Saturday May 18, 2013
My youngest still has baby fine hair that doesn't offer her scalp a great deal of sun protection. I try to keep a hat on her when we're out and about, but a short stroll doesn't quite necessitate a Kentucky Derby-sized sun hat. My older two kids have thick locks, but they like to dress boldly.
Whether worn as sun protection or a style statement, fedoras fit the bill. In addition to topping everyday tots at the park, the narrow-brimmed hat is frequently spotted on celebrity kids. Worn with everything from skinny jeans to sundresses, the right fedora can set off a look.
I've rounded up a selection of fedoras to suit hipsters and dandies alike. Check them out and let me know which one is your favorite.
Tuesday April 30, 2013
Headed to the beach? Think light. If you've felt like a hermit crab on past beach trips, shoulders and hands laden with the family's toys and towels, you'll want to check out the totes on my list, which are small enough for kids to carry. Other finds can lighten your load as well, like the Turkish towel pictured, which can be worn as a scarf or pareo on the walk to stake your territory in the sand.
Also think beyond this one trip. The stylish items I've found will add style to the beach and beyond. One bag makes a great shower caddy, another an eco-friendly lunch bag. How about a towel that doubles as a dress-up costume, or one that looks elegant when tossed over the sofa? Well-made toys will be just as welcome in the bath or on the playground.
Tuesday April 30, 2013

Growing up, sun protection wasn't emphasized the way it is today. I spent countless hours playing outside in minimal clothing, and don't remember wearing sunglasses regularly until my teenage years. Fortunately, my love of fashion did lead me to make a sun visor my signature accessory for a few years. Once that love affair ended, however, all hats were off.
Now I'm informed about early childhood sun safety, but I'm still working on making sun protection second nature. In the hopes that getting my kids into good habits early on will make their lives easier (and healthier), I set the stage for success by giving them options and encouraging routine.
Think about what might work for your family. Comfortable sunglasses? A cool hat for everyday wear? The choice of a shirt over reapplying sunscreen? Check out my list of kid-friendly sun protective gear for ideas.
Tuesday April 30, 2013
'Tis the season for outdoor living -- playing in the park, splashing in the pool, exploring the beach and hiking the trail. Longer days allow for hours of fun in the sun, but with that extra playtime comes added need for sun protection. An iconic Australian ad campaign encouraged residents to "Slip-Slop-Slap," referring to a shirt, sunscreen and a hat.
While sunscreen use is up in the US, and rash guards are gaining ground, we have yet to fully embrace the hat habit of friends down under. Even on the beach, kids in sun hats are often the exception. Until that rule reverses, it might take a little extra effort to convince your kid to wear a hat. Fortunately, there are more options than you might see on the big box store shelves.
Check out my round-up of sun hat styles ranging from chic to silly to find a hat that suits your kid. If you live in a hat-happy culture, let me know what helps you remember to Slap one on.