A Love Letter to Anthropologie

 

Dearest Anthropologie,

 

You are a long-time, trusted friend...one who has proven to be there for me time and time again throughout each stage in life. 

Our relationship began back in 1998 when I was on the market for a new blazer to wear to my college internship interview.  Of course you came through for me.  And as I saved money earned from that first job (landed in part, I'm sure, to my stylish jacket), I peppered my apartment with unique home goods I found in the pages of your catalog. 

When my family expanded, you did too, opening brick and mortar stores in Chicago where you displayed a lovely dress for my bridal shower, detailed dog sweaters for my dear wire fox terrier Skone, unique shirts I could disguise as maternity clothing, and baby hats and sweaters for my children during the holiday seasons. 

Oh, Anthro (can I call you Anthro?), how do I describe the joy I felt when it was announced you were opening a store in Milwaukee only 20 miles from my house?  Do I tell you about the countless times this homeschooling mama of three has hidden away from home and roamed aimlessly around the store taking in it's color palette and prints or about the cherished memories and artwork created by my children during your in-store crafting events and now displayed in my home? 

Where do I even begin...and will it ever end?  No, I'm confident our relationship will forever continue.  For just this week I received news that my aging eyes required reading glasses, and without skipping a beat you offered me multiple stylish designs to choose from...and some colorful hair ties at checkout to pull back my long graying hair.  

 

We are not only friends, Anthro, but family...and our tree is sprouting new branches as the years go by.  My daughter Martha is grafting her own relationship with you.  This past November she was filled with pride when she recognized your name on the Rockefeller Center store when we visited a friend in New York City.  She settle in on the bustling sidewalk, mesmerized, as the designers created your holiday window displays, insisting the whole while that I take detailed photographs so she could attempt to replicate the geodes and yarn designs when we returned home. Yes, our family tree is a healthy one.

We have an excellent track record, you and I.  We are celebrating our 16th anniversary this year, and to date, we've only ever had one argument.  You know the one.  It involved a $6,500 Stand Up Paddleboard out of my financial reach that was stylish enough to ruin the excitement of any other board I would discover after.  And so, board-free I remain, despite living in an ideal SUP location nestled between Lake Michigan and Cedar Creek.  But it's OK, I'm sure over time I will find a way to forgive you.

Thank you, Anthropologie, for walking alongside me through this adventure called life.  I know the warmth I feel when I add a vintage Anthro sweater to my outfit is your loving arms wrapped around me.  A stylish and trusted friend can make even the darkest days a bit brighter...and the glow of your website on my computer screen has always remained one click away, never failing me.  And for that I am forever grateful.

 

Forever yours,
Shannon

 

PS - If you want to settle our squabble once and for all, say the word and I'll forward you my address (FYI: the Kai Ko'o is my favorite board design).

OMG! J.Crew Maternity

I thought my family of five was complete...until I noticed the Maternity Pixie Pant on J.Crew's website this morning.

The Pixie has a classic cigarette silhouette and would be a great staple in any pregnant woman's wardrobe; they will always be in style and can be paired with any shirt!  The Maternity Pixie Pant comes in black, navy and pinot noir (at least there's one safe way to enjoy wine during the 9-month hiatus) and is available at jcrew.com for $118.

If J.Crew expands their maternity line any further, I may have to consider adding to my family...or at least entertain the idea of becoming a surrogate, as my BFF suggested when I told her the news. (I'm joking.  I'm at least 98.2% joking...)

Hatch

 

Those of you who, like me, have completed the pregnancy stage of your lives, you'll relate to my seeing a product, service or tradition and thinking, "Oh, how I wish that had been around/I had thought of that when I was pregnan/had babies!"  This post is about one of those things.

For before, during and after baby, I present Hatch.  This collection of timeless clothing and accessories is any pregnant woman's dream come true!  21 pieces of perfection:  all must-have essentials that you will wear while pregnant and after!  (Wait, perhaps I could sneak a peek at a few things for myself!)

But you don't have to take my word for it.  Check out their entire collection at hatchcollection.com.  I guarantee you'll see something you can't live without...and perhaps a thing or two that will have you contemplating adding to your family again.  I kid.  Kind of.

Peek...Aren't You Curious

As my children grow, they're becoming more and more interested in clothes: colors, styles, patterns, and mixing all of the above.  My son August loves bold colors, fun accessories, and quirky patterns.  My daughters Martha and Hazel usually declare a theme each day as they pick out their clothes side-by-side in their shared room.  Past themes have included specific colors, animals, events, or weather.  But whatever they choose, they're passionate about it and have a reason for each item they come downstairs wearing. 

One brand of clothing I've found we can all agree on is Peek...Aren't You Curious.  My children enjoy their use of historical quotes, geography sites, Liberty of London floral prints, fun colors and soft fabrics.  And I love that their styles are age appropriate...and that their tees have an educational aspect to them. 

With each online order I've place over the years, my package has arrived with extra goodies tucked inside: rubber balls, pins, and tootsie rolls...and always a handwritten thank you note!  And when I've visited their brick and mortar store in Scottsdale, Arizona on vacation, the employees have always been very friendly and shown a genuine interest in my children.  I couldn't recommend this company more! 

To find a store near you or shop online, visit peekkids.com.

Fashion Playtes

Do you have a little girl on your holiday shopping list this year? If so, get ready to cross her name off thanks to Mamapedia and Fashion Playtes.

Expiring soon (November 11) is a great deal on an even better product. For $15 you receive a $30 credit to use at FasionPlaytes.com, a site where the little girl in your life becomes her own clothing designer.

Starting with a shirt, dress or choice of bottom, she will begin to channel her inner fashionista by selecting a style, followed by color and many, many embellishments. Matching doll-size clothes can also be purchased for her American Girl doll!

A site plus: All clothing options are age appropriate; there are no cropped tops or mini skirts!

To purchase this deal visit mamapedia.com through this link. Your confirmation will be emailed to you along with the detailed voucher ID. To give this as a gift, I'd include a copy of the voucher with photos from the site (and perhaps a sketch pad and pencils to further her design interests)!

Calyspo St. Barth for Target

Tomorrow is a big day...the day Calypso St. Barth hits Target! I can't wait to go to the store in the morning and take a look at the pieces I've been dreaming about online the past few months.

On my list so far is an elephant teapot, metallic pouf for my daughters' room, a bathing suit for Hazel, dress for Martha, drinking glasses, a necklace or two, a sequin and straw tote, and some tie dye clothes (I'm a sucker for anything tie or dip dyed). And I'm sure other things will be added to my cart that I didn't even know I needed.

View the collection at target.com and visit your local store...I'm sure the pieces will go fast!

Worn Free

One of my favorite shops for tees is Worn Free. Their styles are true vintage and oh so hip! They reproduce rock shirts worn by legends like John Lennon, Kurt Cobain, Joey Ramone, Debbie Harry and Joan Jett. Talk about timeless cool!

I was excited to see that Worn Free tees are 1/2 off at Zulily right now! If you're thinking of purchasing some for your little guy or girl, you can use coupon code ZUSNAP228 to save 10% off your order of $30 or more. And if you shop through Ebates you'll save another 3.5%! Talk about a deal!

Boden Maternity

You've got to be kidding me. For years I've been saying Boden should make maternity clothes and now that I'm 2 years past having my last child they go and do it?!

For all of you lucky ducks who are pregnant or planning to become so, I tip my hats to you...you now have some amazingly stylish clothes to pick from for your maternity fashion. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't jealous...or seriously considering having a fourth child just for the clothes. Just kidding...for the most part.

Visit this link to boden.com and look under the online exclusive section for the maternity collection.

Tea Collection Sale

Since August was born nearly seven years ago, Tea Collection has been one of my favorite children's clothing company. Their styles are worldly and cozy and always look great in photographs...and their clothing holds up great...even when the second or third child wears hand-me-downs. I was happy to see they're having a blowout sale right now with styles up to 70% off!

I'm also doubly happy because they now make women's clothes! Amazing sweaters, shirts and scarves just calling my name!

Visit teacollection.com to take a look at the collections on sale...and the new ones for Spring! You're sure to find some new staple pieces for your children...and yourself!

liaMolly for Anthropologie

It's one of my favorite times of year...when the children's liaMolly items appear at Anthropologie stores! And to make my heart race even more this year, the girl's clothes are sized up to 4T...and it just so happens Martha is 4! And to justify my inevitable empty pocketbook, I remind myself that Hazel turns 2 next year and each lovely liaMolly for Anthropologie piece purchased gets worn and appreciated by two girls! Lucky them me!!!

Here is a sneak peak at a handful of the collection. There are more at anthropologie.com.

Julian & Co.

I know it seems like giving a baby gift is easy, but it's not always...especially with second or third children when there is no registry. You want to give something that will not go to waste or get thrown in a closet. (Don't judge me, if you're a parent, you know you've done it). So, without further ado, here is my new go-to baby gift!

From Julian & Co. comes this personalized baby hanger. It is hand crafted out of solid maple wood and is adorned with a sterling silver plate. It can be personalized with two lines (think baby's name and birthday). Finally a gift that will be used and seen for years to come!

Available at julianandco.com for $39.00.

Goodbyn on Gilt

We've gone on countless picnics this summer with many amazing friends. And when they've been back-to-back, I've had to quickly clean the stainless steel Lunchbots containers we usually use. So, I decided this summer that when I found a good deal, I'd purchase some more reusable containers for picnics. And today, I found the deal I had been waiting for!

Gilt Group is having an amazing sale for back-to-school shopping! There are clothes, shoes, backpacks, and lunchboxes. Goodbyn lunchboxes. The lunchbox I've had my eye on for quite some time. For only $15.00!

Now, some of you may be surprised by this, seeing as I shy away from anything plastic. But these are BPA-free and safe by CPSIA's standards. And I know my kids will love to eat out of this Bento-style box with the cute small containers. And they'll have ownership over the lunchbox since each one comes with a sheet of stickers to personalize and decorate the box.

If this (or the other amazing back-to-school sales I've mentioned) interest you, click here to visit gilt.com to register and take advantage of the 50% off (or more) deals! But hurry, supplies go fast and the sale is only on for a limited time!

The Little Seed for Target

The Little Seed is a shop started by Soleil Moon Frye (yes, Punky Brewster herself) and her business partner Paige Goldbert. Their brick and mortar store, along with their webshop, feature collections of many of the great products you've seen featured here on this blog. They have also produced some of their own Little Seed clothing. But the latest news is the most exciting...they've partnered with Target!

As expected, all of the items are made with 100% organic cotton...and are priced from $7.99 to $12.99. The line includes clothing, hooded towels, bibs, blankets and more! The colors are fun and bright! Great for mixing and matching! And you won't have to bear through any excess packaging as it is all is eco-friendly without the use of plastic.

Available now through October 16, 2010 in select Target stores and at target.com.

Garnet Hill Sale

There is a huge summer sale going on at Garnet Hill right now. There are so many great deals for toddlers and girls that your head will spin...and most items are 60% off!

With at least two months left of summer, it's a great time to get pieces missing from your child's wardrobe...or to stop up for next summer! but you'll also find many things for yourself as well! I saw a lot of knee length dresses in comfy jersey that will have you comfortable and cool while looking stylish running after your children at the park.

Visit garnethill.com to see all of the great items from some of my favorite designers...many that you've seen here on Ugga Mugga in the past!

1¢ Agoo Leg Huggers

I've written about Agoo Leg Huggers before and how I always have a pair on hand for diaper changes in the Wisconsin winters, to keep my little one's knees protected when they're learning to crawl on our hardwood floors, and for summer day trips when the weather takes an unexpected chilly turn.

If you haven't purchased any Leg Huggers yet, now is the time to give them a try! Agoo is selling Leg Huggers for only 1¢! There is no catch...order only one pair for 1¢ or more than one pair and your first pair will be 1¢ and the rest will be regular price ($10-$12). What am amazing time to order Leg Huggers for your little boy or girl!

They work on baby legs and arms scrunched up and on toddlers and older children as well! Talk about a long-term investment!

Visit agoo4u.com to start browsing their extensive collection today!

NUX

Spring has officially arrived in Wisconsin! And with it comes motivation to step up my exercise routine...pool season is right around the corner.

Over the years I've realized that baggy athletic clothes aren't comfortable to wear...and they certainly aren't flattering. I was excited when I discovered NUX...a company with a fresh approach!

NUX is made in the United States and offers a new engineered seamless fabric that is comfortable and flattering...and comfortable! It's soft and it breathes...and it looks oh so stylish while doing so! Season to season NUX offers a new collection full of tanks, racer back tops, camis, tees, hoodies, leggings and shorts all in amazing colors with a contemporary fit. They're great for mixing and matching!

See all of the amazing colors and styles at nuxusa.com. And use coupon code NUXTWENTYOFF to receive 20% off of your purchase through April 26.

Fashion for Haiti

The earthquake that shook Haiti to it's core was felt by all around the world. The outpouring of love and support was touching...but so much work still needs to be done. The giving needs to continue.

The Fashion for Haiti and Hands Helping Haiti shirts shown here are available at J.Crew for $25.00 each and 100% of the profits from their sales will be donated to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund. The Fund is raising money for immediate, high-impact relief and long-term recovery efforts to help those in Haiti who are most in need of assistance. And having yourself or your child wearing these fashionable tees will continue to raise awareness for the cause.

Buy these charitable tees at jcrew.com.

Liberty of London for Target

As I type this I'm short of breath and my heart is racing. I just learned that my very favorite print design company, Liberty of London, is teaming up with Target!

If you fall under the Liberty-lover category I imagine you're just as excited as me...although there's no way you're more excited than me. If you're not familiar with Liberty, well, you might be and simply not know it. Some of my and my daughters' favorite J.Crew and CrewCuts pieces, for example, are made using Liberty fabrics. And a handful of other boutique brands make good use of the prints as well.

Liberty, located in, you guessed it, London, is famous for their delicate florals, amazing use of colors, and fun style. And soon everyone can get their hands on clothing for him, her and child as well as home goods.

If you want to find me on March 14, the day Liberty hits Target stores, you know where I'll be. Until then, I'll be saving every penny, nickel, dime and dollar I can to spend that very special day. I'm taking donations in you're interested. :)

mimiTENS

My little Hazel is reaching many milestones these days...she's jumping off the ground with both feet, she's feeding herself with a spoon, she's learning five new signs a day, and she's taking her hat and mittens off on her own. The last one is less exciting than the others since it's the dead of winter here in Wisconsin with another 13" of snow added to the ground today. It sure is a good thing that her pair of mimiTENS arrived this week!

mimiTENS makes hats, scarfs and the most amazing mittens for little ones...mittens that prevent drafts up sleeves and mittens that children who should not be taking off their mittens can't take off. And all of their products feature the most fun and adorable designs. But in addition to the designs, mimiTENS makes these great products under equally great standards.

mimiTENS are designed and manufactured in Canada where people are paid a living wage and work in safe environments. There is a great relationship between the craftsmen/women and mimiTENS...they're able to form relationships face-to-face. And all lining in the products is made with Oeko Tex certified bamboo fleece for obvious environmental and health concerns. Those are just a few of the reasons mimiTENS feel so great to wear! Now if only they'd come up with an adult size!

Visit mimitens.com to see the full line of products and to purchase.