Yes, an all over fur jacket is over the top but that's what makes it so fun. And isn't that what's appealing to your girl? They haven't learned the finer points of subtlety and if you ask me, they don't have to yet. They will have many years down the road to learn restraint. Or if you're like me and wish I didn't have restraint, then you get this for your daughter =) The ribbon sash tie really makes this dramatic and fit for a true diva. Just make sure their attitudes don't match. Surprisingly affordable, which makes it easy to justify, at Evertyhing But the Princess for $76.
Every once in a while you find a toy that is as simple as it is mesmerizing and engaging. But never had I seen a toy that is all that and a life saver when traveling. I picked up a couple of these on a whim at the checkout line of a toy store on the 2nd day of my 20 day trip. This toy single handily was responsible for keeping both my tots quiet and happy through long car rides, ferry trips and connecting flights on both round trip flights. The best feature of this toy is that it's one piece so things don't drop/go missing and it does not require batteries (which means they can play through takeoff and landing). It is truly amazing to see them hard at work at new configurations and the creativity of play. In the bottom photos, one is of a dog (or dragon or the Lockness monster) and the other is incorporated into play of Cinderella's infamous staircase. My tots also made tables and chairs for their small animals and dolls but the possibilities are really endless. The design is really ingenious, the pieces can go in many different directions - but it is also its limitations that make it a puzzle to flex their brain muscles. I highly highly recommend spending the 4 bucks here - best money ever sent. These are also amazing goodie bag stuffers (or stocking stuffers if you are already thinking about Christmas). At Amazon for $3.99.





Known for comfort and style, Cole Haan is finally launching a collection of tots shoes with Nike Air technology on select styles, signature penny loafers and adorable ballet slippers for pre-walkers. The Air Juno Boot is a must for those in snowy climates and the styles with Nike Air soles make perfect sense for your stompers who can always use a little extra buffer to ease the shock of jumping and skipping. Cole Haan is known for their quality which is of course evident in the tots' collection but their price points are so great for the value you are getting. Girls range from $59-64; boys from $59-79 and pre-walk are $35. The Cole Haan Kids Collection will be available at Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and Zappos.com this Fall.
I don't know why I am such a sucker and always obssessed with these fake tie shirts. I think it's because my husband refuses to wear ties (even at weddings, to my horror). But this is whimsical with the rebellious look of an unkempt loose tie, which I suppose is the opposite of what I would want in a well suited man. But its a compromise, and it'll be a perfect compromise for you and your boy as well. You both will love the Rock 'n Roll vibe on an easy to wear knit shirt. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $128 - $132 depending on size ordered.
For all train obsessed tots, this train meal set will definitely keep him/her engaged for the entire meal. I have never seen a cuter or more clever design for a plate, bowl and cup. And the name is just too cute, Chew Chew, its so punny! I would get a couple of these to make sure you have it on clean rotation. This would make the best gift so keep this in mind for the next birthday (or if you're lazy like me, just stock up for Christmas and give this to all appropriate recipients!). At Amazon for $24.90.
Yes, these are for tots! ThIs is the biggest look this fall season. But you don't have to get it for the trend, get it for the utilitarian winter wear with the added bonus of making your boy the coolest on the block. You no longer have to worry about where they are stomping because these boots will withstand almost any terrain. They are perfect for winter climates of rain and snow, the thick treads on the soles ensure even footing. I love the look of the ankle strap, it might take a little longer to put on but it's so worth it! It could also be a learning opportunity for your Tot :). At Asos.com on sale for $81.
Preppy, sporty and all around adorable. This sweater vest and pant set is easy to wear for the unpredictable Fall weather. Layer it with a long sleeve onsie, turtle neck or both and throw on a jacket or not. The bright colors will be a welcome splash of vibrancy against the gray Fall backdrop. The pants has all the stylings of cool grown up cargos but with all faux details for comfort and it has an elastic waistband to make diaper changing slightly less painful. The extra thick band makes sure the pants stay on comfortably. Deux Par Deux Climbing Sweater Vest is $44 and Climbing Layered Pants are $46, on pre-order now, 50% deposit required for pre-ordering. Expected to arrive in store between August - September, 2010.

If your tot prefers jeans over dresses, I think this Diesel version will change her mind. I'm not going to use the word "Tomboy" because I don't believe in categorizing a child, she may love jeans today but fancy dresses may turn her head tomorrow. The beauty of youth is the opportunity to explore whoever you want to be! Love love this pinafore dress, I had something like this in the 70s that I used to wear with turtlenecks and knee high socks (yes I was called a tomboy but look how I turned out, there is no one more girly girl than me!).
DIESEL Denim Pinafore Dress
$95.00 US
I've said it before and I'll say it again, little girls should dress like little girls and not some twisted twin of her mother (ripped jeans, skin tight dresses and heels do not belong on a 5 year old!). If I had a daughter I'd order this dress in a heartbeat! Peter pan collared dresses were my personal favorite as a kid and this one is so adorable with blue/white swiss dots and print of jazz quartet on the full skirt. Perfect dress for tea parties!
Misha Lulu Misha's Jazz Quartet Musical Dress
Free Shipping on all Fall Preorders!
$68.00

My son is obsessed with Legos and he's crazy for anything Star Wars so this watch could be just the thing to finally interest him in learning to tell time (the real way, not digital numbers). It's sad that we have to bribe our kids to do what we were expected to do without rewards, like, you know-- tell time!?! At least this is not that expensive and he does have a birthday coming up so I'm definitely getting this for him. The lego inspired strap is just too cute for words and it's water resistant to 165 feet so he can wear this to swim, too! I have no idea where he learned about Star Wars though. I know nothing about Star Wars but he knows everything about it and explained to me recently that Princess Leia is not married to Luke Skywalker as I had though cuz it turns out they are siblings?!?!?! Go figure.
LEGO Kids' 2907STWDM Star Wars Darth Maul Watch$13.36
















