Thursday, June 23, 2011

Brand New Baby Blankets!


Check out lollie's new Handmade Cotton Baby Blankets! Made in a women's co-op in India, each blanket measures at 32" x 37". Beautiful and hand-stitched, each blanket is truly unique! Made of 100% cotton, these double-layered blankets are available in five colors - blue fish, pale pink butterfly, navy blue fish, pink butterfly, and green elephant. 

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Sunday, June 12, 2011

5 Great Books For Your Kids

1. Fly Danny, Fly! by Chip Gilbertson and Gina Restivo
This children’s story was inspired by and completed in honor of Danny Stanton, a young boy who passed away in December 2009 due to Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). Fly Danny, Fly! takes you on a journey that will remind you the importance of embracing life and its endless possibilities, while accepting yourself and others despite any differences you may have. Enjoy your life, because Danny did.  A portion of all book sales benefit the Danny Did Foundation, an organization founded by Danny’s family in January 2010.



2. Silly Faces by Squishy Press 
Every young child loves this Squishy Press book, which has no words and is made without any harmful substances so they can chew on it! Filled with photos of kids making silly faces, this is a book everyone can relate to!
 

 3. See Inside Ships by Conrad Mason and Colin King (Usborne Book)
This Usborne book is great for kids of all ages, and is both educational and fun! Learn all about different kinds of ships like the Viking longboat, 19th century steamships, submarines, cruise liners and so much more! Lift over 90 flaps to find out what is really going on inside!


4. First Thousand Words in French by Heather Amery and Stephen Cartwright (Usborne Books)
Parlez-vous francais? Teach your children french at an early age! This book contains 1,000 basic words, complete with bright illustrations and a web link for pronunciation!


5. How High is the Sky? by Anna Milbourne and Serena Riglietti
Pipkin the Penguin is constantly asking questions, but most of all he wants to know "How High is the Sky?" He goes on a journey to find out how high the sky really is. This book comes with a special fold-out poster showing Pipkin climbing into the sky.

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Chewbeads: Made for Mommies, Enjoyed by Babies!


CHEWBEADS! 
What are Chewbeads, you ask? These very wonderful necklaces made for stylish moms.... for babies to chew on! Made of 100% silicone (just like pacifiers), Chewbeads are super soft on your baby's teeth and gums. This non-toxic jewelry does not contain detachable parts and is not made of any harsh chemicals or heavy metals. That's right - no BPA, PVC, phthalates, lead, or cadmium, here!

Pick up some Chewbeads for yourself or for a friend, they make a fantastic gift for any future or new mommy! Available at lollie in two styles (Hudson and Jane) in a variety of colors.

Sunscreen is ALWAYS a must-have!


Nothing is more important in the summer than sunscreen!!

Perfect for sensitive skin is Arbonne Baby Care Sunscreen SPF 30+ (pictured)! This UVA/UVB ray-protective sunscreen is complete with vitamins A, C, and E. It is also PABA-free, and pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested!

Don’t let your children get sunburn this summer, come to lollie to order this great sunscreen today!

Also available in a limited quantity is Mustela’s High Protection Sun Lotion, SPF 50.

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Event: "Fly Danny, Fly!" Reading and Book Signing



Please join us at lollie next Sunday, June 12 from 12-4PM for our Fly Danny, Fly! Reading and Book Signing event.

Written by Chip Gilbertson and Gina Restivo, Fly Danny, Fly! is much more than your average illustrated kids book. This children’s story was inspired by and completed in honor of Danny Stanton, a young boy who passed away in December 2009 due to Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). Fly Danny, Fly! takes you on a journey that will remind you the importance of embracing life and its endless possibilities, while accepting yourself and others despite any differences you may have. Enjoy your life, because Danny did.

Fly Danny, Fly! is available for purchase at lollie. A portion of all book sales benefit the Danny Did Foundation, an organization founded by Danny’s family in January 2010. This foundation’s main goals are to raise awareness in SUDEP and seizure detection and prediction devices, as well as enhancing communication between medical professionals and those afflicted by seizures.

Read more about the Danny Did Foundation and Danny’s Story here.

Elks & Angels Cuddle Bears are the Best Bear Around!


Every child loves stuffed animals and teddy bears. It’s a fact. The Elk & Angels Cuddle Bear is so much more than your average stuffed animal or teddy bear. Made of all natural materials, it is safe to say this 12” x 10” x 1” flat bear is simply the cutest, gentlest pillow-like bear around! The Cuddle Bear’s breathable, flame-retardant fur is made of 100% pure Australian skeepskin, which is the best sheepskin in the world. Not only is he soft and silky to touch, he is also resistant to dirt, bacteria, odors, and electricity. If this nurturing hypoallergenic bear sounds like a great gift for the child you love (you know it does!), be sure pick one up at lollie, the only store to carry the Cuddle Bear in the Chicagoland area! The Elk & Angels Cuddle Bear is available in three colors, Buttermilk, Honey, and Latte.

Friday, June 3, 2011

lollie Blog: Gifts That Will Make You Their Favorite

It’s your niece’s 4th birthday. Her party is next Saturday. Did you buy her gift yet? There are so many stores to choose from…. Old Navy, Gap, Target… But, wait… Aren’t you looking for a gift that is unique? Something she does not already have, and something that she will not grow out of? As the “Cool Aunt,” you can’t just buy her another tank top! You have to buy her a gift with meaning. Something that screams, “You’re one of a kind, and so is your gift. Happy Birthday!”

Here are a few gift ideas for those special kids in your life:


For the Baby:

-Elks & Angels Cuddle Bear (pictured)
Made of pure Australian sheepskin, this bear is the softest there is!

-Vulli Sophie la Girafe
Born in Paris in 1961, Sophie la Girafe is the ideal first toy for your baby, serving as teether that appeals to all five senses.

-Swaddle Designs Cashmere Baby Blanket
Easily the softest, coziest blankie on the market! In cool pastel colors, this cashmere blanket is perfect year-round.



For the Adventurer:
-Constructive Eating Utensils (pictured)
Who needs cars and a toy racetrack when they can have a Bulldozer Pusher, Forklift Fork, and a Front Loader Spoon?

-Skip Hop Zoopack
This mini-bookbag is great for every traveling cutie! Big enough to fit a few small books or toys, and available in cute animal shapes!

-Real Kids Shades
Offering 100% UV protection and shatterproof lenses and frames, these sunglasses are the only logical option!




For the Storyteller:
-Moulin Roty Memoire D’Enfant (pictured)
Fairytale-inspired plush toys, straight from France!

-Usborne Flap Book
Available in a variety of topics, these books are not only fun and interactive, but educational.

-Kidsonroof Mobile Home Recycle!
An eco-friendly twist on a dollhouse, meant for any and all figurines! With a neutral, earthy tone, this fold-able toy can be enjoyed by the whole family. 



For the Artist:
-Chalk N Doodle
Small enough to take it on the road, this chalk-drawing pad combo is the easiest way to keep any child occupied!

-Art Folio
Complete with a drawing pad and crayons, this on-the-go set is not only great for home, but for long car rides and doctor’s visits, too!

-Supereditions ‘a book to illustrate’
Ever read a children’s book with no illustrations? These little books, available in English or French, let the child draw the pictures!

-Piggy Paint Nail Polish (pictured)
Non-toxic and kid-friendly, this polish is great for its vibrant colors and no-smell formula!


All items listed are available at lollie. Visit lollie in-store at 1312 Chicago Ave. in Evanston, Illinois or on the web at http://www.lollieshop.com.

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Summer Trend Report

Happy Summer! Are your kids dressing in style? Or are you just shopping for a gift? Here are some elements to look for to make sure your loved ones are the cutest kids in town!

Especially for boys:
-Retro graphics
-Cheerful colors
-California beach/surf graphics
-Monsters, aliens, animals
-Bold stripes

Especially for girls:
-Simplicity
-Florals
-Ruffles & bows
-Soft colors

Come to lollie to find the best graphic tees and most adorable dresses! 


Skip Hop's Zoopacks Are Great For The Summer!


Skip Hop’s Bee Zoo Packs are such an adorable way for your child to carry their toys this summer! Whether they are bringing their shovels to the beach to build sandcastles or bringing some of their books on the plane for the long ride, you cannot go wrong with this cute little backpack!! Buy it in store or online.
Also available at lollie in Dog and Owl.

Friday, May 27, 2011

lollie News & Events - June

NEWS
If you haven't already, be sure to stop in at lollie this weekend! Our Memorial Day Sale is running through Sunday, May 29, with an additional 20% off ALL markdowns.  In addition, ALL Spring/Summer 2011 clothing is 10% off.  
Check-in at lollie on Facebook, you will receive a coupon good towards 10% off a future purchase. 

JUNE EVENTS

June 12th Fly Danny, Fly Noon - 4PM
A reading and book signing with local authors Chip Gilbertson & Gina Restivo. A portion of the proceeds from the book benefit The Danny Did Foundation.  5% of store sales will be donated to the foundation, as well.

June 16th The Storybook Mom returns 10:30AM
Join us for singing, stories and fun with Nili Yelin.  This event is free and open to kids of all ages.

June 18th Kids Kouture @ The Wilmette Theatre 11AM - 1PM
A first-ever fashion show at the Wilmette Theatre full of fun for the whole family with Victor Pacini and Nili Yelin! (Tickets are $10 in advance & $12 at the door.  Visit www.wilmettetheatre.com for more information)
See you soon! :)

Why Your Kids Deserve Organic Clothing

If you think that buying organic clothing for children is just another trend, think again. What many parents do not realize are that there are real benefits to purchasing clothing produced from organic cotton.

Organic cotton tends to last longer, feel softer, and be of a thicker quality than regular cotton. While it may be a little more expensive, organic material is very breathable, does not prematurely age, and does not trap perspiration like conventional cotton. In order for a cotton farm to be certified organic, it is inspected to make sure that the cotton grown meets a strict set of health and environmental standards.

What exactly is organic cotton? Organic cotton is grown chemical-free, without any pesticides, herbicides, or artificial fertilizers. Did you know that regular cotton fields are heavily sprayed with pesticides and herbicides? In fact, about 25% of the world’s insecticides are used on regular cotton crops yearly. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 20,000 farm workers die per year due to the exposure of these chemicals, many of whom work on cotton fields. You come into contact with these same chemicals on a daily basis just by putting on a t-shirt. Do you want your children to, as well?

Of course you don’t. Since a young child’s skin can easily absorb the toxic chemicals sprayed on fabric made from regular cotton, their exposure to these chemicals is significantly reduced when wearing clothing produced from organic materials. Many experts feel that organic cotton is much better for delicate skin, minimizing the development of skin allergies, if not preventing them. Regular cotton often causes rashes and eczema.

While there are many health benefits for your child, there are also environmental and social benefits. Supporting and celebrating organic agriculture is another reason to support the growth of organic cotton. Toxic load and farm pollution are greatly reduced, while promoting biodiversity and healthy soil. This fabric also supports fair trade working conditions and the welfare of animals.

At lollie, organic materials are taken very seriously. Owners Alexis Del Campo Eyler and Cheryl Del Campo know the importance of buying comfortable and long-lasting organic clothing for today’s young children, beginning at birth.  While not everything they carry is organic, they are constantly introducing new, organic lines, and working to source organic products from designers who have been carried in the shop since it opened in 2003.

lollie carries many brands, such as Angel Dear, Tane Organics, Feather Baby, Petit Bateau, and EGG by Susan Lazar, that use these materials.

Tane Organics uses 100% certified organic cotton, making sure their products have not had contact with pesticides, or any dangerous chemicals or metals. Using low-impact dyes, the company produces Azo dioxide-free, non-allergenic goods.

Feather Baby uses certifies organic Peruvian Pima cotton, as well as 100% natural dyes that are hand screen-printed onto their clothing. Pure and unblended, their cotton also steers away from pesticides and bleaches.

Angel Dear and EGG by Susan Lazar both utilize organic cotton and materials whenever possible. Angel Dear even uses recycled paper and soy ink in their printed materials.

Even Petit Bateau, a specialist in clothing for infants and children since 1893, has introduced an organic line to their collection.

This Fall, lollie will be introducing two new organic lines, Adooka Organics and Niho kids.  So, for the latest styles in organics, check with lollie – always looking out for your kids – keeping them safe and stylish!

Summer Essentials 101

It’s a beautiful day today… The sun is shining, the sky is blue, and it is so warm with a light, refreshing breeze. Summer seems to finally be on its way!! Summer is a time filled with family vacations, birthday parties, and days spent playing outside with your little ones.


Are you prepared?

Here’s a list of the basic essentials every child needs this summer:

-Summer dresses :: Bright colored sleeveless dresses are a must-have for your little girl! Whether you are looking for spaghetti strap, ruffle mini-sleeves, or halter, these dresses are great to wear on hot days for any occasion! Lollie has plenty of gorgeous dresses to choose from by Stun, Llum, Neige, Kit + Lili, and more.

-Sunhats :: The last thing you want to worry about as a parent is your child getting sunburn, so don’t forget to buy them a sunhat to match their outfit! Available in an array of colors, some of the hats (Jamie Rae Hats) at Lollie also have a special UV coating!

-Sunglasses :: Lots of kids love playing with sunglasses, but sometimes its a hassle to get them to not only wear them, but not break them! Here at Lollie, our sunglasses, by Real Kids Shades, offer 100% UV protection, and they have no metal hinges or pointed edges!

-Graphic Tees :: Boys and girls alike love t-shirts! City Threads is very popular for their comfortable designs, and the light and bright colors will make them the cutest kid at the park! Lollie has a large assortment of cotton tees this summer, to pair up with shorts and capri leggings!

-Shorts :: Pants can be heavy in the hot sun, so why not pick your child up a few pairs of shorts? Egg, Appaman, and Glug are just a few of the brands at Lollie with some stylish shorts this summer! Khaki shorts, cargos, and hot pink summer shorts are just too cute to not have!

-Flip-flops :: Gym shoes are good in the wood chips, but flip-flops are perfect everywhere else! Come to Lollie and pick up some Appaman sandals, they are comfortable and available in two colors.

-Nail polish :: Every girl knows that summer is the prime time for manicures and pedicures! Here at Lollie, we have a selection of bright colored non-toxic, kid-friendly, odorless nail polish by Piggy Paint. Buy colors to match your child’s sandals, dresses, and accessories! We also have a darling pedi set, as well as 3-D nail art for your petite fashionista.

-Barrettes and headbands :: Don’t let your daughter sweat this summer! Buy some cute hair clips and headbands to get her long, beautiful hair away from her face. Lollie has plenty, big and small!

Here are a few of our favorite things...

You stop in Lollie all the time, but how much do you really know about the designers we carry? Adorable.. yes! Great quality.. absolutely! But wait.. there’s more!!

Here’s the 4-1-1 on some of our favorite brands:

Angel Dear
Based in the San Francisco Bay area, Angel Dear is known for their lasting value and attention to special details. Featuring take-me-home gowns to blankies and rattles, Lollie is your one-stop Angel Dear shop for your infant’s needs.

Egg
Designed by Susan Lazar, Egg launched in 2003. Chic and eco-friendly, this brand uses organic material everywhere they can. Looking for leggings, cardigans, and dresses for summer? Egg is the brand, and Lollie is the place!

Glug
This line started in 2004, gaining inspiration from both the art world and fashion industry. While maintaining adorable graphics, this line is all about the comfort of your child. Afterall, “design + comfort + love = glug.” T-shirts and bottoms are Glug’s hot sellers, and Lollie’s got you covered.

Feather Baby
This brand is known for their Peruvian Pima cotton, which is both certified organic and certified fair trade. All products are pure, without harsh chemicals, bleaches, or pesticides, and all dyes are natural. Precious onesies and dresses should be at the top of your list for any baby girl, and Lollie has plenty!

City Threads
Launched in 2002, City Threads is all about comfort! With a cozy and generous fit, this brand has been featured in People Magazine and Us Weekly for their swim trunks, graphic tees, hats, polos, and lounge wear. Shopping for two little ones? Lollie carries “Big Brother, Little Brother” and “Big Sister, Little Sister” tees that are so sweet at any time of year!

Tane Organics
Similar to Feather Baby, Tane Organics focuses on producing organic and fair trade clothing. Using 100% certified organic cotton, all of their products are non-allergenic, withholding the use of pesticides, as well as dangerous chemicals and metals. Lollie carries the softest blankets and onesies are made by this brand.. They make an excellent gift!

Appaman
Founded by Harold Husum in 2003, Appaman is the go-to brand for the chic toddler. With tops, bottoms, dresses, and even flip-flops, Appaman offers fitted clothing for every season! Need swim trunks for the pool or a windbreaker for those chilly summer nights? Lollie has them.

Wonderboy
Established in 2004, this line is hip and fitted for the style-savvy boy. Need a hip button-down for your son for that family party in July? Don’t worry, Lollie has them in stock! Don’t forget the khaki shorts to match!

Stun
A spin-off of Wonderboy, Stun is the chic girls’ line promoting elegance. Lollie has plenty of Stun summer dresses for your daughter or niece’s everyday wear!

Llum
Llum is a line meant to be fashionable, yet comfortable enough to play in. Inspired by all of the colors of the earth and the sun, it’s no wonder their motto is “bright young things.” Ruffle tops, art-inspired dresses, and wrap skirts are just a few products that Llum has to offer. Check them out at Lollie!