New brands added to our Menu
Tina as Around the Web
Jun|28|2009
We already have over 850 brands on our listing & search menus. And, we just added 8 more!
We’re adding to our menus weekly (from a very long list of brands we are researching).
If you have access to the site and see a brand that isn’t on our list, please let us know via this link > Recommend a Brand
Newly Added:
A. J. Morgan Alexis Baby Bunch
Baby Go Retro Bella Bling Busy Bee Bows
Dickies Elegant Baby
Retailers turning to Facebook & Twitter
Tina as Around the Web
Jun|26|2009
While perusing the internet yesterday searching for what’s on sale, I noticed a few children’s retailers were linking to social networks namely, Facebook and Twitter. While I enjoy “poking” my peeps and “tweeting” my thoughts, I was curious what these stores were posting and was pleasantly surprised!
My first stop was Gymboree on Facebook which has more goodies than Gymboree’s Twitter page. On Facebook, they post promos and updates on the latest sales as well as store openings. I especially enjoyed the fan photos and “celebrity sitings” section. There is the “As seen in” post where Gymboree fashions have made an appearance in various magazines. Too bad they don’t give away which magazines offer the latest coupons. (The word on the street is they’re hiding in the June issues of Family Fun and Working Mother.)
For those Gymbo addicts who can’t wait to see what’s next (myself included) they offer a “sneak peek” into their newest lines which will make an appearance on their website on Monday, June 29 and in stores the following day. Check out the pictures above for the new lines; Tea for Two for baby/kid girl - Stunt Man for baby/kid boy - Sweeter than Candy for newborn girls and Jr. Rock Star for newborn boys.
My next stop was Hanna Andersson on Facebook. While Hanna is just getting started, you can upload a fan photo and take a peek at fall 2009. In addition, Hanna’s page has tabs for Offers and Events to keep us up to date as well as a Discussion section to post comments and questions.
Another noteworthy retailer to mention is Lilly Pulitzer on Facebook . On Lilly’s page you can read the story behind the creator, discuss your favorite print, follow the 50th anniversary jeep and get Tweets right from Facebook. You can even pick up some cool Lilly inspired backgrounds for your desktop.
With this new trend, there will be more than one way to get the inside scoop on what’s going on in children’s fashion and we’re just getting started!
Tina for Loobalee.com
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Get on the list to join our upcoming LoobaLee Private Beta! Buy and sell your children’s clothing on-line and outfit your kids for virtually free.
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abercrombie kids
Tina as Around the Web
Jun|24|2009
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When I asked my middle schoolers where they would like to shop, abercrombie is usually at the top of their list. But as a parent, do I want to shop in a store that promotes kids looking like their older college aged counterparts with questionable images,
pricey ripped jeans and tees with “Girl Bait” on them?
While shopping in the store whose target buyer is the cool attractive all-American kid, music blares in the background as you purchase your $50 jeans and $38 moose logo polo shirt from a young “all-American” sales clerk doused in fragrance who you can’t hear just to make your child happy. Which makes me ponder…. Am I mom of the year? or Does this chain have a brilliant marketing strategy? After all, here I am buying and I really don’t want to be here.
I also questioned how a store such as this was fairing in these tough economic conditions. While their competitors are slashing prices to stay afloat, abercrombie is staying the course. Come to find out, the teenage apparel chain has had some of the worst sales declines in the retailing industry. In the last three months Abercrombie & Fitch lost $26.8 million, in contrast to a profit of $62.1 million a year ago.
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Now what are they going to do? Lower the volume in their stores? (I so candidly was told to shop online instead.) Will they change their images to appeal to a broader shopping base? Highly unlikely since CEO, Mike Jeffries wants the stores to have an “emotional experience” which is exclusive to the “good-looking” crowd. 
So the last thing to do is offer up some promotions and discounts for their loyal customers, a tactic A&F refused in order to maintain their high end image until recently. They have announced they will seek better deals from suppliers and pass the savings along to their customers with some more affordable merchandise. In addition, they admitted to missing the trend mark this summer and will be offering more dresses rather than skirts and add colorful and patterned clothing to their lines.
Now, if we can just rally to lower the volume…
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Get on the list to join our upcoming LoobaLee Private Beta! Buy and sell your children’s clothing on-line and outfit your kids for virtually free.
Children’s Clothing Sales June 19
Loobalee as Around the Web
Jun|19|2009
We are just starting out summer break but retailers are beginning to think about back to school already. It’s the beginning of the summer clear out in an effort to make room for fall lines coming next month. Between now and the end of June is the best time to buy at the major retailers if you want the best selection. If you’re going for the deep discounts, wait until July, although the selection won’t be as great.
Here are some of the sales highlight…
Gymboree: Red Balloon Sale sections are organized by $0.99 (e.g. socks), $4.99 and under (mostly accessories, little clothing ), and $7.99 and under (lots of tops and shorts).
Hanna Andersson: Big Twice a Year Sale. Save up to 60%. Sizes are limited.
Garnet Hill: Kids Annual Summer Clearnce Event. Check out their $10 and under page here > $10 Sale
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Current Sales
Click link to Access > Read the rest of this entry »
Chic Tots – for Clever, Stylish Moms & Toddlers
Loobalee as Around the Web
Jun|8|2009
Chic Tots is chock full of parenting essentials that take both style and functionality into account. And one thing we know is that Chic Moms have Chic Tots!
One of the things I love about Twitter is meeting so many fabulous, kindred spirited Mom Entrepreneurs. Michele Good, founder Chic Tots, is one of those such Moms, and I admire the way she successfully bringing new products to market. In fact, the Chic Tots “Chic&Cozy” is now available at Target!!
“At Chic Tots, we make products that are real solutions — functional, comfortable and versatile without sacrificing the ‘chic-factor’. I like to point out that “chic” means cleverly stylish, which I believe describes the line perfectly. Everything is stylish with a purpose to solve a problem”.
In need of a new baby gift? Or, interested in adding a little ‘chic’ to your own gear? To help Michele’s product debut be a success at Target, she has created a special offer for us!
Visit http://chictots.com/offer. Anyone who buys a Chic&Cozy at Target (retailing there for only $29.99 – normal retail is $39.99) by June 13th can send in to receive a free Chic&Carry Wipes holder from Chic Tots. T his is a $5.99 value. All the details are in the /offer link.
Like Chic Tots? You can follow Michele and Chic Tots on Twitter and Facebook too!
Organic Beginings Giveaway!
Loobalee as Around the Web
Apr|29|2009
Organic Beginings puts the “Ooh in Organic”. New on the scene, this organic line for infants and toddlers does outfits in an absolutely luscious color range: Blueberry, Apple Green, Citrus, Papaya – Yum!
I personally adore the Organic Socks and Leggings - not to be missed!
All Organic Beginings clothing is GOTS certified, an important distinguishment issued by the Global Organic Trade Standard.
We asked founder Ange Hanna how she got started, “I looked so long for fun, bright,
great quality organic baby clothing and just couldn’t find them anywhere so I decided to design my own and put the “Ooh in Organics ” with some fun bright colors”.
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The Easiest Give Away Ever!
Just follow these 2 simple steps and you can be entered to win a full set of Organic Beginings: Onesie, Kimono Onsie, Pants, and Hat – a $55 value!! You choose the size (up to 18 months) and color (one of 4 shown at right). Plus, Ange will include a surprise gift for Mom too ❀ What an amazing offer!
1) Fan our new LoobaLee Facebook page http://budurl.com/LoobaLeeFacebook
2) Follow Organic Begnings on Twitter and @reply Ange with a mention of “@LoobaLee” http://www.twitter.com/organicbegining
That’s it! Enter Now – We’ll accept entries though Sunday May 10 (Mother’s Day)
And of course LoobaLee is always anxious to promote Mom-preneurs who make the dive into designer children’s clothing, so we partnered with Ange to offer you a FREE GIFT with purchase just by mentioning you read about them on LoobaLee when you place your order!
Thanks Organic Beginings!
* Suzanne Rielle, Co-founder, Loobalee.com
Get on the list to join our upcoming LoobaLee Private Beta! Buy and sell your children’s clothing on-line and outfit your kids for virtually free.
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Vote for Kids Are Heroes (& Win!)
Loobalee as Around the Web
Apr|25|2009
This is a little off topic from our normal postingson anything and everything to do with kids clothes and the designer children’s clothing market, but I feel compelled to share this special story. Mainly, I feel connected by my own story in starting LoobaLee, and Kids Are Heroes is an organization to which our Featured Sellers may be compelled to contribute (Read more about our Featured Seller program).
Their story goes…
MaryMargaret, a 9 year old, asked her Dad one day to help her start this website. Encourage by the opportunity to change the world using social technology, her Dad, Gabe, gladly helped her out. And, KidsAreHeroes.com was born.
KidsAreHeroes is dedicated to recognizing special kids everywere who volunteer their time and make a difference in their communities. It started local, but is growing. Businesses are starting to get involved and interest has increased to where you can vote for KidsAreHeroes on Richard Bransons Pitch TV site to help them obtain funding to grow to meet the increasing demand. Click on the Video link below to watch — and cast your vote!
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I’m thankful to have met up with Gabe on Twitter. You can follow him at http://www.twitter.com/KidsAreHeroes. You’ll be glad you did. Gabe & MaryMargaret have inspired me and I hope they inspire you too.
Did you vote?
If so, leave a comment below and we’ll enter you in a drawing to win a F*R*E*E Annual Subscription to LoobaLee. It’s a win-win!
* Suzanne Rielle, Co-founder, Loobalee.com
Get on the list to join our upcoming LoobaLee Private Beta! Buy and sell your children’s clothing on-line and outfit your kids for virtually free.
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Juvie Joy for Tweens
Loobalee as Around the Web
Apr|3|2009
It’s great to see successful stores take their business on-line! Here’s another winner — The Juvie Shop for Tweens.
And, literally, they are a winner. They received the most recent Los Angeles Parents Choice Award for Best “Big Kid” Clothes. The Juvie Shop specializes in the 7-14 tween size range — something we don’t see very often, which may explain their success to date.
Owner, Kristen Taylor, was inspired to establish Juvie Shop when her own kids grew out of Little Kid clothes and she couldn’t find clothing that wasn’t too grown-up and inappropriate for girls, or too boring for boys:
“When I’m looking at all of the different designer’s lines that we carry for any particular season, or evaluating something new, here’s what I keep in mind: Is it modern and up to date? Will the fit be appropriate to the age? Is the styling age-appropriate too? And does it manage to be stylish, up to date, or even a little fashion forward? Does it have a sense of whimsy? Does it pass the “cool” test? Is it the best quality? And will the parents who shop in the store tell us, “I wish you had this in my size”? “
We found distinctive and tasteful brands such as Roxy, Jean Bourget, Paul Frank, It Jeans, Splendid Tween, Ella Moss Girl, Charlie Rocket, Wes and Willy, Kingsley, Inky Dink, Micros, Quiksilver, and more.
Some special touches? They offer on-line Gift Cards (because many older kids like to pick out their own stuff!) and they offer great Gift Wrapping services with Flat Rate shipping of $7 in U.S.
So, do you have ‘Big Kids’ or need a gift idea for a Tween? Stop on over and check out the Juvie Shop. We think you’ll be glad you did!
Get on the list to join our upcoming LoobaLee Private Beta! Buy and sell your children’s clothing on-line and outfit your kids for virtually free.
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Shop Dimples for Clothes and Gifts that Make Children Smile
Loobalee as Around the Web
Mar|31|2009
We met up with Cindy and Dayna, owners of Dimples on Twitter, and enjoy helping Moms promote their children’s boutiques ‘Around the Web’. Read on for a special promotion just for all you Twitterers!
Dimples started in Long Island in 2006. 
After success with their store, these two entrepreneurial Moms decided to take their favorite finds for children on-line in 2008.
“Dimples was started to provide moms as well as any other gift givers with the coolest, funkiest baby products available. We are constantly looking for new and exciting products to make sure our customers are completely satisfied.”
A few things we like about Dimples:
- $5.95 flat rate shipping
- Free shipping on all orders over $100
- 30 Day return policy
- Ongoing specials and promotions
- Moms who really know their product – having sold it in stores
As in the tagline, “For Clothes and Gifts that Make Children Smile”, we found some unique, happy things for children (and Moms too!) in Cindy and Dayna’s on-line store. For instance, check out the Tivoli Couture Stroller liners, which will spruce up and add tons of personality to your little one’s stroller. And, they are currently on sale too!
Ok Twitterers, here’s a special for you. Use Code “TWITTER” at check out and save 10% on your entire purchase! And, don’t forget to follow @Dimplesshop too.
– Loobalee.com
Get on the list to join our upcoming LoobaLee Private Beta! Buy and sell your children’s clothing on-line and outfit your kids for virtually free.
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Teacups & Mudpies — A Chic Boutique for Kids Who Like to Play
Loobalee as Around the Web
Mar|29|2009
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Spring is in the air at Teacups and Mudpies! We love the style and price points of the Sweet Shoes for babies and children shown above.
You’ll find a full range of Sweet Shoes among other carefully selected brands by Teacups and Mudpies owner, Holly Paul:
“I am so excited to have the opportunity to offer only the best in children’s specialty items offered today. I work very hard to find the latest and most upcoming styles and designers.”
For a new boutique, we would have to agree. At LoobaLee, we have a list of brands over 1,000 long. And, much to our surprise, we found a couple of Holly’s selected brands that weren’t on our list! This alone indicates Holly spends a significant amount of time researching and choosing the brands she offers: such as Princess Linens, Whimy Ranch, Lilputians, Dilly Bop Designs, Fuzzy Me, Kamara shoes and more!
It’s not easy to stand out in the world of on-line children’s boutiques these days. We’re noticing that those that do well have highly desirable brands and focus on a niche (notably, these aren’t always the sites that have the most brands and inventory!). We think Holly is on the right track with a targeted niche toward the chic, unique, and playful.
I’m sure Holly would appreciate your feedback on the new Teacups and Mudpies boutique. Comment below, or visit the boutique and blog. We think you’ll enjoy your visit!
– Loobalee.com
Get on the list to join our upcoming LoobaLee Private Beta! Buy and sell your children’s clothing on-line and outfit your kids for virtually free.
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