Image

Max & Ola


A Chicago-based shoe company with European flair for your kiddos.

Founder Ewa Tereszkiewicz designs practical, ultra-stylish baby and toddler shoes that are not only adorable, they’re safe for kids to wear. Max & Ola is a children’s apparel company that specializes in footwear that is super safe for sensitive baby skin.

Max & Ola prides itself on producing shoes that facilitate learning to walk by keeping baby upright and free of scrapes and bruises. The company’s mission is to provide all-natural apparel that is safe and practical for parents, children and the environment.

Ewa’s luxury-quality children’s designs are the result of generations of experience with artisan design and craftsmanship, made of the highest quality materials in Europe. The shoes are made by hand with love using only natural tans and dyes.

The range of styles includes moccasins, soft slip-on boots, elegant lace-ups and pump-inspired strappy booties. “We offer each of these in an array of colors that are sure to suit your baby’s unique personality,” Ewa says.

Image

Get Up and Go!


pediped® collaborates with The Nik Naks to encourage summer adventures for kids.

This summer, award-winning children’s footwear brand pediped® is collaborating with The Nik Naks on an original song and music video that encourages kids to enjoy summer adventures.

The original song “Get Up and Go” follows the adventures of two friends as they take a trip guided by their own imaginations. Equipped with pediped’s shoes from the Adventure Line, they are prepared to explore any terrain, from distant planets to their own backyard. The music inspires children to stay active and explore the world around them. The water-safe, rugged and machine-washable shoes in pediped’s Adventure Line, which has 11 new styles for 2018, are ready to go wherever exploring feet can take them.

The full “Get Up and Go” video can be viewed on www.pediped.com/theniknaks and the song or full album can be downloaded on TheNikNaks.com. Purchase of the album includes a credit on pediped.com equivalent to the cost.

Las Vegas-based musicians Sam Lemos and Jean-Francois are the duo The Nik Naks, the band that imagined this music-based multimedia project appealing to both parents and their children. As dedicated fathers, their combined passion for both music and family life inspired them to expand into the world of kids’ music. Both Sam and Jean-Francois are songwriters, multi-instrumentalists and professional musicians. Their professional credits include playing with Boyz II Men, Cirque Du Soleil, Matt Goss and Noel Gallagher. They are also involved in many original projects in the burgeoning Las Vegas music scene.

The pediped® Spring/Summer 2018 Adventure Line is now available for purchase online at www.pediped.com and in select retail stores.

Image

Kodomo


Playful & Stylish Clothes, Shoes & Accessories for Babies, Kids and Tweens

Kodomo is a children’s retailer that sells the cutest items for boys and girls from their stores in Massachusetts (two in Boston and the newest brick and mortar in Chestnut Hill) and online.

All the designers Kodomo partners with are hand-selected for their ethics and business practices and styles are hand-picked for their playfulness – quite a fabulous list that is growing all the time:

Genesis of Kodomo

For those who wonder, it’s pronounced kuh-doh-moh and it means “child” in Japanese. Founder Jasmine’s favorite memory of her early childhood spent in Japan is the Children’s Day holiday each May, a celebration of children’s personalities and their happiness. She founded Kodomo with this idea to respect the “powerful personalities” of the smallest shoppers and to emulate the happiness they express every day through the merchandise they offer.

And that means slow fashion.

Slow or ethical fashion embraces a transparent clothing creation process. It encompasses all steps taken to bring a garment or an accessory from the concept stage through the design phase, to production and finally to the point of sale. Great consideration is paid to each part of the manufacturing process, such as appropriate wages paid to workers, up-to-date factory conditions and maintenance, fabrics sourced with environmental impact in mind and sustainability and care are at the heart of every business decision.

Kodomo says their customers feel good about what they buy and are “tickled pink” about what they wear.

Don’t doubt it!

Image

SUNS Shoes


Cool kicks with a cause for kids and their Moms.

SUNS Shoes is a unique collection of footwear made from an innovative material that comes to life with vibrant color and hidden surprises when exposed to the sunlight.

Created by Craig Reingold of Sperry Top-Sider & Toms shoes, his wife Jeanette, Dave Mesicek of Sperry Top-Sider & Common Soles and his wife Lisa, SUNS uses the positive energy of the sun to not only a fun pair of shoes, they are bringing sunshine into the lives of others by inspiring acts of kindness, empathy and gratitude to make the world a better place for all.

Simple Acts of Kindness (AOKs)

As they like to say, at SUNS their product is footwear, yet their mission transcends the brand. As parents, these founding couples have witnessed the detrimental impact that bullying, negativity and violence can have on kids. Two of their daughters came up with a plan and started an initiative at their school to increase and spread positivity through a program based around being kind to one another. It caught on amongst the other students at their school and other schools in the area.  The SUNS creators are inspired by their efforts, making SUNS mission to join the movement to make the world a brighter, happier place through simple acts of kindness.

The idea is very simple – an act of kindness, no matter how small can make someone’s day better. If we all try to be nicer to each other, the outcome has a ripple effect of spreading smiles. Who couldn’t support that?

Smile-Worthy AOKs

  • Hold the door for a stranger.
  • Tell a friend you appreciate them.
  • Send a thank you note to your teacher.
  • Take a co-worker to lunch.
  • Tell a family member you love them.
  • Help a friend with a project.
  • What would you do to make someone’s day?

“The culture that SUNS promotes isn’t about ignoring problems, it’s about doing the little things that everyone can to help us get through those cloudy days,” they say. “It’s about remembering the sunlight right behind the rain, that helps us feel empowered to perform acts of kindness that can help make our world brighter each day.”

Image

Walsh Brothers Shoes


Great advice for choosing the right shoes for toddlers … all the way from Ireland.

“It’s very tempting to buy every pair of cute little shoes you see in the shops,” says Paula Casey, marketing manager for Ireland’s Walsh Brothers Shoes in Co. Kerry, “but some can be damaging and uncomfortable for the child. Because they’re at such a young age, it’s unlikely they’ll be able to explain or communicate that too easily, if it does occur.”

Everything You Need to Know About Choosing Shoes for Your Toddler

Paula has shared this nifty graphic that pulls together professional advice to consider when investing in a pair of shoes for your toddler. Good stuff in here!

About Walsh Brothers Shoes

Founded in 1902 as a general drapers and boot store, Walsh Brothers Shoes is run today by the third generation of Walsh brothers with the same love of shoes Grandfather John realized over a century ago. In Kerry, Walsh Brothers Shoes is recognized as a premiere footwear retailer catering to all ages. With 49 different sizes and a range of width fittings available, you can be sure to find a shoe that fits. Walsh Brothers Shoes carries children’s shoes from leading brands like Clarks, Duberry, Susst, Vans, Inishfree, Lelli Kelly and more – sports and school shoes, boots and sandals as well as dancing shoes and school bags. With the launch of the WalshBrothersShoes.ie website in 2014, the Walshes have extended their services internationally, providing delivery to the rest of the world!

Image

Lelli Kelly Kids Shoes


North American Shoe Company to Relaunch the Footwear Brand in Spring 2018

Rhode Island-based North American Shoe Company is the exclusive licensee for Lelli Kelly Kids in the U.S. and Canada, planning a relaunch of the shoe brand with a new collection in Spring 2018.

Lelli Kelly is renowned for putting the fun and funky back onto little girls’ feet. Launched in Italy in 1992 by the Attilieni family, every little girl wants a pair of Lelli Kelly’s because the gorgeous sparkly collections feature detailed hand-sewn beads and sequined flowers.  A fast favorite with girls, parents are thrilled because each shoe is machine washable, ensuring these high-quality styles stand up to being their little girl’s favorite.

“We are thrilled to be relaunching this much beloved brand in North America,” says Jon Shapiro, director of sales for North American Shoe Company. “This is the first time in several years there has been a specific U.S. distributor targeting consumers in the States. This gives the Lelli Kelly brand the opportunity to be showcased to moms and daughters in a way they are accustomed to.”

Sparkle & Shine Guaranteed Year-Round

The new spring assortment will include 12 to 16 styles of canvas sneakers, Mary Jane’s, high tops, sandals and joggers available in girls sizes from toddler to youth. A new website will launch in 2018 (www.LelliKellyUS.com) and the line will be available to consumers in late January. The launch will be supported by a social media campaign across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter with U.S.-specific platforms.

Jon tells us that the relaunch will not only appeal to established fans with easily recognizable looks, these designs will stand out from the crowd, creating new fans as well. “Children’s retailers across the country are so excited about the news and looking forward to having Lelli Kelly back on their shelves,” he says. “We’ve experienced such great response to the relaunch.”

Established in 1918, North American Shoe Company (NASC) is the exclusive distributor in the U.S. for Beeko, Foamtread slippers, Lelli Kelly Kids and Tundra Boots and also distributes Tingley rubber boots. NASC is the leading wholesaler catering to footwear retailers, catalogs, specialty boutiques and online retailers. The company is showing the Lelli Kelly line at the Atlanta Shoe Show, August 19-21, booth #127-133.

Image

ESLO Shoes


Kickstarter Campaign is Live!

The Lopez Family wants to make masterfully crafted shoes and boots for your family. It’s a beautiful story, really – all about equality, family and you.

ESLO Craft Goods harnesses 50+ years of authentic shoe-crafting experience to provide your children with modern, sleek and stylish shoes and boots that support and nurture their growing feet. In 1965, the founder’s Grandfather starts this journey in the small town of Jesus Maria, Mexico at a time when men migrate for jobs and women aren’t even allowed to work. Nonetheless, Grandfather advocates on behalf of the local women, and soon, they are the ones helping him build the foundation for the company you see today; one defined by equality, family and passion.

“Our mission is to be the bridge between our family and yours, and build the foundation for a sustainable, philanthropic and innovative children’s shoe company. With your help, we can achieve our dream of sharing Eduardo’s family’s craft with the world and provide your children with the highest quality leather shoe possible.”

Grow With ESLO

The ESLO kickstarter campaign is just days old, and is your chance to have shoes custom made. Ryan Eldridge tells me why the CRT audience will join the journey:

It’s a beautiful story – ESLO’s foundation was built over 50 years ago by providing jobs for women in the local community.

We have generations of experience – Our family has been crafting shoes for three generations. Each pair is imbued with experience, love and quality craftsmanship that has been perfected over this time.

Each shoe is authentically made – We source all our leather from Leon, MX – the leather capital of the western hemisphere. Some of our craftsman have been with the company for decades.

ESLO Shoes: Classic to Modern

During the kickstarter campaign, ESLO is crafting shoes in the classic Wingtip and minimalistic Oxford style, and boots in the modern Chukka style. Perfect for both boys and girls, these shoes are “perfected and refined.” Follow along:

  1. HIGH QUALITY LEATHER – Our shoes and boots are crafted from genuine, all natural leather.
  2. PLUSH LINING – The lining we use provides plush cushioning, giving your child maximum comfort.
  3. FOAM CUSHIONING – This top-layer insole makes each step your child takes relaxed and agreeable.
  4. INSOLE – Our second insole is made of soft, durable leather, which gives your child’s foot a cozy foundation to rest on.
  5. HEEL SUPPORT – This added heel support is the bedrock of each shoe and boot. It keeps everything sturdy and stable.
  6. RUGGED OUTSOLE – The uniquely textured outsole provides maximum traction on virtually any surface
  7. FLEXIBILITY – Our flexibility grooves bend with ease and avoid any material pinching against your child’s foot.
  8. MOISTURE WICKING FABRIC – The moisture wicking material absorbs sweat from the toes, reducing discomfort and smell.

Generational, Diverse and Ready Team

Celina, Eduardo, Lorenc and Ryan are armed with their own unique skill sets. They believe that through their combined passions and efforts, they will use these skills – ranging from experienced product design to streamlined supply chain, quality manufacturing to focused marketing – to provide your children with the most stylish, trendy, comfortable and supportive shoes and boots.

So exciting. Good luck, you guys!

Image

Lili Collection


Make a Style Statement.

Finding the perfect baby shoes can be challenging, which is why Lili Collection strives to design highly fashionable baby shoes for all babies and toddlers. Whether you’re looking for a special occasion, photo session, something playful or something casual chic — we’re sure to have something you’ll love.

“Lili Collection is born and inspired from my son Liam, aka Lili,” says Megan Linke. “When Liam was born in 2013, we entered the land of all things baby. This is where I discovered how few companies make their shoes here in the states.”

Armed with this knowledge, Megan set out to make her own baby shoes. She takes sewing lessons in New York’s Garment District, learning to make booties and moccasins for Liam “ in every color.” She says, “Moms in the neighborhood took notice and would ask if I could make them a pair. After enough interest — Lili Collection was born.”

Made in the USA

Lili Collection prides itself on two things that are rare to find in today’s market; handcrafted and Made in the USA. “I personally handpick the leather and believe this is essential to producing high quality products,” Megan says. “Lili Collection believes in the notion that great design and craftsmanship equals patronage for generations to come.”

The company is known are known for fun handmade moccasins, oxfords and loafers that are stylish, comfortable and easy to put on.

Megan says, “Lili Collection has grown beyond our wildest dreams since opening in 2014” The company has been featured in have been featured in many leading publications including Pregnancy & Newborn Magazine, Parents, Footwear News, Glamour and popular industry blogs; Megan’s been interviewed by local television stations, the Hallmark Channel and more. Several celebrity moms and dads have given Lili Collection their seal of approval.

Image

Poco Nido


Take a Whistle-Stop Tour ‘Round the Global Zoo with a New Mini Shoe Collection.

In 2011, Catherine Lobley starts a Poco Nido. A footwear designer and mother of two, Catherine decides to use her talents to create her own alternative the tired, unimaginative shoes available for children at the time. That’s when her Mini Shoe is born.

Over the last three years, Poco Nido has grown to include over 70 retailers and five distributors worldwide. The UK brand is recognized with two consecutive gold awards at the Loved By Parents Awards for best baby footwear and is shortlisted for best baby fashion brand in the PP&P awards.

011817_crt_poconido_01

Design Personality

Poco Nido style is deeply rooted in a love of color and pattern. Designers Catherine and Joanna don’t follow trends, they design based on whatever pops into their heads. They take inspiration from travel, children’s stories, patterns, symmetry, a dislike for over-packaging, a passion for upcycling and frustration with fastenings.

011817_crt_poconido_02

SS17 Mini Shoe Collection

Right now, Poco Nido is excited to announce its wildest range of mini shoes yet. Inspired by adventures and animals from all around the world, the SS17 collection features eight new prints with roosters, whales, zebras, elephants and armadillos. There’s a travel print with stickers and boarding passes, an English Garden design and a print inspired by Native Americans, too.

“Creating our SS17 range of Mini Shoes was great fun,” Catherine says. “As a team, we love animals, nature and bold colors. How these elements are brought together in our latest range of prints is what makes it so exciting. Five years on after the first mini shoe was launched, we know what our customers love to see and we cannot wait to show off our new collection.”

In addition to the eight new prints, the Mini Shoe will also be available in a selection of plain colors including cornflower blue, pink and lime green, which have been chosen to complement the printed collection.

Poco Nido’s signature Mini Shoes are made from 100% cotton with suede sole, use non-toxic inks and feature a hidden elastic for extra comfort. They are available in sizes EU 17-22, from 3-6 months.

The company also designs children’s clothing, essential accessories and gift sets. Wholesale available here: https://wholesale.poconido.com.

Image

Moc Happens by Itzy Ritzy


Five Fresh Styles of Adorable Baby Moccasins

Moc Happens™ is a brand new line of leather baby moccasins by Itzy Ritzy. Made from super soft, breathable and durable leather, the spring collection includes five moccasin styles available in three different sizes for newborn babies up to 18-months-of-age.

041316_SRT_Itzy Ritzy_Moc Happens_03

“At Itzy Ritzy, we wanted to create chic, high quality, leather moccasins that were affordable and would be the perfect gift for any occasion in a baby’s early life,” says Kelly Douglas, Itzy Ritzy’s Co-CEO. “Moc Happens is the latest product in the Itzy Ritzy line that marries function and style for the modern parent.”

Itzy Ritzy’s Moc Happens feature removable padded inserts for comfort and to extend the life of the shoe as baby’s foot grows, secure elastic openings for easily taking them on and off, and Itzy Ritzy’s signature chevron embossed soles for an extra touch of style and distinction. The moccasins are available in five unique and playful styles including Ritzy Dot, Dino-Monster, Diamond Rain, Precious Metals and Toasted Almond.

041316_SRT_Itzy Ritzy_Moc Happens_02

Ideal gifts for baby showers, new moms, holidays, christenings or first birthdays, Moc Happens moccasins come packaged in a gift box and are fully CPSIA-tested and compliant. Moc Happens are available for purchase at fine retailers nationwide, online and at www.itzyritzy.com.

Itzy Ritzy’s products show that parenting in style is possible. By packing function and style into one eco-friendly punch, Itzy Ritzy provides attractive solutions to everyday challenges. Responsible for the great selling line of modern solutions for chic parents on the go, products include the Snack Happens Reusable Snack Bags, Nursing Happens Infinity Breastfeeding Scarf, Cozy Happens Infant Car Seat Canopy, Ritzy Sitzy Shopping Cart & High Chair Cover, Travel Happens Zippered Wet Bags, and Teething Happens Chewable Mom Jewelry. Celebrity fans include Jennifer Garner, Kelly Clarkson, Zoe Saldana, Gisele Bundchen, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Gwen Stefani, and Nicole Ritchie.