Cheryl Shops

Dear readers, as this is my last post before the holidays (not to fret, I'll be back the first week of January!), I thought I'd leave you with a special treat. With all the gift guides and fall shopping guides, I know I've been low on shoe posts lately, but hopefully this will make up for it. So, I've been obsessed with Diane von Furstenberg's Penn fringe boots ever since they came down the runway last February. They're in line with that whole urban-bohemian Isabel Marant vibe, and they look like something Kate Moss would wear (an instant win in my book). And in spite of the fact that they're $650, these boots are sold out nearly everywhere (Shopbop being the one exception, although they're out of my size in black). Of course, this makes me want them even more. Desperate, I started Googling black suede fringe boots and lo and behold, I found this very similar pair by Ecote at Urban Outfitters on sale for $34.99. That's right, $34.99. They are real, actual suede, and while the fringe isn't nearly as thick as the DVF version, I feel like at that price, you really have no cause for complaint. They even get bonus points in my book for the very tolerable 2.5-inch heel (as opposed to DVF's 3.75"). If there were ever a no-brainer featured in this category, I think these boots would be it. Seriously, go buy yourself a pair—they're Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year rolled all into one! And on that note, see you next year!

Okay, people, if you're not done with your holiday shopping yet...well, good luck and godspeed. If you are, thankfully the few sales this week are quite conducive to self-purchasing!

Through 12/21
In case you missed the Adrienne Landau sale earlier, the company is having another fur blowout, with fur jackets, accessories, and home items. 10-6 T, 10-4 W; 519 8th Ave. (35th & 36th Sts.), 21st fl.


Through 12/21
Anna Sheffield's Bing Bang jewelry is one of my all-time favorite lines, and you can score it for 20%-80% off at this sale. Noon-8; 153 Lafayette St. (Grand & Howard Sts.).  

Through 12/21
Miha's ready-to-wear is up to 90% off. 10-7 T, 10-5 W; 330 W. 38th St. (8th & 9th Aves.), ste. 1202.

Through 12/22
De Grisogono fine jewelry for men & women is up to 70% off. 10-7; 317 W. 33rd St. (8th & 9th Aves.).

Through 12/27
Expect lots of neon, mesh, and other questionable hipster gear at the American Apparel Flea Market, but, hey, it's up to 90% off. 9-9 (closed 12/25); 766 6th Ave (25th & 26th Sts.).

I remember when puffer vests were really big in my middle school years. I wore those things like they were going out of style... probably because they were. But like most fads, what once was old is new yet again, and sure enough - fifteen years later - the puffer vest has re-emerged has a must-have in the fashion world as well as the snowboarding slopes. These modern takes on the sporty vest fit so seamlessly with our winter wardrobe because they have that utilitarian vibe without being overly functional. Don't get me wrong - these down-stuffed little numbers are definitely cozy, but with a more lightweight feel comes easier layering potential, and more fashion freedom to incorporate these vests into your outfit without overpowering the rest of your look. After all, if you've ever owned a puffy coat or vest, you know how easy it can be to drown in all the comfy puffiness... or look like an astronaut, thanks to the metallic silver vest my mom made rock in 5th grade. So my only advice is to be mindful of bulk when it comes to shopping for the perfect warm layering piece for winter!

From left to right: Penfield Stapleton Tweed Vest, Calvin Klein Hooded Packable Down Vest, J. Crew Excursion Quilted Vest.

- Alex Gambardella

Content provided by TheFind in partnership with Cheryl Shops.

A confession: Throughout the holiday shopping season, I practice a method I like to call "something for you, something for me." Yes, I shop for myself during the holidays, but considering the amazing sample sales and deals out there this time of year, can you blame me? That said, I don't buy myself everything I want—after all, I need to save some things for this post! So here's what's on my holiday wish list (heavy emphasis on wish).


Top row:
I have what I call a Fashion Holy Grail list, and one of the key items on it is a Rick Owens shearling jacket, just like this one. It's more than my mortgage payment, but, oh, what a beauty.  Rick Owens biker jacket, $3,200

Fact: I love me some mollusks. This octopus diptych was for sale on One King's Lane a few weeks ago, and although I missed it, I'm keeping an eye out should it ever reappear—it would be perfect for above my bed. Silver-Framed Blue Octopus Diptych

A year ago, I sniffed the special-edition Dior J'adore L'Or then promptly forgot about it until I recently smelled it again in a duty-free shop...and fell in love all over again.  Dior J' Adore L'Or Essence De Parfum, $110

Middle row:
This pink silver ring looks pretty and delicate from far away—and it is—but up close, it's a bit kinky! I like it. Delfina Delettrez silver ring, $210

No pair of shoes this fall has inspired such lust in me than this blue velvet lace-up pair from Loeffler Randall. I am watching them like a hawk lest they go on sale.  Natane Lace-Up Stilettos, $595

A recent trip to the Rag & Bone sample sale led me to this revelation: I will wear pretty much anything of theirs. Seriously, everything they make just fits me well. And I think if I owned this sweater, I'd wear it constantly.  Rag & Bone Montgomery Crop Sweater, $175

Bottom row:
I've been looking for a leopard-print haircalf tote forever (specific, I know), but I think this one by Maje might just be the winner. Maje leopard tote, $840

This is like a fashion version of the ironic hipster tee. Cheeky! A.P.C. Fashion Is for Losers Tee, $35

Finally, I saw this necklace back at Dannijo's fall/winter presentation in February, and I've been lusting after it ever since. It's such a strong piece, it's an instant outfit-maker. And a very memorable one at that. Dannijo bib necklace, $995

While I still maintain that the best way to support a charity is to make a direct donation, these items make great gifts for anyone on your list, and they give back to worthy causes.



There are several high-profile celebrities that created mugs for Zrike Co.'s "Whatever it Takes" campaign, but George Clooney's is my favorite, and 20% of proceeds go to his charity of choice, the 21st Century Leaders and CARE International. Zrike Co. Whatever It Takes George Clooney Mug, $15

He never wants to grow up, he loves having facial hair, and he never crosses the East River if he doesn't have to. Here's what to get your Gen X (and proud!) significant other.


Top row:
While wearing designer goods isn't totally his style, this merino wool V-neck sweater undoubtedly is. Bonus cool points for the Goth McQ logo.  McQ by Alexander McQueen V-neck sweater, $113

He thinks coffee-table books are so not his style, but he'll love the trip down memory lane courtesy of this book. the indie rock poster book, $25

He'll never have to use his always-ill-fated open-the-beer-on-the-countertop trick as long as he has this handy iPhone case.  iBottleopener Bottle Opening iPhone Case, $20

Middle row:
While he'd never admit he needs help with such a manly endeavor as growing a mustache, this book should make the process easier (and more fascinating, sigh) for both of you. The Moustache Grower's Guide, $11

Keeping his business cards wrapped in a rubber band in his pocket just isn't cutting it anymore. Upgrade him with this snazzy case. NAMU Stingray Business Card Holder, $110

These socks are made of hemp. Heh heh heh. Happy Socks - Grey with Blue Hemp Recycled Socks, $12

Bottom row:
Playing Angry Birds will be so much cooler (and probably easier on his hands) with this retro iPad cabinet. iCADE iPad Arcade Cabinet, $80

Honestly, any guy, from about 5 years to 50, would likely appreciate this epic Star Wars book. May the Force be with you! Star Wars: The Blueprints Limited Edition, $500

True whiskey acolytes know that melting ice waters down their tasty beverage; these ingenious whiskey stones keep his drink cool without altering the taste. WHISKEY STONES GIFT SET, $20

Through 12/15

Hit Loro Piana at up to 80% off, party dresses from Pamella Roland and others for up to 80% off, and exotic leather goods by Tardini at this multi-designer sample sale. 10-6, 10-4 Th; 37 W. 57th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 9th fl. 


Through 12/15
For small-footed ladies (6, 7, 8), Farylrobin shoes and boots are $20-$100. noon-7 T-W, noon-6 Th; 200 Park Ave. South (at 17th St.). 


Through 12/16
Always one of my favorites, the Haute Hippie sample sale offers up to 70% off their glam-bohemian contemporary line. 9-6; 336 W. 37th St. (8th & 9th Aves.), ste. 460. 

12/13-12/14
Nanette Lepore dresses are $145, skirts and sweaters are $95. 9-7; 225 W. 35th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 4th fl.

12/13-12/14
Jane Post outerwear is 50%-80% off. 10-6 T, 10-7 W; 240 W. 37th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 6th fl.

12/13-12/15
James Jeans—all styles from skinny to flared, colored to corduroy—are 50%-75% off. Samples are $15-$50, stock is mostly $80-$90. 9-7:30 T & Th, 10-5:30 W; 500 Greenwich St. (Spring & Canal Sts.), ste. 202.

12/13-12/16
Fun costume jewelry is just $5 and up at the Lee Angel sale. 5-8 T, 11-7 W-Th, 10-5 F; 524 Broadway (at Spring St.), 6th fl.

12/13-12/17
Long lines, lots of crowds, but up to 75% off womenswear at DVF, with new merch arriving daily. 9-6:30 T, 10-8 W, 10-7 Th, 9-5 F, 10-3 S; 260 5th Ave. (28th & 29th Sts.).

12/13-12/17
Eugenia Kim's chic chapeaux are up to 70% off, with chunky wool turbans for $35. 10-7, 10-6 S; 347 W. 36th St. (8th & 9th Aves.), ste. 501.

12/14-12/18
Fancy-lady shoes by Roger Vivier are on sale. 10-7 W, 9-6:30 Th-Sa, 9-5 Su; 317 W. 33rd St. (8th & 9th Aves.).

12/15
One of my favorite new designers, Kaelen, is taking 50%-75% off her fall and spring collections. 5-9 p.m.; 11 W. 25th St. (Broadway & 6th Ave.), 7th fl.

12/15-12/16
Battle the well-dressed hipsters at Rachel Comey's sample sale, where clothes, shoes & accessories for men and women are up to 60% off. 5-9 Th, 10-6 F; 268 Mulberry St. (Houston & Prince Sts.).

12/15-12/16
Exotic bags and accessories by Carlos Falchi are up to 80% off. 9-4; 1450 Broadway (40th & 41st Sts.).

12/15-12/16
Chatecaille makeup and skincare (normally found at Bergdorf Goodman) is on sale. 10-6; 584 Broadway (Houston & Prince Sts.), ste. 1111.

12/15-12/17
Suiteshop Showroom's sample sale is taking up to 80% off labels like Pencey and Lauren Moshi. 10-7 Th-F, 1-4 S; 110 Greene St. (Prince & Spring Sts.), ste. 410.

12/15-12/18
Helmut Lang and Theyskens's Theory are up to 65% off. noon-8 Th, 8-8 F, 10-6 S-S; 139 5th Ave. (20th & 21st Sts.), 2nd fl. 

12/16-12/18

12/16-12/18
Tucker dresses & separates are $50-$250. 9-7 F, 11-7 Sa, noon-6 Su; 355 W. Broadway (Broome & Grand Sts.).

12/17
Best for last: Proenza Schouler clothes and shoes (no word on bags) are $82.50-$1035. 9-9; 495 Broadway (Spring & Broome Sts.), 3rd fl. 

Scarlett Johansson is probably most known for her girl-next-door appeal, even in her most glamorous moments on the red carpet. She's the celebrity you want to hate (because your boyfriend has this huge crush on her) but you just can't, because she just seems so darn... real. Ugh! And if you thought it was hard enough to hate her as it is, she's now putting her celebrity platform to good use with a collaboration with Neff Headwear to fight cancer in the name of cold-weather wear. Scarlett has teamed up with the sporty brand to create two specially designed beanies, available only at Zappos, with a fraction of the proceeds going to City of Hope - one of the leading cancer research and treatment centers. These cotton beanies are not only just about the coziest stocking stuffer you can hand out this year, but they truly are the gift that keeps giving - up to 5,000 purchased beanies are matched with a beanie donation to City of Hope's cancer survivors, while every purchase after that earns City of Hope a 10% donation. Hats off to that, Scar-Jo!

- Alex Gambardella

Content provided by TheFind in partnership with Cheryl Shops.

She has enough dirt on you for years of blackmail, but that's not why you should buy your BFF a present. She deserves something awesome because she is awesomeness personified. And, hey, giving her a date with Ryan Gosling is probably not an option.



Top row:
Your BFF is a stone-cold fox, so what better gift to give her than a foxy lady T-shirt? Girl Fox Tee, $30

Because you don't judge her for her guilty pleasures, she can listen to Katy Perry to her heart's content on this cool headphones. WeSC:The WeSC x Bing Bang Headphones, $100

Because she will play this game with you and be the only one to give you a real challenge.  Assouline Books Fashion Game Book by Florence Muller, $35

Middle row:
Your BFF has never met a statement necklace she hasn't liked, but this Pam Hiran collar is truly radiant—just like her! Brilliant A-Ray Necklace, $60

While this NARS palette seems almost too beautiful to actually use, your BFF will know exactly what to do with it. Nars Hanamichi Kabuki Eyeshadow, $65

She's your favorite mani-pedi partner, so why not commemorate the occasion with this festive set?  Deborah Lippmann Three Times a Lady 3-piece Nail Lacquer Set, $35


Bottom row:
You'd get her a PS1 bag if you could, but in the meantime, your bestie will still love rolling out this fancy towel at the beach. Proenza Schouler Beach Towel, $145

Because she knows what song this line is from: "What's that you've got on/Is it Comme des Garçons?" Comme des Garcons leather zip around wallet, $100

And while she'll gladly participate in a cheese-fest with you, fondue is that much better when served in a ceramic bunny. Shinzi Katoh Dip-Hop Hit Fondue Set, $50

He's just as hard to shop for as Mom, but maybe even worse, because when you ask your dad what to get him for Christmas, he says, "Oh, don't get me anything, I have enough stuff." And yet he always seems to appreciate what you get him. Dads are awesome, aren't they?


Top row:
Replace Dad's Timex with a Nixon, a line of watches that come in classic styles but unexpected materials. Nixon Gunmetal Watch, $350

This year's totally fail-safe Dad gift: Walter Isaacson's biography of Steve Jobs. Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson, $18

Because his current system of duct-taping a flashlight where he needs one is not always the best, Dad would appreciate this go-anywhere LED torch light.  GorillaTorch LED Light, $26

Middle row:
Fact: Dads like hats. This is the style that mine prefers, in a timeless, English-countryman style. Lock & Co Hatters Herringbone Tweed Flat Cap, $140

If your dad gets as upset as mine does when the local grocery store stops carrying his beer of choice, then perhaps he'll appreciate a beer-making kit. Home Brew Kit, $15

My dad is hopelessly devoted to Old Spice, but if yours appreciates the finer things, he should love this set featuring one of my favorite manly scents in the world.  Acqua Di Parma Colonia Gift Set, $120

Bottom row:
Do you know any dads who don't love gadgets? Didn't think so. He should get a kick out of this cool handheld scanner. VuPoint Magic Wand II Portable Scanner, $100

True, that trip to Starbucks may be a highlight of his day, but after he starts making his own espresso, he'll never want to go back. De'Longhi Lattissima Plus Espresso Machine, $500

Win-win: This compost collector creates nutrient-rich soil for Dad's garden, and its odor-resistant design means Mom won't complain about the associated odor. FRESH AIR COMPOST COLLECTOR, $30

If your mom is like mine, I find the best approach is just to ask her what she wants for Christmas. But if that's not your style (totally understandable), here are gifts that any stylish mom should love.


Top row:
One thing my mom has instilled in me is a love of slippers; I feel almost naked without them when at home. Considering her cookie habit as well, I think she'd approve of these. Late Night Cookies Slippers, $59

My mom likes a colorful bag; this one is cool enough for you to borrow.  Botkier leather satchel handbag, $495

Moms are some of the only people who I feel can get away with wearing a cape. This one is cozy but fashionable too.  Toga Pulla Cape, $462

Middle row:
Some people consider candles to be an impersonal gift (and they can be), but these feature the delicious scents of Ladurée, and the box is adorable. A Christmas Enchantment Set, $100

This fur cossack hat is so chic, your mom won't care about ruining her hairdo. GLAMOURPUSS fur hat, $229

L-Atitude is an awesome curated site that has a lot of great jewelry from around the world—meaning the big, dramatic stuff that moms like.  Blue Tassel beaded necklace, $41

Bottom row: 
These stackable mixing bowls make cooking fun and save space too (not that your mom's gargantuan suburban kitchen doesn't have room to spare).  Nest 8 bowls, $50

If your mom was bummed about missing Missoni for Target, get her the real deal—these hand towels are a lot more affordable than you think! Missoni Home - Homer Hand Towel, $23

Your mom taught you everything you know about fashion—or at least that there's no competing with French women, right?  Parisiennes: A Celebration Of French Women, $50

He's managed to hook up every electrical device in his apartment to his computer, he can fix yours in under a minute, and, yes, somehow this is cool nowadays. Here's what to get your tech-geek brother.


Top row:
When his skateboard is his main mode of transportation, you can at least make sure it's stylish, with this deck designed by Liz Goldwyn.  Liz Goldwyn Limited Edition Skateboard Deck, $200

Sadly, these Lucha key covers are sold out on CB2's website, but hopefully you can find them in stores—and hopefully your bro will no longer confuse the top lock with the bottom! lucha key toppers, set of two , $5.95

If your brother is a true hipster-geek, chances are he rides a fixie. Not that there's anything wrong with that, or this book.  "42x12: the cult of fixed", $30

Middle row:
Rob Pruitt's Mickey Mouse tee subverts the classic, making your bro look both lovable and smart-alecky. Rob Pruitt You Are Mickey Tee, $100

He's never met Star Wars-themed merchandise he hasn't liked, which means he should love one of these alarm clocks. Lego Star Wars Mini-Figure Alarm Clock, $44

File under things I can't explain: Why guys think ray guns are so cool. Brace yourself for the onslaught of Facebook photos of him posing with it. RAY GUN SCULPTURE , $150

Bottom row:
Because he's probably never cleaned his apartment, perhaps this robot is a good idea, at least for his desk (where he spends all his time anyway). Mini Robot Vacuum, $26

One small accessory can do a world of good for his style. This bungee-cord-esque bracelet shouldn't be too much of a stretch.  MIANSAI rope bracelet, $60

Or you can just call a spade a spade with this LED-powered belt buckle (the message can be changed, FYI). LED Belt Buckle, $20

Through 12/7
Gift-friendly items from Lalique, Judith Leiber, Hearts on Fire, and Michael C. Fina are on sale at Soffier Haskin. 9-6:30 T, 9-5 W; 317 W. 33rd St. (8th & 9th Aves.)

Through 12/9
Pono's artsy jewelry is up to 80% off. 9-6; 132 W. 36th St. (Broadway & 7th Ave.), 8th fl.

Through 12/22
The Showroom Seven sale features up to 60% off Issa London, Odd Molly, Charlotte Ronson & more, plus free drinks every night after 5 p.m.! 10-7, 11-6 Sat (closed Sun); 263 11th Ave. (27th & 28th Sts.), 3rd fl.  

12/6-12/8
Beyond Vintage's spring and early fall collections are 30%-75% off. noon-7; 275 West 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.

12/6-12/8
Gryson & Olivia Harris bags are up to 70% off, with prices starting at $50 for samples. 9-7; 180 Varick St. (King & Charlton Sts.). ste. 916.

12/6-12/8
Luxury furs are on sale at Giuliana Teso. 10-6; 224 W. 30th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 205.

12/6-12/10
Handbags & accessories are up to 70% off at Lauren Merkin, with prices starting at $25. 11-7, 11-4 Sat.; 231 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 201.

12/6-12/10
The sale I'm most excited about this week:  Current/Elliott, Joie & Equipment are 50%-75% off. 9-7 T, 10-8 W-Th, 10-7 F, 10-4 Sat; 260 5th Ave. (28th & 29th Sts.).

12/7
Hanro underwear, loungewear & sleepwear mostly in sample sizes (XS and S for women, M for men) is up to 75% off. 8-6; 358 5th Ave. (34th & 35th Sts.), 7th fl.

12/7-12/9
The other sale I'm very excited about this week: Yigal Azrouel and Cut25 for men & women. 10-7; 225 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 5th fl.

12/7-12/9
Previous seasons are 60%-90% off and current season is 20% off at the United Bamboo sample sale. 11-7; 217 Centre St. (Grand & Howard Sts.)., 6th fl.

12/7-12/9

12/8-12/9
Gift-friendly scarves can be scored at the Bindya sample sale. 10-7, 9-6 F; 49 W. 38th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 9th fl.

12/8-12/9
Stock up on knits at Splendid and Ella Moss—women's, men's, and kids' merch will be available. 8-7 Th, 8-5 F; 260 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 12th fl.

12/8-12/9
Samples are $28 and up on brands like Citizens of Humanity and Goldsign at the  Simon Showroom sample sale. Cash only! 10-7; 95 5th Ave. (at 17th St.), 3rd fl.

12/8-12/9
Lingerie, swimwear, sleepwear, and loungwear is 50%-70% off at Cheryl Shops fave Eberjey. 9-7 Th, 9-4 F; 40 E. 34th St. (Park & Madison Aves.), ste. 1215.

There are few things in life that excite me as much as an affordable designer collaboration. But what's even more exhilarating than the promise of new affordable designer creations from my favorite big-name couturiers is an online-only designer collabo. That means I have just as much of a chance to get my hands on the goods as any other stylista - as long as I click quickly - plus I can avoid the pushy crowds, insane lines, and demolished displays of the stores. What's not to love? The Rebecca Minkoff @ eBay collection brings the designer's edgy chicness to our favorite bargain-hunting site in the form of rocker-inspired tech accessories! iPhone cases, iPad skins, wristlets, and more, this collection boasts the same studded embellishments and neon details that we love from Rebecca Minkoff accessories, but with an eBay-friendly price range, with goodies ranging from $28-220. Peep the selection while it still lasts on eBay's Fashion Vault!

- Alex Gambardella

Content provided by TheFind in partnership with Cheryl Shops.

Her iPhone never leaves her hand, she always posts the latest memes on your Facebook wall, and someday she'll run her own Internet start-up. Here are tech-savvy gifts for the teen or tween girl in your life.


Top row:
Give her this retro headset, just like what you used to gab on as a teen...minus the iPhone, of course. Pop Phone Handset, $35

Derek Blasberg's tongue-in-cheek book is actually a smart guide to etiquette for the modern girl. Classy, $17

More empowering than buying a new scarf? Learning how to knit one! (And, hey, maybe she can start an Etsy business one day...)  Wool and the Gang wool scarf, $95

Middle row:
Overdoing it on eye makeup is a rite of teenage passage; this kit should give her plenty to work with. tokidoki 24 Karat Skate Deck Eyeshadow Palette, $39

USB hubs tend to be dork-oriented (not that there's anything wrong with that), but this one is fit for a tech goddess.  Aphrodite USB Hub, $46

With a stack of these bracelets, she'll look like she's in the band, not with it.  Guitar string bracelets, $10

Bottom row:
She might not yet be ready for Proenza or Wang, but this tee lets her dip her toes into the high-fashion waters.  Rodarte blue t shirt, $155


Because she spends more time on her hair than anyone else you know, she'll easily master this new clip-free curling iron set. Amika Clip-Free Curler with Travel Set at HSN.com, $115

She was born this way...to love Lady Gaga, that is. Listening to "Edge of Glory" will sound that much sweeter on Gaga-endorsed headphones. Black Heartbeats by Lady Gaga High Performance Headphones, $150

I don't know about you, but my friends have been popping out kids like there's no tomorrow. Thankfully, buying presents for kids is almost as fun as buying presents for yourself. These may not be the next Tickle Me Elmo or whatever other sold-out present parents are paying quintuple for on eBay, but these seem pretty cool to me.


Top row:
Every native New York City baby needs a onesie with the major tourist attractions, if only as a public service.  MAPTOTES New York City Icon Onesie, $30

Baby shoes are cute, but these socks—perfect for pre-shoe-wearers—may be even cuter. LUCY'S SOCKS - SET OF 6, $26

This elephant (there are other animals available too) can be heated in the microwave and also smells like lavender. Um, can I have one too?  Aroma Home - Elephant Hot Hugs Hottie, $26

Middle row:
Should the kid remain attached to his or her blankie until adulthood, this Pendleton blanket is so cool, it would be completely understandable. Pendleton Muchacho Baby Blanket - Sapphire - Zd632, $80

I don't know exactly what this thing does, but it's reportedly educational, and it will at least keep the kids away from your iPad. ViNCi - Touch Screen Mobile Learning Tool for Toddlers and Young..., $479

The Stacrobats has a clever name and bright colors, and it's won a bunch of awards. Also, it looks fun!  Stacrobats Soft Colorful Children's Activity for Stacking..., $51

Bottom row:
I find a lot of kids' clothes to be a bit twee, but this organic cotton tee manages to be cute and silly at the same time. MASALA TEES Humpy Kholy Kids Tee, $35

Considering knowing Mandarin helps your child get into preschool, perhaps it's never too early to start learning the periodic table of the elements. PERIODIC TABLE BUILDING BLOCKS, $40

I know many children under the age of 3 who are totally sated by the ol' iPhone, but this dancing lion speaker takes it to a whole other level. DANCING LION SPEAKER, $70