boys only

Showing posts with label boys only. Show all posts

Another Winter for One Kid

Speaking of kids' outerwear (oh boy did that new raingear get good use during yesterday's deluge), I also swear by winter coats by One Kid, a brand I first discovered in 2007. For this winter, I bought S. this One Kid Ink Plaid Reversible Down Coat, which you can buy online for $99.95 in sizes 2T-6X at Tutti Bella. I usually buy one size up so that the coat will last two winters. The coats wash well, and since they are reversible you can avoid having either side get too dirty. They are super warm, too. A matching girls' coat in scarlet red is available, too. Check out the other One Kid offerings at Tutti Bella.

Best Boy Wall Art

This personalized tricycle wall art by Hip Kid Art has been one of my favorite decor items for boys ever since I posted it at this blog over 3 years ago. So I was excited to spot it on sale at Zulily (a site I check every morning) in 2 sizes- 24 x 18 (on sale for $89.99; originally $125) or 12 x 12 (on sale for $49.99; originally $75). Each giclee-printed heavyweight canvas is gallery wrapped around a wooden frame, and ready to hang on the wall. And the light blue/navy/red color combo is one of my absolute favorites for little boys. Can't go wrong with these either for yourself or as an extra-special baby gift or birthday gift.

Having trouble clicking on the Zulily links because you're not a member yet? Click here for an invitation to join. It's an awesome site and I am somewhat obsessed with it, to say the least.

Bargain Alert: The Boys' Store

Via Twitter, I heard about an online shop called The Boys' Store that sells designer clothing for little guys' at big discounts. The selection is somewhat limited (and the site isn't particularly polished), but if you dig you'll find great pieces by brands like Mulberribush, Minibasix, and Wes & Willy. Right now, you can score this Wes & Willy Navy Pea Coat for just $19.50 (regularly $39; sizes 4-16). Plus I have an additional 30% off coupon code for you below, taking the price down to under $14. Score this and other bargains this Labor Day weekend at The Boys' Store.

Get 30% off your entire order this weekend with code "Aug2010" at The Boys' Store.

What a 4-Year-Old Boy Loves

I've learned that having kids whose birthdays are twelve days apart doesn't leave much breathing room (or time for thank-you notes, which I always like to send out punctually, but send out later and later each year). Now both kids' birthdays have passed, but I am still finishing up thank you notes for both. Here were some of S's favorite gifts (in addition to the Fisher Price Imaginext DC Batcave), which I think all are good recommendations for little boys under age 5:

International Playthings Lift-off Rocket ($34.95 at Genius Babies). S. and R. fight over whose turn it is to play the "liftoff sequence." My sister gave this to S. paired with Byron Barton's I Want to Be an Astronaut ($6.99 at Amazon.com). (Thanks, E.!)

Tomy Pop-Up Pirate Game($11.99 at Amazon.com). S. squeals just as much each time the pirate pops up- even for the 1000th time. (Thanks, Jonah!)

Automoblox T9 Truck ($34.99 at Target.com). S. adores his blue Automoblox car, so I was touched when R. asked if she could buy him a green one, too, for his birthday. Now he plays with his "blue guys" and "green guys" (the little peg people) together. (Thanks, R.!)

Mega Bloks Yo Gabba Gabba Plex's Tour Buggy ($25.99 at Amazon.com). A perfect gift for the boy who had a YGG-themed 4th birthday party. (Thanks, Ronnie & Michael!)

Do you have a son aged 4 (or thereabouts)? What are some of his favorite toys?

Want More Children's Place Coupons?

I have more coupons for The Children's Place, where I just ordered S. these cool metro lace-up sneakers ($22.50) that are selling out fast. I have four coupons left (each one gives you 15% off any online order, no minimum order necessary, through midnight tonight only), so if you want one please e-mail me with "coupon" in the subject line ASAP.

Note: if you plan to spend $50 or more on one order, use the coupon codes currently on The Children's Place homepage instead, which will give you even bigger discounts, up to 30% off.

Bargain Alert: The Baby Bunch Boys' Gift Set

I'm always on the lookout for bargain baby gifts at Amazon.com's baby outlet, and I just found a really good one: The Baby Bunch Large Bucket (Blue): 0 to 6 Months. A baby gift that is both beautifully presented and supremely practical, this gift set contains a bib, t-shirt, hat, leggings, onesie, and two pairs of socks, all made of soft 100% cotton and styled for a baby boy in various shades of blue and white. The clothes are all generously sized for infants up to six months (or 16 lbs, whichever comes first). What new mom wouldn't love this? And, the regular retail price is $54.95, but it's on sale at Amazon for just $27 (a savings of 51%). So you'll be giving a very nice gift without spending a fortune. Buy one (or two) now at Amazon.com for the next baby boy you'll need to spoil with a special gift.

little maven: Let's Hear it For the Boys

You know I that I've found some great pieces for S. in Tori Spelling's clothing line, little maven by Tori Spelling. The line launched last Fall (check out some little maven 1st anniversary party pictures featuring Liam and Stella). It's back for its sophomore year with more great new collections for boys (this is one of those designers where I think the boys' clothing actually is better than the girls'). Just posted online are the new "Metropolis" collection and Retro-Future collection. They both have fun graphics, cool color combos (including lots of turquoise, one of Tori's favorite colors), and a retro feel. Above are two of my favorite finds: Cassette Tape 2-Fer T-shirt ($40, size 2T-7) and Beetle-Inspired Multi Colored Car Hoodie ($60, 2T-7). Both are available in infant sizes, too.

The downside? Obviously, the prices. I have never paid full price for little maven; the prices always come down and you should also subscribe to their newsletter and follow little maven on Twitter for the latest coupon codes.

Mr. Argyle

I've bought S. some cute shoes from Gymboree in the past; while they aren't super great quality for everyday shoes, they are fun for special occasions or to match a particular outfit. When these catchy Argyle Slip-On Sneakers ($20, sizes 9-2) go on sale further, I'll probably scoop up a pair for him. Check out the new Rock 'n Roll 101 boys' clothing collection if you want to see the matching outfits.

Beep! Beep! It's a Jeep

One of my favorite kids' stationery shops, Inkspot Workshop, just released this brand-new Jeep-Themed Boys' Party Invitation Set. How cute is this? Love the color combo (red plus navy plus khaki always looks terrific) and those plaid-lined envelopes. The design is actually based on an old Pottery Barn Kids jeep-themed bedding set (which, naturally, I remember). There are matching thank-yous and favor tags, too. Prices start at $23.50 for 12 invites plus envelopes at Inkspot Workshop.

Fourth Birthday Gift #1: Super Friends Batcave

S's fourth birthday party is today and we started the day off with hugs, kisses, and his first birthday gift of the season- Fisher Price's Imaginext DC Super Friends Batcave. It represents a new stage for us- he has moved beyond toddler toys and Little People (basically, toys that I understood). Just as I mastered Thomas the Train, we move on to Superheroes, Power Rangers, and Transformers. Since S. is surrounded by all things pink and girly at home, I am excited to give him a gift that is "all boy" (with all due respect to Batman-loving four-year-old girls). The Batcave- which got unanimously positive reviews on Amazon- features "five activation points", a working draw bridge, shooting grappling hook, bat cycle, two bat-arangs, command center, and bat hook. Hmmm...I'm not sure I understand all of that. But I sure am excited to learn along with him.

Have you got a little guy who's 4, too? Buy the Imaginext DC Super Friends Batcave for $41.54 at Amazon.com.

Fall 2010 Preview: Boys' Clothing Picks

Last week I presented some of my top picks for Fall 2010 girls' fashion. This week, it's the boys' turn. Here are some threads that caught my eye:

Boys' Cotton Striped Rugby ($50; sizes 2-7) at Polo.com:

Appaman Knit DJ Hats (pre-order for $27; sizes 12-24mos to 7-14 years) at Arte Bebe :

Glug Boys Corduroy Pants (pre-order for $44; sizes 2-8) at Moxie Kids:

Pieced Puffer Vest ($32.75; sizes 6-12mos to 4T/5T) at Gymboree:

LL Bean Deluxe Book Pack (temporarily on sale for $31.96; reduced from $39.95) at LL Bean:

Adidas Infant Tracksuit (on sale temporarily for $29.90, reduced from $45; size 9-24 mos) at Nordstrom:

Little Boys' V-Neck Sweater Vest and Painter Jeans Outfit (Vest $16.50; jeans $11; sneakers $16.50; backpack $15.40) at Old Navy:

Boys' Microfleece Half-Zip Pullover ($38, European sizes 80-160) at Hanna Andersson:

Cork Print Hoodie ($60; sizes 2T-7) at little maven by Tori Spelling:

Plaid Woven Shirt ($14.50, sizes 6-9mos to 4T) at The Children's Place:

Appaman Skater Blue Puffy Down Coat ($95; size 12mos-7 years) at Psycho Baby:

Science Tees and Cargo Pants (Tees $26, 2T-14; Microfiber Cargo Pants 2T-14) by Mulberribush for CWD Kids:

Winter Water Factory Toolbox Hoodie (pre-order for $50, sizes 2T-6) at Black Wagon:

Car Double Sleeve One Piece ($24.75; sizes 0-3mos to 18-24 mos) at Gymboree:

Ask MyMomShops: Boys' Overnight Bags

Dear MyMomShops,

Could you recommend some choices of a small weekend/overnight bag for a boy who is 6 years old (a duffel that could fit 1-3 nights of travel). Looking for something that is not LL Bean or Pottery Barn, but not super expensive either. I've looked and only found juvenile bags with dinosaurs, trucks, cars....more of a toddler bag instead of a big boy bag.

Thanks so much.

Elise

Elise- here are some options that fit the bill. It definitely can be tricky finding something appropriate for a boy of this age. I hope these help. Let us know what you decide. Love, MyMomShops

Kids' Duffels (about $20-$30 depending on size) by Lillian Vernon. I've ordered kids' luggage before from Lillian Vernon and have been satisfied. Several solid colors available, and personalization is always included.

Wildkin duffel bags are popular with the school-age crowd; try the Soccer Print duffel bag ($29.50). There are several other patterns that are not too babyish, too.

Rolling Duffel Bag ($34.99) from Kids' Travel Zone. This one has wheels, too, so even if it's packed heavy it's easy to transport.

Boys' Week at The Mini Social

The Mini Social, which is one of my 3 favorite sale-a-day sites for kids' clothing, is celebrating "Boys' Week" right now. Which is a marvelous idea because moms of boys know how tough it can be to find a good selection of trendy boys' clothing at great prices. You have to act quickly, because the popular styles and sizes will sell out fast, but right now you can find super deals (up to 60% off) on clothing by some of these top brands:

Little Ruler

Wes & Willy

Entertaining Elephants

See Kai Run

And there's more good news. A portion of the proceeds from Boys' Week will benefit Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, which is renowned for its excellent Newborn and Infant Critical Care. So head over to The Mini Social and do some good while you're dressing your own little prince.

p.s. The Mini Social is a members-only site; if you don't have an invitation click here for one (and then you'll be able to earn referral credits for other friends you bring on-board).

Big Sale at Small Concept

Small Concept is one of my favorite sites for trendy boys' clothing (though they sell girls' clothing, too); they have a good selection of hip brands like Wonderboy, Tea Collection, Kingsley and Monster Republic . I also like that you can shop by size easily. Lots of the spring/summer items are on sale right now including this Bicycle NY Tee by Monster Republic. It's on sale for $24.80, reduced from $42 (sizes 12-18mos through 6 available). Click here to browse all the sale items.

10 Gifts for Dads

Hard to believe, but Father's Day is just 13 days away (can this year possibly go any faster?). If you haven't picked out gifts yet, here are some ideas to get you started. These are some of my favorites- and I'll also be posting some crafty, indie gifts from Etsy soon:

Dad & Son board Shorts ($29.95/$39.95 at Red Envelope). So sweet, and way more affordable than Vilbrequins).

Monogrammed Steak Brand and Carving Board ($69.95 at Williams Sonoma). The iron brand is hand-forged by a Texas cattle rancher. Cool.

Kodak EasyShare P725 Digital Frame ($59.95 at Amazon). This is one of Amazon.com's best-selling digital photo frames. It has a 7" display and stores up to 4000 photos (even *I* don't have that many).

Portable Solar-Powered Radio ($49.95 at Crate and Barrel). Too many cool features to list- check out the link.

Shea Stadium Momento ($50 at Uncommon Goods). I'm a Mets fan, so I had to post this one. Love it.

Whiskey Stones, Set of Nine ($19.95 at Sur La Table). Chill them in the freezer and then add them to your drink to chill without diluting the flavor. .

Polo Ralph Lauren Classic-Fit Big Pony Polo ($98 at Bloomingdale's). Can't go wrong with Polo.

50 Places to Play Golf Before You Die ($24.95 at Write on & More). I know tons of dads who would love this.

King of the Grill cookie assortment ($29.50 at Cheryl & Co.) As good as Cheryl & Co. cookies look, they actually taste pretty good, too.

Milano Personalized Leather Dopp Kit ($47.15 at Personalization Mall). A great-looking accessory that he'll use every day.

Stay tuned for more Father's Day gift ideas.

Bargain Alert: Dogwood Clothing at Zulily

If you've got a little boy, definitely check out the Dogwood sale right now at Zulily. My three-year-old has a bunch of Dogwood tees and shorts- they are 100% cotton, super comfortable pieces that wash really well. The designs are cute without being "cutesy" and often feature vintage themes (I just learned that Dogwood was founded by a former Nordstrom's buyer...who knew?) Plus, they are cut generously, so there's no need to "buy up" as I usually must do for my tall son. At Zulily, the current Dogwood selection features clothing up 65% off; the shirt/shorts set shown at right costs just $13.99 total (reduced from $46). Check out the chambray state flag tee also- perfect for July 4th!

Not a member of Zulily yet? Click here for an invite.

Blues Brothers

I'll be posting lots more Father's Day gift ideas soon (you can also browse last year's suggestions to get the ideas brewing), but in the meantime I wanted to show you the matching shirts that my dad and S. both have. Little S. liked Grandpa's blue Brooks' Brothers tattersall shirt ($45) so much that we bought him the junior version (also $45, sizes 4-6 and up) too. It arrived beautifully wrapped and folded (pins and all) and is the fanciest shirt that S. owns so far. I love that it matches his blue eyes- and, more importantly, that he can match his adored Grandpa for a special occasion. Consider a father/son (or grandpa/grandson) set for your own family this Father's Day; buy them at Brooks Brothers.

Book Browsing

I buy most of my books online, but now and then there is nothing like browsing a real store; here are a couple of finds I want to share with you from a recent trip to our neighborhood Barnes & Noble:

Big Rigs for Moms: A Crash Course in Sons for New Mothers by Jenna McCarthy. I just may have to buy this for myself, as my son moves beyond the preschool basics (dump trucks vs. cement mixers) to more complicated boy fare (I am still trying to figure out Transformers). McCarthy's book is a humorous "cheat sheet" of 25 topics ranging from trains to insects. This makes a great gift for a new mom who's expecting a bundle of blue. ($9.32 at Amazon.com)

I LEGO N.Y. by Christoph Niemann is a clever NYC gift book. Illustrator/designer Niemann constructs scenes of NYC life made entirely of handfuls of his son's Legos. It's tougher than you think! ($10.17 at Amazon.com)

I Don't Care About Your Band: What I Learned from Indie Rockers, Trust Funders, Pornographers, Felons, Faux-Sensitive Hipsters, and Other Guys I've Dated by Julie Klausner. I am honored to know Julie- a young actress, comedian, and writer- personally. We worked together at the Museum of Television & Radio years ago. She is wise beyond her years and funny as hell. If you appreciate raunchy humor (and/or stories about weirdo boyfriends), this is the book for you. It's a fast and fun read, and it's explicit- keep this one out of your kids' reach ($10.20 at Amazon.com)