Back-to-school shopping combines one of our not-so-favorite things with one of our favorite things, which leaves most of us feeling confused. Back-to-school shopping for back-to-school clothes and back-to-school shoes and back-to-school supplies – it can all be overwhelming. Marion can make it better! From head to toe, Marion County has what you need.

Let’s start with the toes. . . and the head:

Get all your primping done at Tuscan Sun Spa. Nails, skin, hair, makeup – the works! Guys, feel free to get a nice cut at Tuscan or go old school (no pun intended – well, maybe a little) at Simple Cutz Barbershop.

What about the whole foot:

Shop for shoes at A Pied, which means by foot in French. As you can guess, there are plenty of fancy foot options. But, as I’m sure you didn’t imagine, A Pied also has tennis shoes, sandals, flip flops, and flats for everyday use. 

If you want cute shoes and impressive sneaks for a little less, The Drip Zone offers pre-owned shoes for all styles. Want something brand new? They’ve got that, too!

The whole look:

The first week of school definitely calls for new outfits. Want the latest trends? Britain and Brooks has athleisure, bodysuits, crop tees, two-tone jeans, claw clips, and those big scrunchies. Savvy Consignment has all the designer brands sans the designer price. 

Retrace your steps back to Tuscan Sun Spa for cute clothes and an on-fleek backpack.

Oh, the actual school stuff:

Adam’s Office Supply has all the school supplies you’ll need. From very specific sizes of portfolios and types of pens to crayons and fun stuff, regardless of your grade in school this year, they can help you make the grade. (How punny!)

Lunchies and snackies:

Health Naturally has all the packable foods you need: chocolate, granola bars, crackers, sodas, and chips. Sounds like your typical lunch box menu, right? Not so fast! Their food is made with healthier alternatives and organic ingredients. Have a clean conscience as you pack your lunch (or your student’s lunch) with clean foods.

Get on your teachers’ good side. Grab some apples from Speedway Market. While you’re there, get some fruits and veggies for your lunches. Dabbling deeper in nutrition? Enjoy a meatless Monday with all their vegetarian options.

You can’t have too many after-school snackies! Creekside Country Market is stocked with snackable cheese, meats, and candies, and all made the Amish way. 

Coffee, coffee, coffee:

Get caffeinated with a cup of joe at The Joe. On the go? Try a Nitro Cold Brew, pour-over, or dirty chai. Better yet, make it at home! Grab a bag of freshly and locally roasted beans for your coffee-making convenience. 

On the other side of town? Don’t worry; there’s caffeine there, too! The Groove has got you covered: chocolate almond, chocolate raspberry, chocolate coconut, and all kinds of chocolate lattes! Save some money by bringing in your own cup… 

Make it your own by making it on your own! Mountain Creative has a couple of different coffee mugs perfect for this and strolling the hallways at school. It’s the perfect addition to any outfit.

For the college kids:

Unique dorm room decor is tough to come by, but there is an inexpensive option to set your style apart: vintage. Hit up your local antique stores like Arts and Antiques Marketplace, Pickers Paradise, and FLU’s Store. All you really need is one good vintage piece to make a room. Whether that’s a lamp from the 1980′ or a Pepsi sign, there’s a conversation starter perfect for your aesthetic. 

Something Special definitely has something special for any college student on a mission to make a dorm room something special. Beautifully refinished chests, dressers, and mirrors will make your space the envy of all your visitors.

What do you still need to do to help transition from summer break to back to school?