Kids fashion
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Asher’s first birthday ‘Boss Baby’ cake smash photo shoot
I’ve been this kid’s mom for a whole year and, golly gosh, has it been sweet! I mean, sure, my pregnancy was
especiallya bit challenging and I pretty much felt as if I swallowed, like, a whole building when I was pregnant with him (the kid weighed 4,3kg at birth)… but it was totes worth it!For his birthday, this year, I knew I was going to do a cake smash photo shoot with Michelle of Cutepix, because as you may know, this is what I do for my children’s first birthday celebrations. (See Kari’s shoot here and Jonah’s shoot here)
I mean, I just can’t bring myself to spend lots of moola on a party that they probably won’t even remember. A cake smash shoot basically captures that first birthday fun, and it’s something that you can treasure for years to come.
ALSO, you guys, with lock down being what it is (you know, a much needed pain in the boody) we can’t really do a big birthday celebration anyways. In fact, Michelle told me that a lot more parents are opting to do a birthday shoot for their older kids too! She also mentioned that you can do a second and third birthday cake smash too!
Our theme for Asher’s cake smash was Boss Baby because, much like the baby in the movie, this little tike has pretty much taken over our home. He definitely is the boss! His nanny affectionately refers to him as “baasie” (which is “little boss” in Afrikaans) and the nickname has grown on us so much that we call him Baasie as if it’s his first name.
Can totes see him being an “Uncle Baasie” one day, in his old age hahaha.
Michelle does the whole set up (including cake) for her cake smash shoots AND it includes a family photo shoot and a bath session at the end of the shoot (which serves as a double win… clean baby, cute pics).
Anyways, enough with the chitchat, I know you came here to drool over some baby cheeks, so here:
All pics taken by Michelle of Cutepix
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Dress like a princess with Classy Baby Boutique {Win!}
Pretty dresses are my daughter’s jam. The girl believes that she is a princess (and I am the queen, duh), so she kinda insists on only wearing dresses, because this is what princesses wear.
Her princess-dress-wearing is not just for special occasions, mind you. In fact, her princess-dress-wearing is not limited to time or day or activity. We are a princess, so we wear a dress. Finish en kla.
And although it does cause my spreadsheet brain to short circuit because I obviously plan her outfits in advance, her attitude towards dressing up also reminds me to enjoy my beautiful things. I mean, who says that beautiful princess dresses are only to be worn on special occasions?!
So when I spotted the gorgeous princess dresses over on Classy Baby Boutique, I knew that I had to get my hands on one. I mean, even though they don’t fit me (and they wouldn’t because, uh, it’s a boutique for baby girls), I had a very specific little girl in mind who would totally rock a princess dress.
Yumna, fellow mom and owner of Classy Baby Boutique actually says that she started the boutique because she couldn’t always find those gorgeous princess dresses for her little girl.
And so her project soon turned into a fully fledged business where she sources the best dresses, for princesses, ensuring that quality and design is always on top of the list of boxes to tick.
Comfort also plays a big role in the type of garments she keeps in her store, because you know, princesses want to play all day too!
My niece, Ameera, tested the dress out (i.e. she played all day… dirty feet and all!) and agreed that it definitely was comfortable! I liked that the fabric is gorgeous but not too heavy.
Ameera says she liked that she looks like a super star. I concur.
After a couple of hours of playing in said dress, it still looked as good as new. (I mean, her mom had to wrestle her out of it, but that’s another blog post for another day). We made promises that she can wear it to her birthday party next week (our birthday’s are a day apart!). But seriously guys, I was impressed that the dress held up, considering the fact that Ameera plays hard.
Yumna’s range of gorgeous little girl dresses can be found on Instagram. Guys, they are simply stunning!The order process is simple: place your order via DM or Whatsapp. An invoice will be sent to you. Once payment is processed, her very secure courier company will make sure the goods arrive at your door in no time. You will receive a tracking number to keep an eye on your parcel.
Win a gorgeous Classy Baby Boutique for your little one!Classy Baby Boutique and My Spreadsheet Brain would like to give one little girl a gorgeous princess dress! To enter simply follow the prompt on this Instagram post!
The giveaway ends on 27 March at midday. Classy Baby Boutique is responsible for sending the prize to the winner.
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Lil Punk Boutique: Four ways to style a tutu
With colder weather approaching, I have to get creative when it comes to choosing outfits for my girl. I mean, she insists on wearing dresses and skirts! Not ideal when it’s storming outside. But how does one up the cuteness level of a Winter outfit, while keeping a very ‘girly girl’ happy? Enter: The Tutu Skirt.
We were so excited to receive a gift from Aunty Jill, of Lil Punk Boutique, that contained the cutest tulle tutu skirt and retro tshirt set in the whole wide world! Like, it’s so cute, I would wear it! The retro shirt is part of the latest Lil Punk range and you can pick up these funky retro ringer necks in long sleeve too!
After a long time of producing the funkiest kids clothing, Jill finally designed a tutu skirt that meets her high requirements. These are super comfy (thick waist band), and the tulle is of the best quality (and none of that “rip around the edges” type… you know what I mean). I also appreciate that there is 2 layers of quality tulle and 1 layer of extra thick satin right at the bottom, because modesty is a big deal when it comes to my baby girl.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: Luchae, seriously, how many tutu skirts can one girl own? Well, not enough, according to my little girl. BUT if you have the RIGHT tutu skirt, it can grow with your girl (shorter skirts can be worn over pants) AND you can rock it in many different ways! Check these outfit ideas out:
Four ways to style a tutu
Tights and sneakers
Pair your tulle skirt with a pair of thick winter leggings and a pair of cute sneakers, to pull off an effortless and comfy rainy-weather party look! Darker tutu’s, like this gorgeous black tulle tutu by Lil Punk Boutique, pair well with those warm winter tones and hey, you could team this up with just about any hue of thick winter tights! I mean, the funkier the better, right? A neutral or metallic sneaker will complete the look. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Denims and diamante
Dress up a tulle skirt with denims, for an instant glam look. We paired this denim jacket with some warm leggings, cute gum boots and sparkly accessories, for a fun Winter vibe. I love that the Lil Punk Boutique tulle skirt has a bottom layer of extra thick satin, which makes it the perfect skirt for those cold days. Kari clearly loved this outfit!
Chunky knits
Don’t be afraid to layer those chunky knits and team it up with that favorite tutu skirt. The comfy look of those cute winter jersey’s work so well with a glammed up tulle skirt. The Lil Punk Boutique skirt has a fabulous glitter waist band (nice and thick, for extra comfort) and sprinkles of glitter on the body of the skirt. Kari insisted on wearing her favorite brown Winter boots and chunky knitted hat. I think she looks kinda cute, don’t you?
Jeans and statement tees
You could even pair that tulle skirt with a pair of skinny jeans, a funky statement t-shirt and a pair of sneakers or boots! Who said that jeans and a tshirt has to be boring. A pretty tutu skirt can totally spruce that look up, getting you party-ready in no time. Karis is literally okay with basically any outfit, provided she gets to wear a tutu over it. I mean, the girl makes sense, right?
Lil Punk Boutique tulle tutu skirt: R200 – R280 (size dependant)
Lil Punk Boutique short sleeved ringer tee: R200You can order these items directly from Lil Punk via the stores Facebook and Instagram accounts
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Fashion Friday: Celebrating authenticity with Krulkop Society
My children dress better than I do. There, I said it. Kiddies fashion has really gone up a level though, and I love that we now have a bunch of lekker local online kids stores to choose from. I’m very proud to say that some of these online boutiques are owned by Nelson Mandela Bay locals (#sharethebay, yo). Kids fashion in the Bay is slamming! (#biasednotbiased). So I thought to show you guys some of my fave proudly PE online kids boutiques and how cute my kid looks modelling their fashion. Hows that for a double whammy? Disclaimer: These weekly Fashion Friday posts may or may not spur on a crazy online shopping spree.
Krul Kop Society
It’s no secret – I love dressing my kid up! And she loves it too… can you tell? I’m totally going with her flow, if you know what I mean. I’ve decided long ago (never to walk in anyone’s shadow?) that I’m going to let my curly girl be exactly who she wants to be – who she was called to be! And yep, that includes not straightening her hair, unless she asks. Do you blame me though, her curls are on fleek. (Pretend I said that all cool-like, and stuff).
So when I met the gorgeous Abegail of Krulkop Society and learnt about her passion – to create a culture of self-acceptance and authenticity in society- I was like, yasss girl! I can get on board with this!
Krulkop Society was birthed in 2017 when Abe saw this gap in the market… this need for people to realize their worth and celebrate their originality. She wanted to start a brand (and a movement, yo) that celebrated this authenticity… you know, the unique characteristics that makes you, you. And so the Krulkop slogan tee was born. It was originally aimed at naturlistas, basically helping them proudly wear their hair decisions on their sleeves, so to speak. With funky fresh slogans and designs, Abe’s concept took the local naturalista scene by storm, and she soon found her range morphing into something else.
I mean, I don’t have curly hair but I want a t-shirt too! What do I do?! Well, Abegail caters for you too, my sleek-haired sister! There is now a Krulkop slogan tee for just about everyone – the bearded brother, the brother with no hair, the naturalista and the straight-haired diva. We are all catered for.
And by “all” I mean men and women, young and old! In these pics, Kari models her two fave Krulkop slogan tshirts, paired with her KidCoCo tutu skirt. I love that there are “Krulkop Seun” tshirts too! These tshirts are a comfy fit and they maintain their shape and quality, even after it’s been through the wash.
But wait, there’s more! Because the branded t-shirt range grew quite popular really quickly, Abe saw opportunity for expansion. This eventually lead to the birth of her gifts range. Looking for a cool, affordable gift idea? The Krulkop gifts range offers you quirky gifts, bedecked with really cool slogans and words of encouragement that aims to leave your gift recipient a little more empowered and uplifted. Hows that for a double score?
What’s next for Krulkop Society? Well, Abe is so keen to get more involved with like-minded organisations and businesses who are looking to partner with her. She is also planning to host unique events in the city to help promote the Krulkop message of self-love and acceptance.
She also told me that her new range will be out soon. So keep your eyes glued to social media for more on that! For more information or to get in touch with Abegail, you can find Krulkop society on Instagram and Facebook, or email her directly.
About this shootThis photo shoot was done in collaboration with Kelly Adams of Basically Kelly at the gorgeous The Windermere hotel in Nelson Mandela Bay.
All photos in this post was taken by my talented blogger friend, Odette Johaar of Odette Johaar Photography and Totally Confident & Completely Insecureblog.
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Fashion Friday: The Little Closet’s trendy toddler fashion
My children dress better than I do. There, I said it. Kiddies fashion has really gone up a level though, and I love that we now have a bunch of lekker local online kids stores to choose from. I’m very proud to say that some of these online boutiques are owned by Nelson Mandela Bay locals (#sharethebay, yo). Kids fashion in the Bay is slamming! (#biasednotbiased). So I thought to show you guys some of my fave proudly PE online kids boutiques and how cute my kid looks modelling their fashion. Hows that for a double whammy? Disclaimer: These weekly Fashion Friday posts may or may not spur on a crazy online shopping spree.
The Little Closet and Co
If you’re looking to up your toddler’s wardrobe game, you definitely need to check out Nelson Mandela Bay’s own The Little Closet and Co. Inspired by her daughter, Eemaan, founder and designer, Sumayyah Ally used her own flair for creative styling and fashion to bring to you a kiddies clothing brand that is both hip and oulik all at the same time.
Adding a couple of trendy clothing pieces to your toddler’s “little closet” is a no brainer, if you’re a mum with an eye for fashion. But Sumayyah found difficulty in trying to source on trend clothing and accessories for her little one, without having to sell actual body parts to be able to afford it. International purchases are quite pricey, yo!She then started sourcing top notch kiddies apparel, and created a platform that enabled and empowered other moms to do the same! From beautifully crafted local outfits to imported pieces, The Little Closet makes it easy for YOU to style your kid!
And hey, this mama is super stylish herself! So she’s literally taken all her fabulousity and sprinkled it over her own baby and kids clothing line, called Eemaan Handmade.
She shares: “This range incorporates simplistic designs adding an edge using textures and current color palettes whilst inspiring new trends. Only the highest quality of material is sourced locally and each item is carefully crafted with love. Eemaan handmade aims to promote exclusivity to match the individuality of your little humans.”
I totally fell inlove with the Cosmic Romper. I mean, honestly, at first I wondered if this unisex jumpsuit would look good on a little girl. But guys, it’s so friggen adorbs! It features shoulder studs for easy putting on and nappy changing and the bottoms are a cool harem fit.Kari loved the pocket detail and the headband. The print is really funky and I appreciate that its unisex, yo! I mean, Jo could fit into this in a short while! So it’s a double score for me!
Cosmic Romper – R220
3 – 6 months to 4 – 5 years
The summer Jersey Romper is stunning! Firstly, this salmon color is all sorts of “aaack!” And secondly, the design is really pretty, featuring an adjustable waist, pocket detail and press studs along the inner leg.I am a fan of the soft breathable fabric and the ease of wear. I mean, this is totally the type of outfit that my kid could slip on, for a day at the beach or a summer kiddies party. The fit is loose, which means you could actually stretch out wear. Kari is 3 years old and the 3-4 year old fit is still really loose and comfortable on her. There are a variety of colors and styles available. Love them all!
Jersey Romper – R200
3 – 6 months to 3 – 4 years
With Spring around the corner and the impending Summer holidays waving at us, what better time to stock up on festive season looks for your kiddies, than right now? Visit the online store for more or check out the shops Facebook or Instagram accounts to stay up to date with what’s hot and happening in The Little Closet.
About this shoot (AND WIN!)This photo shoot was done in collaboration with Kelly Adams of Basically Kelly at the gorgeous The Windermere hotel in Nelson Mandela Bay. We are giving away a stay at this gorgeous location! For deets on how to enter, simply check out my Instagram page for the competition post! Competition closes on Friday 10 August and winner announced on Monday 12 August.
All photos in this post was taken by my talented blogger friend, Odette Johaar of Odette Johaar Photography and Totally Confident & Completely Insecure blog.
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Fashion Friday: Lil Punk turns up the edge on kids fashion
My children dress better than I do. There, I said it. Kiddies fashion has really gone up a level though, and I love that we now have a bunch of lekker local online kids stores to choose from. I’m very proud to say that some of these online boutiques are owned by Nelson Mandela Bay locals (#sharethebay, yo). Kids fashion in the Bay is slamming! (#biasednotbiased). So I thought to show you guys some of my fave proudly PE online kids boutiques and how cute my kid looks modelling their fashion. Hows that for a double whammy? Disclaimer: These weekly Fashion Friday posts may or may not spur on a crazy online shopping spree.
Lil Punk
Jill of Lil Punk started sewing while she was on maternity leave. I’m convinced that there is magic in the air when a woman is on maternity leave. Maybe it’s the copious amounts of free time or the desire to do something other than laze around watching reruns of Greys Anatomy. Well, in Jill’s case, she was actually inspired when she found a gap in the market. As part of a cloth nappy mommy group, she learnt that pants especially designed for cloth bummed kids were a huge need, and started making maxaloons.
The demand quickly grew and she eventually moved on to sewing special orders, focusing on custom imported fabrics. When the fluctuating rand hindered the process, this super mama decided to design her own range. Flippen impressive, you guys! As a boy mom she was frustrated with the lack of boy/unisex fashion in retail stores. And, come on, let’s be honest, we love a good online store anyways. Well, her frustration lead to even more inspiration (hey, that rhymes) and that’s how Lil Punk was born.Jill shares: “I wanted something edgy, fashionable, but comfortable for kids to run around and play in. There is nothing I hate more than kids dressed like a million bucks, but they’re uncomfortable. I believe kids clothing should be as natural as possible, so I only use cotton lycra blend, for comfort and stretch. If I use custom printed synthetics its minimal and only on trims.”
Kari had the opportunity to try out the Thunder and Lightning Lil Punk collection and I totally fell inlove with the lightning bolt design. The custom print material is really quirky and not too in-your-face while totally being in-your-face if you know what I mean. Really retro!I LOVE the brushed cotton fabric that Jill uses. It is quality! And the fit is really comfy. I’ll probably hold on to this rounded long sleeve tee and brushed cotton leggings for baby Jo. The rounded tee is available in a variety of colors and also doubles as a dress – score!
Leggings – R180 (1 year – 6 years)
Rounded long sleeve tees – R150 (1 year – 5 years)
I love Jill’s heart behind her brands flavour. It is a tasteful cross between edgy and hip, while still maintaining its cuteness level. I mean, my toddler’s got to look cute ya’ll. The unisex aspect of her range really makes it versatile, yo! You could dress these pieces up or down.
BTW, I don’t know if I told you guys, but my child is, in fact, Super Sparkle. (Yes, she’s a super hero. We get told this every now and then, as she pretends to fly around the room). So the Lil Punk Romper was such a treat for her! She felt especially Super Sparkly in it.
Romper – R220 (1 year – 5 years)
Lil Punk now also offers custom printed hoodies and tshirts in black, grey and navy. Such a legit birthday gift! You can order your very own Lil Punk outfits by contacting Jill either via email or Facebook. Lil Punk will have a stall at the KFC/Herald Fair in Nelson Mandela Bay on August 24th.About this shoot (AND WIN!)
This photo shoot was done in collaboration with Kelly Adams of Basically Kelly at the gorgeous The Windermere hotel in Nelson Mandela Bay. We are giving away a stay at this gorgeous location! For deets on how to enter, simply check out my Instagram page for the competition post! Competition closes on Friday 10 August and winner announced on Monday 12 August.
All photos in this post was taken by my talented blogger friend, Odette Johaar of Odette Johaar Photography and Totally Confident & Completely Insecure blog.
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Opal Jay’s funky, functional fashion for your baby {Giveaway!}
Okay, I’ll admit it: my children dress better than I do. How did that even happen? One minute I’m owning all the shoes and handbags in the world and the next, I’m opting for jeans and sneakers, while scoping the internet for baby grows and nappy specials. Onesie shopping has become a thing, you guys. They are just so flippen cute! I totally freaked out the other day when I spotted the funky, fun baby grows on the Opal Jay website. I mean, how rad are these prints?!
Featured here: Baltic Blue Baby Grow; Dizzy Diagonal Baby Grow; Funky Ferns Baby Grow; Punky Purple Baby GrowThe Opal Jay baby grows feature what they call their 3C’s – comfort, convenience and cuteness. (Because cuteness is a thing and it is important, okay?) The double-sided two zip detail is rather rad, with access from the top and bottom of the baby grow. Simply zip from the top down for changing clothes and from the bottom up for nappy changing. How clever!
I appreciate that the designs are not boring. Like, seriously, we have enough pastel colored baby clothing, thank you very much. Secondly, these onesies are more than just cool to look at. They are truly functional too and easy for baby to wear. Opal Jay sent Jojo their Absolutely Africa baby grow to try out and, well, check him out. I mean, the kid’s got that star potential, right? (Excuse the shameless boasting and obvious bias)
I love the special flaps that close over baby’s feet and hands, keeping them warm. The hand flaps are a great way to prevent scratching of faces (moms who put socks over their infant’s hands – hollar!) But also, you guys, this is the perfect onesie to grow with your baby. Our Jojo is.. uhmm.. not a small child, if you know what I mean. His Opal Jay onesie can now be adapted to fit him, as he grows.Other cool things that made me go “haai yinne!”:
A dummy clip tag
A zip cover to protect your little one from zipper scratches
The best soft and stretchy fabric, to ensure comfort and longevity
These funky, bright onesies range from R240 to R260 but with the current Winter sale (starting tomorrow, 8 July, and running until end of August) expect to save up to R40 per garment!Opal Jay owner, Leigh-Ann McDougall, a mom with an entrepreneurial spirit who wanted to create clothes with love for babies and mommies, first launched her range towards the end of 2017. She has put a lot of thought and love into her designs and it shows in the detail. (Typical mommy to think about things like a zip cover, right?) You can check out more from Opal Jay on Facebook and online store.
Giveaway
Want to win one long sleeved and one short sleeved Opal Jay baby grow? Sure you do! Heck, I want to win this combo too! Where can I enter?! Oh, wait, I can’t enter. But you can! And this is how:1. Follow @luchae and @opaljayza on Instagram
2. Find the Opal Jay competition image (see example above or follow this link to get to it) on my Insta and comment how old your baby is and which design is your fave
3. Tag 3 friendsThe competition is only open to moms in South Africa. The winner will be announced on Friday, 20 July.
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HICH South Africa – a fashionable way to teach your kids about animal cruelty
When it comes to kids fashion, I’m pretty sure my children dress better than I do. Can you feel me, moms? We sure do love dressing our kids up! And with the large selection of boutiques and kiddies brands popping up, we’re okay with spending that hard earned cash on the latest trends too. What if I told you that you are able to spend money on a funky item of clothing for your kid AND help to raise awareness about animal cruelty, at the same time? Well, this is exactly what HICH South Africa had in mind when the brand launched in December 2017.
The local mother-daughter trio (headed by mom, Nicky) are passionate about the well-being of animals. HICH was actually born when founding member, Melissa, was planning her son’s 1st birthday party. In lieu of traditional gifts, guests were asked to bring a bag of dog food to donate to the local animal shelter for a #bekindtoanimals themed celebration at an animal farm. HICH South Africa was birthed shortly afterwards and officially launched into the online market on 15 December 2017.
I love the heart behind this business! I mean, I’d much rather have my kid wear something that can influence society for the greater good, than have her wear a tshirt that says something totally mindless and narcissistic. The HICH tshirt designs are fun and quirky – thanks to team member, Lisa – and the fit is great!
From the website:
The reason behind HICH is quite simple. George Thorndike Angell once said, “I am sometimes asked, ‘Why do you spend so much of your time and money talking about kindness to animals when there is so much cruelty to men?’ I answer, ‘I am working at the roots”. This is exactly what HICH is all about! The brand aims to support local and national animal shelters as well as wildlife organisations. Individual support has also been given as HICH aims to help all animals in need, big or small.
I’ve taken this opportunity to once again teach my kid more about animal cruelty and how to be a kinder human being. If you’re looking to do the same, check out the ultra cool designs on the HICH South Africa online store. -
Little Lumps baby dungarees made me do it
Nothing makes me go all mushy more than a cute baby in a little dungaree set. I mean, can you even wrap your brain around the sheer adorableness of chubby thighs in tiny shorts? Exactly. I didn’t think so. Hold that thought ladies, and guard your ovaries, as I gift you with pictures of my smallest child wearing Little Lumps baby dungarees:
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Myang sun hats brings the shade this summer
Myang did what I thought would be impossible: they made my seriously adorable kids look even more seriously adorable. Seriously. Well I already knew that the proudly South African boutique are stockists of the most delightful baby and toddy accessories and clothes. But when when I opened a package containing their newest edition, funky sun hats, I literally “aacked” out loud. (AOL?)
