Here is another hip lunch bag option for back to school. Made by Mimi the Sardine, this  Blue Floral Lunch Bag has a standout look that will make it fun to use and easy to find at the end of the day. I love the purse-style shape and the pattern is bold and cheerful. It is machine washable, which is a definite plus. As an added bonus, it is made from eco-friendly organic cotton. You can purchase one for $22.95 at thesillywagon.com. A matching backpack is also available.

I feel like our family’s swimming season is just getting under way, but already many of the major clothing companies are closing out their bathing suits. There are a lot of sales on high end items that you might not normally consider. This sweet little bathing suit from Best & Co. (a favorite with celebrity parents such as Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes) is one such item. Although it originally retailed for $70, you can purchase one now for $34.90–still pricey, but not out of line with more mainstream brands like Gymboree. It definitely has a distinct and upscale look about it. You can check it out at BestAndCompany.com. It is available in sizes 4-12.

I love the striking color combinations of these Floral Bermudas from Janie and Jack. Made from 100% cotton sateen, they will be as cozy as they are cute. They have an adjustable waist, so they’ll fit little ones of any body type. Available in sizes from 3-6 months up to 7 years, they are currently on sale for $16.99 (down from $34). You can purchase a pair at janieandjack.com.

I have to admit—when I think of The Gap, I think overpriced. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find many deals on Gap.com in the children’s wear section: Play clothes priced at 2 for $20; Sleepers, rompers, and other cute items for under $20; Onesies for as low as $7.99; $3.99 active knit pants; $19.99 Robeez shoes. The only downfall? Sizes are limited.
The piece that really caught my eye in the Sale section was Sand Khaki Floral Beachcomber shorts in sizes all the way from 0-3, 3-6, 6-12, 12-18, and right up to 18-24 months. My husband has a pair of shorts that are similar to these, and for only $12.99, my boys would look awfully cute running along behind him in these Gap shorts. A perfect Kodak moment! Even better? The Navy Floral version is only $7.99. Dressing baby in higher end clothing can be really affordable if you do the legwork and watch the sales!

While browsing CelebrityKids.com recently for sales, this ensemble caught my eye. Called a Floral Hooded Dress by Baby Sara, the outfit consists of a floral hoodie top and connected jean skirt. I like it because it’s different, a bit “out there,” but still not too wild for the average toddler girl. It’s available in sizes 2T to 4T and is currently on sale for $58.10 (regularly $83) at CelebrityKids.com.

I love the fun color combination of this Tiki Floral Crib Bedding. It would be perfect for a spring baby. Made by The Land of Nod, the print features a floral vine pattern on one side and colorful birdies on the other. The design is very eye-catching. It is both sweetly feminine and a bit modern and edgy. My favorite part about this bedding is that the pieces are sold individually. So, if you don’t plan to use a bumper in your crib, you don’t have to pay for one. All pieces are made from 100% cotton percale with a 200 thread count. They are polyester filled (where applicable) and completely machine washable. Pieces range in price from $19 for a fitted sheet or valance to $69 for a crib blanket. You can check out the line at LandOfNod.com.

I love denim and I think it’s a natural fabric for active children. This Denim Floral Applique Jean Jacket by Cyndy Love Designs is pretty as a spring picture. Each jacket is unique with decorations varying. Your little girl can wear a long sleeve tee or sweater under this denim jacket during the colder months and still be able to wear it in the spring to keep warm on windy days. That’s what I like about denim: it’s versatile and always in style. Visit CyndyLoveDesigns.com to purchase this lovely item, priced at $59.99. It is available in infant sizes to size 12.

This One Kid Reversible Floral Down Vest is chocolate brown and pink on side and solid pink on the other. My favorite feature after it being reversible, is that it is a “down” vest. Just imagine how warm, soft, and comfy your little girl will be in this vest. Wear the solid pink side with fun floral patterned knitted pants or do the “reciprocal” - wear the floral patterned side of the vest with jeans or corduroys. You can even let your little girl decide for herself! Visit BarefootBella.net to view this item, on sale now for $38 (was $74). It is available in sizes 7, 8 & 10.

This dress by Tea Collection recently caught my eye because of its bright, cheerful colors. The Junsui Floral Dress has Japanese styling, with kimono wrap skirt, Japanese indigo textiles, and a blue sash tie at the waist. Part of Tea Collections’ new Spring 09 line, the dress is made of 100% cotton and machine washable. Your toddler girl will look like a spring flower in this beautiful dress. Available in sizes from 2T to 6, you can purchase this dress for $53 at MyPrincessCloset.com.

This Short Sleeve Floral Print from Motherhood Maternity is on sale for just $14.98. That’s a great price for maternity wear, especially for this very pretty and feminine top. It’s really important to feel “pretty” when you’re pregnant. It’s so easy during those months to become overwhelmed and over-tired. And one of the first casualties of those months can be your appearance. You don’t want to spend a lot of time and money on maternity clothes when you’re already trying to make ends meet shopping for all those baby items. But when you see an article of clothing that is attractive, made for comfort, and on sale - you should take advantage of it.

Go to Motherhood Maternity and view this item. It’s available in sizes S, M, L, and XL. Don’t miss out!

Here’s a great pair of boots to keep your little girl feeling toasty and looking quite stylish this winter.  Made by Naturino, these moleskin boots are a beautiful shade of purple and are embellished with a floral pattern for a feminine touch.  Most little girls that I know would be delighted to own these fancy boots.  Parents will like the practical aspects, like the traction and warmth that they provide on wintry days. Plus, if your daughter’s closet looks anything like my girls’ do, you will have no problem coordinating these boots with your child’s fall and winter wardrobes.

These boots are available in European sizes from 24-29.  You can purchase a pair for $78 at LittleLunaBlue.com.

I saw this charming hat in Parents Magazine and I just love this look for kids. The Riley Floral Cabbie Hat by Sand Cassel Kids is smart and a little sassy yet also serves a purpose on those cold windy days. It has a soft twill lining and covered elastic fit back for a comfortable fit.

Many styles, colors, and prints are available at TuttiBella.com, where this item is priced at $22.95. It comes in sizes S/M (ages 2-4) and M/L (ages 4-6). Find a style that fits your child’s wardrobe and you’ll also find plenty of matching accessories to add the finishing touch.

I admired this toy on a recent trip to Babies R Us, and am now kicking myself that I didn’t buy it.  Sure, we are swimming in more toys than our baby is ever likely to play with, but it is just so cute!  Recommended for infants from birth to 18 months, it is made from super-soft velour in a variety of attractive prints.  It has a pleasant sounding chime inside which is sure to produce squeals of delight.  Side loops allow even the youngest children to grasp the ball, while older children will enjoy playing catch or rolling it across the floor.

You can purchase one on sale for $12.74 at ToysRUs.com.

There’s a lot to appreciate in this Hand Knitted Organic Cotton Flower Dress by Empress Arts. First of all, it’s beautiful. Second, it’s hand knitted. Third, it’s made from organic cotton (good for the earth, good for baby). This Sleeveless Flower Dress would make a lovely shower gift or be suitable for any number of occasions: baby’s christening, Easter Sunday, baby’s first birthday, photo day at the mall. This is such a beautiful piece that you’ll probably want to keep it as an heirloom, a remembrance of baby’s special day.

This dress is available in sizes: 0-6mos, 12-24mos, 3T & 4T for $34.99 at BabyAnt.com

I love the look of Mad Sky’s many great kimono creations.  I had been waiting to learn the sex of my baby before buying, but now that I know, the shopping has begun.  I just bought two of these great little outfits, and if they aren’t huge, I’m thinking that one of them will be a nice coming home from the hospital outfit.

I love the bright colors on the Mad Sky Fuscia Floral Kimono Set.  The fuscia flowers really stand out against the white background, and the matching fuscia ribbon is a great touch.  The ruffles along the color are sweet and feminine without being overdone.  And, as always, I love the two piece cut for easy changes and rollable cuffs.  I don’t think you can go wrong with this outfit.  Best of all, it is currently on sale.  You can pick one up for $32.25 at Libellulacreations.com.