The Biz: The Grapevine

Put a Bonnet on It

By Amy Barnes

From Victorian times to the pioneer days of Laura Ingalls Wilder, the bonnet was a staple for babies, young girls and grown women. While earlier generations wore bonnets to protect against harsh exterior elements, today’s babies and toddlers are enjoying the resurgence of the bonnet as the perfect outfit accessory. Of course, the sunshade aspect is a happy benefit. The Beaufort Bonnet Company is leading this return to days of the bonnet. In true Southern style, this South Carolina company was begun in 2009 by a mom to bring her love and appreciation of heirloom bonnets to this new generation.

The Grapevine

Crawling Forward 123 Protects Precious Outfits and Knees

By Stephanie Hanlon

Crawling is a milestone for any busy baby and it takes many forms… the army crawl, three-legged dog, slither. No matter the method, it’s a full-body experience and most learners have the bumps, bruises and rug burns to prove it. Thanks to Crawling Forward 123, crawling can now be a cushy experience for both parents and babies. Exclusively designed for a baby’s crawling stage, the Crawling Forward 123 accessory is worn on top of baby’s everyday outfit, protecting the front from the floor and supporting the knees with inside padding.

The Grapevine

Itzy Bitzy Shoes Are Affordable and Adorable

By Emmi Kern

Footwear can be pricey for families with children, especially those on a budget. Kids grow out of shoes so quickly, it can be tempting to go to a local discount store and pick up the least expensive pair, hoping that they don’t wear out before the child moves up to the next size. But the selection at many large chain stores can be surprisingly small and not always what the parents are looking for. Luckily, shoes don’t have to be expensive to be cute and stylish. Itzy Bitzy carries a great selection of trendy kid’s shoes that won’t hurt the family budget.

The Grapevine

Stick On and Stick Out with Tech Tattz

By Mari Gold

All ages are crazy about electronic devices and here is a new way to show them some love. The creators of Bubble Buttons are back with the next round of fun and quirky tech accessories that dress up and personalize virtually any device. Bubble Buttons are stickers that fit right on the home button, offered as six packs with cute designs like the animal group that includes an owl, penguin, angry love bird, ladybug, panda and goldfish peering out of his bowl. Kids love to trade and stick Tech Tattz on iPads, iPods and iPhones to give them personality. Retailers should note that they also make original small gifts and ideal party favors.

The Grapevine

T-Shirt Tails Gives an Old Style a New Look

By Emmi Kern

Tied-up T-shirts have gone through several phases of popularity, from 1950’s California beach girls to 1980’s pop stars and beyond. From a practical standpoint, it’s a means of keeping an oversized shirt from getting in the way of movement, but it’s also a cute, flirty fashion choice that complements a number of looks. For years, rubber bands have been the T-shirt tie of choice, but now there’s T-Shirt Tails.

The Grapevine

B Ukneeque Accessories Promote Self Esteem

By Laura Vaillancourt

After spending over 35 years inspiring and encouraging youth as a teacher, Belinda Daise felt it was time to solidify her mark. She recognized that there were common factors that often prevented students from having a successful social and emotional experience: peers and self-perception. With a love for children and fashion, she created B Ukneeque. The clothing and accessories line is for girls aged 3 to teens. Products range from shirts to accessory kits to iPad covers. Their very popular accessory kit includes a belt, a “BU” buckle, a bow, and socks; all packaged together making it the perfect gift.

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Fun Boxers Offers Colorful, Comfy Undergarments for Kids

By Emmi Kern

Even though it’s worn under clothes and rarely seen in public, underwear has become quite the fashion item. A time traveler from Victorian times would likely be horrified by the way we freely talk about and advertise undergarments, but it’s no shame at all for companies that manufacture these necessities. Houston-Based Fun Boxers lives up to its name by making fun, hip undergarments for men, women and children. Whether they’re for little kids just learning how to dress themselves or older tweens with picky tastes, these comfy, colorful and trendy garments are designed to look and feel great.

The Grapevine

Just Bones Boardshorts Fit Just Right

By Mari Gold

Just Bones began when Mompreneur Jennifer Weisman was unable to find bathing trunks for her twin sons. Her guys loved the look of boardshorts, but all the available models slipped down their skinny bodies. Weisman took a long look at what was out there and then invented the adjustable waist, concealing it under a small flap held shut by Velcro. Starting with just a few retailers, Weisman hit it big and now Just Bones boardshorts have become a hot item with lots of love flowing their way.

The Grapevine

Hootkid Fashions are Bright and Bold

By Mari Gold

Loud, proud, funky and fun –– Hootkid gives off great energy with a spectacular line of edgy streetwear and accessories for kids. Founded in 2011 by savvy Melbourne-based business woman Caroline Marvelli, these handcrafted clothes have been winning wows from buyers. Shoppers looking to dress mini fashion-setters, urban cowboys, little princesses, budding musicians or experimentalists will find the perfect item from this bold and comfortable collection that offers clothes for hanging at home, for action-filled days of play and everywhere in between.