Kico Kids

Posted by Posh Mommy

Have you ever seen children's clothing and thought - Wow, I wish they would make that in my size.  Well, that is exactly what I thought when I cam across Kico Kids.  In researching the line, I discovered it is designed by Tia Cibani the creative director over at Ports 1961 which explains the fine styling and amazing attention to detail of the line.  I think what I love the most is the pieces are sophisticated - yet still sweet.  I could totally see my girls parading around town in these stylish togs.  Unfortunately for me with an average price of between $75-$150 the line is a little out of my price range.  However, I will be stopping by this site every season to check out the goods.  

Very APC like - so french utilitarian.  I'd pair this with red ballet flats.

Tres chic - what little girl could live without a snow white coat?  My girls would trash this baby within minutes but you can't deny it's beautiful.

Loving the mixing of prints here - geometric with a large scale polka dot.  So fresh and unexpected.

I love this dress - maybe I can commission a mommy sized version.

All images: Kico Kids

Wedding Outfit Part 2

Posted by Posh Mommy

I posted about a Summer Wedding I will be attending a few weeks back - and solicited help in choosing a party perfect outfit.  I have found an additional maxi dress option and ladies, I am really loving this one.  It's by J Crew I am flipping over this fantastic ikat print.  Come summer I am always trying to get in tune with my inner bohemian.  What I am digging about this dress is that although it has a boho element - the navy/black/white combination keeps the dress from looking overly boho.  Plus it comes in a petite size, I am only 5' 4" and this might save me from having to alter the dress.  I could easily wear this to my Napa wedding - as well as an evening out here in Portland.  As far as fancy feet, the J Crew sandals I had selected as a possible option have been marked down to $59.99 and would be a nice addition to the outfit an as previously noted, extremely versatile and I do love all things sparkly.

J Crew Ikat Maxi - $245

J Crew Pietra Jeweled Capri Sandal - On Sale $59.99

All images: J Crew

Nonchalant Mom

Posted by Posh Mommy

I first read about Nonchalant Mom in Domino Magazine - Carina Scott, owner of the boutique sounds like such an amazingly talented women. Not only does she run the store, but also designs her own line of children's apparel, as well as keeping an awesome blog with tips ranging from fashion, to natural children's products, to parenting tips. This is one busy mama!!  Her product offering on the site is amazingly edited - she stocks a wide range of organic and fair trade products s as well as hard to find European labels.  The clothes are to die for - if only I could afford to dress my girls in such stylish togs!  She also stocks a wonderful selection of toys, books, and home goods.  A sprinkling of her wares are shown below - I had a hard time choosing which pieces to post. Definitely check out the site - you won't be sorry you did!

Antik Batik Print Bikini - $54

Lucky Wang Big Print Dragon T- $30

Halter Batik Jumpsuit - $86

Baby Version Rock Summer Set - $52

Veja Fair Trade Sneakers - $84

All images: Nonchalant Mom

Granola No More

Posted by Posh Mommy

While out shopping this weekend, I wandered into one of my favorite Portland children's boutiques - Little Urbanites.  Upon entering a immediately noticed the cutest striped onesie (see below) by Kate Quinn Organics.  Now, for those of you who remember organic clothing as slightly crunchy and more for earthy vs metropolitan mommies - those days are gone.  The hemp based fabrics of our youths have been replaced with super soft organic cotton jerseys and corduroy - perfect for you little one.  Katie Quinn offers a fantastic line of separates and the styling of the line is modern, stylish, and oh so functional.  I love the mix and match functionality as well as the color palette - which ranges from muted blues to hot pink (something for everyone).  In addition, the prices are reasonable considering all pieces are made from 100% certified organic cottons.  A few of my favorites pieces from the most recent collection.

Bunny Hoodie - $36

Peter Pan Dress - $42

Short Sleeve Cowboy Shirt - $24

Striped Boatneck Onesie - $26

All Images: Kate Quinn

Boston Bound

Posted by Posh Mommy

Hello dearies - back in December of 2008 my husband accepted a position with a company based in Boston, MA.  Originally, the agreement would be that my hubby would telecommute from Portland and work 1 week a month in Boston.  However, as the business has grown and the demands of the job have increased we are in discussions about possible relocation to Boston.  Like all tough decisions - there are pluses and minuses about the move.  Currently we are a short 1 hour flight from my parents back in CA but a long 9 hour flight from his parents in England.  A move east would put is smack dab between both sets of parents.  Sounds fair, right?

Plus, we haven't really made any lasting relationships here in Portland - lots of friends yes, but no one we can really depend on so a move wouldn't be too devastating on the friendship front. Plus, from what I have heard Boston is an amazing city with tons to offer in regards to cultural enrichment, history, dining, nightlife - the list goes on and on.

So dear readers - we have some tough decisions ahead of us.  To start, I plan on visiting Boston for the first time next month, you know to check it all out.  Suss up the neighborhoods and try to get a general feel for the city.  In my research, I have narrowed our neighborhoods to the following.  Note - we want to live in the city, as most likely we will only be in Boston for a few years and our kids are young and can be confined to a smaller space (most likely a townhouse or condo).

The neighborhoods I have narrowed it down to are as follows:

Back Bay - Close to the Boston public garden and great shopping and dining.  Downsides - more expensive.

Image: Flickr

South End - I hear the neighborhood is relatively diverse which I like and popular with young families.  A vibrant art scene - as I would like to be surrounded by creative types.

Image: Flickr

Beacon Hill - Again, great shopping, dining, and close to parks and the Boston Public Garden. Downside - even more expensive then Back Bay.

Image: Flickr

If the moves happens we will be renting to start as we don't know how long we would be there. I have been diligently checking out all the rental sites and have found some fantastic rentals - but as I have never been to Boston who knows if they are actually as appealing when you get to the actual neighborhood.  So I ask - do any of you live in Boston, lived in Boston, have friends in Boston?  I would love to get the feedback of someone who is familiar with these areas.  Hit me up please - and I would love to get your recommendations for places to see, things to do, favorite boutiques, etc.  Have a great weekend!

Posh Mommy Shout Out

Posted by Posh Mommy

Image: Night Paper Owls

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank Kristin over at Bon Bon Rose for making me feel so welcome here in the blogging world.  Pretty much from the point I started this blog - she has been an active commenter and made me feel like I am not just talking to myself.  So - here's to you Kristin, thanks so much for your comments I always enjoy hearing your feedback.

Also, if you haven't already checked out Bon Bon Rose - click here.  It's a fabulous blog with lots of fun topics ranging from fashion to beauty.  Check it out!

By the way, the card above was pulled from the Night Owl Paper Goods site.  I absolutely love letter press paper products.  I spent 2 years as a buyer for Papyrus and was surrounded by beautiful cards and paper every single day.  Oh joy!  The card above is a choice example of what I would have selected for my thank you correspondence.

Ties for Tots

Posted by Posh Mommy

Images: Blume Girl

I first discovered these cute little numbers on the 25 Park website (which by the way has a wonderfully edited selection of women's fashion as well).  The T's by Blume Kids made me chuckle - and I hadn't seen ties done in this fashion for little boys.  At $56 a piece I admit they are a tad bit pricey for T's but adorable none the less.  Perhaps this would make a great DIY project?  But if you want to buy these off the racks click here for a direct link to the Blume site.

The Cost of Fashion

Posted by Posh Mommy

As you may or may not know, I am working on a children's clothing line set to launch this August. In researching for the line - I have gone back and forth in regards to price points for my line.  I like, many other parents prefer not to pay higher prices for children's fashions - they grow out of them so quickly and often they get thrashed at school.  Therefore, I tend to shop chain stores for the basics: denim, T's, and other basics.  I then fill in the holes with boutique items - my weaknesses being boutique dresses and coats.  Obviously I pay more for the boutique items but feel these are worth the additional cost as often these pieces are more unique and are often  of better quality.  As far as retail price points - I'd say my average purchases range between $10-$45 for basics and around $65 for a boutique item.  So I ask, what are your price tolerances in terms of children's clothing?  

Just had to Share

Posted by Posh Mommy

While browsing the Neiman Marcus website I found this cute little number and just had to share.  I love the fun scallop trim detail on the tank and skirt - and the white/navy color combination is so classically cool.  The top retails for $40 and the skirt for $72 so a bit pricey for kids clothing - atleast in my book.  However, super adorable - perhaps when it goes on sale?

Hulabaloo tank and skirt - for details click here.

Image: Neiman Marcus

Busy Bees

Posted by Posh Mommy

I discovered the Purl Soho website earlier this year.  If you are not familiar with the site - they are boutique sewing/knitting/pattern store based in Manhattan.  Although I have not had the pleasure of visiting the brick and mortar location I am in love with the site.  The selection is fantastic, well edited, and easy to browse.  You should definitely check them out.  However, this post is actually dedicated to their online crafting community - The Purl Beehive.  The beehive is a group of online interconnected craft journals - for a nominal fee you can add your blog to the hive.  What a great way to network with other bloggers as well as build traffic to your site. I am not a member; however I have found the hive to be an excellent resource to discover new and insanely insightful blogs.  One of my favorites from the hive is Katie Did - for all you mommy's out there, this site is a must read.   For more information about the Purl Bee Hive click here.

Eco-Picnicware

Posted by Posh Mommy

Image: BanquetEvent.com

With the summer months quickly approaching my mind is whirring with thoughts of Summer BBQ's.  Goo food, good friends, and in my case awesome margaritas (my husband's secret recipe) = Good Times!  As we often host large groups my lazy tendencies often get the best of me and I turn to paper plates to make these parties more manageable.  However, I am often racked with guilt as I am tossing the paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils into the bins post party.  While browsing through the June issue of Martha Stewart Living I found my remedy. 

Bagasse Serving Pieces - what you might ask?  Bagasse is the fibrous residue remaining after the extraction of juice from sugarcane.  This residue is now being used to produce plates, cups, utensils, straws, takeout boxes - to name a few.  Suitable for hot and cold food the biodegradable tableware can by chucked directly into your compost bin instead of a landfill. Pricier than paper and plastic yes - but well worth the extra cost!  Bagasse tableware is available at Greenhome.com.

Summer Wedding

Posted by Posh Mommy

With wedding season upon us, I see many of my fellow bloggers are doing posts on what to wear. Quite honestly, I am passed the time in life where I have multiple weddings to attend each year. That shipped sailed about 4 years ago when I my entire circle of friends seemed to wed within a 6 month time period.  However, my cousin is getting hitched this summer in beautiful Napa, California and I will be trekking my kids and husband down to CA for a weekend retreat.  A weekend full of parties, seeing family, wine tasting, and shopping (hello, Napa outlets) what more could a girl want.  I can't wait!!

My usual wedding attire is pretty uniform, cocktail dresses from BCBG.  Hey, I know what works for me.  However, this year I am eager to try something different and as the wedding will be held outdoors and I will be toting two children comfort is key.  So, in lie of the norm my plan is to purchase a floral maxi dress and wear metallic gladiator sandals instead of a heel.  I think this combination would be a perfect replacement - easy, comfortable, and so on trend.  Here are a few dresses I am considering.

Daughter's of the Revolution Rainbows Dress - $220

Image: Shopbop

BCBG Printed Halter Dress - $168

Image: BCBG

Adriana Papel Silk Maxi Dress - 198

Image: Nordstrom

As far as shoes go, a simple flat would be a perfect accompaniment as far as I am concerned.  I am thinking a jeweled T-strap - it add's a bit of bling and will be easy to dance in.  My girl's are little disco princesses and mommy is their queen - so we will surely be hitting the dance floor!

I am loving both pairs shown below - fabulous for the wedding but also a fantastic addition to my Summer wardrobe.

Charles David "Jade" Sandal - On Sale for $88.90

J Crew Pietra Jeweled Capri Sandal - $98

What do you think?  Currently I am leaning towards the Adriana Papel with the black J Crew sandals - but am open to any suggestions.  Speak soon lovelies.

I'm Pooped

Posted by Posh Mommy

Hello friends - sorry for the lack of posting.  As I noted earlier my husband has been out of town since last Tuesday and will not be home until next Tuesday.  Needless to say - I am pooped and reaching my limits in regards to single parenting.  My dear hubby doesn't usually take such long trips but due to family health crisis had to fly from Boston (where he was on a business trip) home to England.

As I have been on my own, I have had been in overdrive coming up with fun activities to keep my girls busy and happy.  Art projects, shopping trips, museums, the zoo.  We have been all over Portland and I still have 4 days to go. Tuesday-Thursday they attend preschool so evenings have been easy to manage - dinner, bath, stories bed.  Monday's and Friday's are pretty much already planned out - swim lessons, ballet, and usually a play date with the neighbors. However, over the weekend I heavily rely on my husband for some co-parenting.   We don't have family or good friends here in Portland which makes these trips harder.  So, dear readers, when your partner is away how do you pass the time?  I am particularly eager to hear your recommendations as I will need to keep my little monkeys happy over the long weekend.  If you've got any tips - please share!  I would love to hear from you.

Pure Fugliness (pardon my French)

Posted by Posh Mommy

Sorry for the lame post - I only had a quick minute but I saw these and had to share.

Have you ever come across an item that in your mind is "Just Wrong"?  I am pretty open minded about fashion.  I understand that all people have their own personal tastes and that you sometimes have to choose comfort over style (hello, Uggs or Crocs for adults.)  However, the sandals below are too much even for me.  It reminds me of the Sex and the City Episode where Big gives Carrie the bedazzled Judith Leiber swan clutch.  Who does this - seriously.  Even more serious is who wears these?

PS - I hate to admit this but I found these at Nordstrom - and we all know how I feel about Nordstrom.  How could they?

Image: Nordstrom

Coat Lust

Posted by Posh Mommy

I have a thing for coats - it's a bit of an obsession.  I probably own about 20 coats in various styles ranging the gamut from classic trench, to quilted puffers, to wool pea coats.  I usually pick them up in the sales (BCBG and Banana Republic are a few of my favorites) and have on occasion splurged or been gifted higher end items  Thank you very much mom for the Burberry A Line quilted jacket - a 30th birthday gift which you can view here.  While browsing online at the Nordstrom site I fell in love or shall I say lust with an item I will never attain (unless I win the lottery).  I am seriously crushing.  The little darling is by Dolce & Gabanna. You can't deny the beauty of this coat, the tailoring is impeccable, and I am sure the fit divine.  I love how classic lines are offset by the flirty ruffle detailing on the front placket - perfection.  Alas, I will have to admire my love from afar.  With a hefty price tag of $2,595.00 it is well beyond my price range.  Oh well, say la vie a girl can dream.

Dolce & Gabanna Ruffle Trim Nylon Trench

Image: Nordstrom

Sorry it has been so quiet

Posted by Posh Mommy

Hello, dear readers.  I wanted to let you all know that posting may be light over the next week. My husband has been on a business trip since Tuesday and now has to fly to England as his mother is having triple bypass surgery.  It all happened very quickly - and alas, I will be home alone with my girls which leaves little time for blogging.  I will try and stock pile a few posts over the weekend while my family is here.  Hopefully, posting will be back to normal very soon.  

Mother's Day

Posted by Posh Mommy

With Mother's Day just around the corner I was wondering what all of you would be doing to celebrate the day.  As a mommy myself, I usually get spoiled by my hubby and girls.  As a doting daughter, I find flowers to be a wonderful way to send my mother some love.  A simple gift yet, but for her speaks a 1000 words.  This year, I am fortunate enough to be spending the entire Mother's Day weekend with my husband and kids as well as my mom, dad, and sister!  So in celebration of their visit I have planned a slightly more extravagant Mother's Day Celebration.

Heathman Hotel

Image: Gusto.com

I lieu of brunch at home which is our usual tradition - we will be dining at the Heathman Hotel.

Voted one of Travel and Leisure's 500 Best Hotels in the World for 2009.  I personally have not eaten at the restaurant but have heard only fantastic reviews.  I have had the pleasure of having high tea at the hotel which was excellent.  I am sure that the food in the restaurant will be amazing as well.

The hotel is located in downtown Portland and is a mere two blocks away from Nordstrom - so post brunch I am sure we will head over for some window shopping (Mother's Day gift for mommy, perhaps?)  I am planning on gifting my Mother with a Nordstrom gift card and I am sure she will be eager to spend it (the fact that you don't pay sales tax in Oregon is always a motivator for my mother).  After that, who knows - the weather is supposed to clear up by the weekend and I am so looking forward to a little sunshine after the horrendous weather we have had recently.  But most of all, I am looking forward to spending the day surrounded by the one's I love most.  So tell me, how are you all planning on spending you Mother's Day?

Crew Cuts

Posted by Posh Mommy

Crew Cuts is one of my favorite sources of inspiration when it comes to children's apparel. I LOVE how their children's collection often mirrors the adult collections but in much smaller sizes.  Dressing my children is truly a joy - I am a fashion junkie and when my girls were born I passed it on.  I dress them in what I like and I will admit they often look like mini me's in their striped T's, skinny jeans, and ballet flats.  In fact, my husband often teases me about it but I don't mind - .  My 3 year old already has incredible personal style and I admit I love it and have so much fun watching her style her outfits every morning.

I just viewed the May catalog online and it packed full of gorgeous fashions for little girls and boys.  Definitely check it out - the clothes are on the pricier side but J Crew has awesome sales. I have been able to purchase pieces for my girls for as low as $19.99 so check back often for the best deals.  A few of my favorite clips from their May catalog are below:

So dapper.....

Beyond cute.

That ruffled skirt is to die for!

Shoes, shoes, and more shoes - who could resist these?

All images: J Crew

Blog Roll Shout Out

Posted by Posh Mommy

An extremely talented friend - who actually inspired me to start writing this blog has just launched her newest blogging venture Penny Luxe.  The site covers design, fashion, style, food and much, much more all with a focus on affordable luxury.  Penny has impeccable taste and I guarantee this blog will quickly become a regular stop on your daily blog roll.   I am already addicted!  Cheers Penny!

Bath Time

Posted by Posh Mommy

My sister-and-law just recently came out to visit from England - we were bathing the kids one night and started chatting generally about bath time.  It reminded me of this great bath seat I had used at her house when my girls were newborns.  I pined for the seat - it was simple in design merely a molded seat which the child could recline in while in the tub.  What was great about this particular product was that you could place the seat in the water and wash the child without fear of having them slip under the water.   Unfortunately, at the time the seat was not available in the states (or at least I had never seen it) and was far too large to bring home in my luggage.  As I was browsing one of my favorite sites - Giggle I found the seat and had to share this ingenious product with you.  So if you have a baby run and I mean run to your computer and purchase one of these babies.  You're baby and your back will thank you for it.

Infant Bath Seat - $12

Suitable for children 6 months and under.  28" long and under 18 lbs.

Image: Giggle