KidStyleFile

Today’s post written by Anna

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Preparing for baby is a process. A long process. Slowly but surely, if you’re expecting a precious bundle, your whole world is immersed and enveloped until quite literally your whole world is all about baby! This process is a beautiful and exciting, yet equally daunting foray into the place I like to call “little baby land”.  Well stocked to handle the process of preparing for baby and beyond is the aptly named online store All About Baby – www.allaboutbaby.com.au.

Simply put, this gorgeous store has all you could wish for in little baby land: clothing, shoes and accessories, wraps, blankets, books, bibs, bottles, nappy bags, slings, special touches for room decor, stationary – at All About Baby gathering a gorgeous collection of things for baby (yours or otherwise) is a joy!

Plus, the time for a fabulous stocktake sale has arrived at All About Baby, with up to 75% off storewide! There are great prices to be found right across the store and especially  in the clearance corner. There are some sensationally low prices located here, with some items as low at $10.00!

And extra sugar for you today: All About Baby are offering KidStyleFile readers an extra 10% off storewide, and yes, that does include already discounted stock! You will need to enter promotion code ‘KSF0610′ to redeem on this great offer which must end midnight 7 July 2010.

Of particular note is that all winter fashion at All About Baby is currently 25% off with items from a top selection of brands including. Bonds, Marquise, PureBaby, Alex&Ant and more. If you have to shop for a special premmie baby, look out for the lovely selection in store from brand Earlybirds. All toys are up to 25% off too with a great range of wooden toys, educational today, soft toys, baby rattles and squeakers from renown brands Le Toy Van, Djeco, Mamas & Papas, Latitude Enfant, Lark, Brio & Bajo just to name a few.

Take a look at my favourite finds for today  – after applying the KSF discount, every single one of the items pictured below can be purchased for less than $39.00! How’s that for sweet shopping?!

Discounted prices quoted below are only applicable with special KSF code (read above for details) until 7 July 2010.

1. ALEX&ANT – Tee – Fashion Girl was $ 39.50 now $ 29.62 less 10% = $26.65
   
2. BRIO – Wooden Toys – Sorting Box was $44.95 now $42.95 less 10% = $38.65
   
3. Earlybirds – Jumpsuit – Blue was $25.95 now $22.06 less 10% = $19.85
   
4. Le Toy Van – Pullback Racer Set was $29.95 now $26.95 less 10% = $24.25
   
5. Alex & Charli – Bodysuit – Tie was $34.95 now $10.00 less 10% = $9.00
   
6. Milk Bands – Blue was $8.95 now $7.61 less 10% = $6.84
   
7. Alimrose Designs – Rattle ‘Sleepy Lamb’ was $27.50 now $13.75 less 10% = $12.37
   
8. Le Toy Van Sundae Stacking Set was $ 29.95 now $26.95 less 10% = $24.25
   
9. Bonds – Pyjamas – Bird Pink & Orange was $22.95 now $19.86 less 10% = $17.87
   
10. Marquise – Dress – Red was $34.95 now $26.21 less 10% = $23.58
    
11. Envirosax – Monochromatic Bag 1 was $9.95 now $4.00 less 10% = $3.60
    

All About Baby stocks from a fantastic array of brands including:  Alex & Charli, Alex & Ant, Alimrose Designs, BabyLegs, Bajo, Bonds, Boo Boo Buddy, Bosom Buddy, BRIO, BubbaLog, Cleanspray, Cookey Cat, Cot Couture, Crocodile Creek, Cuteability, Djeco, Drop Buddy, Earlybirds, Embellish’d, Envirosax, giimo, Infancy, Knit Knit, Lark & Friends, Latitude Enfant, Le Toy Van, Lifestyle Parenting, Little Beetle, Mamas & Papas, Manik Wear, Marquise, Medi Buddy, Miinki Moop, Milk Bands, Milk Screens, moppit, No3No4,  Origami Mami, Peanut Shell, Penguin Group, Purebaby, Right Bank Babies, Sandy Brennanm Smirk and Snapper Lounge Media.

All About Baby deliver via Australia post. Cost is determined by weight and will be calculated upon check out. See here for comprehensive information on delivery.

Today’s post written by Leah

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こんにちは! Today I have found a rather unique little label straight from Japan that has me wanting to pull out my credit card and buy, buy, buy! Have a peek at Noko Inc – nokobaby.com –  which was created by two Americans, Maureen Chianese and Jennifer Friese, living in Tokyo back in 2006.

Japan is a land of contrasts. You can find quirky, beautiful, traditional, unique and simply divine items all mixed together in single boutiques. Noko is a label that is all of these characteristics rolled into one.  The fabrics are inspired from 1000 year old fabrics called tenugui which are typically used as a decoration, head scarf or even an actors business card. Noko has put a spin on this and created fun designs for little girls (and a few for boys).

Sizing is 0-6 years and the Spring/Summer collection is currently available. I’m simply in awe of the current dress range. The 100% cotton Nico dress with its waist sash which is almost like a kimono obi will definitely make a statement if worn to a party. The Yuko dress is also one which will be hard not to add to ones shopping cart.  Made in Peru from a 100% pima cotton knit with Japanese motifs, it could be worn on any occasion – from a playdate to a family dinner. Noko is one label that I think we need to add to our wardrobe!

Noko ship to Australia and other international countries. Place items in your cart and proceed to checkout for a quote.

Today’s post written by Miki

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It’s a fact: hip kids shop hard at My Baby Rocks – www.mybabyrocks.com.au.  Mary, the lovely proprietor, has scoured Australia and the globe to bring you some of the best, funkiest, most unique kidswear and trust me, it’s a range you’re going to want to see for yourself.

And trust me again, you want to see it now.  Because right now at My Baby Rocks you’ll find a huge clearance sale with up to 50% off top brands!  We’re talking Sooki Baby, Two Belles, Tommy Rocket, Run Scotty Run, Monstar Kids, and that’s just the beginning. My advice in a good sale is always to stock up while the prices are low – top up your kids’ wardrobes, put some away for next year and re-stock your present drawer; after all, you know it’s going to be used.  I love putting things away for next year because I forget about them in between and then I’m twice as happy when I rediscover the lovely things I bought!

But keep reading, my lovelies, because the good news doesn’t end there: in addition to the bargains to be found in the up to 50% off clearance sale, KidStyleFile readers can take an *extra* 15% off store-wide!  Enter the code ‘ksf15‘ at checkout, and do it before 15 July 2010 when the code expires.  I’ll be taking advantage of this great opportunity to snap up some funky Scooter graphic tees, gorgeous wall art from Bosco Bear, Bobble Art bags and accessories and sweet Babylegs.

Pssst!: Want to live like a rockstar all year round? Subscribe to the My Baby Rocks newsletter and you’ll do just that with a permanent 15% off VIP store-wide discount. Rock on!

Prices below are valid while stocks last only using the code ‘ksf15′ until 15 July 2010.

1. Sooki Baby Hide & Seek Snapsuit, $28.95 $20.00 less 15% = $17.00
2. Bobble Art Drink Bottle – Strawberries, $24.95 less 15% = $21.20; Bobble Art Luggage Tag – Strawberry, $6.95 less 15% = $5.90
3. Monstar Kids Grey Marle L/S Tee – Lovebirds, $32.00 $25.00 less 15% = $21.25
4. Two Belles Koi Fish Hoodie, $69.95 $42.00 less 15% = $35.70
5. Run Scotty Run Straight Leg Jeans, $49.95 $43.00 less 15% = $36.55
6. Two Belles Zoo Baby Caftan, $56.95 $45.00 less 15% = $38.25
7. Run Scotty Run Vintage Newspaper Tee, $34.95 $28.00 less 15% = $23.80
8. Tommy Rocket Robot Dino Tee, $49.95 $30.00 less 15% = $25.50
9. Qubies Freezer Container – Aqua, $17.95 less 15% = $15.25
10. Sooki Baby Superhero Print Tee, $26.95 $16.00 less 15% = $13.60
11. Tommy Rocket Union Jack Hoodie, $69.95 $45.00 less 15% = $38.25

My Baby Rocks sends parcels via secure E-Parcel with online tracking.  Parcels weighing 500g or less are sent via E-Parcel Express, parcels weighing over 500g are sent via E-Parcel Regular.

Today’s post written by London correspondent Kat, who was at Bubble for KidStyleFile. Kat writes her own blog, Housewife Confidential, and is also features editor at top UK baby and kids blog Bambino Goodies.

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The European spring/summer 2010 collections were presented at the latest edition of Bubble: The Kids Show, held in London from 20-22 June.  Islington’s stunning Business Design Centre once again played host to the twice-yearly event, with buyers flooding to London from all over the world to witness the best and brightest fashion, nursery goods, decor collections presented by over 200 exhibitors hailing from 20 countries from around the globe.

Stand out trends for spring/summer 2010 include bright colours, nautical trends and a resurgence of lacy trimmings. Organic and ethical production values maintained their strong presence in the market, with designers manufacturing their goods on home turf a focal point.

Australian brands were once again causing a splash with Three Little Trees, Oobi Baby & Kids, Tea Princess, Snugglebum and Mae all seeing lots of footfall on their stands, as was quirky New Zealand label Minti. (Here’s a little trivia for you: while at the show I discovered that the designers behind Tea Princess, Mae and Munster all attended the same school!)

Without further ado, enjoy the show! ~ Kat, in London.

PS For more great Bubble coverage click over to Bambino Goodies.

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1. 4Funky Flavours were one of Miki’s show picks from Bubble London AW10. Their collection for Spring Summer 2010 centres on the theme of animals and features a strong line of bold and retro cotton jersey clothes. The natural ‘flavour’ for SS11 translates into a mix of small repeat prints, stripes, solids and large animal prints. Mustard, purple and green was a stand-out colour combination.

4Funky Flavours are not stocked in Australia, stockists can be found on their site.

2. Pettiskirts are the must have item in the dressing up box these days and Angel’s Face wow with their combination of funky and chic colours. Their stand was as enticing as a candy store with row upon row of frothy, frilly, twirliness spilling out of their gift boxes. Even the anti-pink likes of me were swooning all over the place and struggling to pick a favourite.

Angel’s Face are not currently stocked in Australia.

3. Mandy Sutcliffe’s Belle & Boo illustrations have received acclaim the world over. Since launching the original ‘Lost’ dress in collaboration with Tea Pony in 2008 the demand for Belle & Boo clothing has grown and so has the range. Both AW10 and SS11 were on show at Bubble beautifully modelled by Belle herself.

The SS11 collection of girls’ clothing features Mandy’s illustrations printed around the hems of dresses and skirts as well as hand finished embroidery embellishment. There is a reversible skirt and shirt set which has Boo the rabbit on one side and a rainy day parade on the other. Not only were the new clothes on show but prints, home accessories and the new range of fabric wall stickers which will soon be available from Chocovenyl who ship internationally.

Belle & Boo ships internationally and is available in Australia from Lark.

4. Boys&Girls (which takes inspiration for its name from the traditional children’s rhyme) launched at Bubble and is a brand spanking new delight. Unlike the working children in the original rhyme these bright wardrobe staples are made in ethical, fair trade factories from organic cotton.

The London based UK brand caters for children 0 – 10 and combines funky, wearable, organic clothing with an affordable price tag. They have long and short sleeved tees, sweatshirts, jackets, trousers, shorts and dresses with minimal branding and maximum appeal. This collection will be shipping from January 2011 and is definitely one to watch out for.

Boys&Girls is currently seeking stockists.

5. Dandy Star are another hot Brit brand who put the softness and colour of their clothing above all else. Their new lines for the coming Autumn Winter season as well as SS11 are full of their unique typographical handwriting. New clothing joining their existing line up of long and short sleeved tees, sweatshirts, rompers and dresses are: bomber jackets, skirts and jeans all in the distinctly Dandy muted yet bright colours.

Not only do Dandy Star produce stunning clothing but they also have a range of prints, greetings cards and homewares including bags and mugs. All products convey their messages of peace, love and circus style.

Dandy Star are not currently available in Australia although stockists such as Little Fashion Gallery will ship internationally.

6. Fluke (named after designer’s sons Finn + Luke) were causing a stir and their quirky shop window stand was drawing the buyers in. The designers behind this English label design for clothing giants and are now stepping out on their own.

Their retro styling with the emphasis on comfort was very much in keeping with the fashion forward brands. There was lots of smocking for the girls on bodices, sleeves and swimwear. The boys can expect simple shapes and a welcome lack of pockets and logos. I was bowled over by their blankets and baby clothes which are made from the softest combed cotton I have ever touched.

Fluke are not currently stocked in Australia but they welcome overseas orders.

7. Planet Friendly Green Baby opened its doors over ten years ago and their original store in Islington stands opposite the Business Design Centre where Bubble is held. Their unwavering commitment to supplying ethical, planet friendly products for babies and young children has seen the growth of their ethical clothing.

Their clothing collection for next summer sees wardrobe basics with simple prints in red, white and blue as well as the more punchy oranges, pinks, blues and turquoise in the fashion pieces. This collection showcases fun applique and cheerful all-over prints. The range incorporates sleepwear, vests, long & short sleeved tees, trousers, dresses, skirts, shirts and accessories.

Green Baby are currently expanding their international stockists and may well be in Australia soon. Until then you can order direct as they ship overseas.

8. In Sweden every playschool has a basket of moccasins for the children. London based Swede Anna decided to bring the magic to the wider market and Moccis was born. A selection of washable leather soled slippers they are an absolute essential in the Winter. Having used Moccis for the last couple of years I can say they are brilliant for babies and children and are the only slippers my children keep on! The Moccis are all produced in Sweden and have a good spread of cute and fun designs. Best of all they come in adult sizes too.

Although Moccis are not currently stocked in Australia I did hear a rumour that a well know Aussie brand was showing serious interest…

9. Little Duckling showed a unified red, white and blue collection with a strong seaside nautical theme. They even brought a beach into their stand! Their fish print is seen across vests, rompers, tees, dresses, pants, hats and leggings. While the rest of the collection echoes the colours in stripes, checks and solids. With seven different styles of dress from fine knits with Bretton stripes to colour block sailor dresses. Often boys’ clothing can disappoint but as a Mama of a boy I was pleased to see classic linen trousers, simple twill shorts, sailor sweaters and short sleeved shirts to name but a selection.

Little Duckling ship worldwide.

9. A few years ago a Swedish chum of mine told me to watch out for Nova Star. Her boys were dressed head to toe in their colourful clothes after a trip home. This was their first UK trade show and I liked them as much as I did the first time. The brand was founded in 2004 and has gained popularity in Sweden where their comfortable everyday clothing can sell out within days of hitting the stores.

The collection they showed was filled with bold solid colours and soft jerseys. Their trousers and jeans come with a band of stretch fabric at the top which as the Mama of a little boy with a tubby tummy was a stand-out feature for me. Many of the trousers also had cuffed ankles so they don’t drag and catch as children play. The girls have some bold pink, red and purple pieces including a superb tiered jersey dress. Sizing is from 68cm to 122cm which translates to 6 months to 8 years.

Stockists can be found via the Nova Star website as they are not currently in Australia.

Please check individual brands for postage and delivery charges to your location.

Today’s post written by Leah

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To me, style is more than just a label. Style is all about flair, attitude, confidence and the combination of choice pieces. You really can’t rely on one piece of the equation and expect to ooze style. No, no, no….you need to work it baby!

Stylish Bubs – www.stylishbubs.com.au is an online store that oozes confidence. Katie, the store’s proprietor, knows just what she wants and has searched high and low to pull together a catalogue of items that replicate flair and style within their stitching to ensure you have all sides of the equation covered – you just need to provide the attitude (I’m sure your little one can handle that!).

You could stick to your favourite label, or combine a few pieces to provide a unique look just right for your wee one. Sooki Baby was a favourite of mine when both Master R and Miss N were infants.  Every season, the range provides a wealth of fashionable patterns and colours in oh so comfy fabrics. The It’s Raining on Me Ruffle Legging in red is certainly a delight, with the cutest bottom ruffles which will draw a few “ooooooh sooooo cute!” comments when you’re out and about. Or you could grab the Tuxedo Tee for your little man who wants to  be Licensed for Style (both are under $15.00 this week too!).

Whatever your style, Katie at Stylish Bubs is making it super easy for you this winter with a superb end of financial year sale to get you stylin’ up with ease. Until 11 July 2010, while stocks last, you will find up to 70% off Winter Clothing in-store at Stylish Bubs with bargains from top baby and kids fashion brands including Infancy, Marquise, Lazy Grasshopper, Aden + Anais, Agoo, Alex + Charli, Alimrose, Annabel Trends, Annelia Designs, Baobab, Bluebird + Honey, Coco + Ginger, Flirty Bird, Gorjuss, Chalk n Cheese, Tiny Tribe, Sooki Baby, Miatom, Milk Skincare, Nans Garden, Pear and Bear, Petit Cupcake, Plum, Precious Li’l Things, Rufflebutts, Skeanie, The Wall Sticker Company, Twin Images, Urchin, Willow and Finn and Your Cheeky Monkey.

S: Chalk n Cheese Pablo Polo Red Jersey $43.95 $39.55
T: Baobab Stripe Babygro $39.95 $29.96
Y: Infancy Baby Cashmere Cardigan $44.00 $33.00
L: Agoo Reversible Plush Windbreaker $59.99 $41.99
I: Infancy Off to the Circus Sleep & Play Suit $34.50 $25.87
S: Infancy Essentials Baby Sleep + Play Suit $34.50 $25.87
H: Agoo Trinity Pant $29.99 $20.99
B: Agoo Dutchess Hoodie Pink $34.99 $24.49
U: Chalk n Cheese Pink and Black Tiffany Dress $69.95 $62.95
B: Agoo Dutchess Pant $29.99 $20.99
S: Tiny Tribe Bathrobe + Bag Taupe $54.95 $49.45

Stylish Bubs ship Australia wide using Australia post. Flat fees are $6.95 for standard post, $11.95 for express post and $19.95 for international deliveries. See the Stylish Bubs Delivery Page for comprehensive information.

Today’s post written by Angela

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My absolute favourite pair of shoes when I was a kid was my gumboots. They were a reddy-black coloured ankle boot style, and in them I could do anything; most importantly get them shamelessly messy. My own kids have a similar love of their own gumboots, and for the same reasons: they know when they have their gummies on they are free to seek out puddles, mud and long wet grass without a care (or wet feet!)

I have been thrilled to watch the rise of the humble gumboot in the fashion stakes in the last couple of years. No longer the preserve of the farm, wellington boots, puddle jumpers, gumboots or galoshes – whatever your favoured moniker – gumboots are now worn by young and old alike as a fashionable statement of the appreciation of the outdoor life. Choose whatever colour your mood takes you in, but make one thing for certain: that your boots of choice are good quality, for obvious reasons!

Dutch brand Bergstein produces some of the highest quality gumboots on the planet, and these Dutch made boots are now available to purchase in Australia courtesy of Sally Clifford, who started her company Little Elk – www.littleelk.com.au – specifically to stock the brand after her husband returned from a trip to Holland with a pair of Bergstein boots for their daughter, Livvy. Highly impressed by the superior quality and great looks of Bergstein, Sally took the leap, and Little Elk was born. New products will be added to the Little Elk repertoire soon; sign up to the Little Elk mailing list to be kept in the loop.

Bergstein Gumboots are cotton lined, with a rippled sole for extra grip, and a reflector strip on the heel. Available in 5 colours in Australian size 6-12, they are priced at $49.95 per pair and available to purchase direct from Little Elk.

Special note to retail store owners: Interested in stocking the Bergstein Boots? Contact Sally at Little Elk for information.

Little Elk uses a combination of Australia Post and Couriers to deliver the goods safely to your door. Total delivery cost is calculated at check-out; 1 pair of boots costs and average of $13 to deliver, with discounts applicable for more pair. Click here for full delivery information.