You wouldn’t expect anything less from the Rihanna Savage X Fenty Maternity Collection, would you?

We’re willing to bet that most moms (and moms-to-be) have been caught off-guard by Rihanna’s incredible maternity style at least once or twice. Even if you’re not a football fan, who could forget her halftime performance back in February? (Please tell us we’re not the only ones who immediately started digging through our closets for anything red afterward.) And did you catch her stunning all-white maternity ensemble from the Met Gala this year—including a white A-line Valentino gown that showed off her baby bump?

Really, though, all you have to do is scroll RiRi’s Instagram to get the full picture of her mom style, as she glows all the way through her second pregnancy with partner A$AP Rocky. So it’s no surprise at all that her new Rihanna Savage X Fenty Maternity Collection is everything we could possibly want.

Dennis Leupold/Savage X Fenty

 

The new maternity capsule is about bringing that confidence and comfort to moms at every stage of their journeys. I want to remind people that you can still channel sexiness and feel-good while being a parent,” Rihanna explained.

Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty line is known for fun, flirty, size-inclusive lingerie, loungewear, activewear, and even a men’s line. And her Maternity Core Collection styles are inspired by Savage X’s best-selling bralettes—Savage X Cotton, Floral Lace, and Savage Not Sorry—with added features moms live for. Think: a full nursing sling with a neckline-to-underarm opening, adjustable front-facing straps, nursing clasps that easily click into place, and a fourth row of back clasps. Savage X also added an oversized t-shirt with a cheeky ‘Make More Babies‘ message. We wouldn’t expect anything less from Rihanna.

The Maternity Core Collection bralettes are offered in sizes XS–4X, while the oversized graphic tee is offered in YOUniversal sizes XXS–4X (we told you Savage X embraces size-inclusivity, didn’t we?). Prices range from $34.95–$49.95 for Xtra VIP Members ($44.95–$59.95 for non-Xtra VIP Members). If you’re like us, you’ll want one of everything.

Savage X Cotton Maternity Bralette

Savage X Fenty

This ultra-comfy bralette features nursing clasps at the straps, full maternity sling layers for easy single-handed fastening, 2-ply cotton jersey cups that feel smooth against the skin, and adjustable straps. Available in 3 colors: Platinum Grey (pictured), Black Caviar, and Navy Blue. Savage X Cotton Maternity Bralette ($34.95+)—Buy Here!

Savage Not Sorry Lace Maternity Bralette

Savage X Fenty

The Savage Not Sorry Lace Maternity Bralette features nursing clasps at the straps, a strappy maternity sling, microfiber lining at the cups for a smooth feel, plush accents for sensitive skin, and adjustable supportive straps. It comes in two colors: Purple Lavender (pictured) and Black Caviar. Savage Not Sorry Lace Maternity Bralette ($39.95+)—Buy Here!

Floral Lace Maternity Bralette

Savage X Fenty

The Floral Lace Maternity Bralette features triangle cups with nursing clasps at the straps, a full maternity sling layer for easy single-handed fastening, microfiber lining at the cups for a smooth feel, plush accents for sensitive skin, a crisscross detail in front, and adjustable straps. Available in the Black Caviar hue. Floral Lace Maternity Bralette ($39.95+)—Buy Here!

Make More Graphic Tee

Savage X Fenty

This cheeky oversized tee is 100% cotton and is available in sizes XS-4X. Make More Graphic Tee ($44.95+)—Buy Here!

 


All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of Savage X Fenty & Dennis Leupold where noted.

There’s nothing like back-to-school shopping to get everyone excited about fall and getting back to class. This is what you’ll find at local NYC boutiques for back-to-school gear, clothes and more, for kids just starting school or those too cool for it. (i.e, your seven-year-old, etc.) Read on to send your kid to school in style!

Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store

STATE

An “everything but the kitchen sink” independent shop, Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store has many great backpacks at various price points (including State Bags, shown here, that have a compelling “Give Back” model). Plus, lunch boxes such as Yumboxes that make it really easy to pack lunch thanks to little compartments, as well as lots of Stainless Steel options too. To pack along with lunch, Blue Ribbon sells lunch box notes and to write thoughtful and fun messages for your kid. They also have several teaching games and tools, such as multiplication flashcards, sight word cards,  games for learning about money, math, reading, and maps too! 

232 5th Ave. Brooklyn
Park Slope
718-522-9848
Online: blueribbongeneralstore.com

CAMP

Mimi O'Connor

This year, CAMP has so many fun and unique products that would make any kid excited to hit the books again. With four shops between Manhattan and Brooklyn, it’s your one-stop back-to-school shop for play, media and merchandise that’s enriching and, of course, fun. Popular items include Ooly Left-Right Ergonomic Crayons, colorful EPIC everyday backpacks, corkboards, unicorn erasers, and CAMP's own signature duffle bag.

110 5th Ave
Flatiron
Online: camp.com

10 Columbus Circle 
The Shops at Columbus Circle,
Columbus Circle 
Midtown

20 Hudson Yards
Hudson Yards

1 Dekalb Ave.
City Point
Downtown Brooklyn 

Smoochie Baby

Smoochie Baby

Popular items for kids returning to school this year at Smoochie Baby include CarlijnQ Backpacks—an all-organic brand from the Netherlands—Old Soles Champsters high-tops, the Rowdy Sprout Frank Zappa tee, My Little Cozmo Dakota Sherpa Jacket and Fairwell sweats.

110 Berry St. 
Williamsburg
718-384-3340
Online: smoochiebaby.com

Book Culture

Amol S. via Yelp

Your local independent bookstore is also often a great place for distinctive writing materials. Book Culture, which has four locations sells pencils, pens and groovy notebooks, as well as stylish ways to tote them around, like pencil cases, backpacks and more. 

26-09 Jackson Ave.
Long Island City
718-440-3120
Online: bookculture.com

536 W. 112th St. 
Morningside Heights 
2915 Broadway
Morningside Heights 

Jane's Exchange

Janes Exchange via Yelp

Not many second-hand kids' clothes shops remain, but Jane's Exchange, the largest and oldest children's and maternity Store in NYC, recently opened its second storefront in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Fashion-wise, new this season are fall corduroy pants, overalls, and overall pinafores. High-quality basics from Mini Boden, Hanna Andersen, Primary, Milo, Rock Your Kid are all the rage in shades of softer greys, browns, muted colors and animal prints. Plus, sneakers from Jordans to Vans are attracting kids of all ages.

191 East 3rd St.
East Village
212-677-0380
Online: janesexchange.com

443 7th Ave.
Park Slope
347-987-4192

Consignment4kids.com

Consignment4Kids

Another option for scoring some gently-used (or even new!) kids' clothes is the new online kid's consignment shop Consignment4kids.com. The virtual secondhand shop was Started by an NYC mom (and Tinybeans contributor!) who wanted to give hardly-worn pieces another chance to shine, while also providing fellow parents some bargains, and the possibility of earning a few bucks. Consignment4kids.com is stocked with clothes and accessories for boys and girls from infant to age eight. Brands you'll find in the store include Jacadi, Pink Chicken and Polo Ralph Lauren, and items are priced to move! Pickup and dropoff can be arranged for a small fee, or you can mail in items. If your merch doesn't sell after 90 days Consignment4kids will donate the items for you to organizations like Room to Grow and Goodwill. 

Online: consignment4kids.com

Grandma’s Place

Grandma's Place via Yelp

Recently featured in Humans of New York, Grandma’s Place is your one-stop-shop for toys, games, and books—it’s a real neighborhood gem in Harlem. Many books and toys they sell have an ethnic focus, such as the books Tea Cakes for Tosh, Sulwe, Curls, and the coloring book Princess Planet. Outdoor, musical, and Melissa & Doug toys are also available.

84 W 120th St.
Harlem
212-360-6776
Online: grandmasplaceinharlem.com

Parachute Brooklyn

Parachute Brooklyn via Yelp

Parachute Brooklyn offers gently used modern and vintage clothing for kids ages 0-10. The boutique also carries a selection of new accessories as well as small-batch, one-of-a-kind pieces from local designers with a focus on upcycled materials. Big hits this fall include Parkland backpacks, socks from Happy Socks and Little Stocking Co., hair accessories from Chunks and Wunderkin Co., Umbrellas from Hipster Kid, and quilted jackets from SAJ. The shop’s selection of second-hand jackets and sweaters are among the top sellers this season.

151 Norman Ave.
718-383-0567
Greenpoint
Online: parachutebrooklyn.com

Babesta

Rowdy Sprout

It’s fashion-forward in this downtown NYC shop. Babesta’s newest collection of Rowdy Sprout T-shirts are in, and they're essential for making a style statement this fall. Tagless and made in LA, there's a Rowdy Sprout t-shirt for every music fan, big and little. 

56 Warren St.
Tribeca
646-290-5508
Online: babesta.com

Two Kids and a Dog 

Natalia J. via Yelp

A DUMBO destination for families with kids for, Two Kids and a Dog sells a mix of baby, kid and tween goods. Here’s where you’ll find a ton of toys, kids' clothing, shoes, scooters, birthday gifts and more—i.e., a well-curated inventory of a little bit of everything. Pick up your child’s high-quality essentials here, such as colorful water bottles from Eco vessel and Swell, backpacks from Herschel and Parkland, and lunch boxes from Yumbox and Omielife. 

65 Pearl St. 
DUMBO
646-342-4549
Online: twokidsandadog.com 

Awesome Brooklyn

brooklyn kids store
Awesome Brooklyn

This one-of-a-kind gift shop carries everything from New York-themed mugs and baby gear, to swirly pastel chalk and Grow-Your-Own-Unicorn toy eggs. Staffers say all things organizing are hot for back-to-school, such as the Julie Mollo clutches shown here, whimsical “To-do” pads, feelings trackers, and general self-care goods. 

617 Flatbush Ave.
(between Fenimore Street and Rutland Road)
Prospect Lefferts Gardens 
718-928-7484
Online: awesomebrooklyn.com

main photo: Rowdy Sprout 

—Rachel Sokol

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When I became pregnant with my first child, a friend told me that I really didn’t need to buy any maternity clothes. My reactions ranged from “oh good, I can save money” to “but how am I going to fit a growing belly under half of what I own?” As my pregnancy progressed and my body continued to change, I realized that there was a lot of truth to what she had said.  While every pregnancy is different, and how a woman’s body responds to it varies greatly, but generally, there are only a few essential items that one actually needs during the 9 (well, really 10) months.  Especially if you’re on a budget, you’re a minimalist, or you just don’t see the rationale for buying something you’ll only wear for a few months, here is what you need:

MUST BUYS:

2-3 Maternity Bras: Your boobs are going to get big.  For some women, they may just go up a cup size (or two).  Others may go up multiple cup sizes, plus their rib cage may expand as well.  Buying maternity bras are a great investment because they are (1) designed to fit an expanding bustline, which happens during most of pregnancy and (2) you can use them postpartum, especially if you choose to breastfeed.  I personally bought 3, right off Amazon: a white and black one, and a “night” nursing bra that offered support but also was comfortable enough to wear at night.  The best time to buy a bra is mid-pregnancy, when you’re about 5 or even 6 months along (or basically when you can’t fit into your regular bras anymore).  Cost: $40 per bra.

2 Belly Bands: These basically look like spandex tube tops, which you can wear over your hips/your waist put still hold up your pants.  In theory, you can still wear your regular pants/shorts/skirts, and when you can’t zip or button them anymore (or at all), the belly bands hold them in place and cover up the fact your zipper is, well, unzipped.  You can also wear them postpartum, and because they are spandex…it helps smooth a few things out…like Spanx!  I bought a black and a white version. Cost: $20 per band.

2-3 Cotton Tank Tops or Shirts: You may already have a couple neutral-colored tank tops or shirts in your wardrobe that you can use, but if not, having a couple ones that act as your “base layer” is key.  If it’s winter, you can wear a sweater over it for a layered look; if it’s spring or summer, just accessorize with a colorful scarf or jewelry.  You can buy these shirts at H&M, Target, Old Navy, Gap. Cost: $10 per shirt.

1 Maxi Skirt or Dress: If you already this in your wardrobe, use it.  If not, you can easily get one off Amazon, or at H&M.  The material should be stretchy enough, and getting a neutral solid color is best, as you can layer it with a blazer, a sweater, or accessorize with jewelry, a scarf, or a belt (put it right under your boobs).  This can also be worn in all seasons, and remember, you can always wear it post-partum as well.  Cost: $40.

OPTIONAL:

Maternity Tights:  If you tend to wear a lot of skirts or dresses, and your second half of your pregnancy will be in the fall/winter, buying 1-2 pairs of maternity tights is key. You can only go for so long trying to either pull up your tights above your growing bump, or wearing them around your hips.  It’s uncomfortable and awkward.  Maternity tights have a big panel at the waistline that is expandable, so you can easily fit them above your belly.  Get them off Amazon.  Cost: $20.

A Maternity Swimsuit: If you want to swim during your pregnancy (which I highly recommend, especially in the last few months!), having a swimsuit that you feel comfortable in is key.  Of course, there are some women that feel totally comfortable in bikinis, with their belly on display, but others prefer a more modest approach.  I purchased mine at a maternity store, but there are a lot of options at Motherhood Maternity, Amazon, or even Target.  I found that the “tankini” st‌yle was the best option for me, as the top portion had a larger panel that I could adjust to fit over my belly as I grew bigger, which also made it easier to get it on and off.  Cost: $50.

If cost isn’t a factor, then you can certainly add to this list.  There are tons of stylish maternity clothes out there (which you can get from maternity or non-maternity stores), but a lot of them you really don’t need, or perhaps you’ll only wear the for a month or two.  In most cases when buying any items, buy your pre-pregnancy size.  Regardless, before you start to go shopping, make sure to assess your wardrobe, and see what you could wear for a portion of the pregnancy and what is not possible (your pencil skirt? No. Blazers, sweaters, high-waisted dresses, stretchy shirts, yes.).  I recommend you remove all items that are in the “no” category immediately and put it to the back of the closet.  Your body changes rapidly and being reminded of something that you can’t possibly wear during those months will just make you overwhelmed. Remember to assess your wardrobe at multiple points during your pregnancy.  Your belly will probably get bigger than you think it will be if you just do this when you’re only 4 months along!

Finally, don’t forget to assess your wardrobe at the end of your pregnancy.  Your body won’t suddenly morph into the body it was when you arrive back home immediately after delivery, so you should have a few options for this “interim period.”  For some, it may only last a few weeks; others, it will last months.  The last thing you need when you are in the early days of postpartum is to agonize over “not having anything to wear” or to wear what you wore when you were 9 months pregnant.  You’ll probably still look a little pregnant, so having loose, comfortable clothes is key. Your body takes time to get back to the way it was, so another reason for recycling your “non-pregnant clothes” or having just a few basics in your wardrobe that may not technically be maternity wear.  It will definitely help your postpartum moral!

Rachel Spurrier, Founder of Go & Glow, is an RRCA Certified Running Coach and Pre and Post Natal Corrective Exercise Specialist.  A seven-time marathoner and Boston Marathon qualifier, she is also a mom to a two year old and currently pregnant with her second child. 

NYC’s playgrounds and parks are wonderful. But when it’s freezing cold (or broiling hot, for that matter) you want a place where you and the kids can amuse yourselves in temperature-controlled splendor. You probably already know what’s happening at your local Barnes & Noble for the barely crawling and up set, or at the Apple stores for older kids. Now let Red Tricycle clue you in about 15 more sites, both world-famous and under-the-radar, where your little ones are guaranteed to find some fun.

photo via plainpaul on Flickr

MAJOR PLAYERS

Toys R Us Times Square
Sure, the ferris wheel and animatronic dinosaur are big draws. But they also come with long lines and scary noises. Avoid the waits (and the meltdowns that come with them) as well as the fear factor by heading straight to such lesser known attractions as the Thomas the Tank Engine play-table next to the book area, or the life-sized Barbie playhouse. Plus, the store is peppered with sales associates demonstrating the latest, hottest toys that your child is welcome to take for a spin (no purchase required). Try to go on weekday mornings, when the tourists are at a minimum.

Toys R Us Times Square
1514 Broadway
Midtown
646-366-8800
Online: toysrusinc.com

Bank Street Bookstore
Looking for something less corporate than Barnes & Noble? Come February, the bookstore that’s affiliated with a college of education is moving into brand new digs on 107th Street and Broadway. But don’t worry, the daily story-hours for toddlers,  musical story times and Fractured Fables puppet shows (not to mention the regular concerts by local kids and guest readings by celebrity authors like Stephen Colbert and Julianne Moore) are making the move right along with the Upper West Side favorite. Be the first to check out their refurbished space by clicking on over to the store’s web site!

Bank Street Bookstore
107th & Broadway
Upper West Side
212-678-1654
Online: bankstreetbooks.com

Disney Store Times Square
Just like all food consumed outside of the home has “no calories”, all media watched away from your digs doesn’t count as screen-time — right? Not only does the Disney Store in Times Square feature every piece of Big D tie-in merchandise known to man — from Cinderella slippers to Buzz Lightyear wings — all three of you can hang out in the video lounge area where classic Disney cartoons play in a loop on a giant screen. Remember: You’re not being couch potatoes — you’re having an outing!

Disney Store Times Square
1540 Broadway
Times Square
212-626-2910
Online: disneystore.com

photo: Alina Adams

FAO Schwarz
Everything you remember about the legendary store, including the giant piano, the tree house, the towering stuffed animals, and the life-sized LEGOr sculptures, are still there. But, as of Christmas 2014, the store emporium also features cool new area bound to mesmerize aspiring natural historians. Astro Kids lets you get up-close-and-personal with dozens of shiny crystals, fossils, dinosaur bones and even meteorites. Touching is not only allowed, but encouraged!

FAO Schwarz
767 5th Ave.
Midtown East
212-644-9400
Online: fao.com

HIDDEN GEMS

LEGO Store
Too far away to schlep to Manhattan’s newest LEGO Store? No worries. As of August 2014, the Staten Island Mall has a LEGO Store all of its own! Located on the lower level, the store boasts an interactive play area called “The Living Room,” where everyone is welcome to try the latest LEGO products. While the kids do that, grown-ups can follow the “Brand Ribbon” that runs all around the store and features model displays, a historical LEGO timeline, and a variety of fun facts about the colorful brand.

LEGO Store
Staten Island Mall
2655 Richmond Ave.
Staten Island
718-761-6800
Online: statenisland-mall.com

photo: Flying Squirrel

Flying Squirrel
In the market for some baby or toddler clothes? Kids’ clothing and toy store Flying Squirrel has a play area set up with secondhand toys where little ones can play while their parents shop. (You do need to be in range though — it’s not babysitting.) The store also recently opened an art center in the upstairs loft space and offers free, open art times during store hours. (Donations are appreciated to help replenish their art supplies, so bring a long some paint or extra crayons if you haven them.) Flying Squirrel also hosts sing-alongs on Wednesday and Friday mornings, so either avoid those times if you want to bypass the crowds, or get into the community spirit and jump right in!

Flying Squirrel
87 Oak St.
Greenpoint, Brooklyn
718-218-7775
Online: flyingsquirrelbaby.com

Blueberry Kids
Inspired by the owner’s experience of living in Europe, the goal of Blueberry Kids is to create a shopping space where the whole family feels comfortable. To that end, it features a Drop Off Play Group Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., as well as Open Play hours from 2 p.m. to closing on Tuesday through Sunday for children ages 6 months to 4 years. The store also hosts Mommy Cocktails on the first Friday of every month for Blueberry Kids members, where adults can drink while the kids play. Now that’s really a store with more!

Blueberry Kids
732 Washington Ave.
Prospect Heights, Brooklyn
718-450-8811
Online: blueberrykids.us

photo via Ethan Wolff on Flickr

Ample Hills Creamery
How awesome is the toddler kitchen play area at Ample Hills Creamery? So awesome that one mommy friend reports her kids are always begging to go there — not for the ice cream, but for the playtime! Luckily, you don’t have to choose one or the other. The ice cream is rich and homemade, and comes in inspired flavors like Rice Krispie Treats, Salted Crack Caramel, Honeycomb and more.  The Creamery’s seating area can get crowded, especially on the weekends — but then again, who cares? The kids are off playing in the pint-sized kitchen!

Ample Hills Creamery
305 Nevins St.
Gowanus, Brooklyn
347-725-4061
Online: amplehills.com

photo: Hiho Batik

Hiho Batik
This isn’t only a store that sells handmade items for babies, boys, girls and adults. It’s also a store that allows boys, girls and adults (presumably not babies) to create their own handmade masterpieces. The retail location hosts an event space that welcomes walk-ins Tuesday through Sunday starting at 11 a.m. through 5 p.m. (though appointments are strongly recommended on weekends). Buy a T-shirt, pillow or hoodie then go crazy decorating it; prices range from $40-$50 for item and activity. You can leave the item to dry, then pick it up within 7-10 business days — which of course gives you an excuse to come back and play some more.

Hiho Batik
184 5th Ave.
Fort Green, Brooklyn
718-622-4446
Online: hihobatik.com

OUT OF THE BOX THINKING

Whole Foods Tribeca
No matter what you might think of the grocery chain’s prices or produce selections it’s hard to deny that this particular Whole Foods does parents a huge favor: upstairs in the eating area is a children’s corner with little tables and chairs, toys, blackboards, soft blocks and a play mat. You’ll never be in need of a place to refuel with the kids in Tribeca again!

Whole Foods
270 Greenwich St.
Tribeca, Manhattan
212-349-6555
Online: wholefoodsmarket.com

IKEA
 30 Rock adeptly addressed the phenomenon of relationships collapsing under the stress of trying to shop at IKEA, but NYC parents may actually be saving their marriages by visiting the Brooklyn location’s store.  The Swedish retailer invites parents to drop their rambunctious preschoolers off at the supervised Smartland Play Area, which even includes a ball room. The space hold up to 60 kids and offers an employee-to-child ratio of about 1 to 12. Toddlers too young for the ball room (kids must be between 37 and 54 inches tall, and potty-trained) have a smaller play area of their own adjacent to the cafe, but parents need to remain on-site.

IKEA
1 Beard St.
Red Hook, Brooklyn
888-888-4532
Online: ikea.com/us/en/store/brooklyn

Queens Center Mall
Macy’s, JCPenny, GAP Kids, The Children’s Place, Starbucks, and a children’s play area, too. Really, why would anyone ever leave? The mall’s kids’ zone is located next to the food court, though it gets packed and rowdy and, on the weekends, is no place for small or timid visitors. On the other hand, for their older siblings, there is a free, monthly Kids Club sponsored by National Geographic that promises rotating, educational activities.

Queens Center Mall
90-15 Queens Blvd.
Elmhurst, Queens
718-592-4039
Online: shopqueenscenter.com

Destination Maternity
Plenty of maternity store customers are prepping for their first child. But many others shop with their older child in tow. Destination Maternity on the Upper East Side of Manhattan had those moms in mind when they located a play area within their 3 in1 retail space, which is home to Motherhood Maternity, Pea in a Pod and Mimi Maternity. A big-screen TV is on hand for bored partners to watch, as well as granola bars, juice and water (in case you’re not going to the bathroom enough as it is).

Destination Maternity
575 Madison Ave.
Upper East Side
212-588-0220
Online: destinationmaternity.com

photo: Alina Adams

PetCo
Not a play area per se, but NYC-area PetCos seem to have gotten the memo that parents and kids like to come check out the guinea pigs, birds, reptiles and fish on display — and welcome the “just browsing” traffic. Some stores even hold open adoption events, during which they bring in dogs and cats in need of new homes, making your visit even more exciting…or tempting.

PetCo
Multiple NYC locations
Online: petco.com

UP AND COMING

Book Culture
The new kid on the block in the Stores With More space is the Upper West Side outpost of Book Culture. The retailer opened its doors this winter, and sells children’s books,  toys and clothes. But it also offers free storytimes in Spanish, French, German and even Persian! In addition, the store will consider buying back some of your old books, which means you could possibly make a profit on the visit!

Book Culture
450 Columbus Ave.
Upper West Side
212-595-1962
Online: bookculture.com

Where do you like to shop and play with your kids?

—Alina Adams

You’ve seen Rosie Pope empower new mamas and watched her hilariously show expectant dads how to change a diaper, all the while with a smile on her face and killer heels on her feet (seriously, how does she not trip in those?!). Now, everyone’s favorite mama in heels is looking for expectant moms in the Los Angeles area, or at least those willing to travel to her amazing maternity store in Santa Monica, for a live television performance.

For your very own live TV appearance with Rosie, you’ll get to of course, meet the star of “Pregnant in Heels”, receive a mini-consultation with her, and select an item from her Spring 2012 Rosie Pope Maternity Clothes Line. Sweet!

So go ahead expectant mamas — break out that flat iron and your own drool-worthy heels. Who knows — this casting call could be your golden ticket to meeting Rosie and scoring some awesome new clothes.

Details:
Saturday, July 14 from 12:00pm – 2:00pm

Rosie Pope Maternity Store
1528 Montana Avenue
Santa Monica, Ca
424-238-5902 


Consignment Stores for Gently Used Kids, Baby & Maternity Gear in Seattle and the Eastside

You’ve heard it before. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. If you’re rethinking your current shopping habits, it’s never been easier for eco-savvy Seattle & Eastside mamas to shop for great deals on gently-used clothes at area consignment stores. From thrift shops for die-hard bargain hunters (Value Village and Goodwill) to the vintage racks at neighborhood shops (Retroactive Kids and Pop Tots) there are loads of options for the eco (and price) conscious shopper.

One of the best ways to clean up and clean house is through the bevy of beautiful Seattle consignment stores that have cropped up around town. Most of the items sold in these modern boutiques are in such pristine condition, you’d never believe you were shopping for second-hand goods. Following are our picks for the best consignment stores for maternity, baby and children’s clothes.

Bonus: Bring your closet full of clothing, toys and gear and pay it forward (and earn some $$ to boot).
Tip:
The policies differ from store to store, so it’s a good idea to call before bringing your goods in.

Bootyland
Capitol Hill
1317 E Pine St
Seattle WA 98122
206-328-0636
www.bootylandkids.com
This Capitol Hill alternative kiddie boutique takes green living seriously. In addition to the generous selection of gently-used toys and clothing, shoppers can find new organic clothing lines (eight3one, Kate Quinn Organics), hemp and naturally made goods, nursing gear, baby wraps and significant space dedicated their collection of wooden toys.

Buggy
Madrona
34th Street
www.shop-buggy.com
206.325.5999
This hip Madrona consignment store offers quality items at affordable prices in a stylish, un-cluttered space. A nice mix of gently-used items and new accessories including shoes from Livie & Luca, onesies from Nest and eight3one, and “Flower Children Handknits,” hand-knit sweaters that have been rescued and refreshed (many are embellished or have wonderful new buttons). Don’t miss the onesie bucket, where everything is priced from $3.00 to $10.00. Buggy is ultra family-friendly, with a play area complete with a couch, toys, and lots of books to keep Little One busy.

Bump Urban Maternity
Ravenna
920 NE 64th Street
Seattle, WA 98115
206.522.BUMP
www.bumptobaby.net
Already the forerunner in organic, sustainable clothing lines for pregnant women (Shone, Leighlani,, Nuka, Kina, Ida J) Bump Urban Maternity store has recently begun carrying a select offering of consignment maternity clothes. Store owner Nyro Murphy is now receiving appointments to bring in gently-used maternity clothes. The clothes must be beautiful, in near-perfect condition, and something that is not currently being sold new in the store (they do not have to be clothes originally purchased from Bump). Please call ahead.

Cruzin’ Kidz Boutique & Consignment
Woodinville
13400 NE 175th St
Woodinville, WA 98072
425.939.0418
www.cruzinkidz.com
This Woodinville consignment store is well-organized and the clothes are in nearly-new condition. Even the itty-bitty baby hats are neatly displayed on individual hangers. Among the resale items, we spied a nice supply of Gymboree, Hanna Andersson (after all this is HA territory with the outlet right up the street), and Baby Lulu too. On any given day, you may also find gently used “gear” (the big stuff), toys, books, monitors, and more. Also check out the brand new offerings from BabyLegs, Bobux shoes and the most requested baby carrier in town, the Ergo. Cruzin’ Kidz also sells custom children’s furniture by a local designer – everything from step stools to custom play kitchens.

Le Petit Shoppe

Near University Village
3432 N.E. 45th St.
Seattle, WA 98105
206.525.0619
This is not truly a “consignment” store but a re-sale store; they buy your goods outright and then resell them. Nestled in this small strip mall, you’ll find high end clothing (think Hanna, Henri and Flora, Boden, boutique), shoes, and gear (strollers, bedding, furniture, some toys). Maternity clothing also sold. Most toys are organic or wooden. They also sell handmade apron dresses, bibs, and other local wares as well as Hanky Panky panties (new) for a steal. Kids are welcome with a play area in the back.

Rising Stars
Phinney Ridge
7404 Greenwood Avenue North
Seattle, WA 98103
206.781.0138
www.rising-stars.biz
This children’s consignment store houses a wonderful variety of everything kiddo. They sell many new items (See Kai Run, children’s books, an adorable pot and pan set, blankets, Moby Wraps, etc) and a large variety of gently used clothing for kids. Just a few short minutes north of the zoo. Kids are welcome and there is a small space for them to play while you shop.

smallclothes
West Seattle
3236 California Ave.SW
206.923.2222
www.smallclothes.info
This cozy West Seattle consignment shop carries quality brands in a clean, easy-to-browse environment. Mom-and-daughter team Ruth and Stephanie Hargrave have done all the zipper-and-button checking so all the items are ready to wear. You can also find stuffed animals, toys, greeting cards, and a shelf of hand-selected books. Mingling with the resale items are new items from popular brands — See Kai Run shoes, Babylegs, IMPWEAR fleece (made by a Seattle mom), Speesees organic cotton onesies and Jack & Lily booties.

Sugar Lump
Madison Valley
2709 E. Madison St.
Seattle, WA 98112
206.860.5083
www.sugarlumpshop.com
In the smallest space imaginable you’ll find a treasure-trove of gently used children’s clothing, shoes, maternity, books, small toys, and some new wares (See Kai Run). We love the “This is Paris” book (they also have London, New York , etc). Baby Legs and Putumayo CD’s round out this store. As a consignment store, you need to make an appointment, take in your clean, in great shape clothing, and you get 60 days to sell.

Treehouse
Redmond
15742 Redmond Way
Redmond, WA 98052
425.885.1145‎
This Redmond consignment fave is chock full of designer duds, toys (both new and used), and dance gear. Browse for a new-to-you outfit, keep the kids busy in the toy section, or pick out a great gift from the new section. The tulle halos are divine for any little princess on your list. They also sell scouting gear.

Honorable Mention:
Labels
7212 Greenwood Ave N
Seattle, WA 98103
206.781.1194

Me ‘n Moms
Ballard, Issaquah, Lynnwood
www.menmoms.com

Sweet Pea’s
Columbia City
4820 Rainer Ave So.
Seattle, WA 98118
206-722-1031

Two Timing Tams
North Bend
209 Main Avenue South
Suite 111
North Bend WA, 98045
www.twotimingtams.com

Kym’s Kiddy Corner

11721 15th Ave. NE, Seattle,
(206) 361-5974
www.kymskiddycorner.com