I will always disclose any such relationships.