KidStyleFile

Today’s post written by Leah

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Whee! Here comes Kawaii Kids – ww.kawaiikids.com.au -  a baby and kids boutique that offers fashion, toy and accessory originality for the child who wants to stand out from the crowd – at prices you CAN afford!

‘Kawaii’ means ‘cute’ in Japanese, and there’s plenty here that deserves that title. Olive’s Friend Pop is among my favourite brands on offer here. Taking me back to my childhood with ‘nostalgic playwear’ this Australian designed range is inspired by post-WWII  girls fashion and created using durable, yet comfortable materials.  My favourite piece is the Violet Overalls – I’m sure I had a similar pair as a tot!

The wooden cash register is another hot pick. All the buttons push, the drawer opens and closes and the numbers at the top spin too. Gorgeous! You’ll also find an array of OB Designs DINGaRINGS and pretend play items in the play section at Kawaii Kids.

The Kawaii Kids sale section is another essential location, with finds up to 50% off within! Bargains you can pick up this month with your loose change include legwarmers, hats for less than a gold coin, and retro hip hair accessories for your little Miss.

To welcome you to the world of Japanese inspiration – Kawaii Kids are offering all KSF readers 20% off store wide – including sale items – until 23 March 2010. Enter ‘KSF’ code in the discount box at checkout to redeem this fabbo offer which will see you take savings of up to 70%. Sign up to the Kawaii Kids monthly newsletter for fantastic monthly giveaways and more.

Discounted prices quoted below are valid with code only (read above) until 23 March 2010.

1. Legwarmers 6 styles (L to R): Black & White Polka Dot Legwarmers $9.95 LESS 20%= $7.96, Zoom Zoom Legwarmers $9.95 LESS 20%= $7.96, Boys PomPom Legwarmers (Tan) $8.95 LESS 20%= $7.16, Legwarmers (Apples) $4.95 LESS 20%= $3.96, Bear Legwarmers $9.95 LESS 20%= $7.96, Bright Polka Dot Legwarmers $9.95 LESS 20%= $7.96.
2. Navy Frog Squeaky Shoes $24.95 LESS 20%= $19.96
3. Vertbaudet Sleeping Bag – Babushka Doll $59.95 LESS 20%= $47.96
4. Pom Pom Beanie Red Stripe $24.95 LESS 20%= $19.96
5. Rock Star Red Mushroom Tee $24.95 LESS 20%= $19.96
6. Red Dress with Crochet Pockets $36.95 LESS 20%= $29.56
7. Wooden Strawberry and Chocolate Cash Register $119.00 $109.00 LESS 20%= $87.20
8. OB Designs – Craig Crocodile DINGaRING $19.95 LESS 20%= $15.96
9. Olive’s Friend Pop – Grace Jacket $140.00 LESS 20%= $112.00
10. Olive’s Friend Pop – Patty Tunic Dress $100 LESS 20%= $80.00
11. Olive’s Friend Pop – Peggy Skirt(Pink) WAS $80.oo LESS 20%= $64.00

Kawaii Kids offers a flat rate postage fee of $7.50 Australia wide, with same day dispatch for all orders received before 11am daily. Overseas orders welcomed.  Full shipping information can be found here.

Today’s post written by Angela

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Today, in all it’s glory, I bring to you the incredible ‘The Future Is Now’ Autumn/Winter 2010 from Polka – www.polkakids.com.au. Never an outfit to disappoint, design duo Marika and Jo, exceed expectations once more with their latest collection pieces for babies from size 000 through to size 7.

Comprised of bold and colourful geometric knits that pay homage to the 1960’s space-age aesthetic for girls – think mini dresses and knee high boots – and ‘cool-geek’ for little boys, Polka once more breaks the mould to deliver a highly unique and individualistic collection.

Responding to the demand from tween mums for fashion that suits 8-12 year olds, Polka are also launching their spin-off collection, Geogami, this season. Available in sizes 8,10,12 and14, independent minded tweens to teens and their parents are bound to be impressed by this collection, which is indefatigably cool in it’s reference to Japan’s Toyko, and Scandinavian street culture.

With nary a muffin top or surfie motif to be found, Geogami offers tweens and teens a sophisticated alternative to the usual street fashion available to them.

Polka Kids A/W10 Collection and Geogami A/W10 will be available in stores from 12 March. Check here for Polka stockists, and contact Polka for Geogami stockists.

Polka Mod Pod Balaclava Beanie and Mod Pod Dress

My Plastic Heart Knitted Jumper and Euro Trax Black Concave Track Pants, Try This Angle Knitted Jumper and Euro Trax Navy Concave Track Pants, My Power Knitted Jumper and Euro Trax Black Concave Track Pants, Monoscope Knitted Jumper and Euro Trax Black Concave Track Pants

Synery Balaclava Beanie and Synergy Knitted Dress, Synergy Balaclava Beanie and Alpha Beta Pocket Play Dress, Mod Pod Balaclava Beanie and Mod Pod Dress, Kaftania Cotton Lycra Dress and Pandamonium Leggings

Prism Triangle Panel Tee and Euro Trax Black Concave Track Pants, Nemesis Knitted Sleeveless Hoodie and Euro Trax Navy Concave Track Pants, Stylus Velour Jumper and Euro Trax Black Concave Track Pants

Hello Tokyo Cotton Knitted Dress

Wolfgang Black Cap and Future Boy Knitted Jumper and Odyssey Salvage Denim Skinny Leg Jean, Wolfgang Grey Cap and Nemesis Knitted Sleeveless Hoodie and Euro Trax Navy Concave Track Pants

Today’s post written by Miki

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Now all of us have our own special ‘happy places’, and mine is not only calming and joyful but also open to all of you: it’s none other than Little Styles – www.littlestyles.com.au.

Little Styles is a happy refuge for me because it’s loaded with over 2,000 beautiful and well designed children’s products from 100+ brands, it’s so easy to navigate, and the site is gorgeous to look at.  Plus right now it has a cache of new winter fashion from some of my most smile-inducing brands: Gaia Organic Cotton, Sooki Baby, Marquise, BIG by Fiona, Minti, Woof!, Bebe, Bonds, Munster, Books To Wear and Purebaby – and this is just the start of the winter stock due to arrive over the next few weeks at Little Styles.

The newest Bebe by Minihaha collections look too good to be true – the adorable Leila for girls (the bubble pinnie at #1 below is going to be one of the biggest hits this season) and Charlie for boys with it’s hip, understated monochrome and beige styling.  Gaia Organic Cotton also deserve a big shout out for their new season gorgeousness – I adore the 100% organic cotton velour footed onesies, and their separates are indispensable in my baby’s wardrobe so I can’t wait to stock up.

New toys and decor items are in from Alimrose starting from only $8.95, see a few of my faves below at #5; and pre-orders are now being taken for the hugely popular Vulli Treehouse.  So many of us either owned and loved, or desperately wanted (me!) one of these during their own childhoods that they’re simply flying off the shelves in Australia and supply can’t keep up with demand.  So pre-order your’s – ahem, your child’s – one now to make sure you don’t both miss out!  Email Terri to place your order.

The biggest, hugest, most exciting arrival of the season is of course going to be Oobi, and I can now announce that Little Styles will be stocking the *entire* Oobi A/W10 range!  It’ll launch on Friday 12 March, and Little Styles newsletter subscribers will get the first chance to snap up their favourite pieces. You have been warned so sign up now if you haven’t already; put your email addy in the subscribe box on the Little Styles hompeage. You can see a KSF exclusive preview of the to-die-for Oobi AW10 range here.

Grab some of the new goodies in-store at Little Styles, or scoop bargains up to 60% off in the sale section, with 10% off all orders over $65 for KidStyleFile for three days only until midnight on 10 March 2010. Enter discount code ‘ksfautumn‘ at checkout to redeem. Enjoy!

Don’t forget that you can take 10% off the prices below when you spend $65 or more and enter the code ‘ksfautumn’ at checkout. Offer expires Weds 10 March 2010.

1. Bebe Leila Long Sleeve Tee, $24.95; Bebe Leila Stripe Bubble Pinnie w/ Bodysuit, $44.95; Marquise Knitted Tights – Pink, $9.95
2. Munster: Baby Spotty Dinosaur Tee, $34.95; and Baby Gabba Legging, $34.95
3. Gaia Organic Cotton Primrose Stripe Footed Onesie, $39.95; Sooki Baby Funky Monkey Unisex Romper, $34.95; Gaia Organic Cotton Velour Footed Romper – Charcoal Stripe, $46.95
4. Vulli Magic Klorofil Tree House – Email to Pre-Order
5. BIG by Fiona Scanlan: Sequin Tutu – Gossamer, $119.00; and Sequinned Bow Headband, $22.95
6. Alimrose Designs: ‘Finn’ Reversible Cot Quilt, $98.95;  Flatties Giraffe – Buttercup, $20.95; Alimrose Designs Vivien Doll, $47.95; and Birdie Squeaker – Pink, $19.95

Little Styles stocks fashion, toys and accessories from the following list of brands: Aden & Anais, Adiri, Albetta, Alex, alex & charli, Alimrose Designs, Annabel Trends, Baby Gund, Babykids, Babylegs, Babylicious, Baobab, Bbox, Bebe, Bebe Au Lait, Belly Art, Big by Fiona Scanlan, Blabla, BLINK Designs, Bluebird & Honey, Bobbleart, Bonds, Busybee Friends, Cheeky Little Soles, Cheeky Monkey, Cloud B, Cocoon Couture, Deglingos, Elodie Details, Fish Lilly, Flipsy Flopsy Doll Co., Flirty Bird, ForWalls, French Bull, Fresh Bakes, Gala Organic Cotton, Gertie and Me, Giddy Giddy, Gimmo, Global Style custom, Haba, Hess-Spielzebug, Infancy, Infantino, Isoki, Itch Design, Jack & Lily, Jasnor, Kathe Kruse, Lakeland Design, Lark and Friends, L’il Fraser Collection, Little Chippi, Little Styles, Love Police, Mamas and Papas, Marquis, Melissa & Doug toys, Miatom, Milk Baby, Minimonkey, Minti, Moppit, Muddy Cloud, Noo Design, Oobi, Paper Eskimo, Pink Thodore, Plum, Precious L’il Thingsm Purebaby, Rockabye baby!, Rush, Russ, Sevi, Sigikid, Skeanie, Skip Hop, Sooki Baby, Super Zeros, SwaddleDesigns, Three Little Trees, Tiny Mammoth, Tiny Revolutionary, Tiny Tribe, Vintage Kid, Walnut, Well Spotted, Woof!, WOW toys.

Little Styles deliver Australia-wide for the flat fee of $7.50. Orders over $150 are delivered FREE of charge! See ordering and delivery for more information, including international shipping rates.

The Baby Show, a public expo of baby and kids products, was held at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne over the weekend, and we had our KidStyleFile roving reporter Sam on the scene. For those who couldn’t make it to the event Sam’s reportage will fill you in. Enjoy! – Angela

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Beautiful venue: CHECK! Enthusiastic retailers: CHECK! Eager families and families-to-be: CHECK!

All the necessary ingredients were in place for a hectic final day of The Baby Show Melbourne 2010, held from Friday March 5^th to Sunday March 7^th, in arguably one of the most picturesque settings in Melbourne, the Royal Exhibition Buildings.

Despite the wet conditions, Melbourne families and soon-to-be families flocked to view the latest products and services being offered by a range of retailers.  There seemed to be a supplier for every possible baby and toddler need, including clothing, furniture, prams and pushers, food products, toys, nappies, photographers and skin products, for both baby and mum.

Environmental sustainability and organic products were big buzzwords this year, as retailers and manufacturers look to develop a more environmentally friendly approach to baby and toddler goods.

The scene was set upon entering the building.  Walking through the doors, my seven-year-old daughter and I were impressed with the layout, with plenty of room in each aisle for families with prams to move through. A quick toilet stop – no queuing – then I checked in at the Baby-Love sponsored Feeding and Changing Rooms. Parents seemed happy with the comfy couches on offer for feeding, and the separate changing room had plenty of change tables for those essential nappy changes.

A stage area was set up at the back of the building, with a visit from the Tellytubbies keeping toddlers occupied while mum and dad had a rest, and maybe a coffee from the cafe.  The Fisher Price Toy Train was another popular space for toddlers to play in, while parents had a shopping break.

Together with my daughter, I scoured the stalls to find my top five favourites, a difficult decision given the many fantastic products on offer.

Here are 5 of our favourite stands from the show:

1. Spunkerella: www.spunkerella.com

The absolute standout stall, as far as my daughter was concerned, was Holly Moore’s Spunkerella, with its colourful, frothy Pettiskirts and Ruffle-ette tops.  In fact, so impressed was my daughter, that she dipped into her Christmas savings to buy herself both a top and a skirt (and believe me, parting this particular seven-year-old from her money is no easy feat!)  Perfect for birthday parties, christenings or just when it’s time to be girly, these adorable skirts swish and twirl with every move.  Since starting her business 8 months ago, Melbourne-based Holly has also developed a range for teens and adults, called Pettiflirts, made out of the same soft, nylon chiffon, and adorned with stylish satin ribbon.

2. Organic Boy|Girl and Friends: www.organicboy.com.au

Putting her environmental sustainability ideals into practice, Melbourne-based mother of two and designer Christine Meister has developed a range of organic cotton clothing for boys and girls, from sizes 1/2 to 5/6.  Launching in August 2009, Christine’s range has quickly grown from toddler underwear and t-shirts, to now include singlets (from size 000 to 5/6), fleece blankets and groovy jeans, all made using Australian-grown organic cotton, and printed and sewn by local, Melbourne-based companies.  Christine’s designs were inspired by her desire to find boy’s clothes which were not pirate or “skull and crossbones” themes.  Her philosophy of producing as environmentally sustainably as possible extends to her simple but stylish cardboard packaging and coat hangers.

3. Nought2five: www.nought2five.com

One of my favourite furniture items from the Melbourne Baby Show was the HiLo Kid’s Chair, from nought2five. This innovative and retro-styled chair, available in four different colours, can be used by children from 6 months to 6 years of age, with a unique flip system that allows it to be used at a dining table or at the kitchen or island bench.  Other products that caught my eye at nought2five included the Australian-designed Snug Silk Series of luxury silk bedding, super-soft and with a gorgeous embroidered stylized puppy, and the innovative and fun Boon Frog Pod (also available in a ladybird design – Bug Pod), a hygienic and tidy way to store bath toys.

4. Melobaby: www.melobaby.com

Developed by Sydney mum Melissa Walsh, Melobaby is a compact but stylish all-in-one nappy wallet and change mat, which folds neatly and easily to fit into your handbag.  Made using nylon twill, and featuring an easy-open easy-close magnetic clasp, the Melobaby is a longwearing, washable product, which comes with a wipes purse and washable soft fleecy mat.  Additional wipe purse packs and fleece mats can be purchased separately, including a longer, leopard-print mat for fashion-conscious mums.  Current standard colour-ways include black with a charcoal mat, or dark brown with lime-green mat, however Melissa will soon be launching a soak-able, cream-coloured cotton canvas pack, with caramel mat.  Judging by the crowd at the Melobaby stand, Melissa has created a very popular product for those days on the town with your baby or toddler.

5. Seed Organic Furniture: www.seedorganic.com.au

Seed Organic presented absolutely beautiful nursery furniture, which not only looks good, but is environmentally friendly and sustainable too – complete with certification and an explanation of which materials are used and why. These plain white pieces include moses baskets, cradles, cots, bed conversion kits and chests of drawers, really ‘pop’ with the addition of colourful soft furnishings.

Other notable products:

iiamo bottles: www.iiamo.com

Made in Denmark, this innovative, self-warming feeding bottle was one of the most popular products at the Melbourne Baby Show.  It uses a special salt-based organic water heater to warm milk to the recommended feeding temperature in around 4 minutes.  Heat on the go, as no electricity is required!

Mothercare: www.mothercare.com.au

Hailing from the UK, Mothercare has recently opened a retail outlet at Chadstone Shopping Centre, and will be opening another at Doncaster in April this year.  Well known by many with an English heritage, Mothercare offers a range of maternity wear, children’s wear (newborn to size 8), prams, furniture and other baby and toddler essentials at competitive prices.

Please check individual stores for stockist/postage and delivery information.

Today’s post written by Leah, photographs by Edwina.

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The Life InStyle trade-only event, incorporating Kids InStyle, the baby and kids component of the show, was held at the Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter, Australia, from 25 February – 28 February 2010.

Showcasing 180 baby and kids brands, and over 300 lifestyle and homewares brands, the event delivered on its promise to “bring style to life”.

Edwina and I attended the show, and we have put together our top 20 picks from this edition of Kids InStyle for you. The next edition of Life InStyle and KidsInstyle will be held in Melbourne from 10-13 August 2010.

For your viewing pleasure, please click on each numbered image to view larger versions. Use your browser’s ‘Back’ button to get back to this page.

1. Lad & Lass displayed oh-so-cute lighting and prints.  Hung on the branches of a large white tree, this designer lampshade range is fresh and breezy, with white backgrounds that display a range of prints in a colour selection appropriate for most nurseries. The latest print collection includes the limited edition Animal Alphabet, which has been sourced by some well known museums, and the Forest Family Pedigree which can be customised for up to 4 generations. Distributed by Ball and Skittle, this range is sure to become a favourite.

2. Aunty Ollie designer (and mum of three!) Jodie Hampshire showcased the latest fashion pieces from Aunty Ollie with panache. Ranging from size 0 to 10 years, this UAE made, Australian designed label offers pieces that are fun but simple, with patterns that include cupcakes (yummy), florals, Japanese print and retro boys. The latest baby range made me all clucky with the most divine contrast print rompers for boys and vintage pretty flounce dress and pants sets (you’ll want to take a bite from the apple print).

3. Old Soles were the stand out shoe display for me this year, but I may be biased, with my youngest currently learning to walk in this very shoe! The winter range included side zippered boots in a range of colours with leopard print lining.  These shoes are 100% leather, fit extraordinarily well even on the widest foot and come in the most divine styles. Vicki Lever, Old Soles designer (and once that of Hound Dog) also showed us their latest concept – a snake skin inspired creation that is certain to be snapped up by all mummy-stylists for their daughters when it hits stores later this year. My favourite? The black and white “Chanel” inspired slipper, perfect for indoors and out and stunning accompanied with the perfect dress.

4. Tea Princess has come a long way since its genesis 5 years ago when Kate designed her first range and stocked it in the B&M store Charbella in Cronulla, NSW.  Tea Princess has acquired a huge following, and is currently stocked in a number of KidStyleFile’s favourite online stores, and has recently been picked up by both  NZ and UK department stores. Run by three sisters, Kate, Belle and Tanya, Tea Princess stands out from the crowd with a classic colour palate of fresh pastels, embroidery, lace and luxury materials. This is a classically beautiful range, perfect for now, and to share again as a family heirloom.

5. Ruby Luxe is the perfect jewellery and accessory range for girls 9 years and beyond. Designed by Australian Helen Bailey, the items in this range are sure to be stolen from your daughters jewellery box to compliment your latest outfit! I was immediately taken by the necklaces, which I think really need a hyphen, (“neck-laces”) as many of the items are tied at the back of the neck rather than being a continuous loop or sporting a clasp fastening. The range is quirky, with acrylic shapes in the form of horses, squirrels, butterflies, fairies and birds amongst others, taking the centre stage amongst beads and ribbons.

6. Me 2 Me 2 have solved some of my questions around what unique gifts to buy for some of the 4+ year old nieces and nephews in my family this year with their children’s ‘professional’ kits. Offering a belt kit for the budding hairdresser, a tool belt for the chippy, cooking set for your master chef, or gardening kit for the child with a green thumb, Me 2 Me 2 understand the importance of role play in child development.  Me 2 Me 2 design their own fabric patterns and have used these to create my favourite item- matching mother and daughter aprons which I’m sure can transform me into a Stepford Wife, along with a range of other gift accessories.

7. Gabrial Saynte has produced yet another range of t-shirts that every dad is going to fall in love with and snap up for his little boy.  Screaming attitude, these tees pay homage to some of the cultural icons of literature, film and television. The shirt names had me giggling with such  labels as  ”Augustus Gloop”, “Micky O’Neill”, “O-Ren Ishii” and “Devon Banks” , all anti-heroes, although you will find Charlie Bucket in their somewhere.  This range exemplifies rock star hip and is on my list of staple must haves.

8. Down to the Woods was a stand out exhibition. I almost found myself tiptoeing over to the stall to ensure I didn’t startle the magnificent creatures that stood amongst the grass. They were in fact the beautiful hand finished Heico German lamps. Whimsical, dreamy, and awe inspiring, these lamps will almost convince you that you have fallen down a rabbit hole and arrived in Wonderland. Only just arrived in Australia, the range will be in store in the next 10 weeks and include geese, scotty dogs, mushrooms, rabbits, and more, to light up your nursery (or perhaps even your lounge room?).

9. Lark once again produced a stunning display of retro-imspired goodies. My eyes were instantly drawn to the Ladybird Activity kits which included Tricks and Magic which will turn your little one into a magician with their very own magic cards, trick collection and multiplying balls, and  Let’s Get Crafting, which has so many favoured craft goodies such as wiggly eyes, foam shapes and threads, your little one could be amused for weeks. Also new to Lark are Belle and Boo hand finished cushions, which feature original Belle and Boo prints finished with hand embroidery, to accompany the existing range of wall art produced by UK illustrator Mandy Sutcliffe. Other new items coming your way soon from Lark are the new edition Miller and Goodman Shapemaker, Sukie notebooks and journals and Anorak Magazine.

10. Bluebird & Honey used wooden ladders to showcase their signature pinafores, with knit dresses, cushions and cardigans alongside, providing a vision of warmth to a label whose appliques and attention to detail have me crying for more. The Little Boy and Little Girl cushions are simply divine, and their baby giftware sets are perfect for a new baby. This winter, Bluebird & Honey have also expanded their colour palate and range for boys, which has me grinning from ear to ear.

11. Red Wagon balloon covers win the prize for most innovative new product. These retro-fabric covers slip over any standard balloon to add visual interest and prevent the balloon from breaking. A great idea to safely facilitate interactive ballooon play with very small children, or jazz up bedroom decor.

12. Villa Carton - has just arrived in Australia from Holland with a product range guaranteed to coax any child’s imagination into play.  All the props are there: a castle, doll house, rocking throne, and an array of costumes – but they’re all a bit like the first television broadcast – devoid of colour, simple and in black and white. It is up to your child to provide the colour theme, to source their inspiration of how the colours should interplay. Affordable and great fun, Villa Carton shone from the pack.

13. Knuffle Kid’s Rainy Day Games A/W10 Collection was a beauty to behold. Every season Knuffle Kid’s designer Emma Strybosch designs and prints her own fabric and produces her range in Melbourne.  The woollen ‘Moonface Reversible Cape’ is a triumph, as is the vintage floral ‘Connie Reversible Dress’. Keep an eye on this brand: every season they get better and better, and I’m already aniticipating the summer 2010/2011 Aloha Hollywood collection.

14. Banter & Frolic debuted their stunningly detailed and unique range of party packs at Kids InStyle. Designers Sharntel and Felicity have road tested the contents of each and every pack with kids to ensure that both parents and children will love the contents, which include invitations, loot bags, masks, games and more, in a great selection of themes.

15. Mae wall stickers continue to thrill, with their new release Mini Mae stickers (affordable laptop decoration is here!) and Dress Up Dolls making their debut at the show. Besides their beautiful designs, you can scrunch, stomp on, infinitely reposition and tear at these fabric wall decals and they won’t bat an eye. Australian designed and made, Mae is a true pioneer in wall decal design and usability.

16. Hilly Chrisp is coming soon to Australia, and I cannot wait! Designed by NZ expat Alexandra Weston, now resident in Hong Kong, the Hilly Chrisp range was born some three years past when Alex designed a skirt for her daughter that received constant compliments. This carefree collection gives a nod to 1940’s-1950’s style, and features dresses made from 100% cotton in a range of beautiful prints and patterns.

17. Miss Haidee, a Tasmanian-born, Byron Bay based label offers items for both boys and girls from 0-8. With small runs each season, this quirky and original label will ensure your kidlet stands out from the crowd and proudly shows off their individualism. Utilising vintage tablecloths, tea towels and lace doilies, this collection fuses together romantic/gypsy/bohemian aesthetics into a stunning result. Upcycling at its best!

18. Nutcase Helmets make head protection cool! Yep, the humble helmet has had a makeover! Nutcases’s ‘Little Nutty’ collection brings fashion to headgear with a comprehensive range of designer helmets, which this season includes the 1960’s inspired Little Nutty Tie Dye and Little Nutty Flower Power designs. I also love the Nutcase “I Love My Brain” philosophy, which reminds us that our wee ones are never too young to have their assets protected. 

19. Kek deliver a Danish explosion of colour into Australian homes, with the funkiest items handpicked from Scandinavia and the Netherlands. Everything on display served a function, from immaculately detailed cushions to RICE branded table wares and storage. Watch out for the Pakhuis Oost children’s lifestyle range which is designed in Amsterdam.

20. Home and Human Fashion took us into the world of the French label La Marelle with ethereal treats found in the exquisite illustrated colouring books including Australia’s first Lucy and the Ephemeral Spirit. These books are so amazing; each one is like a work of fine art. Small cases, cards, tea sets, tableware and bags were richly illustrated in true La Marelle style.

Honourable mentions go to S/S’10-’11 collections exhibited by Babes in the Shade (long sleeve SPF50+ rashies), Little Horn (stripes, bows and padlock print purses from), and Peggy (floral fashion temptations).

Today I’d like to bring you this very special interview with Alex Riggs, the extraordinary creator of Oobi Baby & Kids, twice voted number 1 favourite baby and kids designer by you, KidStyleFile readers, in the KidStyleFile Annual Reader Survey.

The Autumn/Winter 2010 Oobi collection for boys and girls will be in stores from 12 March 2010. In the meantime enjoy this inside scoop!

- Angela.

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Hi, Alex, tell me about Oobi A/W10: what’s inspired you this season?

Boys used to pull my pigtails when I was a little girl and as an early teen I was in love with David Bowie for ages (still shocked I never married him!). That’s about all I know about boys really. They are a complete mystery to me in so many ways (try asking a man the same about women and I’m sure he’ll say they are a complete mystery to him too!).

But I know how I like a boy – or man -  to dress. Sharp little jackets, funky shirts, nice retro touches, a rugged fitted Henley Tee and buttersoft jeans. Throw in a vest and some tweed and I’m a happy camper. No bling, nothing too fancy, just a quirky touch here and there, some neat tailoring and clever cuts and colours.

This season for little boys we’ve created a sweet range of tailored jackets with superfunky stripy lining that can be mixed and matched with our new Henley Tees (check out the cool buttons I found!) and created a range that I think is pretty well-rounded. I think that no matter what your style you can mix it up and create your own look. Red cowboy with grey vest, tweed pants and navy jacket? Cool. The same look with jeans and a Henley? Sure. It all works together because I chose the entire colour palette to co-ordinate without being matchy. I think that should make any busy mum’s job way easier.

For girls I’ve been inspired by Paris (a girl can dream, right?). Fresh, crisp French navy and white with bold touches of red feature heavily (the shirt dress is so Audrey-Hepburn-in-Paris!)

On the flipside, we’ve got some really autumnal stained berry colours, rich tweeds and some really old-fashioned shapes. We are loving our little swing coats with the beautiful ribbon features. The coat is lined in really soft jersey so they’re easy to wear and the hoodie has Oobi house-designed fabric peeking out.

Our Tweed bubble dresses are very quirky and I know they are not for everyone, but they are totally for me. I am so in love with this look and I hope there will be a bunch of mums that dig it too. Little crystal buttons and some seriously impressive pleating work just finish the garment so beautifully. The pleating was done for me by a special artisan who only works in pleating and has created garments for some very famous designers.

I’m especially pleased with how our appliqué work came out this season. Oobi is pretty well known for our appliqué dresses and pants and I found some lovely vintage-y fabrics to mix-and-match with my own Oobi prints. I think that the combos are really cute and I hope that everyone else likes them too. I always try and make mixing-and-matching easy so there are some great tees, retro headscarves and clips that go with everything plus some lovely tights and leggings to keep warm over winter.

You travelled to Toyko, Japan, recently. I know Oobi has been a best-seller in Japan for a while now. How was your trip?

We were invited to Tokyo to see Oobi sold in one of the big department stores there. Oobi has sold really well in Japan for a few years, but this was a huge big deal for us – lots of excitement (and lots of eating, eating, eating!).

The Silver-Grey Smock Dress with Rosette (also available in Dusky Pink, not shown) is inspired by Japan. The pleating is all hand-made and designed to work a little like origami. The fabric is gorgeous and soft and I think our little model wears it really well with her diamanté tights.

Notes on the Tokyo Pics: The one with the spinning top is not retouched in any way, that’s a paper cut-out! Terry and I are desperately trying to import one of those pandas for the warehouse. We like the idea of Ben riding around on those collecting cartons. The band… Ummm.. Because you’re never too old? A pic of this very cool band called Polysics that we went to see one night. Loads of fun, made me feel 24 again. Our distributor took us around on an Oobi stores shopping spree and we stopped here on the way, one of the most beautiful stores I’ve ever seen. We had a ‘pop up’ store in this super-funky area called Omotosando Hills (very “The Hills” – “Omotosando Hills”). Full of Gucci and Chanel all that stuff. As I was walking I saw a guy who looked like a rock star walking a monkey on a lead. Blurry pic because he wouldn’t stop his stride. My delicious lunch. Found it hard to eat it it was so beautiful. We weren’t even anywhere fancy, just a regular restaurant. All reasons why I love Japan!

I love the illustrations you have used with the photos in this season’s collection. Reminds me of old-school Disney in the 50’s: what was it inspired by?

The idea actually came when I was looking at this gorgeous Judith Fritchman drawing of a child on a swing. I thought how beautiful pencil drawings are and I immediately thought of one of our “Oobi Babies” who could rise to the challenge of pretending to be on a swing. The idea just kind of developed from there and most of the drawings using the babies were drawn in after the shoot to correspond with their spontaneous actions. Other shots we asked the children to ‘make believe’ which they did really well. There’s a little story throughout our catalogue this season and it’s written like a children’s book from the 1950s. It was the most fun concept and shoot ever.

Oobi Autumn/Winter 2010 will be available from stockists from 12 March 2010. Boy’s wear goes up to 5 years and girl’s wear goes up to size 6 years; the new release ‘Darcy’ skirts go up to size lucky number 7. Prices for all pieces range from $17.95 – $69.95. Follow Alex on the Oobi Baby & Kids blog, and let her know you’re a fan on Facebook.

Today’s post written by Miki

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Eternal Creation has long been one of my most coveted brands.  Bright, interesting colours and patterns, beautiful, child friendly shapes, and the most delightful back story.  Who wouldn’t want clothing for their kids that not only looks stunning but is also ethically manufactured in the Himalayas by an expat Aussie?

It’s always one of the brands whose new season collections I’m most excited to see, and to my great delight I’ve just discovered it online at Three Little Owls – www.threelittleowls.com.au.  And  oh my goodness me, the new collection is divine. I adore this boys wool jacket, and this cord pinafore for little girls is so incredibly sweet.

There are lots of other new things at Three Little Owls, not least their brand spanking new website!  It’s so easy to use and the layout is sleek and appealing.  Well done to them!  And to go with the new website are loads of new season collections arriving instore. Besides Eternal Creation and the snuggly Huckleberry Lane pyjamas which have already landed, we can expect brand new Sooki Baby, Marquise, Monster Baby and lots more any day now.

To celebrate both the new site and all the new collections hitting their shelves, Dimity and her team at TLO are giving us 15% off store-wide (*excluding gift vouchers) until 9 March 2010.  This fab discount includes the new stock arriving and the huge sale category, which already has selected pieces from Baobab, Gaia Organic Cotton, Eternal Creation, Infancy and Purebaby, to name but a few, up to 40% off – which means up to *55%* off using your handy dandy redemption code, ‘KSF03‘ at checkout.

Three Little Owls offers even more than that on a daily basis.  For starters we’ve got a weekly special on a different product each week (see no.3 below for this week’s), a gift registry to make everyone’s lives easier, and a fantastic newsletter with exclusive previews, specials and competitions. Sign up to never miss a trick.

The prices below reflect the 15% discount.  Enter ‘KSF03′ at checkout; code expires at midnight on 8 March 2010.

1. Storksak Elizabeth Nappy Bag, $399.00 NEW!  minus 15% = $339.15
2. The Wall Sticker Company – Tree Silhouette, $170.00 NEW!  minus 15% = $144.50
3. Hurphy Durphy Seat Belt Buckle Guard, $29.95 $20.95 minus 15% = $17.80
4. Eternal Creation Tie Back Dress – Alicante, $58.95 $44.95 minus 15% = $38.20
5. Baobab Kimono T – Flower, $34.95 $24.95 minus 15% = $21.20
6. Gaia Organic Cotton Grandpa Hoodie, $34.95 $24.95 minus 15% = $21.20
7. Gaia Organic Cotton Blue Stripe Cuffed Pant, $29.95 $20.95 minus 15% = $17.80
8. Huckleberry Lane Car Pyjamas, $39.95 $27.95 minus 15% = $23.75
9. Baobab Baby Girl Pant, $26.95 $18.95 minus 15% = $16.10
10. Albetta Romper – 3 Little Boats, $41.95 $31.95 minus 15% = $27.15

Three Little Owls stock Aden & Anais, Albetta, And The Little Dog Laughed, Annabel Trends, Alimrose Designs, Artee Supplies, Babymoov, Baby Banz, Baby Legs, Baobab, Blabla, Bluebird & Honey, Books To Wear, Boon, Cheeky Monkey, Clean Shopper, EcoBaby, Eleganter, Eternal Creation, Fiesta Crafts, Fish Lilly, Forwalls, Gaia Skin Naturals, Gaia Organic Cotton, Heimess, Hess Spielzeug, Hurphy Durphy, Huckleberry Lane, Infantino, Imse Vimse, Infancy, Itsy Bitsy, Jack & Lily, Jock & Tilly, Korimco Toys,  Kumquat, Little Joey Organics, Little Tasoro, Lotus Linens, Monkey Do, mamapapa, Marquise, Mill & Mia, Minimonkey, Nice4Neez, Noo Designs, Nurtured By Nature, Peanut Shell, Pop Maternity, Snazzy Baby, Star & Rose, Storksak, Paper Eskimo, Pepperpot, Polkadot Papoose, Purebaby, Read With Me, Ring O Rosey, Taia, The Wall Sticker Company, Tiny Tribe, Toys Pure, and Walnut.

For standard size parcels Three Little Owls offer flat rate shipping of $7.50 Australia wide, and orders $150+ are delivered FREE of charge Australia-wide. International orders are warmly welcomed. See the Three Little Owls FAQ section for full details.

Today’s post written by Cassi from The Crafty Crow

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Hello everyone, can you believe it is already March?

Our weather here in Idaho is warming slightly, just enough to melt a little snow and hear the constant drip, drip, drip off the edge of the house. Are you starting to cool off a bit? I always find it fascinating that our seasons are so perfectly opposite

The activities today can mostly be made with items you already have at home and enjoyed by all ages. Have fun!
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1 - Kleas shows you how to make these lovely lanterns from balloons and tissue paper. I think they would make an evening walk pure magic!

2 - If you have a stack of magazines that need to be tossed then this project from Mama Veg will come in handy. Children can practice spelling their name, cutting, and gluing while recycling.

3 - No Time For Flashcards shares a fun activity – painting with flyswatters! This would be a fun party activity too.

4 - Make a simple spinning top with these instructions at Julie K In Taiwan.

5 - This colorful ribbon ring at Ikat Bag would make a great homemade party favor.

6 – Mommy Coddle shows you how to make a keepsake that showcases all the things your child loves!

You’ll find many more ideas like these at The Crafty Crow, I hope you’ll come by and say hello! If you have a project that you would like to submit then send it my way – details are in the right column on The Crafty Crow.

You can view more ‘The Crafty Crow Presents’ posts on KidStyleFile here.

Today’s post written by Anna

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Well lovely ones, it’s Thursday; we’re on the downward slope to the weekend! Hooray! And this Thursday is no ordinary Thursday…it’s a  special Thursday, as I am sending an extra bit of joy your way: news from a fun-filled little boutique: Happy Little Hippos – www.happylittlehippos.com.au who have a special KidStyleFile offer starting today!

In addition to being a cool place to shop, as a KSF reader, you can shop yourself happy by taking 20% off all current stock (*excluding Moses Baskets and dollshouse items)  in store at Happy Little Hippos, PLUS for all orders of $100 or more you can select yourself a FREE GIFT: a 2010 Family Calendar or Envirosax Bag (while stocks last). To redeem, enter ‘KSF010‘ at checkout and for purchase over $100 specify to your preferred free gift in comments. Please note the Envirosax design will vary depending on stock levels available. This offer expires midnight on Wednesday 10 March, 2010.

Happy Little Hippos is stocked with a fantastic range of toys, art and craft activities, books, nursery and decor products, and accessories – all chosen with the happiness of you and your little tot in mind.

First mention today goes to the *very* fantastic Tike Bike proudly stocked by Happy Little Hippos. This is one purchase set to bring hours of happiness into the lives of children and parents alike. The Tike Bike is designed with giving children all the thrill of bike riding without the complications and potential fear bought about by training wheels . With a 20% reduction in price with your KSF offer, now is a great time to purchase one if you’ve had your eye on it or if you haven’t yet had the pleasure – an even better time to lay your eyes on it for the first time!

There is always much anticipation in our house for birthday celebrations, with much of this build up surrounding the birthday cake and what particular design it will be. My boys even take out the ‘cake book’ on occasion to peruse all the cakes (most of them well beyond my cake making ability!). I spied a very gorgeous Birthday Party Cake in the ‘kitchen toys’ section of Happy Little Hippos, and can imagine my children just gobbling this one up. Love it! Honourable mention from this section of the store goes to the Super Cool Ice Cream set.

Happy Little Hippos also have a wonderful selection of educational wooden toys like the Beginner Pattern Blocks &  See & Spell . Wooden toys last forever, making them an excellent choice for a growing family.  I also love the Nature Animal Blocks from Djeco. From a little baby starting out with ‘tummy time’ to an older child developing new skills, these blocks have lots of options for play suiting any age. The Our World Puzzle pictured below at number 2 is a regular floor puzzle in our house.  My husband loves using it to spark discussion about the various countries of the world with our boys. It’s a winner!

For decorating nurseries and other spaces for children, Happy Little Hippos also have a wonderful collection of Wall Stickers and other beautiful selections. And while we’re on the subject of decorating; you simply must take a closer look at number seven below for the cutest ever Birdhouse Clock, in a sweet range of colours, I just love it!

*Discounted prices quoted below are applicable while stocks last (no rainchecks), with special KSF discount code (see above) until 10 March 2010.

1. Mobile – Sweet Bird and Daisy $35.95 less 20% = $28.75
   
2. Floor Puzzle – Our World $32.95 less 20% = $26.35
3. Melissa & Doug See & Spell $54.95 $44.95 less 20% = $35.95
4. Djeco Nature & Animal Blocks $35.95 less 20% = $28.75
5. Melissa & Doug Birthday Party Cake $49.95 $44.95 less 20% = $35.95
6. Tike Bike Stand $23.95 less 20% = $19.15
7. Birdhouse Clock – Red $69.95 less 20% = $55.95
8. Chalkboard Sticker – Learn To Write $39.95 less 20% = $31.95
9. Melissa & Doug Beginner Pattern Blocks $44.95 $39.95 less 20% = $31.95
10. Tike Bike $199 less 20% = $159.20

Indulge in a fine range of toys, art and craft activities, books, nursery and decor products, and accessories, at Happy Little Hippos from brands including: Bla Bla, Alimrose, Lundby, Brio, Anamalz, Wheely Bug, Quadrilla, Baufix, Quercetti, Dobbin and Drum, Tolo, K’s Kids, Mooo, Djeco, Mama & Papas, Wanju, Binthe, Automoblox, David Fussenegger, Pintoy, Plan Toys, Cuski, Live, Play, Create, Envirosax, Crocodile Creek, and more, as well as treats for Mums from Miss Uchi, Willow and Finch, and T2 Teas.

Happy Little Hippos charge $6.95 flat rate postage, Australia-wide. Conditions apply – see Ordering and Delivery page for complete details.