children’s retail blogs

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DockATot


Award winning invention releases three new cover patterns in the United States.

DockATot is a simple, elegant solution for multitasking parents who need a safe spot for their little ones anywhere, anytime. The unique shape and design of DockATot allows baby to comfortably chill, play, rest, snuggle, log in tummy time and get diaper changes.

Designed in Sweden in 2006, made in Europe and launched in the U.S. in 2015, DockATot baby docking stations provide the ideal hygienic microclimate for babies, with a feel that mimics the womb. All materials used are sourced from top-quality suppliers, tested and proven free of harmful substances.

The company makes the DockATot in two sizes and are lightweight, portable and created with traveling in mind, with rail-like sides for safe, sweet dreams for children transitioning into a bigger bed:

  • Deluxe+ – the ultimate docking station for babies’ ages 0-8 months old or 5-22 lbs.
  • Grand– provides a snug spot for little ones ages 9 to 36 months

In January 2019, three of DockATot’s stylish new cover prints will be available to consumers for the first time. For a modern touch, DockATot is launching two Buffalo Plaid styles in natural and charcoal, as well as a new Black Marble addition to the Stone collection. Far from décor du jour, Buffalo Plaid and Stone are contemporary designs that exude a sense of luxury and will stand the test of time. The new styles were recently unveiled at the Kind + Jugend Show in Germany and will be available at fine retail stores nationwide and on DockATot.com.

“Love and luxury have been exhaustively incorporated in the design process, with my own children in mind.”

Founder Lisa Furuland Kotsianis was inspired to create something new in the baby and children’s industry when my first son was born. “We believe that every baby deserves to be surrounded in a comfortable environment every day of their lives,” she says. “There is simply nothing else like it on the market that allows mothers to feed, soothe and bond with their baby.”

Thanks to the perfect marriage of style and functionality, DockATotⓇ has become increasingly in demand by parents around the world and has won many awards, including the prestigious British Junior Design Award, “Best Of” The Bump and “Most Registered Product 2017” from Babylist.

Dos & Don’ts for Donating Children’s Goods to Hurricane Victims


A message from Gary C. Smith, President and CEO of NAEIR, the largest gifts-in-kind organization in America.

One of the great things about American children’s retail and manufacturing companies is that when disaster strikes, many of us want to help. Our response is often a powerful urge to rush what we think will be helpful supplies straight to the disaster zone.

Think twice! Very often, such supplies do more harm to good. In the chaotic aftermath of a storm or flood, goods are often left to go to waste. For example, we recently learned that more than a year after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, 10 trailers full of rotting, rodent-infested donations were discovered in a parking lot,

Worse yet, these spontaneous donations can clog up valuable staging space and transportation zones, hampering relief efforts of those on the ground. After Hurricane Mitch hit Honduras, cargo planes carrying life-saving supplies were unable to land because the runways were covered with boxes of useless winter clothing donations.

This is such a wide-spread problem, relief workers have dubbed it “the disaster after the disaster.”

However, companies can truly make a difference for victims of disasters. Here are two things you can do that will make the right kind of difference:

  • Make a financial contribution to a reputable not-for-profit that specializes in disaster relief and has a proven track record of delivering aid. That way, your donated funds can be used to purchases what’s needed most – often food, water and medicine.
  • If you have goods you’d like to give, don’t ship them to the disaster site: donate them to a national gifts-in-kind organization. These are 501c3 nonprofits that accept corporate product donations (aka “gifts-in kind”), then redistribute them to qualified nonprofits upon request. They have a process in place for delivering goods into the hands of those who are primed to receive them, after confirming they’re qualified nonprofits.

For corporate donors, joining a gifts-in-kind organization is simple and free (generally, you simply complete an online form). Once your company is accepted, you can donate at any time.

How it works: you provide the organization with an inventory of your donation, and once it’s approved, ship it to a designated location. The organization takes it from there.

In addition to corporate-wide gratification, there are compelling business benefits here. Product donations are tax deductible. In fact, if your firm is a C Corp, it’s eligible for a tax deduction up to twice the cost of the merchandise you donate, thanks to a little-known section of tax code, IRC Section 170(e)(3).

Gifts-in-kind donating is also an easy way to keep inventory current and warehouses in order, since overstocks, out-of-season merchandise and even returns are accepted. In addition, your organization will advise you what specific charities requested and received your goods – providing some good news to share with employees and customers.

In short, it’s a great thing when America’s corporate citizens want to help victims of natural disasters, as well as those in need year-round. But to be truly helpful, it has to be done right.

About National Association for the Exchange of Industrial Resources

Galesburg, Illinois-based NAEIR, National Association for the Exchange of Industrial Resources  has received donations of excess inventory from more than 8,000 U.S. corporations and redistributed more than $3 billion in products to non-profits and schools.

The gifts-in-kind organization provides FREE merchandise year-round, including clothing, office, maintenance and janitorial supplies, paper goods, plus much more. Learn more by visiting naeir.org. Gary C. Smith may be reached at 800-562-0955.

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UglyDolls Movie


Singing sensation Kelly Clarkson is voicing Moxy, the lead Uglydoll in the new animated feature film, UglyDolls.

Kelly is also performing original songs for the movie as well as Pitbull, who is also part of the voice cast. The film tells the story of Moxy and her Uglydoll friends “as they confront what it means to be different, struggle with their desire to be loved and ultimately discover that you don’t have to be perfect to be amazing because who you truly are is what matters most.” Wow, that’s a mouthful … and describes what many children face in their lives every day.

Robert Simonds’ global next-generation media company STX Entertainment is producing the film and STXtv also has the dual role of studio and producer for the UglyDolls animated kids series streaming exclusively on Hulu. STX is moving beyond traditional platform-driven content to creating talent-driven entertainment with a mission “to unlock the value of the direct connection stars have with their fans through the development, financing, production, marketing and distribution of film, television, VR, digital video, music and live entertainment content.” Wow, another mouthful.

Created as a plush toy line by David Horvath and Sun-Min Kim, the Uglydoll brand quickly gained a cult following around the world. The first hand-sewn plush character, Wage, came to life in 2001. In 2006, Uglydoll is named Toy of the Year by the Toy Industry Association. Uglydoll characters are distinct for their endearing “ugliness,” in a wonderful “uglyverse” where differences are celebrated and embraced.

Their company, Pretty Ugly, LLC is having quite the year. Earlier in 2018, Hasbro signs on as global master toy licensee, Walmart signs on to give Uglydoll its highest level of retail support and White Space Entertainment, global master licensing agent for STX Entertainment, selects Jay Franco as key licensing partner for the UglyDolls brand. Under the licensing agreement, Jay Franco will have rights to a variety of home products, including bedding, bath, pillow, beach and more.

“We are thrilled to be working with STX and White Space on UglyDolls, to develop products that elevate their message of positivity, friendship, uniqueness and self-empowerment aimed at inspiring young people to follow their dreams and never be afraid to be themselves,” Elisha Gordon, VP of Licensing at Jay Franco and Sons, says.

Next year looks beautiful for Uglydolls everywhere. The UglyDolls franchise is set to kick off with the animated feature film slated for a May 10, 2019 release via STXfilms, with additional UglyDolls projects in the works across STX’s multiple divisions, including STXtelevision, STXdigital and STXsurreal.

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Bloom Kids Essentials


They’ve got kids’ backs … and their bottoms (hee-hee)!

The business of children’s underwear demands attention, especially for the girl who can’t abide creeping, pinching or shifty undies. The folks at Bloom Kids Essentials provide girls with top of the line, eco-friendly underwear that stays put. They’ve been making comfortable kids underwear since 2009 and launched this new organic line in 2017.

Made from the softest organic cotton for the ultimate in comfort and function, Bloom Kids Essentials are a sanity-saver for parents who’ve endured tantrums and fits, and for kids who go commando because they can’t stand the skin-crawling discomfort of regular underwear. With flat-lock seams and smoothie-soft waistbands, these undies “cater to the discerning tush that appreciates a wedgie-free existence with unmatched comfort and state-of-the-art design.” Kids seem to agree.

“It’s like wearing fluff on my butt.”

            -Qynne, 4 yrs

Mainstream fabrics can be full of harmful ingredients, so the softer-than-soft organic cotton, eco-friendly dyes and water-based inks used to manufacture Bloom Kids Essentials keep it good for the environment and great for your kids – with comfort, sustainability and style to boot. Less chemicals equals healthier bodies, after all.

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Mummy’s Miracle


All-Natural Baby Skincare Miraculous for Baby’s Sensitive Skin

Mummy’s Miracle is an all-natural line of skincare products like no other. The handcrafted and sustainably-produced baby products are the first to use Moringa oil.

What is Moringa Oil?

Moringa oil comes from the seeds of Moringa Oleifera tree, which grows in Africa and parts of Asia. Rich in phytonutrients and anti-oxidants, moringa oil offers a variety of benefits when used in skincare, such as skin purification for an anti-aging, healthy glow. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties help skin heal, and its fresh fragrance and moisturizing power makes it an ideal hoice for use as a natural hair cleanser for all ages.

“For years, I searched for a toxic-free skincare regimen for myself and my babies but found none,” says Ify Chuke-Nwobi, founder of Mummy’s Miracle, which she formulates in 2010 after she discovers the power of Moringa. “The more I learned about the harmful chemicals in synthetic cosmetics, the more passionate I became about bringing conscious consumers a natural alternative that actually worked.”

After making her own body creams and oils that combine a cocktail of essential oils, Ify starts using her “potions” on herself and her children – with remarkable results: their skin retains its smoothness, softness and suppleness. It even glows.

“I found my potion so moisturizing and hydrating, I had to find a way to help other mums who were looking for a natural and safe alternative,” she says. Ify collaborates with a chemist and together they create a moisturizing, soothing and hydrating formula with botanicals featuring the miracle Moringa seed oil, known today as Mummy’s Miracle.

Mummy’s Miracle is the world’s leading natural Moringa-based skincare line that includes wash and shampoo, lotion, ointment, oil and vapor rub for baby as well as products for Mom like anti-aging Moringa oil, stretch mark lotion and nipple balm.

Mummy’s Miracle products are made from all-natural ingredients, including the best Moringa seed oil there is, raw honey, shea butter and purified water, as well as essential oils, vitamin E and more, depending on the product. The fast-growing company follows stringent production standards to ensure the products are completely all natural and free from any chemicals or other pollutants. They always put the customer first.

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CURATE @ Children’s Club


Children’s Club débuts CURATE, an elevated showcase for global children’s wear collections.

Children’s Club returns to New York’s Jacob Javits Center August 5-7 with a selection of the best children’s brands in the market across newborn to age 12, layette items, fashion accessories, footwear, toys and gifts.

This August, the show débuts a new destination that highlights the most elevated children’s collections from the SS’19 season, re-imagines the show floor to offer a new perspective of the kidswear marketplace and will serve as the destination for retailers to engage with the most innovative designers in children’s fashion.

“Our mission for 2018/2019 is to build the momentum behind the children’s wear market and unify the children’s community on both a domestic and global scale. The launch of CURATE is the first step in developing more aspirational neighborhoods that continue our mission to reimagine the children’s market,” VP and Brand Director Shawn Hazan says. “The area will offer our retailers a platform for exploration, discovery and networking with an elevated selection of well-merchandised brands. We’re launching Curate with over 45 internationally-inspired collections, an unprecedented representation for Children’s Club.”

A “neighborhood” at the entrance to the show, the new CURATE @ Children’s Club features as well-known brands from Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Romania, United Kingdom, Denmark, Belgium, Sweden, The U.S., Canada and Turkey: 3 Pommes, KENZO, Lil’ Lemons by For Love and Lemons, Petite Coco and Tartine et Chocolat. In addition, actress and lifestyle expert Haylie Duff will also be at the show with brand, Little Moon Society.

More new things at the August edition of Children’s Club:

FRESH @ Children’s Club – In response to retailer request, Children’s Club is proud to feature over 100 new, emerging and never seen before collections at market.

The Classroom @ Children’s Club – In response to conversations with both brands and buyers, Children’s Club launches The Classroom, an ongoing educational experience designed to address hot topic items impacting the children’s retail community.

UBM Fashion and Children’s Club

In June 2018, UBM Fashion combined with Informa PLC to form UBM Fashion, a leading B2B information services group and the largest B2B event organizer in the world. Children’s Club, the international exhibition featuring every category of children’s clothing from newborn to age 12, layette items, fashion accessories, footwear, toys and gifts, is now organized by UBM Fashion.

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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.

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RockEase


Introducing the First Portable Rocking Chair Solution 

Now available for pre-order, RockEase is the first compact, easy-to-use and portable rocking chair solution that quickly converts any standard four-legged chair into a rocking chair. Taking an average of 90 seconds to install, RockEase is the perfect solution for parents needing easy access to a rocking option at home and while traveling.

The lightweight yet sturdy RockEase easily slips into a standard diaper bag or large purse, making it ideal for homes where space is at a premium and for families on the go. Soothing, nursing and rocking children while visiting grandparents and extended family is a breeze with RockEase.

While many baby gliders can cost thousands, RockEase is a budget-conscious solution for families and businesses -including hospitals, doctor’s offices, hotels and more- seeking a rocking option for guests.

Founder and mother of two Jenna Zielbauer creates RockEase after she struggles with traveling and overnight visits where a rocking chair is not readily available. Rocking is an integral part of her first daughter’s bedtime, soothing and bonding routines that very quickly becomes a necessity. When her second child is born, she suffers from postpartum depression and anxiety. Rocking is the only solution that helps her emotional wellbeing when dealing with her son’s consistent crying bouts throughout the day. After extensive research resulting in no real solutions, Jenna decides to fill the “traveling rocking chair” void with RockEase.

Weighing approximately five pounds and measuring 36-inches long when assembled, RockEase is made of heavy-duty, neutral-colored plastic material that holds a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds. Safety-tested and patent-pending, RockEase accommodates any standard four-legged chair without additional equipment or adaptors. No extra tools needed.

How It Works

Grab RockEase from your closet, diaper bag or luggage, simply slide the rails together and secure to a chair using finger-friendly safety knobs. Staying at a hotel where a four-legged chair may not be readily available? Call the front desk and kindly ask for a dining or banquet chair to be brought to your room. RockEase can be assembled and installed in as little as 60 seconds, so you’ll be rocking in no time.

To learn more about RockEase and pre-ordering, visit www.rockease.com

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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!

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Aristocrat Kids


Magic happens to those who believe …

For Dace Zvirbule, founder and creative director of Aristocrat Kids, dressing her two daughters serves as the main source of inspiration in creating luxury apparel, where she emphasizes the highest quality, luxurious comfort and unique stylistic identity for children.

Famous for its distinguishing fairy tale style, Dace establishes Aristocrat Kids in 2013, gaining international recognition quickly due to the bespoke quality ready-to-wear and accessory collections for girls aged from 9 months to 12 years, each piece made by a single tailor in Aristocrat Kids Atelier.

Dace has a passion for true beauty that hides in the smallest details. Her brand is based on “a royal tale,” a story about the magical adventures of princess Alexandra in her Royal Kingdom. Each seasonal collection opens a new chapter in the fairy tale, full of magical moments and extraordinary places, and that wearing these charming dresses is the way to give back to children the sweetness and joy of happy childhood.

Thanks to the beautiful special occasion dresses, the brand is the reference when it comes to choosing an outfit for different festivities, red carpet events and religious ceremonies. The timeless pieces can be passed on to little sisters and next generations for years to come.

Dace’s exclusive line for newborn babies, Royal Baby, includes a clothing collection for boys and girls from 0 months up to 24 months, bed linen, toys and tableware. Each Royal Baby item is handmade from the best quality natural materials, using the highest standards of craftsmanship. Royal Baby hand woven textiles are unique in that amber yarn is woven into the fabrics. Amber is a natural gemstone found in the Baltic Sea with powerful soothing and stress relieving abilities, scientifically proven to take away stress, ease pains, block ultraviolet rays, regenerate skin cells and keep the body toned. Once known to be a lucky charm for the kings of Egypt, the Royal Baby line uses amber’s power to provide a soothing and calming effect for the baby.