There's a difference...and not just the price!

Recently I was invited to join a Facebook fan page of one of the labels I stock. These fans post pictures of their children wearing their favourite label, they buy, swap and sell pieces on the page and have generally good spirited conversations about why they love this particular label so much. They are fiercely protective of said label and go to extreme lengths to grab their favourite items and add to their collection. 

One fan posted a question today and it made me think......I need to write about this! It's something I am fiercely passionate about. 

This fan stated that she likes to dress her children well however a family member thinks she wastes her money buying boutique labels when she could buy trackies from chain stores for $5.00. 

When you buy a $5.00 t-shirt or $8.00 pair of jeans, ask yourself where did it come from, who made it, what pay did they receive, did they work a standard week and under fair conditions? Could you really make a t-shirt for $5.00 and tick all the fair and ethical work conditions boxes?

Child labour in China and many other parts of the developing world is a huge problem and reports show that it's increasing at a rapid rate. It's estimated that of the 10 million children out of school, 5 million of them are working in factories. Many of these children are forced to work over 10 hours a day and they are as young as 5 years old! Can you imagine your own 5 year old picking cotton or packing boxes for over 5 hours a day with very little pay and virtually no breaks? The conditions they work in are horrid and beyond belief. Child kidnappings are on the increase and it's believed they are being sold to factories as slave labour. 

My challenge to ALL the major chain stores is to show consumers that they don't support child labour and that they do manufacture under fair and ethical working conditions. 

Next time you go to buy the bargain pair of coloured jeans or cute tee, think about how much it cost to make it, who made it, where was it made and was it made under ethical conditions for fair pay. My theory is, if I wouldn't let my daughter work under those conditions, why would I pay for someone else's child to do it. 

Labels we trust are ethically made under fair working conditions include Oishi-m, Baobab, Skeanie, Uh-Oh! Sleepwear, Gaia Organic Cotton and Silkberry Baby. Let us know your favourites. 

Nursery Ideas

When I fell pregnant I couldn't wait to get stuck into the nursery (do people still use that word?). I love decorating, maybe just because it's an excuse to shop, but mostly it's putting my own personal touch on something and at the end I can look back and see what I've accomplished. It's even better when I'm given a strict budget as that has it's own challenges.

When I found out I was having a girl I was thrilled. There are so many options for girls! But what about the boys? Opening Petit Armoir also opened my eyes to just how many great options for boys nursery's there are. Parents told me they wanted fun, classic, different, easily transitioned to toddler and kids, adaptable and list goes on and on.

Here are some of my ideas that hopefully you'll like and can use in your own designer nursery.

I'm always on the look out for great baby room decor and interesting pieces to add that individual touch to a room. If you know a brand or there's something you'd like to see Petit Armoir stock, let us know via email. 

Winter Preview - Part IV

I've just received word that Winter 13 range for Milky will be arriving at any time now. I'm so excited to share a sneak peak at the stock arriving in the next week. I really hope you love the range as much as I do. It's definitely a staple in my little ones wardrobe. 

The boys have done particularly well with this seasons designs. 

All pieces are designed to mix and match and I think what I love most about Milky's everyday wear is that not only is it so well priced with tee's around $20 and the puffa jacket priced at just a mere $44.95 (!!), they are also extremely good quality. So for boys who run and jump and play slip and slide in the mud, this range is perfect. 

As for the girls, there are some very pretty pieces this winter and again they are so affordable and so well made. 

I love that jodhpurs are back! And check out the gorgeous tutu skirt that's not pink but will team perfectly with all that is pink in your princesses wardrobe. Those hooded puffa vests are so practical and do you recognize the lining fabric in the hood? It's the geo print they had this summer past for some of their skirts and dresses. The puffa vest also has a removable hood and it's only $39.95. 

I can't wait to get it all out on the racks and the hardest part for me will be to try not to raid my own stock as the wearability of this label is so good! It will be available in sizes 3-7 and feel free to email me if there's anything you want to pre-order. 

Winter 2013 - Part III

Oishi-m's [Oy-shee-em] limited edition garments splash kimono, vintage and retro fabrics together with denim and cotton to create funky unique garments for newborn babies to busy little people (5-6 years old) 

Oishi-m's coming Autumn 13 collection is shaping up to be their biggest ever yet. Though being limited in nature, they don't last long before being sold out. Here's a sneak peak from their coming collection which will be in store at PetitArmoir in late February. 

This collection sees bright rainbow stripes in bold colours mixed with beautifully textured fabrics in lime green, blues, reds and yellows. Hoodies and Track Pants are also released this collection in amazing purple Japanese fabrics, vibrant reds and deep blues. 

Oishi-m is proudly designed in Torquay and made in Melbourne.

Winter 2013 - Part II

Our next installment of Winter 2013 comes via Freshbaked. This funky and fresh label for 0-14 year olds won't break the bank and has casual wear and pieces for special occasions.

Check out what's hot this winter:

Every girl needs a puffer jacket and this belted version is perfect for those cold wintery days. Fully lined with polka dot fabric, this jacket has a hidden hood and detachable back bow. Available in Cashmere Pink, sizes 3 to 7 and retailing for $69.95. To pre-order email here. 

Stylish and sophisticated. This charcoal Duffle Coat is a classic piece that will can be handed down to younger siblings, yet still be in style. Fully lined with a detachable hood, this wool blend coat retails for a mere $79.95. For pre-orders email here.

American Muscle is the title of this collection. Distressed cord jeans in navy (RRP $54.95), long sleeve muscle tee in navy (RRP $34.95) and a black quilted jacket (RRP $69.95) work perfectly together to ooze casual cool. It's all available in sizes 3 to 14 and you can pre-order by emailing us here. 

The whole vintage thing is still in and I love this very girly look in their Tea for 2 story. The Tea Cup long sleeve tee (RRP $29.95) has floral applique vintage tea cup and bow detailing and is available in sizes 3 to 14. The Vintage Lace Skirt (RRP $44.95) in pink features lace and poplin ruffle on the diagonal and an elastic waistband. Available in sizes 3 to 14 also. Finally you could wear these Vintage Lace Leggings (RRP $24.95) with so many outfits. They also come in pink or vanilla and are available in sizes 3 to 14. Pre-order by emailing us here. 

This Grey Marle Pea Coat is a steal for $79.95! Isn't it gorgeous! Fully lined and A-Line in shape, it will suit all body shapes and is available in sizes 8-14. Pre-order by emailing us here. 

Next time we'll be sharing some more new editions from Oishi-m and stay tuned for some big announcements on the new labels joining the Petit Armoir family this year! 

Winter Wardrobe Sorted

I can't believe I'm even thinking about woolen coats and beanies considering it's so damn hot outside! But there is only 6 weeks of summer left and if your anything like me, this is the time I start assessing what I've got stashed away for my kids winter wardrobe, what we can still fit into from last year and what we need to purchase this year. 

I have a little check list I like to follow: 

5 "every day" long sleeve tee's
2 "good" tops
4 jumpers
2 pull-overs/hoodies
2 long sleeve shirts
2 "good" winter dresses for special occasions
3 "every day" dresses
3 pairs of "every day" jeans or pants
1 pair of "good" jeans
3 skirts
1 "good" coat
1 "everyday" parka
1 raincoat
3 pairs of tights
10 pairs of socks (because you'll loose at least 4 of them!)
2 pairs of gloves
2 beanies
2 scarves
1 pair of sneakers
1 pair of "good" shoes
1 pair of gumboots
10 pairs of undies
10 singlets/vests
5 spencers
5 pairs of winter PJ's
1 dressing gown
1 pair of slippers/Ugg boots

It looks like a lot when you list it like that doesn't it! But if you grab some sale items from last season, combine some hand-me-downs and clothes you've put away, you usually only have to buy 1/3 to half that amount. I also like to buy summer clothes that can double as winter fashion pieces. Layer a long sleeve tee under a t-shirt or smock dress and you'll get an extra season out of it. 

Here are a few of the Petit Armoir sale pieces that can be doubled as Winter wardrobe essentials:

Add a grey long sleeve tee under this gorgeous dusty pink palysuit by Baobab and you'll get a whole other season out of it!

This ChalknCheese Bella Special Occasion Dress can be work over a cream long sleeve tee and cream tight. Add some Chocolate boots from the new WALNUT Melbourne Winter collection and you've created a classic stunning outfit. 

Not just for the girls. Add a white or cream long sleeve tee under this Oishi-m Steal Tee and get 12 months instead of 6 months wear out of it. 

Layer this Freshbaked tee over a pair of jeans and a long sleeve tee in white, red or navy and not only will he be extra warm but you've just given him a funky new outfit!

Tips for Little Ones in the Heat

Tomorrow is forecast for 43'C here in Albury! That's damn hot!!

I fully intend on having an early morning swim and spending the rest of the day indoors under the cooler. Our main concern is bush fires and heat stroke during this week long heatwave that started today. 

If you have a small child or baby and you live anywhere in the vicinity of say Melbourne to Canberra and across to Broken Hill then take note. Kids are especially susceptible to extreme temperatures and so here's a few tips for keeping them cool during these very hot days.....

• It goes without saying, avoid taking your baby or child outside during extreme heat. If you have to go outside, make sure that your baby's skin is protected from the sun by keeping in the shade or by covering the skin with loose clothing and a hat. Use baby or toddler formula sunscreen on parts of the baby’s skin which cannot be covered by clothing.  

• Make sure they keep up their fluids. Extra breastfeeds if you're breastfeeding only (which means extra water for you Mums) and lots of plain old water for kids. Small amounts of cooled boiled water is good for formula fed babies in these conditions. 

Wean Meister Freezer Pods are a great way to make frozen treats on hot days

• Frozen treats such as watermelon, grapes and other fruits can be a refreshing and healthy treat during hot weather. 

• Dress babies and children in light, loose clothing. Nappies and singlets are ideal in this weather. 

Baobab Organic Cotton Bodysuit - Light clothing is best for hot days

• Lukewarm baths and sponging with water can be helpful for keeping cool. Don't put children or babies under cold showers or in cold water baths. 

• Choose the coolest place in the house for babies or young children to sleep and make sure the air can circulate around the bassinet or cot (remove any liners or padding). Don’t leave babies to sleep in a pram.  

• If you have no fan or air-conditioner, you can cover your baby or toddler’s body with cool damp cloths and place wet towels or sheets around the bassinet or cot to cool the air immediately near them. Check your baby regularly to make sure they are not getting too cold. 

• Don't forget to look after yourself too! Make sure you're hydrated, wear light cool clothing and stay out of the sun. 

I hope everyone stays safe throughout the next week of heat. Don't forget we have loads of online shopping specials including Sizzling Saturday with 15% off all sales items by entering sizzling at the checkout (offer valid from 05/01/2013 - 06/01/2013). 

Stay Cool!