This SNL Macy’s Ad parody should be required yearly holiday viewing
You’re not the only parent dreading holiday outfit season—and Saturday Night Live is here to prove it. In this classic short, which should be required viewing by moms and dads every year, SNL parodies a Macy’s Christmas clothing sale commercial, revealing what everyone really thinks about those not-so-comfy kids’ clothes—and maybe about their spouses, too. This one’s NSFK (Not Safe for Kids) so watch it when you’ve got 2 minutes to yourself. LOL.
While you’re at it, keep the SNL hits coming with viewings of “I Got a Robe,” the forever mom holiday anthem, and the “Best Christmas Ever” skit, in which Matt Damon and Cecily Strong flashback to the hot mess that was their supposedly “perfect” and “magical” day.
After opening with men’s blazers and women’s cashmere sweaters, the faux ad kicks up the comedy as the voiceover says, “And for your little ones, Macy’s has the best of fashions that will have them saying…” Here’s where the cute kiddos go full-on into pure Christmas-time tantrums. One little girl stomps up and down, shouting, “It’s too hot!” A boy snarks, “It itches,” and a baby—well, the half-dressed tot just cries (how we feel this in our bones).
The mock-mercial previews just about every rewarding experience that awaits you, including, “wrestling your wiggly little monster into winter clothes” and “Merino sweaters that won’t fit over his head.” The parody goes on to advertise “hard, shiny shoes that hurt,” “all holiday rompers she’ll never get off in time,” “kids’ jackets so big and thick, they won’t fit in their car seats anymore,” “snow boots that are so hard to put on it will strain your marriage,” and, of course, “shirts with the wrong Frozen princess.”
If you’re in the heat of the holiday hustle, we suggest that you take a break and watch this so you can laugh-cry about the fun, festive tradition.
Some of our favorite brands have introduced new infant car seats this year, and we can’t wait to tell you about them. You’ll find them below, along with highly rated car seats from years past. Read on to find a safe and comfortable ride for your baby, along with tips on how to use your new car seat.
5 Pro Tips When Choosing an Infant Car Seat
iStock
1. Try out your car seat in your car to make sure it fits well.
2. Select an infant car seat and stroller that are compatible with one another, or check if there’s an adapter that allows you to use them together.
3. If baby will commonly travel in more than one car, consider buying a second base so you don’t have to reinstall the base each time baby is traveling in a different car.
4. Read your manual to find out the height and weight maximums for your car seat so you know when to purchase a convertible car seat.
5. If your car seat comes with an infant insert, find out when to take out that extra padding to keep baby comfortable.
6. Before your baby takes their first ride, visit a car seat inspection station to confirm that you've installed your seat correctly. They can also help you install one if you're having trouble. Find a car seat inspection station near you.
New for 2021
Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna Car Seat with Recline Base
Developed by Bugaboo and car seat brand Nuna, the Turtle Air is ultra-light at just over 7 lbs., and has a washable merino wool insert to regulate body temperature. The baby inlay and adjustable head support help keep your baby comfortable from the very first ride. It's compatible with Bugaboo strollers using adapters and comes with a sun canopy with UPF 50+ protection, peekaboo window and a shade for on-the-go naps.
Nuna has released two new infant car seats this year: the PIPA lite r and PIPA rx. The lite r (shown above) is super light (just 5.3 pounds without the infant insert or canopy), thanks to aerospace aluminum and feather-weight fabrics. The PIPA rx doesn't require a car seat base, making it easier to bring baby in a taxi or in others' cars. It also boasts a Dream Drape, which attaches quietly with magnets for shaded car-seat snoozes. The materials on both car seats are flame-resistant and contain no added fire-retardant chemicals. And both have a removable, two-position UPF 50+ canopy with flip-out eyeshade, four-position recline and side-impact protection. The included RELX car seat base contains a stability leg to absorb impact and reduce force transferred to baby in the event of a collision.
Available at nunababy.com, $399.95 for the PIPA lite r plus RELX base; $349.95 for the PIPA rx plus RELX base.
An infant car seat that doesn't require a base? This is a game-changer, especially for families who don't have or use a car regularly. The Liingo comes with LATCH connectors on the car seat carrier but can also be attached via the seat belt, and it can be used with the brand's infant car seat base, if desired. The Liingo is compatible with several stroller brands and can be detached from the stroller easily, thanks to a one-handed quick release. There's a three-position SPF 100+ sun canopy for sun safety, as well as a mesh peekaboo window for airflow and visibility into the car seat. Made in Canada, this innovative car seat comes in three fabrics, including a fire-retardant Merino wool, and can be sent back to the company through the brand's recycling program when you're done with it.
You can’t go wrong with the Chicco KeyFit or Chicco KeyFit 30. These car seats are a longtime fave of parents and Consumer Reports because they're easy to use and offer key features for baby’s safety and comfort, including: a removable newborn head and body support, a removable shade canopy, a carrier shell with EPS energy-absorbing foam for crash protection, and a two-position carry handle. The KeyFit and KeyFit 30 have the same features and use the same base. The primary difference is the weight limit: The KeyFit is suitable for babies up to 22 pounds, while the KeyFit 30 goes up to 30 pounds. As a result, the KeyFit 30 costs a bit more.
Available at chiccousa.com, $159.99 (KeyFit) and $199.99 (KeyFit 30).
UPPAbaby MESA
This stylish car seat is equally focused on safety: The base contains a visual indicator that changes from red to green when it has been installed correctly. The car seat has an adjustable headrest with side impact protection to minimize head trauma in the event of a collision. Other clever touches include small pockets on either side to hold the open belt buckle; this both simplifies getting baby into the seat and keeps the metal buckles cool on hot days. For an additional cost, you can purchase a travel bag to protect your car seat on flights and a handy cabana to keep out rain, wind and bugs.
The Aton 2 weighs less than 9 pounds, which makes it easier to carry and install than some of its peers. Although it’s lightweight, it has packed in a lot of safety and design features. This seat comes with an infant inlay for comfort, side impact protection and boasts a straightforward installation to help you install it quickly and properly. There’s a sleek foldable canopy, and the instruction manual stores underneath the seat so you always know where to find it when you need it.
There’s great attention to detail in this car seat, from the Italian textiles and tailoring to the compact carry handle that makes it easier to insert and remove from your car. The EPS-lined shell enhances safety protection and is perforated for air circulation to increase baby’s comfort. The seat offers infinite recline with an indicator to help you find the right seat angle as your child grows. Extras include a seat cover that increases warmth on chilly days and cools baby down in the heat, a travel bag and an igloo that fits over the car seat on the coldest days.
We love the dream drape that pulls out from the canopy and shades baby from light to help them fall (and stay) asleep, as well as the mesh peekaboo window on the canopy to help you keep an eye on baby. The removable UPF 50+ canopy also features a flip-out eyeshade and can be set in two positions. This sleek car seat also features side impact protection, and it can be easily installed either with the base or without if needed for taxis and travel. Extras include a rain cover and wheeled travel bag.
Integrated wheels turn the Doona car seat into a stroller in seconds, making this the perfect purchase for city dwellers and families on the go. The wheels then tuck up under the car seat for easy placement into your car. The unique construction adds a level of safety in the car, with the stroller handle absorbing impact in case of a collision. Like the other car seats on this list, the Doona provides side impact protection and comes with an infant insert, and it’s made in nine stylish colors. Extras include a padded travel bag, protective cover, vehicle seat protector, insect net, sunshade extension, rain cover and snap-on storage bag. While the car seat is pricier than others on this list, the addition of a stroller adds cost savings and tons of convenience until baby sizes out to a convertible car seat.
An impact-absorbing base, impact-stabilizing steel frame and side impact protection are just some of the valuable safety features on this Britax car seat. Additional features simplify the process of installing the car seat, attaching and removing the seat from the base, adjusting the straps and reclining the seat to your desired angle.
Car seats are notoriously messy spots, and Mico Max 30 has that covered: The seat pad is machine-washable and dryer safe, easy to remove and replace (without rethreading the harness, a big plus), and the fabric is self-wicking, drawing away liquid from the skin to keep baby dry and comfortable. This car seat is also lightweight at only 8.2 pounds and comes with side impact protection, an extended canopy with flip-out visor, and an ergonomic handle for carrying comfort, an infant insert and a foot muff to keep baby warm in cold weather.
Graco's car seat boasts a secure install in just three easy steps, thanks to its SnugLock technology. The car-seat base is adjustable with four recline positions to help you get a good fit in your car, and it features a level indicator to ensure a correct angle. There's removable support for an infant's head and body, and a rotating canopy for shade and sun protection. It attaches securely to Graco’s Click Connect strollers in one easy step.
From the machine-washable seat pad and removable head and seat pillows to the four recline options and buckle pockets for baby’s comfort, this lightweight car seat ticks a lot of boxes for baby's comfort and parents' convenience. It doesn’t skimp on safety either, as Evenflo reports it meets or exceeds all applicable federal safety standards, as well as side impact and rollover test standards. It’s budget-friendly and comes in six color combinations.
This season, we’re all considering a lot when we spend our valuable dollars. And the truth is, every single dollar you spend really does matter. As a small business entrepreneur, I can verify that even small orders MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE. In my work in sustainable fashion, I spend a lot of energy making sure that everything I offer is not only designed well from an aesthetic point of view, but also designed with environmental and human implications in mind. For every company and every product this looks a little different, so I take the time to forge the relationships with brands and designers to ensure that what I’m offering the world is a benefit on all fronts. With that in mind, I’ve assembled a holiday gift assortment that fits into the realities of 2020…hopefully helping us to all glean some positive vibes from the harsh realities of this year.
1
Cable Knit Beanie
If Kristoff's hat was a twinning season staple.
$37
This beanie is not only stylish, but super practical. It's lined with organic cotton and the outer wool knit design is produced in Finland. A land that knows a lot about how to keep cozy in the elements.
Inspired by the French provincial bows in Beauty & The Beast, these handmade accessories are fashioned from a range of vintage & European made brocades. A special accessory in both child and adult size, they can also be worn Kamala style as a neck tie, headband...or your very own way!
Does it make any sense to buy a dedicated special occasion dress this year? We think a special dress that can also double as a play dress is the way to go. This beautifully illustrated owl design by iconic Nordic artist, Klaus Haapaniemi is magical. The silhouette is unique, but the fabric is super comfy!
This beautiful knit is lined with organic cotton and fits snug to keep your head and ears toasty! Also comes in adult and child sizes, so don't be afraid to twin!
And the gals in your life won't be disappointed by this one! The wave knit structure is stunning, and the soft warm merino is sourced ethically from mulesing free sheep farms. So good, so fashionable, so timeless.
These wool mittens are lines with organic cotton and the long cuff is multi-functional - it helps keep the mittens on, it keeps the forearms warm...mitigating space between the coat and mitten.
The most practical addition to your winter wardrobe. With an organic cotton inner layer and outer wool, my favorite way to wear this is as a headband. This comes in one size and is very stretchy, so can work seamlessly for child or adult. Male or Female! (A good gift for dads, my husband loves his!)
Experiencing below 40 degree temps regularly? Your kids need these!
$44
The Kivat balaclavas are why I wanted to work with this company. They are unique and so practical. Never itchy, helping the kids be always ready to play! Not only are the materials sustainable, but the design is uber functional for cold weather. The ears and forehead feature additional lining, and the reflective tab keeps kids visible as the days shorten.
Pair the Madrid Sweatshirt with Valletta trouser, and twin with the little sibling in the Milan Romper for a family of adorable penguin babies! Organic cotton fabric that will stand the test of time and can be passed down for years to come.
Clean burning, eco-friendly soy candles in an elegant 10oz black glass tumbler - my favorite gift of the season! Made from high quality fragrance oils, no dyes, and cotton ribbon wicks free of lead and zinc.
When it comes to investing in a stroller, most parents want the field of options narrowed down considerably to save precious time and sanity. There are hundreds to choose from after all! If you’re looking for one single stroller to take your kiddo from birth to kindergarten (and probably beyond) it’s a smart move to check out Nuna’s new TRIV stroller.
Lightweight and flexible, with the ability to stand on its own, the TRIV is built to last with features and functionality unrivaled in the insanely crowded baby gear world. Plus, it looks good enough to practically walk a runway.
Revolutionary features
3-position recline
UPF 50+ canopy
Quick-release, 5-point no-rethread harness
Leatherette accented pushbar and armbar
Height adjustable pushbar
Adjustable calf support
Spring suspension technology
All-terrain rubber tires
Sleek and stylish functionality
Ultra-compact
Easy, one-handed fold
Seat faces both forwards and backwards and folds flat both ways
Functional from birth to 50 pounds
Travel system ready with included ring adapter
Car seat ring adapter conveniently folds with the frame
Best of all, the Nuna TRIV is highly versatile with a seat that can face forwards or backwards, easy conversion from a 5-point to a 3-point harness, and a one-handed fold when you’re switching from walking to driving, or ready to wrap it up for the day. Pair it with a Nuna PIPA infant car seat to make it a fully functioning travel system thanks to the ring adaptor included. The fully featured compact stroller weighs a very liftable 19.4 pounds (without insert, armbar, or canopy). So toss it in your trunk and never miss a beat.
Strolling around town with the TRIV means supreme comfort and safety for you and your baby, no matter the circumstances. Brave all types of weather with a Merino wool insert for winter and a mesh seat for summer. The agile rain cover is ideal for gray and damp days, while the UPF 50+ canopy fully extends with an eyeshade and window when the sun is strong.
Adjust the pushbar to your perfect height, then cruise in confidence with spring suspension technology to keep the ride going smoothly. A smart storage pocket and oversized basket provide plenty of places to stash bottles, diapers, wipes, snacks, and everything else you’ll need along the way.
Nuna has been at the forefront of modern baby gear since 2007. As a global brand with Dutch origins, Nuna is keenly focused on both manufacturing and design, ensuring that all materials and processes are safe, superior, and truly mindful. Chances are, you’re probably familiar with Nuna’s contemporary collection of car seats, strollers, kiddie cots, chairs, and carriers. But if you haven’t become educated on Nuna gear, we highly recommend perusing the video gallery to see and learn more.
From relatable moments to hilarious parodies, our favorite viral parenting videos of 2019 were filled with lots of laughs and some “aww moments” along the way. As the year draws to a close, we’ve created a list of our favorites from the past twelve months. Scroll down and enjoy this recap of some of the year’s best viral parenting videos.
Gibberish Baby
In this viral video, comedian DJ Pryor and his son, Kingston, taught us that you do not need to use words to hold a conversation. The duo brought a smile to our faces as they chatted on their couch while watching television. Kinston, speaking only in gibberish, responded to all of his dad’s comments like he knew exactly what was happening on the screen.
He’s a Dad Guy
This dad’s parody of Billie Eilish’s hit, “Bad Guy” is not only spot on with his lyrics, but the video of his daily routine is hilarious. This ‘Dad Guy” is totally relatable.
Squeaky Oven
This dancing mom really knows how to embarrass her kids. Amy Stephens now-viral “squeaky oven dance” to Usher’s 2004 hit “Yeah” is a definite must-see.
But, Mooooooooom!
Story of This Life vlogger Esther Anderson perfectly captures the reality of life with multiple kids in her now viral video entitled “Sibling Fights.” If you have more than one kid or grew up with siblings, you can totally relate.
Joseph Hauck tweeted this clip, adding, “Make my mom go viral,” which is exactly what happened. Check out her totally awesome Jenga skills.
Husband and Wife Video Spoofs
Dad of two Taylor Calmus, documented his wife’s Target obsession and her love of coffee creamer in this hilarious video.
Not to be outdone, his wife filmed an equally hysterical response.
Holiday Mishap
Mary Katherine Backstrom was in line at her local Wawa when she decided to get into the holiday spirit and do something good for someone else. What happened next is hilarious. Bonus – her laugh is infectious.
Holiday Clothes
If you have ever needed to dress your kids in not-so-comfy outfits for the holidays, Saturday Night Live’s commercial parody is totally relatable. Sit back and laugh while you think about “Wrestling your wiggly little monster into winter clothes” and “Merino sweaters that won’t fit over his head.”
Christmas Wife
Dude Dad, Taylor Calmus, posted another hilarious impersonation of his wife. This time, he pokes fun at her holiday prep. Wouldn’t you know, everything she needs can be found at Target!
There’s a special place in our heart for moms that travel: whether it’s with baby (or tot, or tween) in tow on a long car ride or a solo flight for a work trip, moms are always on the lookout for low-fuss, practical items that simplify their lives (and packing time). As frequent travelers ourselves, our team of mom-editors put a few products to the test. Read on to get their recommendations.
Unbound Merino Women's Black V-Neck T
Unbound Merino
This shirt had a big promise: the only shirt you'll need. As parents we know that there's a ton of little things (peanut-butter finger smears, leaking milk, spit-up, strange shiny stains we can't account for) that can ruin a shirt quick, so the concept of one shirt travel seemed a little ambitious.
So, our Managing Editor put it to the test. Literally. The claim? This Unbound's Merino Black Mernio V-Neck t-shirt was wicking, odor resistant, light weight, fast drying and nice enough that it can go from pick-up to date night, with the right accessories.
"I was skeptical, I'm not going to lie. That's a lot to claim, but I love to travel as light as possible so I decided I'd give it a try. This shirt actually gets better with every wash, but I've only had to wash it twice in a month (and the second time was in a bathroom sink with...hand soap!) It dried in about two hours just hanging there, and was as fresh as ever. Also, it doesn't wrinkle. I don't really like t-shirts, but this one, I love and will willingly throw out all of my others."
The price tag may seem steep for a single shirt, but it's probably the closest thing you'll find to a miracle in clothing form. It actually does resist odors, and it's better after the 3rd day. If you pack a blouse or two, this really would be the only t-shirt you need. For all you moms out there, get yourself a two-pack and you'll be set for a week.
Compression socks are not what they used to be (prescription only, for example). Dr. Segals offer a lightweight compression sock that are designed to combat muscle and leg fatigue and discomfort brought on by long car rides, air travel or even everyday life (aka pregnancy and postpartum).
Because of an injury, our editor suffers from frequent leg cramps while traveling, so she was eager to try these out. "They felt great, not too tight, and I did feel less strain on my feet, especially. But the real test was to whether or not I'd get leg cramps on a flight. I am happy to say that on a recent two-and-a-half hour flight I did not get a foot or leg cramp, which is unusual for me."
These socks are not overly-constricting so while they are not medical grade, they would definitely work for pregnant women as well. The best part? They are adorable! They come in a variety of styles from stripes, to patterns to solids, so they don't have that orthopedic look.
These compression leggings aren't like the rest; yes they hold it all in, including your tummy, thanks to the fabric and the high stretchy waist. But unlike other compression fabrics, Belly Bandit's are remarkably comfortable. You could easily wear these all day! (buh-bye, zippers!)
Our editor said, "Even though I'm vertically challenged—aka short—the high waist still worked fine for me and they weren't super long. I felt sucked in but not too sucked in, so felt good wearing these on a flight. The added 'moto' element made them look a little fancier than your average legging. Also, they dry fast if you need to spot clean."
The come in steel, black and army. Get yours at bellybandit.com for $89.95
Lissom Flyte Shoes in Python
Lissom
Whether you're heading from pilates to playground or having lunch with clients, the Lissom Flyte shoes are so lightweight it's almost like going barefoot (but with all the support you need). They mold right to your foot, too, so you can't beat the comfort and they come in a ton of colors, though our fave this year is the Python. They're like a ballet flat meets a running shoe.
Our Managing Editor put them to the runway test—as in running to catch a flight. "I thought they wouldn't have enough support to run in, and I wouldn't do a workout in these, but if you need to dash after a toddler or grab your flight, treat yourself to these. They also weigh next to nothing and are pretty flat so they work great as a second shoe in your carry-on."
Travelambo Front Pocket Minimalist Leather Slim Wallet RFID Blocking Medium Size
Amazon
With over 1500 5-star reviews on Amazon, this slim little wallet is as popular as it is sleek. Not only is it small enough to slide into the pocket of your skinny jeans, it's RFID blocking and comes in 42 different colors. And did we mention the price tag? From as little as $6.79.
Our editor says, "My college-aged niece wanted a wallet that she could 'put in her pocket' but it was hard to find something that was both attractive and fit the bill. Since most of the colors of this wallet were under $8 we took a chance. She loved it so much we got one for her mom and one for me, too!"
A headband from SugarSky is the perfect addition to a busy mom’s arsenal. With over 37 different prints (see the latest collection here), each one can be worn four different ways! The bands are also handsewn in the U.S. and are made from 79% recycled water bottles. Now, that’s a fashion-forward idea we can get behind.
Our Sr. Editor swears by these for good hair days, bad hair days and all the in-between days. She never travels without them.
This grown-up bag for moms has a high-end look with a moderate price tag. It's roomy enough to hold your laptop, a change of clothes, plenty of snacks, a book, charging cords and more, all without looking overstuffed. It zips on the top, so you don't have to worry about stuff spilling out. It comes with a removable small clutch with a cute chain strap, which fits perfectly right in the outside pocket, so you have something evening-ready without having to pack two purses.
"My favorite feature of this bag," says our Managing Editor, "is the pockets. There's an inner zip pocket, and the outside one that fits the clutch, but there's also two very deep hidden pockets that held my giant iPhone, a notebook, and the headphones with room to spare. I even had room for a water bottle in the other one. The whole bag doesn't feel overly heavy either, even when you load up all your mom stuff."
A car seat is one of the most important purchases a new parent will make. It has to be safe and practical, with extra points for style. With nearly unlimited options out there, the decision can be overwhelming. Until you get to know the versatile new Nuna EXEC all-in-one car seat, ideal for your child’s every age and need. Read on to find out why it’ll be a fit for your family.
The Nuna EXEC all-in-one is the only car seat of its kind, with four different modes, including rear facing for infants and children up to 50 pounds, and various forward facing modalities for kids up to an impressive 120 pounds. Many new parents invest in an infant car seat without realizing their child will quickly graduate out of their infant only seat yet still need to ride rear facing, but the EXEC ensures your child will ride first class well into kindergarten and beyond.
Superior Safety
The Nuna EXEC all-in-one has Aeroflex™ side impact protection, energy-absorbing foam, and an all-steel frame for complete security. You’ll find the perfect fit for your child with an 8-position recline and height adjustable 12-position head support. Simply™ secure installation (meaning easy setup meets peace of mind) combined with True tension™ doors (a handy setup that helps you get the perfect fit) you can be sure you’ve properly secured the car seat.
Each element of this all-in-one car seat is sourced to be flame resistant with no added fire retardant chemicals, which is important whether you’re taking a cross-country road trip or just driving to the grocery store and home again.
Supreme Comfort
Just like Mom and Dad, children will ride in comfort and style with breathable merino wool inserts and airflow-advancing ventilation panels. A 5-point harness with no frustrating rethread is easy to use with just one hand and will fit growing riders. When your child graduates to the shoulder belt, a spring touch guide makes the transition super simple.
The EXEC all-in-one provides extended rear facing comfort with additional leg room and anti-rebound panel, so you can keep your child in the safest position for as long as possible. Then it easily converts as your child grows, by offering an extendable leg rest for maximum comfort.
Ultimate Convenience
From rear facing to forward facing to booster, the Nuna EXEC all-in-one is almost effortless to install. Keeping your growing family in mind, the Nuna EXEC can fit three car seats across in most mid-size vehicles. And for all your travel needs, the EXEC is aircraft certified to go wherever your family’s latest adventures take you.
FEATURES
Simply™ secure installation
Aeroflex™ side impact protection system
Converts from rear facing to forward facing to booster mode
Multi-functioning and adjustable anti-rebound panel and leg rest
So whether you’re picking out a car seat for the first time or for the last time, Nuna will surprise you with its dynamic new EXEC all-in-one car seat. The premium Dutch baby gear brand has been crafting simple and safe baby gear for more than a decade, and the EXEC is the latest in its line of innovative, stylish designs.
Want to learn more? To see the Nuna EXEC in action and learn about its recommended use, visit nunababy.com. Available at nunababy.com for $649.95. Available at Nordstrom.com for $649.95.
Babywearing is great, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges in varying degrees, particularly in cold weather: making sure the baby stays warm and cozy, making sure you stay warm and cozy, and, you know, looking relatively pulled together. A local mom and business woman is bringing the secret weapon of Eastern European mothers (and mothers-to-be) to NYC and beyond: a functional and stylish three-in-one maternity, babywearing and “civilian” coat that’s ethically manufactured and free of materials derived from animals. Carry on!
photo: Tasku Babi
Back in the U.S.S.R.
A native of Ukraine, Sunnyside mom Kat Dunams was back home visiting one winter when she first spied the type of coat she now is bringing stateside. Even in the harsh eastern European winter, mothers kept both themselves and their kids warm in a convertible, fashionable parka made for babywearing, pregnancy and the years beyond.
When she returned home to the land of less elegant cold weather babywearing solutions (and eventually became pregnant with her second child) Dunams decided to take action and import the coats herself. After meeting with vendors, suppliers and manufacturers from Moscow to St. Petersberg and beyond, as well as considering dozens of colors and designs, Tasku Babi was born. (“Tasku” means “pocket” in both Estonian and Finnish.)
photo: Tasku Babi
How Does it Work? All Tasku Babi babywearing garments come with two middle panels that zip in and out — one to be used during pregnancy, the other, which contains an additional microfiber insulator for extra warmth, for babywearing. (Without the panels, the products function and look like normal winter coats.) Tasku Babi sells a variety of styles — some coats come with hoods or faux fur trim, and a lightweight fleece option for layering or warmer weather, and a raincoat are also available.
The coats achieve that mix of insulation and a streamlined silhouette (i.e. you won’t look like the Michelin Man) thanks to a filling made from thin microfiber sheets similar to Thinsulate, which function like down feathers. Features to keep baby comfortable and secure include hoods, elastic bands for custom fit, and zippered openings for when baby wants his or her arms free on warmer days. (Note: you still need to wear a carrier with these coats; any type works.)
photo: Tasku Babi
How is Tasku Babi Different? While Tasku Babi coats aren’t the first or only cold weather babywearing coats on the market, they do offer some unique features. Perhaps most significantly, is the product’s use of two panels for “conversion” instead of one, which ultimately makes for a better fit in each incarnation/stage. No animal products are used to make the coats, so no fur, feathers, leather — they’re completely vegan (aside from one coat that incorporates some merino wool.) On the cosmetic side, the coats come in a wide range of colors beyond black and grey, such a olive, “sugar plum” and “raspberry swirl.” And while not cheap (around $300), they’re less expensive than other similar coats.
Plus: they’ve even got a coat just for dads, with more dude-friendly styling.
photo: Tasku Babi
Take it to the Next Level with Tasku Babi So, you’re a hardcore baby-wearer? Kick it up a notch with the Whole Mama or the Whole Papa coat, the babywearing coat made a reality by a Kickstarter campaign! (Dunams crowd-sourced the R&D for it, and now it’s a reality.)
This double duty coat enables both mom or dad to carry kids in the front, back, or both! (We’re looking at you, multiples parents…)
Perhaps the Best News: Dunams will come to you! Tasku Babi products are available at the shop online, as well as at a few brick-and-mortar stores (Baby Mama in Bay Ridge and Baby New Paltz upstate). But Dunams is happy to provide individual consultations at home or office, during which potential customers can see how the pieces look and work first hand.
