Vintage…”characterized by excellence, maturity, and enduring appeal”

I almost don’t feel old enough to truly appreciate classy, vintage designs.  When I think of vintage, my thoughts immediately drift to chic, retro designs and patterns.  This week we’re celebrating the beauty of quality, handcrafted whimsical designs.  As we become increasingly aware of the state of our environment and concerns arise regarding product safety, people are looking for eco-friendly alternatives to mainstream products.  This week the spotlight is on three distinctive companies whose designs embody authentic vintage style and flair.

A few months ago, I happened upon the innovative Lola & James while researching eco-friendly children’s clothing.  The company’s entire clothing line is crafted from recycled fabrics and materials and recycled cashmere blankets in the US. Each piece is truly one-of-a kind.  From edgy and retro to soft and playful, each piece is a unique design.   Many of the styles include the use of vintage rock tees. The entire line boasts creativity and originality.  Past celebrity clients have included Angelina Jolie, Gwen Stefani, and Bruce Willis.

My favorite piece is the girl’s cashmere tie sweater, made of 100% recycled cashmere.  I’ll be honest in that cannot tell whatsoever that the fabrics are recycled since the quality is impeccable.   You can purchase pieces from the collection online at Greenedge Kids or check out their store locator for a retailer in your area.

If you’re looking for fashionably fun accessory gifts, Baby Borsa has you covered.  Baby Borsa was born out of a mom’s search for bags and totes that would save her time and effort.  With thousands of diaper bags on the market, she struggled to find a solution for those quick trips that didn’t require bulky diaper bags. The patent pending Quick Change is, in essence, an all-in-one changing pad and storage bag.   It contains two inside pockets that allow you to store 4-5 diapers, a travel container of wipes and at least one change of clothing.  The Quick Change is handmade from 100% cotton in the US.  They come in over 20 vintage and retro prints and retail for $35.00.  I’m definitely throwing mine in the car since I’m always forgetting some essential changing necessity (usually the wipes!).

Are you toting a tot who’s soon to be out of diapers?  The Toddler Totes are small enough to fit in your purse and hold a couple of pull-ups and a travel container of wipes.  Perfect for those quick trips to the grocery store!  They retail for $11.50 and are available in five retro/vintage prints. Seventh Inning is my my son’s favorite!

If you’re looking for a super-soft blanket, be sure to check out the Minkee Snuggles.  They are made to coordinate with the Quick Change and Toddler Totes!

If there is one thing that we as a society don’t seem to lack, is a diverse array of toys.  If you’ve been to Toys R Us you know that it is more than overwhelming to try to pick out the perfect toy.  One that won’t break or get thrown aside due to disinterest.  Of late, safety is now an added concern.  Trying to find creative, durable, safe learning toys for my son has proven to be a challenge.  I’ve often thought back to those toys I remember playing with as a child.  My mother still has some of those toys that have withstood years of play.

When I was first introduced to Back to Basics Toys, I immediately became nostalgic for those wooden toys I used to play with.  I hold to the fact that toys don’t have to be high-tech with flashy lights and sing-song music for children to benefit from the learning that comes through play. Back to Basics Toys was grown out of the desire parents have for toys that will stand the test of time…quality toys that stimulate creativity and foster the imagination.  One of the things I like about the company is their recognition of the importance of open-ended toys…those toys that children can play with in multiple ways.  Those are the toys that turn play into a learning experience.

Many parents are looking for plastic alternatives and will appreciate the wooden toys available at Back To Basics Toys.  My son received a gorgeous set of Pull Along Alphabet Blocks. When I opened the package, I was greeted with that familiar wooden smell.  I have to admit that it was a nice change.  It’s hard to believe that these were first introduced as spelling blocks in 1858! The set includes 28 wooden blocks with 4 sets of the alphabet, 3 sets of numbers (1-9), basic math symbols, and 28 different animal pictures arranged in a classic-looking wagon. I can envision my son playing with this for years as he learns the names of animals, how to count, his ABC’s and more.  I’ve spent some time showing him the different animals (right now he knows dog and duck) and he loves arranging them in the wagon.

Many of the toys offered at Back to Basics Toys have received awards from various organizations as the best play products for children.  While the site may appear to be a bit overwhelming because of the sheer number of toys available, it is arranged in such a way that you’ll find it easy to navigate and pick out that perfect age-appropriate toy.  You can also search by category, price, best-sellers, award-winners and more.  With over 140 wooden toys available on the site, you’ll find that plastic just may be a thing of the past!

Vintage is the new modern! Check out all of the latest designs from companies who have committed to offering quality, sustainable, fashionable children’s designs!

I’m a NICU nurse by day, blogger by night.  My husband and I savor the warm Southern California sun.  We love to travel…so much so that we spent 8 weeks backpacking Europe before moving to Edinburgh, Scotland where we found out I was pregnant with my son.  I am a babywearing, co-sleeping, breastfeeding mama whose passions include health, fitness, and all things green.  If I’m not running after my 15 month old son…or my husband…you can find me frequenting the local tea room, shopping, baking, or reading.

My blog is Rockin’ Mama