KidStyleFile

Written by Leah

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

As spring approaches, the weekends at my house become a hive of activity. There are no less than 5 extended family birthday parties in quick succession to attend, new season wardrobes to gather together and Christmas shopping (yes…it’s on the horizon people!) to start thinking about. As a working mum I need to be organised, so it’s the last few weeks of winter where my online shopping goes up a gear as I hunt for bargains to have ready to go when needed.

Shop For Tots - www.shopfortots.com.au – is the perfect place to start! Launched  in April, Kate and Steve (inspired by their gorgeous 3 year old twins, Orlando and Sofia, I’m certain), have collated an enormous selection of the finest toys, baby goods and clothing lines for you to choose from. I’m convinced that there is something in store for every single child, making Shop For Tots the perfect shopping destination for every need.

If it’s a party you are busy preparing for, ensure you take a few minutes to peruse the party section for some delightful options for your table, preparations and party bags. I recently used the Talking Tables Cake Central Cake Toppers on a selection of my baking creations, and they drew ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ from the adult group I presented them to.

The provision of games and activities to push away boredom is a must have in my house. I’m always circulating our family collection and adding something each month to engage my kidlets and keep them busy. I am excited to see a bevy of options at Shop for Tots and they have just added even more to their wooden toys, puzzles and games area! They all make a special gift too.

To make things even more exciting, Shop For Tots currently have over 400 items on sale with up to 30% off. Take advantage of some of the super bargains you’ll find right now. You’ll also find a super special offer for KSF readers: enter code KSF-freeship for free shipping on all orders until 31August 2011.  And a quick reminder – you only have 10 days to get your entry into the Shop For Tots ‘Join our Community’ Competition which has over $1400 worth of prizes to be won. 

For all the latest news from Shop for Tots, make sure to “like” their Facebook page.

Prices quoted below are valid while stocks last. Remember: free shipping is available with code KSF-freeship until 31st August 2011.

1. Live Play Create Tike $220.00 $154.00
2. Goodbyn Original Lunchbox $45.00 $31.50
3. Active People Bilibo Pixel $12.95 $9.07
4. Plan Toys Eco Home $99.95 $73.78
5. Govinci All-in-one Backpack $45.80 $32.06
6. Edz Kidz Kids Ear Muffs $28.95 $20.27
7. Kidlet Love Rectangluar Cushion $41.95 $29.37
8. SOLVEJ baby/toddler swing $219.95 $154.00
9. Studio Skinky Playon Crayons $12.95 $9.07
10. Seedling Message Dragon Royal $32.95 $24.50
11.  Kids Konserve Lunch Kit Caterpillar $58.95 $41.27
12. Tutu Du Monde Orchid Petal Tutu $149.00 $104.30

Post written by Anna

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

As the days become shorter and with lots of little hands to keep busy over the coming winter months, today we bring you the path well traveled in the craft department. Below is a cross section of the best and brightest craft kids for kids. You will find kits for boys and girls, sewing, sticking, building, stamping and all round crafty goodness!

Put together by designers and makers who know what they are doing, use them as an opportunity for your child’s creativity and imagination shine – all with step, by step instructions and materials so it all comes together in harmony.

a. Craft Schmaft woof woof kit $45.00 at Little Pinwheel
b. Sew Your Own Tote $30.00 at Sew Your Own
c. Sew Your Own Miss Buttons $25.00 at Sew Your Own
d. Little Snoring Peggy People Kit $10.00 at Little Snoring
e. Makedo FreePlay Kit For Three – a design and craft kit for kids $39.95 at Kindred Gifts
f. Makedo Find And Make Dollhouse – a design and craft kit for kids $19.95 at Kindred Gifts
g. The Little Experience Create It Picture Frame Kit $12.95 $6.95 at Ok 4 Kids
h. Chicken Socks Foam Gliders $12.14 at Fishpond Books
i. Alex Toys Crafty Car Kit $29.95 at Send A Toy
j. Seedling Create your own Tutu $79.95 at The Little Kiz Closet
k. Dumpling Dynasty Alphabet Stamps Kit $29.95 at Lark Handmade
i. Djeco – Kokeshis Paper Toys $12.95 at Entropy Toys
m. Harvest Textiles Owl Softie Kit $40.00 at Harvest Textiles

Please check individual sites for shipping details. Also make sure you check the KidStyleFile All Current Deals page to make sure you’re getting the very best deal.

Post written by Miki

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

One of my absolute favourite styles of cuisine is Asian-fusion – a blend of classic Aussie fare and delicate Asian flavours and techniques. As far as food goes it’s as good as it gets and just thinking about it is making my mouth water!  But today I want to talk about a new kind of Asian-fusion I’ve discovered: Little Urby – www.littleurby.com.au.

What does an adorable childrenswear online boutique have to do with cuisine?  Quite a lot actually, because Little Urby is the spirit of Asian-fusion personified.  Created by two Australian-based Asian expats, Phylice and Lin from Malaysia and Singapore respectively, the store showcases the best Australian childrenswear and decor brands with some truly wonderful finds from Asia.  Lin and Phylice have lived in Australia for 10 years now and they’re committed to supporting our talented local designers even while they introduce stunning Asian labels new to the Australian market.  I’ve got to say, the resulting mix at Little Urby is delectable!

On show at the moment is Little Urby’s new Autumn range featuring some fabulous brands out of South Korea including Annika, Amber, Amber Pure, Soft, Mery Jane and Peach&Cream.  South Korean children’s fashion has all the practicality children need but the fashion is forward-looking and edgy with quirky little details and wonderful fabrics. You’ll also spot Singaporean label Project Little and its kimono-style babywear – simply gorgeous and *very* giftable.

So we’ve talked about the Asian part of the fusion, but what about the Aussie ingredients?  You won’t be disappointed: Three Little Trees, Anton’s Lane, Boon, Printspace, 41 Orchard, An Angel At My Table, Annabel Trends, Forwalls, Little Chipipi and Dotty Spot Design. Plus, coming later this month, you’ll find Polka, Cocoon Couture, Little Lamb and Giddy Giddy at Little Urby.

Indulge in Asian-fusion children’s fashion and decor at Little Urby with 25% off store-wide – including Three Little Trees already on sale up to 40% off – until 30 April 2011 using discount code KSF25 at checkout. KSF readers in South East Asia also have a special offer just for them: $7.50 local postage for all orders to South East Asia using the code KSFSEA until 30 April 2011. Gobble it up!

Discounted prices quoted below are valid only until 30 April 2011 using the code KSF25.

1. Boon Bath Goods, $33.95 less 25% = $25.46
2. Annika Hener Jumper Skirt, $55.00 less 25% = $41.25
3. Amber Pure Aaron Shirt, $33.00 less 25% = $24.75
4. Dotty Spot Designs Alphabet Tree Canvas, from $89.00 less 25% = $66.75
5. Project Little Kimono Romper – Blue Trellis, $39.00 less 25% = $29.25
6. Peach & Cream Bobbi Doll Dress, $45.00 less 25% = $33.75
7. Anton’s Lane Forest Play Bedding, $169.00 less 25% = $126.75
8. Amber Pure Leopold Hat, $24.00 less 25% = $18.00
9. Project Little Mandarin Dress – Multi Bubbles, $59.00 less 25% = $44.25
10. Printspace ‘Hello Giraffe’ Art Print 8″x10″, $30.00 less 25% = $22.50
11. Three Little Trees Mini Maxi Dress, $35.95 less 25% = $26.96
12. Soft Reversible Padding Vest, $29.00 less 25% = $21.75

Little Urby stocks a fine range of labels from Australia and abroad including Amber, Amber Pure, Annika, Anton’s Lane, Peach&Cream, Printspace, Project Little, Soft, 41 Orchard, Ada-Ada, An Angel At My Table, Annabel Trends, Boon, Dingsbums, Dotty Spot, Ebulobo, Forwalls Decals, Heimlich Clear Cream, Kid-O, Mery Jane, mOmma, Moveables by Little Chipipi, Seedling and Three Little Trees.

Little Urby ships Australia-wide for a flat rate of $7.50 per parcel.  Orders over $150 ship FREE. International orders welcome, please see the delivery page for details.

Post written and photographed by Leah

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

The Sydney 2011 edition of 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, last weekend. This is the part 2 of our 3 part reportage.

Read Best In Show: Kids InStyle Trade Event, Sydney Australia 2011 – Part 1 here.

Read Best In Show: Kids InStyle Trade Event, Sydney Australia 2011 – Part 3 here.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

I’m a big fan of 1950s style, so when I spotted the little swimming cap on the model at the Alfie and Nina stand, I had to stop and peruse the wares. I have a squad of water babies in my house, so I am always on the look out for durable yet stylish swimwear which will make a statement on the beack whilst also providing some protection from the blasting rays of the sun. Alfie and Nina swimwear ticks all the boxes.

Alfie and Nina launched two years ago and is the brainchild of Melbourne based Josephine Webster, who named the label after her 5 year old daughter, Nina, and 2 year old son, Alfie. With a background in costume, film and textiles, Josephine understands the importance of colour, lines and detail and has used this to create exclusive prints for her range. The material for all the suits is made and screen printed right here in Australia.

In the upcoming spring/summer collection ready for release in August, you’ll see a movement towards brighter colours including dusty blues and oranges. Zip-up swimsuits are available for boys and girls from birth to 3 years, whilst the rashies, bathers and swimming trunks are available for boys and girls from size 1-7. Prices start at around $39.00.  All products within the range are 50 SPF+ and tested chlorine resistant.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Mothers of tweens listen up:  I have found the most glorious line of tween wear for your girls. Henrietta Cheshire has heard your desire to find a range of quality, Australian Made, age appropriate wear for your girls to don for parties, outings and regular fun times. The cut will flatter without being provocative, the colours are stylish, and the designs maintain a pull for girls to actually wear them. Let me introduce you to One Sunday, a proudly Australian made label for girls 8-14.

Henrietta, mother of three gorgeous girls, is one creative mumma (just check out her blog – she put her flair for the unique to good use for her husband’s 40th birthday, hand embroidering him a poem from her own hair!). Having procured a fine arts degree many years ago, then biding her time in interior design, she has put her skills towards creating a range that her girls could wear and stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons.

With a limited run of 40 pieces per design (that’s just 10 pieces per size), your daughter is unlikely to find anyone else within her circle with these pieces. The spring/summer 2011/12 range are names after the places Henrietta would like to visit – find “Bilboa” and “Capri” amongst the group. My favourite – the Bilboa (the red dress above) is made from cotton with metal shot, which means it doesn’t need to be ironed, maintains its shape, and has a real shimmer to it.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

The Seedling range is one of my favourite gift ideas for both my own children and for friends. The idea of learning through play is a philosophy that I hold dear to my heart and this range of kits embraces this very belief with its creation of product kits that utilise real materials and tools for little hands to manipulate and construct.

The Seedling label germinated in 2006 when the production team couldn’t find a meaningful gift for youngsters. The product range started with 4 items and has expanded to over 40 which are now sold throughout the world. Watch out for the new items coming soon including new science experiments (including crystal growing), Artwork kits, Shields, worm farm kit, picture frame kits (great for Mother’s Day) and messenger bags.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Kids spend over half their time asleep. For this very reason, I invest in quality, durable and comfortable pyjamas every single season. My first port of call is always Snugglebum. For starters, they’re super cute (the sleepers remind me of Michael in Disney’s Peter Pan!), and they always last the entire season and beyond despite ridiculous amounts of washing and wear.

Of course, I had to pop past the Snugglebum stand and grab the Melanie to find out what is coming up for the range. Guess what? Very very soon you will find Snugglebum doona covers that match the very pyjamas that you’re putting on your wee one. Watch this space!

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

In 2002, Fabio Cattafi became an Uncle for the first time. This event inspired Fabio, a talented theatre performer, to start kidswear label Zephire Generation. Growing from a market stall at the Queen Victoria Markets in Melbourne, to a label now produced in the same factory that makes the likes of Alannah Hill and Dangerfield, Zephire Generation can now be found stocked in some of our favourite kids fashion stores across Australia and New Zealand.

Zephire Generation’s pulsating lines of coolness make it just perfect for funky monkeys wanting something to add to their street cred repertoire. A bold colour palette, energetic patterns and a mixture of textures will keep this label at the cutting edge of style for young funksters from 3-14.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Once upon a time Joanne was happily working as a neuropsychologist. When she became pregnant and gave birth to daughter, Amélie, the experience took her breath away. Amélie became her inspiration and muse and soon after Little Chillies was born.

Heavily influenced by Parisian chic styling and fabrics, Little Chillies is an opulent range of shoes, garments and toys for little boys and girls. A family owned business spanning three generations and over 35 years of sewing experience, each and every item in the range is designed and made right here in Australia support ethical making practices and the Australian textile industry. Me eye was immediately drawn to the Blossom dress in the above picture which comes in two colour-ways “rabbit” (as above) and “pink”, is made from a silk cotton blend with a handmade silk flower addition.  The winter collection is available now.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

If you haven’t come across Mae fabric removable, reusable wall decals before you need to know a few things. 1. The fabric is a polyester weave with a water based adhesive which means they have no pvc’s, are bio degradable and are non toxic. 2. They can be used over and over again, removed from the wall, repositioned, reapplied, even stomped on and will STILL stick. 3. You can wash them 4. They stick on almost every surface 5. They’re proudly designed and made in Australia, and 6. They are possibly the most stylish decals on the market.

New items for kids to watch out for: the new pirate ship; circus (including my favourite – the tattooed lady); robots, butterflies and creepy crawlies; and for adults, photo dots; rain clouds; message tiles; and swallows.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Baobab‘s easy to wear, comfortable, yet stylish, range has all of us here at KidStyleFile beaming time and time again. Durable, easy washing, easy wearing 100% organic cotton shapes sustain their style through the season, and burst of vibrant colours make the pieces statement pieces when needed. Designed by Aussie mums for Aussie mums, the label finds itself included in my kidlets wardrobe each and every season, and I know since previewing the upcoming range that they will feature yet again.

Bold blue with red cuffs, pockets and neck line with a confetti like pattern strewn across it the Baobab Circle Pocket Dress must be the stand out piece for Winter 2011. Also, shhhhh….there are a few sneaky peaks of the ss11/12 collection above.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Fans of eco and kid-friendly style should not miss Little Armourie, a label whose base philosophy is “Gorgeously safe ~ Practically comfortable ~ Divinely soft ~ Confidently modern”.

All cotton used in the production of garments for the range is 100% organic, is certified by ETKO and has received the GOTS certification. This extends to the dyes used (see here for more details).

Whilst upholding strong ethical standards for the production of the Little Armourie, the girls behind the label have ensured that they haven’t done so at the expense of style. The prints are exclusive to the range, and each design is made to ensure it fits well and stands out. The label is unique, combining thoughtful cuts and silhouettes within a spectrum of pastel colour swatches.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Bold colours, sleek designs, and robust images: the fusion of materials and the combination of monochrome colour swatches provokes strong flashbacks to visits to the postmodern section of the art gallery. Add an extra dash of quirkiness and you have The Daniella Rosen Collection.

Elephants, hearts, hot air balloons, sewing machine and more in brooch, necklace, hairclip and paperclip form – pick your fancy, they’re all covered in this collection. My favourites? The Penny Farthing brooch and birdcage pendant.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Please check individual stores for availability and postage and delivery information.

Post written by Leah

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Have yourself a very merry christmas … get all of your shopping out of the way without the hassle of dodging shopping trolleys, waiting in line or trying to find your way out of the carpark by skipping the entire scenario and doing it all online. Peruse the virtual shelves in the relaxing comfort of your own home, during your downtime, perhaps with a cuppa by your side!

Today take a peek at Dragonfly Toys – www.dragonflytoys.com.au – where you will find a bevy of  unique toys that will enchant and engage your kidlets without overwhelming them. With a background interest in Steiner educational philosophy, Linda has sourced toys that possess qualities of beauty and honesty. This Christmas the shelves are ripe for the picking with so many choices that you won’t find anywhere else.

Visit the Under $20.00 section for a choice of eco-freindly stocking fillers. Check out the French eco company Bioviva’s fun game cards for children aged 7+ (Betting On Nature and Families In Nature) which will keep them happily occupied on Boxing Day and beyond. I just love the Wooden Spinning Top for its simplicity, yet ability to engage for countless hours. Dragonfly Toys have also introduced some hand-made dolls clothes to their range to complement their beautiful collection of handmade Waldorf Dolls.

Seedling have outdone themselves this season with a series of awesome packs to enhance the senses starting from $19.95. Each pack provides an opportunity to delve into hands on exploration of a range of concepts from Create Your Own Erupting Volcano to Make Your Own Kaleidoscope; Design Your Own Tote Bag to The Outdoor Explorer Kit just for starters.

Perhaps you have a budding artist? Snap up the Travelling Artist Tote which is completely portable and can be taken just about anywhere for those moments of inspiration or opportunities for sketching. Also on my list is the Lyra Water Colour Paint Set which gives rich colours to your child’s artwork, not their clothing!

Fill up your cart today with beautiful, quality toys and enjoy a VIP discount of 5% off storewide until 17 December 2010. Enter discount code KSF5 at checkout to redeem. Spend over $150.00 (before postage) and your order will be shipped to you FREE, whereever you are in Australia*. To be keep in the loop with the latest news and VIP specials sign up to the Dragonfly Toys newsletter.

Discounted prices quoted below are valid with code KSF5 only until 17 December 2010.

1. Lyra Skin Pencils $17.50 LESS 5%= $16.63
2. Stockmar Wax Block Crayons $15.50 LESS 5%= $14.73
3. Bioviva Betting On Nature $19.95 LESS 5%= $18.95
4. HABA Tin of Marble Games $19.95 LESS 5%= $18.95
5. Sarah’s Silks Silk Rainbow Streamer $19.90 LESS 5%= $18.91
6. Dragonfly Handmade Dolls Dolls Pyjamas – Girls $9.50 LESS 5%= $9.03 Dragonfly Handmade Dolls Steiner Boy Doll – Black Hair $88.50 LESS 5%= $84.08
7. SEEDLING Good Things for Boys $39.50 LESS 5%= $37.56 SEEDLING Design Your Own Dinner Set $75.50 LESS 5%= $71.76 SEEDLING Design Your Own Box Kite $36.50 LESS 5%= $34.68
8. Gluckskafer Circular Weaving Frame $18.50 LESS 5%= $17.56
9. Dragonfly Toys Travelling Artist Tote $29.50 LESS 5%= $28.03

About Heidi, A okhi, Art Viva, Barefoot, Bell Pond Books, Bioviva, Chrissy Butler, Debresk, Diane Tatum, Die Spiegelburg, Dorling Kindersley, Dragonfly Handmade Dolls, Dragonfly Toys, Drei Blatter, Earth Greetings, Ergo, Etiko, Family Pastimes, Fish River, Floris Books, Gluckskafer, Green Toys, HABA, Hawthorn Press, Hess Spielzeug, Hug-a-Bub, Immortal Books, Jambu Tree Kids, Jamtown, Keptin Jr, Kinderkram, Kokonor, Kraul, Kreativekit, Laikonik, Little Green Radicals, Lyra, Mehano, Mercurius, Michaelmass Press, Nanchen, Naturally You Can Sing, Papoose, Putumayo, Putumayo Kids, Ravensburger, Sarah Laidlaw, Sarah’s Silks, Seedling, Selecta, Spiel and Holz, Steiner Books, Stockmar, Story Tree Company, Tamana, The Beadery, Treeblocks, Wool Pets, Woolganic, World Alive and Zoras Rainbows.

Dragonfly Toys charge a flat fee of $9.00 delivery* Australia-wide. Orders over $150 are shipped free*. International orders are welcome. Click here for full information. (*Excluding oversize orders and remote locations).

Post written by Leah

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Every year in the lead up to Christmas and birthdays, I receive numerous phone calls from our extended family asking what my kidlets current interest is; what they would be at the top of their wishlist; how they could suitably indulge my children. I usually prompt them with rough category ideas: “perhaps some dress ups?” or “they just love craft these days”.  It’s always a difficult task.  Well today, ladies and gentleman, I present the perfect place to take the hassle out of gift sourcing.

Gifts 4 Kidz – www.gifts4kidz.com.au – is an online store that has gathered together an abundance of fashion and unique, quality gift ideas for babies and kids which, amongst other options, you can search by age group making the site super easy for a grandparent, uncle, or even daddy, to browse and find the gift that is sure to delight.

Brands stocked at Gifts4Kidz include Automoblox, Bebe Clothing, Bebe Jr Clothing, BLOCH, Bobble Art, Books To Wear, Britt Design, Chippie Bags & Accessories, Christopher Vine Design, Cudworth, Custard Pie, Djeco, Jacques Farel, Jarmeez, Le Toy Van, Tin Lid Designs, Manhattan Toy Co, Marquise, Minihaha, Mini Treasures, Missi Missi, Milestone Press, Creative Education, Alperstein Designs, Mini Life, Nana Huchy, Paper Eskimo, Posh!, Pintoy, Seedling Craft Kids, Tahlia, Tiger Tribe, Tommy Rocket, Two Belles, Uttman Kids, Walnut, Willow and Finn, Wheely Bug, Woof! and Zoe Bonbon, with Nana Huchy and Mini Life new additions to the lineup.

My picks include the fab Seedling kits, the YBike, Djeco craft kits and Le Toy Van role play toys – my number one favourite is the Le Toy Van playmats which integrate integrate beautifully with the Le Toy Van toys such as the Pirate Ship, Fairy Tower and Dollhouse.

To help you tick off each item on your Christmas wishlist, Gifts 4 Kidz are offering all KSF readers a whopping 30% off every single thing store wide, including sale stock, until midnight 29 November 2010. To redeem this offer simply enter KSF30 at checkout. You’ll also receive a FREE signature gift package with every offer. While you’re there be sure to subscribe to the Gifts 4 Kidz VIP club to score discounts for future purchases (not applicable on top of any other offer; sorry) and go into the draw to WIN 1 of 5 $50.00 Gift Vouchers.

Discounted prices quoted below are valid with code KSF30 until midnight 29 November 2010 only.

1. Nana Huchy Ruby Rag Doll $41.95 LESS 30%= $29.37
2. sunnyLIFE Bronte Beach Sounds $49.95 LESS 30%= $34.97
3. Seedling Make Your Own Erupting Volcano $54.95 LESS 30%= $38.47 and Seedling The Fashion Designer’s Kit $59.95 LESS 30%= $41.97
4. sunnyLIFE Beach Cricket Blue $49.95 LESS 30%= $34.97
5. YBIKE – Cool Blue $119.95 LESS 30%= $83.97
6. Mini Life FD Layered Dress Francisco Print (2-6) $65.95 LESS 30%= $46.17
7. Le Toy Van Sweetheart Cottage Set with Dolls House Playmat $340.00 LESS 30%= $238.00
8. Djeco Geoform Boxed Set $59.95 LESS 30%= $41.97
9. Le Toy Van Shanghai Warrior Pirate Ship $110.00 LESS 30%= $77.00
10. Automoblox HR3 Mini Blue Hot Rod $27.00 LESS 30%= $18.90
11. Ruby Luxe Red Flat Disc Bracelet $9.95 LESS 30%= $6.97 and Ruby Luxe Beaded Balloon Girl Necklace $29.95 LESS 30%= $20.97

Gifts4Kidz charge a flat rate delivery of $9.95 Australia wide and provide FREE gift packaging. For full information, including International orders, please see Delivery and Returns.