Fashion and Fun for the Little Ones

Treat the youngster in your life to new threads or a toy box addition. From big-name designers to independent stores, you’ll find something special.

Buckets and Spades for Kids

Find designer kids wear by the bay at Buckets & Spades for Kids [8/191 Bay Street, Port Melbourne & 19 Carpenter Street, Brighton], at its two boutiques in Port Melbourne and Brighton. Offering well-known Australian brands, including Zimmerman and Pure Baby, in addition to international brands like Little Marc Jacobs, Mini Rodini and Scotch Shrunk, it’s the perfect spot to find a special occasion outfit for your little one. If you’re picking something up for a ballerina in the making or princess, don’t forget to check out its adorable TuTu de Monde range, featuring the fanciest and frilliest dresses we’ve seen outside a theatre. Casual wear is also on display, with onesies in fun prints and sneakers a-plenty.

The Little Bookroom

Not only will you find something educational for the kids at The Little Bookroom [759 Nicholson Street, Carlton North], but you’ll also be shopping at one of the oldest children’s book store businesses in the world (the original Degraves Street store opened in the 1960s). Think colourful pop-up books, intricately illustrated picture books, learning books and, of course, the loveable Dr Seuss stories. It’s the place to go when you want to give your kiddy a break from technology.

Dafel Dolls and Bears

Give the gift of toys with old-school charm from the range of traditional and oh-so-soft teddies at Dafel Dolls and Bears [The Block Arcade, Shop 23/282 Collins Street]. This family business has been selling bears and dolls to Melbourne since 1941 and continues to provide high-quality toys so treasured and well-made they are passed down through generations. Personalise your teddy by getting a custom-made outfit — it’s sure to be a well-loved gift that will soon become your littlie’s new best friend.

Big Dreams Emporium

Inside Big Dreams Emporium [267 High Street, Northcote] you’ll find a treasure trove of kids clothing, accessories and toys. Not your stock-standard toys, though — think nostalgic wooden toys in bright colours, educational toys and well-crafted contemporary designs kids will love. Each piece has been carefully curated from local and overseas suppliers. If you’re looking for something the whole family will enjoy, then don’t forget to check out the games and puzzles section, where you’ll find old favourites, wooden puzzles and even juggling balls.

Little Darcy

Spruce up your little one’s room with a visit to Little Darcy [257 Coventry Street, South Melbourne], where you’ll not only find an abundance of delightful clothing and toys for kids, but also some fun decor. Think knitted pillows, patterned throws and quirky posters and prints. There’s even a range of outdoor wares like inflatable pool toys, drink bottles and outdoor games. If you’re buying for a baby or toddler, check out the popular hand-painted wooden dummy chains from Pop Ya Tot.

Jasper Junior

It’s known as the supplier to Santa and when you walk into Jasper Junior [Royal Arcade, 331/339 Bourke Street] it won’t be hard to see why. It started as part of a coffee shop in 1996, but continued to grow over the years until it became the store that it is today in the historic Royal Arcade. Browse through its endearing range of costumes, creative play toys and collectables — you might even find something special for yourself as you look through the collection. Afterwards, be sure to check out its neighbour, The Games Shop.

Tree Top Toy Shop

If you want to shop for kids as it was done before toys were covered in plastic packaging, pay Tree Top Toy Shop [353 Sydney Road, Brunswick] a visit. The team here is dedicated to offering a range of toys that are educational, encourage creative play and will be enjoyed for generations. We love the range of quirky handmade toys from the Aussie brand Eclectic Critters. It also stocks a range of funky kidswear, from brands including Little Alannah May, Rock Your Baby and the oh-so-cute Oishi Mi, made from vintage fabrics.

Balloon for Kids

At Balloon for Kids [1017 High Street, Armadale] the kids clothing is so stylish, you’ll wish it stocked adult versions. You’ll find bohemian-style pieces from Camilla in mini versions, clothing in Burberry’s classic check and pint-sized suits and shirts from Scotch Shrunk. Be warned though, the high-end brands here come with high-end price tags, but if you’re looking to splurge on a dapper outfit for a special occasion for the little one in your life, it’s the place to go.

Bloom & Co Mini

Bloom & Co Mini [51 Ferguson Street, Williamstown] is the offspring of much-loved interior design and gift store, Bloom & Co, bringing with it the creativity and class of the original. Browse through its range of kids’ decor and pick up something to make their room unique. The clothing and play ranges are just as charming with a crafty, cool vibe. Don’t forget to head next door for something for the adults, too!