KidStyleFile

Today’s post written by Miki

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*Miki sings in best Mariah Carey impersonation*:“I don’t want a lot for Christmas, this is all I’m asking for…”

Yeah right - of course I want a lot for Christmas!  I love Christmas and putting together my wishlist, but this year just about everything on it is for Alex, my 16 month old boy.  Who can blame me?  I spend all day looking at stunning kids’ clothes, toys and accessories so it’s little wonder I covet so much of it!

I’ve put together a Top 10 list below of my absolute must-haves this festive season:

1. A Rush lunchbox - I find we’re so often out at Alex’s snack and meal times that we really do need a decent lunchbox to take with us.  This one from Rush fits the bill perfectly, and it’s so cute!

2. The adorably wacky Okiedog Fropper - a ride-on toy that bounces too!  I just wish they came in adult sizes…

3. Trunki Towgo - we’re going to be doing a lot of travelling in the new year, and what better way to entertain a toddler in the airport than with a ride-on suitcase?  Plus it’ll hold all his toys, books and essentials for the flights.

4. The Smirk Vespa s/s tee - simple, funky and great quality, I love the Smirk range of tees and onesies.  He’s going to look so cute in this one!

5. A Foogo Stainless Steel Leak-Proof Sippy Cup - non-spill, unbreakable, keeps drinks cold for up to six hours and has a comfy soft spout, what more could we ask for in a sippy cup?  Oh, you want it to be attractive too?  Check that box, the Foogo range is super-stylish!

6. mylittleseat - Ideal for keeping a wriggly toddler still and safe at mealtimes when we aren’t near a highchair, and then it folds down small enough to tuck into my handbag! This will be another handy one when travelling.

7. And speaking of handbags, why should Alex get all the good stuff?  I love this Louenhide Baby Barrel in Biscuit; it’s stylish, minimalist, will go with everything and it’s roomy enough to fit all the paraphenalia I take with me every time I leave the house.

8. The Hip Infant Wall Graphics ‘Up, Up And Away’ - Now that my baby isn’t actually a baby any more, it’s time to redecorate his nursery and turn it into a cool toddler boy’s room.  Given his obsession with balloons (every time he sees one he shrieks “Loon!! Looooon!!”) I think these stunning hot air balloon wall decals will be just the thing to give his room a new look.  They’re so affordable too!  I might get two packets at this price.

9. Some Brio Classic Wooden Race Cars - which he’ll adore, as his other obsession is cars.  Such a boy.  These ones look stunning, and they’re wooden which just makes me love them more; wooden toys last forever. These cars come in four colours so I might get him the whole fleet!

10. The Moppit Radioman T-Shirt- he’ll be cool as a cucumber in this funky green shirt from Moppit.  I have to smile every time I see the little radioman graphic, isn’t it adorable?

1. Rush Jungle Lunchbox, $24.95 at Kinder Kaboodle
2. Okiedog Fropper, $85.90 $65.90 at Amazing Toys
3. Trunki Towgo, $69.95 at Metro Mum
4. Smirk Vespa S/S tee, $34.95 $29.70 at Frock You^
5. Foogo Stainless Steel Leak-Proof Sippy Cup - Blue, $24.95 $21.20* at Ekidna Kids
6. mylittleseat - I Like Squares I Do, $50.00 at Haggus & Stookles
7. Louenhide Baby Barrel - Biscuit, $89.95 at Pastel Pink
8. The Hip Infant Wall Graphics - Up, Up And Away, $39.95 at The Hip Infant**
9. Brio Classic Wooden Race Car, $15.95 at Urban Child***
10. Moppit Radioman T-Shirt, $39.95 $33.95 at Frock You^

Please check individual stores for shipping details.

* Using the Shop4Kids discount code until 30 November 2008.
** GWP offer, see here for more details.
*** FREE $15 voucher when you sign up to the UC newsletter, see here for more details.  Also get FREE shipping using the Shop4Kids code, conditions apply.
^ Get 15% off store-wide when you sign up to the Frock You newsletter.

Urban Child, Urban Child, Urban Child’s the way

Lots of gifts and beautiful clothes to wear on Christmas Day, hey!

Wanna know why I’m so chirpy today?  Well, Melissa at Urban Child - www.urbanchild.com.au - did it to me!

Why?

Get a load of Melissa’s ‘Christmas Cheer’:a FREE $15.00 Urban Child gift voucher for you, and me and EVERYONE who chooses to receive the very fine Urban Child newsletter!

Oh my GOODNESS! Are you sure, Melissa? Well, ok then! That’s awfully generous of you! - Cheers!

To receive your $15.00 voucher, you must subscribe to the Urban Child mailing list - Complete the subscription box at the bottom left of the UC homepage to do this.

*Please read the full terms and conditions of this offer at the bottom of this page.

My hot picks for pressies (besides all the gorgeous clothing - don’t miss it!) from Urban Child for  little girls this Christmas include story book “The Tiger Who Came for Tea”, by Judith Kerr (this book is an eternal favourite in our house), paired with with a Retro Tin Tea set, and Oobi Rosette Hair Clips for Xmas Day sparkle (I just bought 2 sets from Urban Child). For darling little boys, the Brio Classic Car, and Soldier Skittles set are sure to be winners.

In every child’s stocking - or should I say, Santa Sack from Cocoon Couture (gorgeous retro fabric and applique) - also include a DwellStudio finger puppet (pick up the set of 5 finger puppets and split them up for 5 special little stocking treats), a wooden spinning top (I included them in my girls’ party bags recently, and they were a tremendous sucess, not to mention how cool they look and how downright cheap they are!!), and a copy of the “Christmas Tree’ book.

For Christmas themed goodies, make a beeline for Urban Child’s Christmas section, for a great selection of gifts,  stocking fillers and Xmas accoutrement, including Santa sacks and decorations for the tree.

On Christmas Eve, have some friends around, put the finishing touches on your tree with some Mamas and Papas and decorations, and then have a quick game of Classic Bingo from EeBoo, before hitting the sack for some quality sleep so you can enjoy the big day.

Rudolph and his reindeer crew will be tapping along your rooftop before you know it so be well prepared and shop at Urban Child.

(PS Don’t forget to check the Sale section for huge discounts on quality brands including Aravore Babies, Oobi, Pure Baby, and Baobab!)

From top left in rows:

“The Tiger Who Came to Tea”, by Judith Kerr $14.95
50s Style Vintage Tin Tea Set - Pink $39.95
Wooden Soliders Skittle Set$27.95
Urban Child Wooden Spinning Tops $1.20 each
Brio Classic Car $16.95
Mamas & Papas Christmas decorations - set of 3 $19.95
“Christmas Tree” book $9.95
eeBoo Classic Bingo $34.95
Cocoon Couture Reindeer Christmas Sack $54.95
DwellStudio Finger Puppets - Set of 5 $54.95

Urban Child stocks a superb range of toy, accessory and baby and kids clothes, with brands including Albetta, Alex Toys, Aravore Babies, Baobab, Baby Bonkies, Belli Skincare, Berchet, Brainy Baby, Cheeky Monkey, Cocoon Couture, Crocodile Creek, Ellaroo Slings, Felt Creations, Granimals, Infantino, Kaloo, Living and Learning, Made by Angie, Majors forMinors, Mamas & Papas, Melissa and Doug, Oobi, Orchard Toys, Pebbles PouchMISS, Plan Toys, Pure Baby, Ravensburger, Red Wagon, Robbie Adrian, Schylling, Step 2, Tiny Tribe, Walnut and WOW Toys.

*Urban Child ‘Christmas Cheer’ Terms and Conditions:

To receive your $15.00 voucher, you must subscribe to the Urban Child mailing list - Complete the subscription box at the bottom left of the UC homepage to do this.

New subscribers, you will be emailed a code to redeem the $15.00 UC voucher once you have signed up and confiirmed your mailing list subscription by clicking the link in the confirmation email you will receive after signing up.

Existing mailing list subscribers are also eligible to redeem the discount. Email Melissa at Urban Child direct and she will email a special code to you.

Offer open until end of  30 November, 2008. Minimum spend of $50.00 applies. Only valid email addresses, only one per customer/email address/delivery address. Christmas Cheer voucher must be redeemed by midnight on Christmas Eve (24 December 2008). Full terms and conditions will be sent with the $15.00 voucher. This offer is subject to change without notice. Please allow up to 24 hours to receive your code once newsletter subscription validated. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Urban Child ship Australia-wide from $6.95 for most parcels.  Orders over $150.00 are shipped free of charge. Please see the Orders & Delivery page for more details.

Today, Miki brings you a great selection of budget friendly finds. The current economic climate aside, it’s always great to grab a bargain, especially with Christmas approaching.  Enjoy!

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My husband used to say that I have ‘champagne tastes on a beer budget’ when it comes to our son’s clothing. Not any more though!

I have thoroughly demonstrated that I can satisfy both the budget, and my taste for the finer things, through savvy shopping habits. And you can too!

It is possible to dress your kids in beautiful designer clothes on a shoestring budget with some careful shopping around.  The bargain hunting is actually a whole lot of fun!

So, given the current economic crisis and how we’re all being a bit careful with money at the moment, I thought I’d show you a few of my tricks to getting dirt cheap designer baby and kids clothes, books, toys and accessories.

First stop for anyone looking for discounted designer baby clothes, kids fashion, nursery goods, toys, and everything in between, always has to be that link in grey towards the top of the page, ‘All Current Deals‘.  We all love discount codes, and that link gives you a full rundown of everything we have running at the moment - easy!

Now that you know where the current promotions are happening, have a good browse around, making sure you stop in at sale, specials, and clearance sections.

Besides the discount codes and well stocked sale sections, a few other tips for you:

Buy at the end of the season in a bigger size for next year - you can get some fabulous bargains this way. For example, Bubba Funk currently have 40% off all winter stock, for example; Buckets & Spades have marked all of last year’s summer items down to $20 each (!!) and Kinder Kaboodle have  20% mark-downs on rain-wear - snap up some bargains and put them away for next winter.

I recently snapped up an Oobi beanie and mittens from Urban Child at around 50% off to put away for next winter - I can’t wait to bring them out next year as they’re so cute!

Naturally, many of the most heavily discounted items will only be available in limited sizes, so it can take some legwork to find the pieces that will fit your baby or child.  It’s totally worth it though, for the rush you’ll get when you snap up the perfect bargain!

Look out for freebies: Haggus & Stookles deserve a special mention for their awesome free downloadable kids activities (ideal for long car trips and rainy days), and we love the LMNOP free downloadable magazine; it’s stylish, informative, and inspiring, and doesn’t cost a cent!

Today’s picks come from a variety of my favourite online stores. This was only a tiny sample of what I could have shown; there’s a heap of gorgeous affordable products out there just waiting for you to discover them: invest a little time, and you will be rewarded with the dollars you save.

Every piece shown below is from a top baby or kids wear designer and is under $25.00.

From top left in rows:

Riviera Poplin Shirt, $37.95 $24.95 from Eternal Creation*
Two Bells Bombay Belle Lurex Skirt $64.95 $20.00 from Buckets & Spades
Moppit Polka Dot Pocket Dress, $54.95 $19.95 from Frock You
Oobi Baby Cable Knit Bear Hat, $29.95 $19.95 from Urban Child^
Baobab Guitar Print Tee, $34.95 $24.50 $19.60 from Baobab Online Store^^
Marquise Aeroplane Stripe Tee, $22.95 $15.95 $13.55 from Ekidna Kids^^^
KGL Police Car Black, $8.95 from Kids Gift List**
Ouch Cat Print All-In-One PJs, $27.00 $19.00 $14.25 from Onesies***
Aquitaine Fairy Wings, $34.95 $22.95 from Eternal Creation*
Marquise Blue Track Pants, $19.95 $15.95 $13.55 from Ekidna Kids^^^
Little Beetle ‘Flower’ Kiddie Bag, $29.95 $24.95 from Monkeytail & Wellington
Itch Brace Face L/S Tee, $34.95 $24.95 from Frock You
Baobab Stud Tee Key Chain Print, $34.95 $21.00 $16.80 from Baobab Online Store^^
GUESS Beach Life Palm Tree Muscle Tee $44.95 $20.00 from Buckets & Spades
Eeeni Meeni Miini Moh Stripe Tshirt $49.00 $20.00 from Buckets & Spades
KGL Pull Along Pal - Giraffe, $9.95 from Kids Gift List**

*GWP offer, but it finishes today! (26 Oct) See here for more details.
**FREE Shipping and FREE xmas gift-wrapping offer until 2nd Nov.  See here for further details.
***Discount includes 25% off store-wide for KSF readers, valid until 10th November.  See here for more.
^FREE shipping with KSF Shop4Kids discount code (valid til 31st October).
^^Discount shown includes 20% discount for KSF readers using the KSF Shop4Kids discount code, valid to 30 November.
^^^Discount shown includes 15% discount using the KSF Shop4Kids discount code, valid to 30 November.

NOTE: Shop 4 Kids discount code: grab a copy of the magazine to access a copy, or sign up to the KSF Weekly newsletter to receive the code on Tuesday.

Please see individual stores for shipping details.

Today’s post written by Miki.

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Wheep wheep! Cool new goodies alert! Check out the ‘new arrivals‘ section at Urban Child - www.urbanchild.com.au - and you’ll see what I mean.

Albetta swimmers and sunhats in beautiful vintage-inspired floral prints. Classic knits from Aravore Babies - in particular check out the flapper dress. Gorgeous new bed linen from Caden Lane. Hours of entertainment with games from eeBoo . Oodles of Oobi Summer goodness. All utterly impossible to resist!

Given that Christmas is fast approaching, now is a great time to check out the brand-spanking-new Christmas section too. Stylish (and generously sized) Santa sacks from Cocoon Couture and Mamas & Papas are headliners in here, along with the Mamas & Papas Christmas accessories such as the sweet little beanie toys and the advent calendar.

What I think is particularly inspired is the extremely well-stocked Stocking Stuffers section, chockablock full of brilliant ideas from Alex Toys, Felt Creations, Urban Child’s own top quality toys and musical instruments, and a great range of popular books along with loads more great goodies.  This is a one stop shop for Santa Sack fillers!

I actually placed an order with Urban Child just last week (I bought some Walnut shoes among other bits and pieces) and I was just delighted with Melissa’s friendly customer service and the super-swift delivery of my order.  I’m even more of an Urban Child fan now than I was before

And believe me when I say I’ll be going back for more Walnut shoes when these ones are grown out of - they’re beautifully made, practical, and offer excellent foot support for growing feet. Can’t go wrong for an easy Summer shoe.

Want to get lucky at Urban Child? Melissa is currently running a competition - spend $50.00 (plus postage) and subscribe to the mailing list for a chance to win a $150.00 Urban Child Gift Voucher!  (I can’t think of anything I’d like better for Christmas….check out the Urban Child range for mums!)

Also, if you’d like FREE postage on your Urban Child order, use the KidStyleFile code in the current issue of Shop 4 Kids magazine. You can grab the mag, else the code can be found in the KidStyleFile weekly newsletter. Not a subscriber? Sign up here.

Albetta Pink Kaftan $41.95
50s Style Vintage Tin Tea Set - Blue $39.95
Oobi Baby Betty Sailor Dress with Knickerbockers - Red $49.95
Walnut Cruise Shoes - Taupe $29.95
eeBoo Classic Bingo $34.95
eeBoo ‘I Never Forget A Face’ Matching Game $34.95
Cocoon Couture Reindeer Christmas Sack $54.95
Oobi Baby Strawberry Booties $29.95
Urban Child Mini Bowling Set - Laughing Lions $13.95
Caden Lane Fitted Sheets $47.95
Mamas & Papas ‘Santa Stop Here’ Door Hanging $29.95
Albetta Cherry Sunhat $22.00

Urban Child stocks a superb range of toy, accessory and baby and kids clothing brands including Albetta, Alex Toys, Aravore Babies, Baobab, Baby Bonkies, Belli Skincare, Berchet, Brainy Baby, Cheeky Monkey, Cocoon Couture, Crocodile Creek, Ellaroo Slings, Felt Creations, Granimals, Infantino, Kaloo, Living and Learning, Made by Angie, Majors forMinors, Mamas & Papas, Melissa and Doug, Oobi, Orchard Toys, Pebbles PouchMISS, Plan Toys, Pure Baby, Ravensburger, Red Wagon, Robbie Adrian, Schylling, Step 2, Tiny Tribe, Walnut and WOW Toys.

Don’t forget to check the well-stocked sale section for fab discounts on quality brands.

Urban Child ship Australia-wide from $6.95 for most parcels.  Please see the Orders & Deliver page for more details.

Today, Miki brings us some great tips on how to make your kids party a stunning success.

You can get all your party supplies from the well stocked online stores below, so there’s no need to rush all over town; instead, sit back, relax, and shop in style from home (you’ll save money, too!)

This post is inspired by KidStyleFile reader Vanessa

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Is there anything more fun than a kid’s party? The fairy bread, the silly games, the excited kids (and parents!), the fairy bread, Pass The Parcel, blowing out candles, the cool decorations and did I mention the fairy bread?

It’s actually incredibly easy to organise and run a kids party these days - just ask Angela and I as we’ve both recently done it and survived to tell the tale.

First thing to think of is occasion. Birthday is the most common, but there are also Christening and Baptism days and plenty of other reasons to hold a party.

Next is to decide whether you want a theme, and how elaborate you want that theme to be. Is everything to be in keeping with your circus theme or do you just want the colours to more or less complement each other?

If you need some help with themes, have a look at the great range of ideas at Hullabaloo Parties - www.hullabalooparties.com.au, Smarty Party - www.smartyparty.net.au and Kids Gift List - www.kidsgiftlist.com.au. There’s guaranteed to be something there that’ll get you started!

Invitations are a great way to get all your guests excited about the party too. There’s such a massive range of invitations out there, but make sure you check out the ranges from Poppies For Grace (exquisite!), Imprintables (another of my favourites), Smarty Party, Kids Gift List, Mummy’s Favourite, Gifts4Kidz, and plenty more out there.

Now think about how many people - both kids and adults - you’ll be inviting and make sure you have enough crockery, cutlery, glassware and, of course, food for them all! Smarty Party makes life very easy by offering packages which you can tailor to the number of guests.

On to the really fun stuff: decorations!

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box here. Angela used gorgeous paper lanterns from ChinaTown - www.chinatown.com.au - to decorate her garden for her girls’ birthday party. These are an incredibly cost effective decoration option, and they look so happy and festive.

Also, have a think about table runners and/or table scatters, streamers, balloons of course and banners. Browse around through the links provided in this post and I can guarantee you’ll find something you love. Smarty Party in particular have a fantastic range of balloons, both plain & printed and packages.

Lastly, the bit that all the kids look for: the party bags. A couple of lollies is usually plenty, and that leaves you plenty of room to include some of the adorable (and very cost effective) toys shown in the image collage below.

Not only will the kids have a lasting and very cool keepsake from the party, the parents will thank you for not sending their kids home sugared up to the max! Urban Child and Kids Gift List both have an excellent range to choose from - and as for the bags themselves, we love the ones from Poppies For Grace.

From top left in rows:

‘Bug In A Nut’, $1.10 ea from Hullabaloo Parties
Personalised Stamp, $45.00 including coloured ink pad from Imprintables (these are both a great gift idea and a neat way of making personalised envelopes, cards, gift-wrap, you name it!)
Wooden Spinning Top, $1.20 from Urban Child
‘Birthday Sweets’ Lolly Bag, $12.95 for pack of 15 from Poppies For Grace
Animal Castanets, $2.95 from Urban Child
Zoo Table Runner, $3.00 per metre from Smarty Party
‘Hip Hip Hooray’ invitation set, $22.95 for 15 invitations and 15 button envelopes from Poppies For Grace
Lion Bookmark, $1.95 $1.65* from Kids Gift List
‘Cowboy’ invitation set, $26.95 including 15 invitations, 15 button envelopes and 15 matching magnets from Poppies For Grace
Large Crocodile Magnet, $2.95 $2.50* from Kids Gift List
Pink Butterflies invitation, $4.00 per set for invitation, matching envelope and thank you tag, from Imprintables
HP Royal Whistle, $2.95 from Hullabaloo Parties
DragonFly Baptism Invitation, $4.00 per set including invitation, envelope and thank you tag, from Imprintables
Collapsible Paper Lanterns, $39.95 $24.95 for a pack of 24 (amazing value!)
Yellow Loot Pail, $1.00 ea from Hullabaloo Parties

Please check individual stores for shipping details.

*Discount shown is using the Shop 4 Kids magazine code. Email Angela if you don’t have a copy of the mag, and need the code.

A new baby coming into the world is a very special event, and one to celebrate with jubilation. Prepare for the imminent arrival with a baby shower filled with love, and some very special gifts. Today, Miki shares a few of her favourite picks for baby shower pressies.

Today’s post was inspired by KidStyleFile reader Tina

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If there’s one party I love going to every time it’s a baby shower.

There’s something about getting a gaggle of women together to cluck over the expectant mum, eat yummy nibbles and goo and ga over teeny tiny baby clothes and sweet little toys.

I also love choosing the gift to take. These days, of course, I don’t have to rush around every baby store in town to try to find the perfect gift because we have a plethora of beautiful baby boutiques at our fingertips online. Makes everything so much easier!

Now, in choosing what to give the ‘mum to be’ I have a few guidelines which I try to abide by.

The first applies to baby clothing, and it is simply to think about what season it’s going to be when the baby is most likely to fit into the outfit. A woolly hat and jumper in newborn size isn’t going to get as much use if the baby is due in January, so it might be better to go for a lightweight romper and cool muslin wrap.

I also try to get at least some baby clothes in a size bigger than newborn. In my experience, everyone gives exquisite, adorable, minuscule newborn sized clothes, but babies grow so fast that they don’t get a chance to wear all these beautiful pieces more than once or twice. Sizes 00 (3-6 months) or 0 (6-12 months) tend to get much more wear, and it’s lovely to have something there for the baby to grow into.

Next, I always try to get something for the mum as well. The baby shower is a great time to pamper mum as once bubs arrives all the attention will be on the little one! Some luscious skin products (there are some gorgeous ones featured below) or yummy chocolates will go down a treat.

Now what about if you’re the one organising the baby shower?

Well, first thing to think about are the games to play! Mummy’s Favourite - www.mummysfavourite.com.au - have a great list of baby shower games at the bottom of their ‘baby shower gifts’ category.

Then just make sure you have delicious, healthy nibbles and some funky invites to send out (I love the range of invitations at La La Baby - www.lalababy.com.au).

Before you know it you’ll be ready to go!

Here are some of my favourite gifts to take to baby showers:

ISOKI Petite Traveller - Zanzibar, $39.95 $33.95 from Ekidna Kids*
Pure Baby Puff Sleeve Bodysuit - Watermelon Stripe, $29.95 $13.95 from Urban Child (also available in Kiwi Stripe)
Grey Owl Applique Baby Romper, $21.95 from La La Baby**
Belli Pregnancy Gift Box, $84.95 from Urban Child
‘That’s Not My Tractor’ Touchy Feely Book, $14.95 from La La Baby**
Britt Design Twinkle Gift Boxed Set, $49.95 $42.45 from La Toriana*
Cuddle Mouse, $64.95 $55.20 from Kids Gift List*
i candy ‘nobody puts baby in a corner’ tee, $27.95 $23.75 from La Toriana*
aden + anais Muslin Wraps, $54.95 $41.21 for a pack of 4, from Pastel Pink***
The Hip Infant Basics Nightie - Scarlet & Aqua stripe, $29.95 $26.95 from The Hip Infant*
The Hip Infant Basics Long Eared Bunny - Scarlet & Aqua Stripe, $15.95 $14.35 from The Hip Infant*
David Fussenegger Pastel Bassinet Blanket, $49.50 $42.08 from Pastel Pink***

Also, check out new kids on the block Just Ripe - www.justripe.com.au - and 9 Months Waiting - www.9monthswaiting.com.au -  for a fabulous selection of products for newborn to two years, and Skeanie - www.skeanie.com - for perfect footwear for tiny tootsies.

Please check individual stores for shipping charges.

*Shop4Kids discount available from The Hip Infant, La Toriana and Kids Gift List.
**La La Baby: FREE gift with purchase until 19 September!
***Pastel Pink: 25% off storewide until midnight 7th September!

Earlier this week I gave you a sneak peek of the gorgeous new spring/summer collections coming to Urban Child - www.urbanchild.com.au.

Just wanted to update you and let you know that Urban Child is now in full bloom with a *very* chic new site, and with Neige, and Walnut Spring/Summer stock available on the site and ready to snap up.

The biggest news today is that Oobi Spring/Summer 08 ready to pre-purchase now at Urban Child, for delivery in mid September. Prices range from $29.95-$54.95: what an affordable luxury!

It’s a great time to buy, because you can take 10% off the prices at Urban Child both new and sale stock - now extended to midnight Monday 18 August. Enter ‘KSF10′ at checkout to redeem this offer.

Buy the above pieces from the Oobi Spring/Summer 08 collection now.

A special alert for all you bargain hunters/OobiWatchers out there. Melissa has discounted all her Oobi Baby winter 08 stock, so jump now and save a heap!

Urban Child stocks a superb range of toy, accessory and baby and kids clothing brands including Albetta, Alex Toys, Aravore Babies, Baobab, Baby Bonkies, Belli Skincare, Berchet, Brainy Baby, Cheeky Monkey, Cocoon Couture, Crocodile Creek, Ellaroo Slings, Felt Creations, Granimals, Infantino, Kaloo, Living and Learning, Made by Angie, Majors forMinors, Mamas & Papas, Melissa and Doug, Oobi, Orchard Toys, Pebbles PouchMISS, Plan Toys, Pure Baby, Ravensburger, Red Wagon, Robbie Adrian, Schylling, Step 2, Tiny Tribe, Viking Toys, Voila Toys and WOW Toys.

View Urban Child’s postage charges here.

The days may still be short and crisp, but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel: the scent of spring bulbs is in the air and blossom is beginning to appear on the trees - spring is on its way. The thought of warmer weather, spending more time outdoors, and wearing lighter, breezier clothing fills me with pure elation.

Melissa at Urban Child - www.urbanchild.com.au - has captured the joi de vive of spring and the coming summer months to perfection with her new season’s stock, which is blowing my cotton socks off with it’s grace and beauty.

I have an exclusive sneak peak for you of some utterly gorgeous summer clothing coming soon to Urban Child.

Firstly, I want to introduce you to the elegance of Neige (French for ’snow’) from the US. Catering for sophisticated little girls and boys, Neige’s designer, Adrienne Catrina worked as an assistant designer to Vera Wang, and it shows in the understated perfection of the designs which exude timeless class.

Secondly, the irrepressible Oobi. Alex from Oobi never fails to inspire with her collections, and spring/summer, is the best yet in my humble opinion! Oobi delivers their signature party dresses in new season’s prints which are truly stunning, and I’m loving the new broad brimmed hat designs, which evoke a chic 70’s silhouette with the added bonus of providing extra sun protection for your child’s delicate skin.

Next up, keep your eyes peeled for Dwell Baby & Kids at Urban Child. Dwell’s cot sets and their kids duvet sets, and a great range of accessories, will be landing very soon. I visited the Dwell Studio stand at the recent Life in STYLE/Kids inSTYLE trade fair in Melbourne, and I can tell you that the quality of the Dwell products is exceptional. Comprised of the finest high thread count cotton, the fabric has a divine softness and coolness to the touch, which equals a blissful night’s sleep for your little one.

Coming soon in the footwear department, are Walnut - Melbourne shoes. Quality cotton-canvas, these shoes are comfy and infinitely wearable, while delivering a dose of cool to the feet of your child without breaking the bank.

For the little bebes, you cannot go past Baby Bonkies. The best baby wraps I have ever encountered, Baby Bonkies look super stylish on the outsidem, while keeping you precious bundle snug and warm by virtue of the cuddly minkee lining.

Finally, Aravore Babies summer stock is on its way. The voile dress pictured below says it all. (Melissa at Urban Child is hanging out for this to arrive as she wants one for her own daughter, and who could blame her? What a delight!)

Ok, that’s the big tease over, now Rest assured I’ll be keeping you up to date with when these gorgeous products are available for you to buy.

A special alert for all you bargain hunters/OobiWatchers out there. Melissa has discounted all her Oobi Baby winter 08 stock, so jump now and save a heap!

To sweeten the deal further, KidStyleFile readers can 10% off store-wide at Urban Child (including sale stock) until midnight Monday 18 August. Enter ‘KSF10′ at checkout to redeem this offer.

Select from a superb range of toy, accessory and baby and kids clothing brands at Urban Child including Albetta, Alex Toys, Aravore Babies, Baobab, Baby Bonkies, Belli Skincare, Berchet, Brainy Baby, Cheeky Monkey, Cocoon Couture, Crocodile Creek, Ellaroo Slings, Felt Creations, Granimals, Infantino, Kaloo, Living and Learning, Made by Angie, Majors forMinors, Mamas & Papas, Melissa and Doug, Oobi, Orchard Toys, Pebbles PouchMISS, Plan Toys, Pure Baby, Ravensburger, Red Wagon, Robbie Adrian, Schylling, Step 2, Tiny Tribe, Viking Toys, Voila Toys and WOW Toys, and fill your Monday with great bargains, and pure delight!
View Urban Child’s postage charges here.

Post written by Miki
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Following on from last week’s US Designers special feature, this week we’re heading across the Atlantic to the United Kingdom.

The UK has long been a source of leading children’s- wear and equipment. Iconic names such as Silver Cross prams instantly bring to mind classic chic, perfectly groomed nannies or the more modern ‘yummy mummies’ parading through Hyde Park with their beautifully dressed offspring on full display.

Hey, if you have a baby you’re proud of and gorgeous gear for him or her, why not show them off?

That concept shows in UK designers products - they’re always gorgeous to look at (not to mention touch) and practical to boot. And now, thanks to some of Australia’s top children’s-wear online boutiques, we can access the best of British design from the comfort of our living rooms.

So get comfy and have a look at some of my picks for the week!

Fairy Kisses

Fairy Kisses - www.fairykisses.com.au - stock the cutest little leather babyshoes from Starchild. I’m sure you’ve seen these before, they’re just so sweet! For the traditionalists among us there is Nenuphar London: timeless designs with a hint of their French heritage. Any child couldn’t help but look as though butter wouldn’t melt in their mouth wearing these clothes! They’re especially perfect for special occasions.

If you prefer organic cotton on your precious little one’s skin, there are two designers I would bring to your attention: Piccalilly Organics and Little Blue dog. Both have loads of adorable designs and are so gentle on babies’ skin!

Starchild ballerina shoes in blue, $42.95
Piccalilly red organic hoodie, $39.95
Little Blue Dog signature baseball top, $38.95
Little Blue Dog cat romper, $38.95
Nenuphar London puff sleeve dress, $84.95
Starchild gingham Jolly Roger shoes, $39.95

Urban Child

Another great place to stock up on UK designers is Urban Child - www.urbanchild.com.au. Here you can find simply beautiful baby clothes, blankets and accessories from AraVore Babies. Exclusively imported from London, all organic and knitted from exquisitely soft ‘Fair Trade’ cotton and merino wool, they are the most wonderful baby presents, especially for a winter baby. It’s the kind of gift that will become a family heirloom!

Urban Child also have the ever-popular Albetta (I’m in love with Albetta babygrows; could they get any cuter?) and a selection of WOW toys - these toys are destined to be come favourites with everyone, you can’t go wrong with them.

WOW toys ‘Motorbike Max’, $24.95
AraVore Babies organic vintage matinee coat, $105.00
Albetta Flying Machines babygrow, $42.00 $21.95 (great price!!)
AraVore Babies pink stripe jumper, $82.00
Albetta booties -blue velvet gingham, $24.95 $9.95 (even greater price!!)
Ekidna Kids

One of my all-time favourite stuffed toy brands is ‘Mamas & Papas‘ from the UK. These knitted and fleece animals are really lovely - just a bit quirky, a bit whimsical and bound to be adored.

The fleece ones can just be flung in the washing machine and the knitted ones are easy enough to spot clean. I know this because I got tomato sauce on my friend’s knitted puppy a couple of months ago - don’t ask - and was totally mortified until I realised the stain had come right out! (Promise not to tell her please )

My favourite place to get these in Australia is Ekidna Kids - www.ekidnakids.com.au.

M&P Colour Bunch soft toy - Tuli, $21.95
M&P Knitted lamb gift toy, $39.95
M&P Knitted puppy gift toy, $39.95
M&P Kitted bear gift toy, $39.95
M&P Colour Bunch soft toy - Baru, $21.95

Kids Gift List
Two fabulous UK designers at Kids Gift List - www.kidsgiftlist.com.au. The first is Sparrowkids, designers of stunning ‘DIY’ craft kits for kids. All the materials are Fair Trade (you can have very thought-provoking discussions with the kids over this topic) and they’re great quality. Craft projects aren’t just for the girls. Show me the primary school boy who could resist the pencilcase rocket!

The other designer is Trunki, which is only the best luggage for kids in the whole wide world. Seriously, who could ever go past the funky little ride-on suitcases with horns?

Sized to be carry-on baggage compliant, light enough for parents to carry comfortably over their shoulder and robust enough for not just one but two preschoolers to ride, these little suitcases are too cool.

Perfect for 3-6 year olds, and they are just as good for overnight stays at the grandparents’ place as international jetsetting!

Sparrowkids DIY felt butterfly bag, $28.95
Sparrowkids DIY felt sparrow bag, $28.95
Sparrowkids DIY rocket pencil case, $39.95
Trunki ride-on suitcases, pink and blue, $63.95

Please check individual store for postage prices and information.

Today, Miki brings us a roundup off all the great Oobi on mid-year sale around the traps. Lots of bargains to be had, and still lots of winter to go, so be snuggy and save.

Have a good weekend!

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Weeee-oooooo-weeeeee-ooooooo-weeeee-oooooooo!!!

(Look, that’s an air raid siren noise, ok? Work with me here.)

This siren is to alert you to…. it’s KidStyleFile OobiWatch time! I’ve rounded up some pretty amazing discounts on Oobi for you from a range of gorgeous retailers. The designs are super cute and stylish, the quality is as high as the sky and the prices are cheap as chips. My wish list is fulfilled! Enjoy!

Urban Child

First up, Urban Child - www.urbanchild.com.au. Urban Child have a great sale going - up to 40% off sale items and 20% off store-wide! - at the moment. The 20% off store-wide includes Oobi, and that includes the new season Oobi knits. Oh yes, lovely people, new season Oobi knits!

I love the new range, it’s cuddly and snuggly and adorable, and at 20% off it’s brilliantly priced!

I should really be saving *25%* off here, because if you enter at checkout you get a KSF-reader additional 5% off everything!! All you have to do at checkout is enter ‘KSF5′.

KidStyleFile › Edit — Betsy Sweater Dress in pink & yellow with pompoms, $49.95 $39.96
Bear beanie navy with green dots, $29.95 $23.96
Knee hi boot blue with white dots, $39.00 $31.20
Mittens pink with red dots, $22.50 $18.00

5 Little Monkeys

On to our next batch of Oobi gorgeousness and this stop is at 5 Little Monkeys - www.5littlemonkeys.com.au.

There are more fabulous discounts here: Oobi is AT LEAST 20% off! PLUS you get another 10% off when you show your KidStyleFile reader credentials and enter the code KSFJune until July 3! That’s 30% off Oobi, people!!

I love the ruffle bloomers - I just don’t think there’s anything cuter than a crawling baby girl with a ruffly bottom! The A-line dress is timeless and classic and suits the innocence of a toddler girl just perfectly.

And then there’s the Little Bear hoodie in aqua and chocolate stripe - I’ve been eyeing this off for ages and at 30% off I think it might be time to bite the bullet and grab one as they won’t be around for long at these prices!

Little bear hoodie aqua and chocolate stripe, $43.95 $35.16
Ruffle bloomers in multi spot and pink & red spot, $25.00 $17.95 each
A-line dress, $25.00 $20.00
Textile bibs, $9.95

Pastel Pink

MASSIVE Oobi discounts at Pastel Pink - www.pastelpink.com.au! Up to 40% off their Oobi range, I kid you not! So if you want the lounge sets (I do!!), the summer hats, the gooooorgeous rocket stripe patchwork quilt (drool!) or the hard-to-find boys nappy covers, and more besides then this is the place for you! Don’t forget to request gift wrapping: it really is something to behold!

Lounge set, $39.95 $23.95 available in ‘Grrr dino’ or ‘Martian’, these are the perfect gift for a baby boy! SO cute.
Summer hats, $21.95 $13.17
Rocket stripe patchwork quilt, $44.95 $38.21
Boy nappy covers (double-pack), $24.95 $14.97

La Toriana

And our final stop on this Oobi guided tour is the ever-lovely La Toriana - www.latoriana.com.au.

Ever-lovely indeed, as La Toriana currently have 30% off store-wide for KidStyleFile readers. Enter ‘KSF30′ at checkout until 30 June to claim your super savings.

As for Oobi at La T, there’s plenty to choose from but personally I love the 1950s Signature Corsage Vintage dress - so sweet! Match it with ruffle bloomers for an irresistible look. Then there’s the cornflower dress which looks somehow a little bit French to me, I love it! The rompers are perfect for the style-conscious baby, and so comfy looking! (Who doesn’t secretly wish that Oobi rompers came in adult sizes? Only me? Oh.) But the absolute pick of the bunch here is the Super 70s Space Hopper. These suit all kids from 3+ and take up to 100kgs which means that Mum & Dad can have a go as well, and they’re such a great workout!

1950s Signature Corsage Vintage dress in pink dots, $42.95 $30.06
Cornflower dress, $44.95 $31.46
Rompers available in cupcake design $29.95 $20.96 and pirate design $28.95 $20.26
Super 70s Space Hopper, $28.95 $20.26

Please check individual sites for shipping details.