Category Archives: the babes

Estella on SALE!

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Happy New Year lovelies!! I owe you a post in a big way and I’ve got lots to tell you about;). Before I do that, however, I’ve got a special New Year’s deal for you. You may remember a post about a fabulous little NYC-based children’s shop called Estella? I wish that I’d found this shop before leaving the city. It’s the perfect spot to browse for unique and thoroughly adorable things for your little cutie. They carry my beloved Jellycats, the most amazing stuffed animals EVER and boast a perfectly curated selection of kid’s clothing including house-label designs along with a fab selection of unique toys and gifts.

I was recently in touch with the ladies at Estella in regards to my holiday Jellycat order (a few tots in my life were the proud recipients!) and learned, much to my delight, that they are fans of this little blog of mine. We’re working on a feature for this month, but in the meantime, they were kind enough to offer a generous deal for all of my lovely readers. I’m hoping you’ll think this is as cool as I do…

From RIGHT NOW through January 15, you will receive 50% off on all of Estella’s Cotton Essentials. Yep… HALF OFF!! Just use the code: PlainLovely50.

The Cotton Essentials are soft, versatile, machine-washable and there are so many pretty colors to choose from. I hope you’ll find something perfect. Happy New Year and enjoy the sale! A few adorable little suggestions, just for you:)

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striped cotton one piece suit, $36 ($18 for you!) – buy here

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solid long-sleeve henley, $40 ($20 for you!) – buy here

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baby romper, $42 ($21 for you!) – buy here

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striped short sleeve tee, $36 ($18 for you!) – buy here

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baby dress, $40 ($20 for you!) – buy here

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short sleeve tee, $28 ($14 for you!) – buy here

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leggings, $24 ($12 for you!) – buy here

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Now go buy some things for your babes:) – Maybe snag a Jellycat while you’re at it!


squeezable

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This collection of cuddly little lovebugs goes out to all of my friends with new babes of their own. A cozy stuffed animal seems to be a staple for all little ones, boys and girls alike. There is always that one that must be taken to bed every night, to cuddle, to ward off those evil monsters in the closet and under the bed, and to be there to snuggle with in the morning. I haven’t personally tested all of these out, but as evidenced by the hefty number of plush jellycats, it’ll come as no surprise that they are my favorites. If you haven’t tried them yet, I’d suggest going there first. Snuggle up and sweet dreams;).

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Jellycat Cordy Roy Elephant, $22 – Available at Hanna Andersson, buy here

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Knitted Owl by Yellow Label Kids, $28.95 – Available at Poppy Clementine, buy here

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Mini London Dog by blabla kids, $36 – Available at blabla, buy here

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Terry Hare in Stripes, $20.50 – Available at Polarn O. Pyret, buy here

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Jellycat Bashful Bunny Stuffed Animal, $19 – Available at Estella, buy here

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Goose by Lana Organic, $32.99 – Available at oompa, buy here

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pig by i golfini, $48 – Available at Sweet William, buy here

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Happy Hippo, $18 – Available at giggle, buy here

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bumpkins pig, $9.95 – Available at Poppy Clementine, buy here

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Junglie Zebra, $24 – Available at peek… aren’t you curious?, buy here

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Little Pig by Hansa, $26.95 – Available at Imagine Childhood, buy here

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Jellycat Edward Bear, $19.95 – Available at Loulou’s Corner, buy here

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Modern Pop

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Modern Pop comes to us from Ryan Beshara, an LA-based advertising gal who needed an artistic outlet outside her field. She came to children’s illustrations by way of stationary and calendars initially intended for adults. Though she doesn’t have children of her own, she says she finds a freedom in designing for kids. Her prints are indeed modern, but with a bit of a classic, vintage childhood feel. The colors are vivid, the images pleasing, and the messages educational. I could easily imagine decorating a baby’s room with a series of alphabet prints.

Modern Pop

the etsy shop :: the website :: the blog :: the tweets

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Modern Art Giraffe Print, $50 – buy here

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Animal Alphabet Print, $30 – buy here

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Zz is for Zoo, $15 – buy here

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The Birds, $30 – buy here

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Retro Art Print – American Racing Drivers Club, $30 – buy here

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Number Print, $30 – buy here

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Funny Girl Alphabet Print, $50 – buy here

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Come Fly With Me, $30 – buy here

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Kk is for kite, $15 – buy here

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[all images by Ryan Beshara for Modern Pop - please visit her website for more!]

Etsy :: baby girl

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Bibs and burp cloths and blankets… oh my! I somehow just can’t get enough of looking at baby gifts. It could be the fact that I have an 8-month old nephew, or that I have no less than 5 friends with new babies and 5 with bundles on the way. Or it could be the fact that I’m a 33-year old woman and it’s just nature;). The little smiles, the curious twinkles in their eyes, those little tiny toes… Whatever the case, I’m in it! I found a slew of fabulous gifts on Etsy and couldn’t help but share. Maybe you’ve got your own little babe on the way or maybe you’re looking for a unique shower gift. Either way, all little girls will need (read: their mothers will want) one of these!

image above:

cotton burp cloths by Organic Quilt Company, $18 for set of two – buy here

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Raspberry Swirl Baby Bib by Sarah Minshall, $15 – buy here

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Apples and Pears (blanket, burp cloth and bib set) by A Quilt for Baby, $80 – buy here

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Midwest Modern Baby Quilt by Starlit Nest Gifts, $70 – buy here

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Perfect Plum Essential Baby Blanket by Organic Quilt Company, $19 – buy here

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Baby Girl Rag Quilt by Rory Unraveled, $69.95 – buy here

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Baby Girl Bird Bib by Beth Gracie, $15 – buy here

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Wash Cloth by Organic Quilt Company, $8 – buy here

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Lana Floral Bib by 2 Fresh Threads, $15 – buy here

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Orange Bright Windowpanes Quilt by Tannei Casey, $68 – buy here

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little swimmers

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So we’ve adorned ourselves with stretchy floral fabrics, stylish separates and brightly patterned bikinis. What about the babes? I haven’t posted something for the babes in ages and I’m feeling a little guilty. I had the pleasure of spending the 4th of July with my nieces and nephews. For a special treat, my sister came up from MA with her almost 7-month-old son, K. He’s smiley and sweet with just the right amount of baby pudge, an unintentional blond mohawk of sorts, the longest eyelashes I’ve seen on a baby and the cutest rosy red lips. What could possibly have made this little fella even cuter? A baby swimsuit. That’s right… the little tike had on blue and white swim trunks sent along by a great-aunt. It made me realize that I’d missed a big part of summer round-ups! Suits for the little swimmers. Maybe you’ll find something here that will make your little cutie even cuter!

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Stella Cove Navy Swimsuit, $49 – at Estella, buy here

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Kids Case Striped Swim Trunks, $28.50 – at Sweet William, buy here

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Swirling Fleur Tank, $49.50 – at J. Crew, buy here

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Good Ship Lollypop Swimsuit, $39 – at Little Salties, buy here

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Flower Graphic Swimsuit, $14.47 – at Old Navy, buy here

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Voile Cotton Bikini, $37 – at Egg Baby, buy here

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Beach Bingo Gathered Tank, $49.50 – at J. Crew, buy here

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Shark Print Swim Trunks, $7.97 – at Old Navy, buy here

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And keep that noggin covered!!

Angela Divine Sunhat, $28.50 – at Sweet William, buy here

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Voile Cottom Sun Hat, $22 – at Egg Baby, buy here

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Blanche & Mimi

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When I first moved to Portland, I was on high alert. I was in new territory, having moved from a neighborhood where I was not only familiar with the local shops, but one of them, to a place where I knew nothing. I set out to explore, hoping to gain at least a small sense of the new layout, targeting new favorite shops, maybe picking up a few souvenirs along the way. One of the first spots I stumbled upon was Blanche & Mimi. I’ve been there a few times now, both for myself and for gifts. They have a marvelous baby section in the back, but upon entering, it may take you a while to work your way through the equally fabulous home section in the front. The display features a mix of new items from a large selection of both independent and more established designers and a finely curated collection of antiques. It’s a wonderful shop to browse and I would recommend it to locals and visitors alike. Feast your eyes!;)

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Blanche & Mimi

[in the owner's words] Born in June 2007, Blanche & Mimi was named after two independent, strong willed, creative and energetic women, my grandparents, aka Duckie and Nana. Both of these women (one an interior decorator and another a fabulous baker and textile artist ) inspired me to follow my passions, live well, eat well and celebrate life’s beauty. With their originality in mind Blanche & Mimi was created.

On a typical day here at the shop you’ll find a bundle of ever changing new and unique treasures complimented by a variety of vintage one of a kind items. You’ll see anything from vintage hairclips or buffalo horn picture frames to larger items such as colorful graphic oil cloth hand bags, soft and subtle organic block printed bedding or original European cafe chairs. Whether for your home or as a gift, I think you’ll find something that will inspire you. [text courtesy of the Blanche & Mimi website]

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the shop :: the fan page

[There isn't a clear online shop, but you can go to the home page, find an item you like and call the store directly. I know for a fact that everyone there is just lovely to work with, so I can safely say you'll be well taken care of!]

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[images taken from the Blanche & Mimi website]

for the babes :: egg

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Does anyone else think it’s just a little bit funny that ‘for the babes’ post highlighted a shop called ‘oeuf’ and this new post is for an entirely different shop called ‘egg’. Did you know that oeuf means egg in French? Clearly, I have some sort of unexplainable affinity for shops somehow related to the word egg. I wonder what will be next?;)

I first stumbled across Egg a few weeks back while browsing through a wide variety of NY-based shops. It immediately stood out as a fashion forward, yet functional children’s clothing line, so I bookmarked it for a future closer look. I’ve spent the last hour cooing over little girls dresses, picking out my favorites and ear-marking them for gifts this summer. The designs are original, the prints bold and playful, the materials soft and sometimes organic.

A bit more about Egg (from the about us page):

Egg hatched in 2003, when designer Susan Lazar decided to create a lifestyle brand designed around the needs of stylish mothers and children. In 2006, Susan and Adam Neumann partnered, and with their shared vision, have been building Egg ever since. With her emphasis on love and family, Lazar creates products that are modern and beautiful, highlighting the love between parent and child.

And… if you happen to be expecting, don’t miss the maternity site!

Silk and Cotton Short Sleeve Dress, $59 – buy here

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Cable Pullover, $38 – buy here

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Striped Jersey Hoodie, $44 – buy here

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Jersey Basic Karate Pant, $34 – buy here

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Voile Cotton Ruffle Dress, $44 – buy here

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Organic Bow Knit Top, $59 – buy here

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Voile Cotton Jumper Dress, $44 – buy here

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Lightweight Knit Ruffle Dress, $59 – buy here

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Voile Cotton Ruffle Top, $34 – buy here

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Silk Cotton Cross Back Dress, $55 – buy here

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Voile Cotton Short Sleeve Sundress, $44 – buy here

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Organic Knit Dress, $70 – buy here

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Striped Jersey Short Sleeve Top, $34 – buy here

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for the babes :: oeuf

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My friend Christina just happens to be expecting a little girl in September. [stay tuned for more on Christina in July!] She also sits next to me at work every day, which makes stumbling upon adorable baby websites extra exciting. In her search for the perfect crib, she came across Oeuf, a charming little site run by Sophie Demenge and Michael Ryan, a husband/wife – American/French team. A quick peek at the site clearly shows their impeccable taste, but a closer look reveals a little bit more.

Oeuf began back in 2002, after the birth of the couples’ first child. As part of a new generation of design-conscious and environmentally aware parents they had to consider a cross-section of factors as they endeavored to clarify the modern nursery. Rather than producing a multitude of products, they decided to streamline the accommodations of their new lifestyle into a few essential pieces. Oeuf’s mission has become to make those essentials practical and stylish, without compromising quality and safety – their top priority. Their designs are thoughtful and focused on three key principals: quality, practicality and function – all packaged in beautiful design. It’s about a few essential, high quality and multifunctional, pieces that resonate with today’s cash strapped consumers. [biographical info pulled with love from oeuf's about us page].

Christina discovered a fantastic sale yesterday and scooped up two adorable little dresses this morning. I would highly encourage you moms (and dads) out there to check these darling little items out and grab yours before it’s too late. Sales like these don’t come around all the time and in the case of cute baby clothes, they’re not to be missed!

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Zoe Dress, $36 – buy here

[one of Christina's purchases, in this adorable color!]

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Kelly Dress, $30 – buy here

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Bianca Strap Dress, $36 – buy here

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Charlotte Dress, $37 – buy here

[one of Christina's purchases, but in blue!]

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Bella Dress, $31 – buy here

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Elise Dress, $32 – buy here

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Bubble Onesie, $18 – buy here

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Isa Dress, $40 – buy here

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Marie Heart Dress, $38 – buy here

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Shorty Shorts, $19 – buy here

[these remind me of 70s-style track shorts... so cute, but really hilarious!]

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And now for a few adorable extras:

Mask and Tail sets, $48 – buy here

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Hand Crocheted Ballerina Slippers, $44 – buy here

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Snake, $64 – buy here

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Alpaca Angel Slippers, $38 – buy here

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And really… how can you argue with a site that has the following listed as their mission (see the full version here)

Be good designers.
Simple, clean, intuitive products that are easy and safe to use; made with quality craftsmanship that will last from generation to generation; designed with a European sensibility that is fun and stylish reflecting the needs and lifestyle of today’s modern families.

Be good people.

Respect the people who work with us and treat them fairly whether employees, artisans, retailers or consumers. Provide a safe and supportive working environment that allows working families to live and thrive in the United States, Europe and abroad. Honor cultural traditions, diversity and local values. Pay people living wages that enable them to live healthy fulfilling lives and send their own children to school.

Be good to the planet.

Use natural, renewable, recyclable materials that emphasize conservation and lead to environmentally sound products. Employ eco-conscious manufacturing processes that promote low emissions and sustainability.

Be Good is not just something we say– its something we mean. As parents, we want our children to inherit a world that is better than we found it. As Oeuf, we have the ability to make that happen.

Oeuf
Be Good.

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for the babes :: cozy up

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There is something about a tightly swaddled little babe that is unbelievably irresistible. They are so darn cute when they’re all cozied up and I hear that swaddling is the best way to get the little ones to sleep. As they get older and regular blankies are a good idea, why not go for something unique and utterly adorable? Maybe a pink and yellow print in woven cotton or something more precious with a little cashmere (hopefully still washable!!) Or maybe an animal theme for the more adventurous tot. Here’s a sampling of the cozy blankies and swaddlers that are catching my eye!

Mini Magee Lambswool, $78 – Available at Sweet William, buy here

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Aurora Baby Blankets, $80 – Available at Bla Bla Kids, buy here

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Lucky Jade Cashmere Monkey, $88 – Available at Estella, buy here

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Starry Nights on White, $90 – Available at Brahms Mount, buy here

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Tane Organics Swaddle Blanket, $44 – Available at Sweet William, buy here

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Cable Knit Blanket, $90 – Available at Egg Baby, buy here

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Aden and Anais Baby Swaddler (set of 4), $45 – Available at Estella, buy here

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Flower Garden, $90 – Available at Brahms Mount, buy here

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Lotus Blanket, $35 – Available at Cocoa Crayon, buy here

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Lucky Jade Cashmere Elephant, $88 – Available at Estella, buy here

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Striped Knit, $44 – Available at Egg Baby, buy here

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Kinder Cashmere Green Blanket, $124.95 – Available at Smoochie Baby, buy here

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Cotton Checkmate, $90 – Available at Brahms Mount, buy here

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for the babes :: Estella

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Is there anything more adorable than baby clothes? Little dresses, petite jeans, tiny chucks… why is it that everything seems cuter in miniature? In my quest for unique clothing/art/toys for the babes, I stumbled upon Estella. I suppose if I’d had children while living in New York, I may have already heard of them. But alas… I now look from afar. Estella is the product of a husband and wife team who were looking to fill a void in the children’s clothing market. The store is filled with clothing chosen for its quality, beauty and character rather than their brand. Since opening in 2002 in NY’s Greenwich Village, Estella has become the go-to shop for stylish clothes, toys and gear for children.

At first glance, some of the prices might seem a little inflated. If there is one thing I’ve learned form my cousin T (2 beautiful daughters), it’s ‘don’t spend too much on baby clothes’;). Still, these little styles are too darn cute to pass up, and from what I’ve seen, some of them aren’t really that much more than what you’d find at Baby Gap. So, take a peek. Oo and Aah a little (you know you want to) and introduce yourself to Estella.

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Dotted Sunsuit by Dagmar Daley, $60 – Buy here

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Flutter Sleeve Dress by Nellystella, $70 – Buy here

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Elephant Bloomer and Tank Set by Ketiketa, $42 – Buy here

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Embroidered Lamb Onesie by Coral and Tusk, $48 – Buy here

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Hand-knit dress by Mormor Nu, $70 – Buy here

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Baby Thermal Cottonball Tee by Shirin, $45 – Buy here

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Estella Baby Jeans, $55 – Buy here

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Striped Baby Onesie by Estella (10-colors), $25 – Buy here

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Blue Eliza Sundress by Kit + Lili, $64 – Buy here

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Yellow Sunsuit by Kit + Lili, $44 – Buy here

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Sleeveless Tunic with Butterflies by Ketiketa, $50 – Buy here

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Organic Baby Cotton Romper by Imps & Elfs, $38 – Buy here

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Jellycat Bashful Bunny (aka fuzzy bunny), $21 – Buy here

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Junglie Monkey by Jellycat, $19 – Buy here

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Bunglie Pig by Jellycat, $21 – Buy here

[note: I adore Jellycat stuffed animals. I've gotten a few for my cousin's daughters and they are super soft and cuddly. I used to buy them at the now closed Sons & Daughters, but maybe the new destination is Estella! My cousin's oldest got 'fuzzy bunny'. He was the absolute best!]

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