Styling our Days with KidPix

For the full feature, visit Junior Style London here.

As the holidays approach, and our days are consumed with preparations and festivities, I’m on the lookout for ways we can simplify so to enjoy this season to its fullest.  Without a doubt, keeping our little one’s wardrobe up to date is a burden I’d rather not have at the moment.  To my delight, KidPix delivers perfectly styled head-to-toe looks that refresh our wardrobes and boost our spirits.  Beautifully curated outfits are delivered to your door commitment-free in the frequency of your choosing.  Each box is a wonderful surprise that won’t disappoint.  It is, after all, like having your own personal stylist without the burden of a trip to the store.

Scroll down to pick up a special code for 20% off your first KidPix box.

From the comfort of our home, we immediately fell in love with our box of keepers.  We often struggle with outfits that aren’t quite complete or missing a staple item such as tights.  KidPix made our daily outings a breeze with the appropriate coverings for a put together look.  But perhaps more than anything else, we loved trying different looks from high-quality brands that we’ve not seen elsewhere.

From the Irish luxury childrenswear brand, Cairenn Foy to the comfiest essentials by Little Borne, our hearts are happy and our days, perfectly styled by the talented team at KidPix.

Styling our Days Clothing Credits:

Mila's Outfits by Little Borne and Cairenn Foy from KidPix

Mila’s shoes: Zimmerman Shoes

Find out more about KidPix here…

KidPix is offering 20% off your first order when using promo code FirstKidPix.  Please note the 20% off voucher can be redeemed against your first KidPix box or towards a Christmas Box in the KidPix Christmas Shop.

KidPix also hold weekly online pop-up shops where they introduce interesting independent brands to their customers and followers.  To be kept up to date with their weekly events, follow @kid_pix on Instagram here.

Time to shine with Twinkle & Me

Winter has arrived in New England and a fresh coat of snow turns our backyard into a winter wonderland.  There is a pause before the festivities that await and we wrap ourselves in the stillness of our landscape, dreaming of shining lights and sugar plum fairies.  While we contemplate the rideability of our vintage sledge, Elise and Mila shine brighter than ever in British handmade children’s clothing line, Twinkle & Me.

We cosy up to classic Nordic prints that Twinkle & Me has available through their made-to-order clothing line perfect for holiday giving. Customisable from the print selection to a range of dress styles, these one-of-a-kind pieces can be made to match the sparkling personality of any child.  With an array of easy to wear pieces in fun seasonal prints, the design process is a breeze and so very fun with your little ones in mind.

Elise dons the brand’s Catalina dress in a Nordic heart print while Mila shines brightly in the Maddie dress in grey Skandi fabric.  With winter at our doorstep, we’re already feeling festive in these darling pieces from this truly unique childrenswear brand.

Time to Shine Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila’s dresses by Twinkle & Me

Elise’s shoes: Pepe

Mila’s shoes: Zimmerman Shoes

Elise’s bow: Eva’s House

Mila’s bow: Wunderkin Co

Life in Pastoral New England: Featuring Charlotte sy Dimby

Visit Junior Style London for the full feature here.

For most of my years, I’ve settled in New England, cursing our bitter winters and unpredictable weather. But these distinct seasons, however unpleasant at times, display a magnificent Autumn and Spring. A temperate fall day was the perfect persuasion to visit Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum depicting life in 19th century New England.

Stepping back in time, the girls try their hand at the Game of graces, an activity borrowed from early 19th century France, with two ribbon-clad hoops and dowels to send them air bound. While we didn’t quite master the game, the reinterpreted play was fun nonetheless. In the theme of French influence on our pastoral New England home, the girls travel effortlessly through the seasons in Charlotte sy Dimby, a timeless favourite.

Pettiskirts, hand-smocking and covered buttons are graced by Charlotte sy Dimby’s signature back tie, adding to the elegance of these fine garments. Mila’s Princess Charlotte dress is the reincarnation of a dress worn by Her Royal Highness on her debut trip to Canada. Elise shines in the brand’s Constance dress. A chic style in a subtle blue textured fabric, it moves beautifully through endless adventures in our bucolic New England home.

Life in Pastoral New England Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila’s dresses by Charlotte sy Dimby

Elise’s shoes: Pom d’Api

Elise and Mila’s bows: Eva’s House

Our Clean Routine: The Laundress x MineMine Kids

Laundering for me, is a pleasant and cathartic practice. Hailing from a long line of passionate launderers, methods of linen care are much like a treasured family recipe. Tried and true routines connect me to the days of washboards and clothing lines while nurturing a younger generation. A few of my favorite tips have been collected here. I welcome you to share your own in the comments below!

Our Clean Routine

Use only the best products.

With an ever increasing availability of organic and natural products, there was a point not long ago when we became more conscious of the products we chose. For me, it came down to keeping our baby’s skin free from harsh chemicals. From the clothing we wear, to sunscreens and laundry detergents, we made small changes over time that eventually led us to our current routine.

Until we began living ‘clean’, I hadn’t realized just how much our bodies were accustom to the detergents of days past. Fragrance was a big issue for me and although I don’t love “fragrance-free” products, I do love a light scent that mimics those pleasantries we find in nature.

Enter The Laundress. There is really no match to this incredible line of nontoxic and biodegradable cleaning products available at MineMine Kids. Since I can’t do justice to their story, I invite you to check it out here. It is worth a read and you’ll be amazed at what you can wash at home (i.e. dry clean only items). Their signature “clean laundry smell” is both comforting and delicate. The products really do work wonders at keeping stains at bay while refreshing our everyday wears.

The Importance of Water

Hard vs. soft water makes a difference!

Beside using a clean line of effective products, I can’t stress enough the importance of water quality when laundering. We are lucky to live in a city with soft water, which is paramount to the longevity of clothing and makes stain removal a breeze. But when we lived in London (known for its water hardness), the struggle was real. Whites were never truly white and stains were impossible to remove. If you’re dependent on hard water, washing up can be troublesome. All is not lost and can be easily remedied with a simple solution from The Laundress. Their Fabric Conditioner has become indispensable not only for our home laundry but also for travel to areas with hard water.

Stain Removal: Time is of the Essence

Treating stains quickly is your greatest defense.

I’m the mom that leaps over a dinner table when my child spills sauce on her clothing. For most stains, the key is to treat it in a timely manner, but by no means does it need to be so dramatic. Depending on the substance and the fabric, dabbing the spot in a bit of water and rubbing the fabric together gently can give you a sense of how easy it will be to remove. When we’re settled at home, I’ll revisit the stain and treat it if necessary. Our go to for this stage in the game is The Laundress’s Stain Solution. If we’re out for an extended period of time, or traveling, I’m a huge fan of their Wash & Stain Bar. With some water, the bar can be rubbed into the stain making a bit of a lather that can sit on the fabric until you’re ready for the soak. Ideally you’re doing this at home but on the go, it is a lifesaver in sticky situations.

Soak it up

Soak, soak, soak then soak some more.

Over the years I’ve tested different soaking regimens and found that easy stains (or relatively new stains) require an overnight or 24 hour soak in cold water with a capful of our favorite Signature Detergent. Stubborn or older stains I soak for up to a week. I typically pre-treat spots with the Stain Solution or Wash & Stain Bar, rubbing together the fabric and creating a lather by hand. After the garment is pre-treated, I will add it to the soak and turn it gently by hand to ensure the detergent is well mixed into the fibers.

Hang it out to Dry

Old-fashioned hang drying is not a thing of the past.

If you have even a small area of outdoor space, a clothing line can be a real treat. We use our dryer only for bulky items and play clothing. Machine drying can take a toll on your wardrobe over time and leads to “wash wear” or a slight pilling and fading of the fabric. While I love my indoor drying rack, there is nothing quite like hanging clothing and sheets out to dry. They take on an incredible freshness from the outdoors while the sun can work magic on stubborn odors. To keep little’s clothing and gear feeling fresh longer, we’ll use a quick spritz of Fabric Fresh Baby, another easy to carry essential in my purse.

Laundering can be surprisingly satisfying with the help of the right products and just a few go to remedies that combat the majority of our messes. Happy washing!

Its Autumn, Darling: Featuring Tocoto Vintage and Louise Misha

For the full post and more, please visit Junior Style London.

Fall begins, and with it, our everyday shuffle becomes all the more demanding.  While carefree adventures slowly recede, magical moments are scarce but still to be made. The warmth of our river valley coupled with steadily cooler nights drapes our mountain mornings in fog.  Naturally, we find ourselves reaching for all the goodness of fall from two of our favourite brands, Tocoto Vintage, and Louise Misha.

As the school year commences, closets are cleaned, making edits and trying on hand-me-downs. Space is made for a special piece or two. With their unique personalities in mind, the girls’ Father did some styling of his own to create fall-ready looks, perfect for cooler days ahead. Presented with a broad selection from which to choose, he was drawn to styles from two children’s wear labels we’ve come to know well over the years; Spanish brand, Tocoto Vintage for Elise and French brand, Louise Misha for Mila.

Tocoto Vintage makes its way into our closets and hearts year after year. Inspired by antique garments and patterns, the styles exude a delicate romanticism with fabrics that stand up to the modern day lives of our youth.

The whimsy of Louise Misha is meanwhile a perfect compliment to Mila’s bohemian spirit. She delights in the details of her ensemble down to the most excellent shimmery socks.

Its Autumn, Darling Clothing Credits:

Elise’s dress: Tocoto Vintage, Elise’s boots: Ariat Kids, Elise’s hairpiece: Vintage

Mila’s blouse, skirt and socks: Louise Misha – view the items here, Mila’s boots: Zimmerman Shoes, Mila’s headband: Eva’s House

Free to Dream in Velveteen

We invite you to view the complete post on Junior Style London here. 

As summer bids us a long farewell, we’re dreaming of fall hues and a return to routine that gently prods us into cooler days ahead.  While we linger on the beach for a final salute to summer, our eyes are already focused on fall-worthy shades of plum and indigo.  Velveteen Clothing gives us reason to dream with their stunning Autumn collection, ‘The Woodland Players.’

Hong Kong-based brand, Velveteen, presents a selection of tasteful pieces that exude a playful spirit, matching our whimsy on this late summer’s day.  I’m the least bit surprised Elise and Mila yearn to wear these delightful looks daily.

What really makes this brand shine for me is their commitment to fair trade practices and the employment of female artisans who, in turn, are able to provide for the needs of their own children.

The Carolina Dress, worn by Elise, is adorned with a gold studded waistband in a sheer dotted swiss fabric.  Mila's Luna Dress features fringed details and sequins on the bodice.  Worn with contrasting tights, we're eager to cozy up for fall in these beautiful styles.

Free to Dream Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila’s dresses: Velveteen Clothing.  Click here to view the collection.

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: 

Photography Jessica Dickinson – All rights reserved.

All posts copyright Junior Style Sales Ltd.

Please do not reproduce without permission.

That's Amore, Romanced by Imoimo Kids

We welcome you to read the full post on Junior Style London here.

As we cross the Atlantic for a taste of some Italian hospitality, a hush of content calms our senses.  Even the youngest of our clan is transfixed by the plentiful charms of Northern Italy.  A happy state-of-being puts us in the mood for gelato and lakeside serenades.  Draped in beauty, this mountainous region is our slice of heaven for the week.  While the girls are eager to explore the gardens and cobbled alleys, I’m just as content listening to lapping waves with a cappuccino in hand.

The lake adds a magical tinge of colour to its surroundings, bathed in hues of blue, green and copper.  We don’t have to dig deep into our luggage to find the perfect pairings from Korean brand, Imoimo Kids.  The Jane dress in a periwinkle blue lace echoes the romanticism of our environs.  Gathered ruffles in a buttery soft yellow create the perfect balance of modernity and whimsy with the brand’s Stella dress.  These pieces are worn effortlessly and I envision them carrying us through summer.

It’s a pity we can’t linger longer with this Italian love affair. Thankfully, we can revisit the joys of our faraway escape with the delightful designs from Imoimo Kids.

That’s Amore Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila’s dresses: Imoimo Kids.  Shop the collection here.

Elise’s shoes: Pom d’Api

Mila’s shoes: Aster

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: Wunderkin Co

Sirens of the Sea with Chotto Golpo

As day breaks, fog rolls in along the coast of Montauk, New York, and we find ourselves dancing with the waves on this magical summer evening.  Miles of beachfront have emptied from the day’s beachgoers and this soothing atmosphere has called us to its shores.  Compelled to answer back, we engage our senses and movements in this serendipitous dance with the sea.

Our twilight musings lead us to imagine a land many miles from our own, where the magical childhood brand, Chotto Golpo was conceived.  These fabrics and the stories they tell are born from the passions of Jayati Bose, celebrity Bollywood stylist, and mother.  With each garment, she captures memories of her childhood spent in Bengal while empowering local farmers and artisans who give life to handwoven cotton fabrics and finishes.

In keeping with our global approach to dressing on this summer evening, we’ve accessorized with magnificent handmade floral headbands from Lithuanian brand, MaJuLa Handmade.  Lilac petals in silk with leather accents complete our look and add a touch of whimsy to our beach soiree.

I wonder if we’ve been moved not by the waves but by the traditions and hands that fashioned these treasured pieces that adorn us.  I feel a sense of connection to a distant land and the fantasies it evokes.  Faced with the vastness of a horizonless sea, the world becomes small again and we are reminded of the beauty we each bring collectively to this planet.

Sirens of the Sea Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila’s dresses: Chotto Golpo

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: MaJuLa

Return to Pooh Country

We welcome you to visit our friends at Junior Style London for the full contribution.

We first visited the Hundred Acre Woods two summers ago and often reminisce fondly about those precious few hours.  The magic of these woods is something of a trance.  Without hesitation, we found ourselves back for another romp through this storied land.  Retracing the steps of Christopher Robin and his beloved Winnie-the-Pooh bring life to our treasured bedtime tales from A. A. Milne.  Paying homage to the nostalgia of these woods, Mila wears a vintage find from the London-based brand, Marlon and Little Friends.

The team at Marlon and Little Friends continues to surprise and excite us with an exquisite range of French and English vintage clothing and linens (much of which is unused deadstock).  A strong focus is placed on creating and sourcing heirloom pieces that link generations, a timeless essence that encapsulates the stories of Winnie-the-Pooh.  Alongside vintage pretties, we swoon over hand-knit creations that are thoughtfully produced in France and finished with the knitter’s name.

A game of ‘Poohsticks‘ commences on the legendary Poohsticks bridge, deep in the Ashdown forest.  This scene has been recreated time and again on the silver screen and whenever we catch a glimpse of the bridge, it is hard to suppress our delight.  As we dream of another return to these woods, we’re eagerly awaiting a new Winnie-the-Pooh film and perhaps a glimpse of this fabled spot.

Return to Pooh Country Clothing Credits:

Mila's dress: Vintage by Marlon and Little Friends

Elise’s dress: Vintage

Elise’s shoes: Pom d'Api

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: Eva’s House

Elise's Winnie-the-Pooh:

View the Junior Style London contribution featuring our first adventures in Hundred Acre Wood, here.

Bathing in Bliss with Enfance Paris and MineMine Kids

Few things are better in this life than a rendezvous on the beach as the day wears down.  After hours spent slathered in sunscreen, we're eager to refresh body and soul with the invigorating line of bath products from French brand, Enfance Paris, available through the online retailer, MineMine Kids.  With a collection of travel friendly products in tow, bath time is bliss wherever we may roam.

Enfance Paris infuses our senses with the subtle and calming aroma of organic floral waters.  As one who's sensitive to artificial fragrance, these travel size companions are a welcome delight to the olfactory glands.  The brilliance of this line doesn't end there.  What sets Enfance apart is their dedication to formulating age-specific shampoos and soap bars.  Mila's 3-year-old locks are distinctively different than Elise's 6-year-old mane and Enfance wholeheartedly understands these differences.  They've taken great efforts to meet the needs of each age group with 0-3 year, 3-8 year, and 8-12 year formulations, bringing a personalized touch to bath time.  

MineMine Kids has long been our go-to for the most comprehensive selection of unique childrenswear, toys, and the purest beauty products this side of the Atlantic.  It is impossible not to find ourselves with an ever-growing list of favorites.  This talented team of curators has made accessible a stunning selection of goods for the merriment of our family so we can spend more time enjoying one another.

Jewels of the Garden

For the full feature, please visit Junior Style London.

We recently travelled back to London where the weather Gods bestowed us with sun-filled days giving way to adventures in freshly manicured gardens.  In this maze of hedges budding with new life, we planted ourselves for the day, filling our senses with Spring.  Elise and Mila floated like petals in their new season Charlotte sy Dimby dresses, a perfect accompaniment on this fortuitous day.

We’re no strangers to Charlotte sy Dimby, a brand hailing from France with roots in Madagascar.  The allure of their handcrafted dresses has us spellbound season after season and their Spring 2018 collection is no exception.   Hand-stitched smocking, petticoats, and elegant bows are enhanced by beautiful fabric selections in fanciful colours.

Springtimes past and present evoke a desire to adventure, rediscover nature and fill our senses with all that is new.  With any luck, we’ll be back again soon, perhaps dressed again in our perennial favourite, Charlotte sy Dimby.

Jewels of the Garden with Charlotte sy Dimby Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila’s dresses: Charlotte sy Dimby

Elise’s shoes: Pepe from Kodomo Boston

Mila’s shoes: Gallucci

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: Eva’s House

Awakening Spring with Popelin

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New England is welcoming spring with a week-long forecast of rain while cherry blossoms are just about to give our street a burst of colour and delight.  Signs of new life haven’t gone unnoticed by these nature-loving sleuths who find joy in the tiniest of plants and creatures.  Our daily walks have us searching city landscapes for signs of nature’s annual awakening.  Refreshing our senses, we opt for beautiful flowing silhouettes from the Spanish brand, Popelin.

Shades of terracotta abound at this botanical centre from the pots lining our walkways to the twirling dresses of my garden nymphs. Popelin’s founder, Cristina Sánchez, evokes a simple elegance through her use of textile and design.  From the sourcing of materials to the manufacturing process, each garment is made entirely in Spain.  With every turn of the cloth, details speak for themselves.  Fabrics are thoughtfully chosen and feel just as wonderful on as they appear.  Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranian, Sánchez has created a collection of earthy tones that has us dreaming of ocean sunsets and sunkissed skin.

Elise and Mila continue their quest for flowering buds and noisy hatchlings while dancing away like garden fairies in hopes of showering their own little magic on all that grows.

Awakening Spring Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila’s dresses: Popelin, shop the brand here.

Elise’s shoes: Pepe from Kodomo Boston

Mila’s shoes: Gallucci

Elise’s hair bow: Eva’s House

Finding Paradise with Maison Balena

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A long-awaited trip south to the Belizian jungle gave us a short respite from all things cold and slushy up north and rejuvenated even the smallest of our clan.  Last week, we found ourselves deep in the rainforest enjoying the company of songbirds, crickets and each other.  Our days were spent shroud in the comfort of Maison Balena and adorned by the whimsy of Everbloom Studio.

Always looking for ways to pack light, I was pleased to find Maison Balena’s wonderfully soft and featherweight kaftans and sets which were worn daily for a variety of active (and relaxing) pursuits, keeping us cool and protected from the sun and mosquitoes (of which there were many).  Worn morning to night, they doubled as sleepwear to boot.  Even I got to partake in the excellence that is Balena!

The girls delighted in the whimsical designs of Everbloom Studio, an accessory brand that understands the needs of aspiring princesses and entomologists alike with their crown headbands and dragonfly adornments.

Finding Paradise Clothing Credits:

Elise, Mila and Jessica's Beachwear: Maison Balena from MineMine Kids

Elise and Mila's Hair Accessories and Necklace: Everbloom Studio from MineMine Kids

Jessica's hat: Eugenia Kim

A Tale for the Ages: Little Creative Factory and Merchant & Mills

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Our passion for storytelling extends beyond the camera as the girls transform themselves into lithe ballerinas, floating through one of America's oldest libraries.  In good company with the stacks, they create a fairytale of their own, setting the scene with Little Creative Factory and Merchant & Mills.  

This story began two years ago in the town of Rye, East Sussex, home of fabric wonderland, and patternmaker, Merchant & Mills.  With The Skipper dress pattern in hand, and a willing seamstress at home (my Mother), we left with a few yards of Heather Haze linen for the girls' bespoke pieces.  My Mother's busy hands gave life to these nautically inspired dresses that are as easy to wear as ballet slippers.

Little Creative Factory's Degas Long Wrap Skirt adds a fresh touch and pays compliment to a ballet-inspired journey through the library. This long-admired brand hails from Barcelona and creates timeless pieces that bend the limits of imagination.

A Tale for the Ages Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila’s dresses: Merchant & Mills Dress Pattern and Fabric

Overskirts: Little Creative Factory, available at Kodomo Boston

Elise and Mila’s ballet slippers: Bloch

Mila's hair bow: Eva's House

Getting Personal with MineMine Kids and Les Enfants Roy

Winter is in full swing and we're choosing to stay cozy indoors with hot drinks, baked goodies, and good reading.  Now is the time for nesting, cleaning out closets, and a bit of pampering for the soul.  Treating ourselves and loved ones is really the only way I manage to make it through this New England winter.  Thankfully MineMine Kids has the perfect reason to stay cozy this winter (and beyond).  With the beautiful range of personalized books and music from Les Enfants Roy, we may have found the cure for our snow day blues.  

With tea in hand, I'm soaking in all the goodness of storytime and cuddles with the girls.  And much to my delight, they're completely engrossed as Mila and Elise become heroines in their own storybooks. Cécile Dardalhon's text perfectly accompanies magical illustrations by Julie Quintard in a wonderful range of holiday and birthday themed books from Les Enfants Roy.  

Mila's stunning Victorian-era dress was a special find from our favorite stall in the Portobello Road antique market and the perfect frock for escaping into fairytale worlds of our own!

Eventually reading time leads to play and when little bodies are stuck indoors, we're ever thankful for the beautiful French tunes from the Les Enfants Roy's Starmyname CD, a personalized collection of songs made especially for us by the talented Olivier Marois.  In the comfort of our home, the girls are happy at play in their own fairytale of a snow day. 

A Love Affair with La Coqueta Kids

Join us on Junior Style London for our latest post featuring La Coqueta Kids.

https://juniorstyle.net/la-coqueta-kids/

As we begin upon another year, our outlook is fresh and mind uncluttered and there is a sense of renewal as we let go and look forward.  While I don't tend to make resolutions, I aim to stay mindful of our passions and indulge ourselves in them, however that may play out.  For the girls, on a chilly winter day, this translates to an afternoon spent dancing to Pink Martini (the lone disc in our CD player).  Thankfully, they share my affinity for Spanish childrenswear brand La Coqueta Kids, and are in their element as they play.

While Elise and Mila go about dancing, I'm fascinated by every movement and the personalities exhibited in their fantasy worlds.  Often times, I join them but it is equally as rewarding to watch.  Matching dresses from a brand we've long revered has me smitten.  These gorgeous pieces are fully lined and perfectly finished with stark white collars that add a touch of elegance and demure beauty which encapsulates this brand.

Elise's Carmin Dress is the perfect transitional piece sure to follow us through seasons and generations of wear.  We first discovered this London-based brand while overseas and made a point to visit their Hampstead boutique, filled with a rainbow of knee-high socks, bows, and mary janes, it is a dream for one-stop shopping and outfit assembly.  With a newly opened second location in the heart of Notting Hill, our journey to La Coqueta's world of Spanish-made goodness just got a bit closer (although a trip to Hampstead is always a welcome departure).

A Love Affair with La Coqueta Kids Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila's dresses: La Coqueta Kids click here to visit the online store.

Elise’s shoes: Pom d'Api

Elise and Mila's tights: MP Denmark from Mamaowl

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: Wunderkin Co.

Home for the Holidays with Charlotte sy Dimby

Be sure to check out our latest post on Junior Style London featuring French brand Charlotte sy Dimby.  Link here.

As we approach another year-end and the festivities that await, we retrace familiar steps that lead us back to my childhood home. Much like the calm before a storm, everything here is serene and our minds at ease.  Once pampered and feeling refreshed, we're ready to tackle the holidays with a bit more glee.

The brilliant collection from Charlotte sy Dimby brings us even closer to that festive feeling with a gorgeous selection of holiday dressing that has us spellbound.   And truthfully, there is no time like the present to add a bit more fancy to your day.

As we stand watch at the shoreline, an early December breeze gives movement to hemlines and hair ties.  The girls engage in a Regency style dance, evoked in part by the classic styles of Charlotte sy Dimby.  The incredible detail on Mila's Smocked Poule Dress lends itself to the season.  Made with the most luxurious winter cotton, it feels wonderful to the touch and impossible to resist wearing daily.

Like Mila, Elise's Smocked Dress carries with it a signature handmade quality that folks have come to know as Charlotte sy Dimby.  A now international brand, these beautifully handcrafted garments have a rich history with smocking pioneer, Monique Ramahay.  Local to Paris's 6th arrondissement, Monique's flagship boutique, L' Île aux Fées, is an institution in its own right.  Covered buttons, handsewn hemlines, and handmade petticoats are just a few of the reasons we adore the elegant childrenswear label, Charlotte sy Dimby. 

Home for the Holidays Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila's dresses: Charlotte sy Dimby

Elise’s shoes: Pom d'Api

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: Eva’s House

At Home in the Mountains with Devon's Drawer

Join us today on Junior Style London for the full feature! (here) 

And visit Devon's Drawer to shop the latest collection with 15% off here. Use code BBLAKEACRES15 for 15% off your order. (Code expires midnight, Wednesday 8/11/17).

Wherever we may roam, the mountains call us home. 

There is something magical that exists only here, brought in part by the serenity and enchantment found along cliffside passages.  Where the terrain changes with elevation, peeking our interest and inviting us to explore what lies ahead.  These steps are familiar yet thrilling and we feel at home within the protective walls of nature.  

In this moment, our universe is filled with wholesome adventure and a bit of heirloom goodness from Devon's Drawer. 

Woven into each piece from Devon's Drawer is a dedication to ethical production and quality fabrics with unmatched standards.  These garments are as natural as our landscape and withstand the type of play that comes about on (or off) trail.  

Soft pockets on Elise's Hillary dress are perfect for collecting a colourful array of leaves and fairy moss.  The length adds a modern touch and provides ease of wear.  With little hesitation, Mila forges her own path in the brand's Aline overalls and Russell turtleneck, a combo too cute for words.  

Our mountains are now topped with a new dusting of snow and they're calling us back for another adventure along their slopes.

At Home in the Mountains Clothing Credits:

Elise & Mila’s outfits: Devon's Drawer.  Shop the latest collection here.

Elise’s shoes: Zimmerman Shoes

Mila’s shoes: Angulus

Elise’s tights: Tocoto Vintage

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: Eva's House

Wandering Free with Blue Alma Knits

We welcome you to read the full post here on Junior Style London. 

The time is now for walks through the overgrowth of summer's end.  As one season passes, another is in full swing with burgeoning chipmunks and falling leaves.  Our presence along this journey goes unnoticed by the activity that surrounds.  

Elise and Mila layer up in pretty pastel knits from Blue Alma, a brand hailing from Brooklyn with roots in Germany.  Designer Annemarie Shoemaker's delightful collection of year-round knitwear is reason alone to venture outdoors on a brisk fall day.    

Blue Alma's AW17 collection is a bouquet of soft pastels in blush, sage, and cream with limitless possibilities for styling the perfect fall wardrobe.  The A-line shaping of Elise's Emma tunic swings with ease and uncompromised comfort while Mila's Marlow vest has quickly become a staple piece as the days grow shorter.  Pointelle yoke collars and cable knit details add a touch of prim to these classic silhouettes.  

Time stands still as we wander along the well-trodden paths near our home.  Winter looms in the not too distant future but for now, I can smell the fall air and hear the scurry of chipmunks and I'm happily content in the presence of our changing season.  

Wandering Free Clothing Credits:

Elise and Mila's knitwear: Blue Alma Knits

Elise's blouse: Cosy Cloud Kids

Mila’s blouse: Mi.Le from CouCou

Elise’s shoes: See Kai Run

Mila's shoes: Pepe

Elise and Mila's tights: Little Light Feet

Elise and Mila’s hair accessories: Wunderkin Co

Its a Party! CouCou Boston hosts Thimble Collection

We're already counting down until the long weekend and if you're local to Boston, there's a perfect reason to count along with us.  CouCou, the charming South End children's boutique plays host to the delightful brand, Thimble Collection on Friday and Saturday (October 6-7) during opening hours.  For some extra pampering, be sure to visit the DIY manicure bar open from 3:00 to 5:00 this Saturday.  CouCou has us covered from head to toe!

I've long admired Thimble Collection and their aesthetic for simple silhouettes with a focus on comfort and ease of wear.  Each garment is handcrafted in the US and fully lives up to our expectations for quality.  Delightful prints, (like Mila's bunny wrap dress) and coordinating pieces make this collection fun to style and even more fun to play in. 

I hope to see you there!