It’s no wonder some of these online kids’ retailers fly under the radar—their prices are often hilariously steep. For instance, that adorable onesie declaring “rad to the bone”? A cool $25. And don’t get me started on the pack of boom-box patterned diapers priced at $14, although it’s a mystery how many diapers you actually get in that pack.
As someone who has stood in the aisles of CVS comparing diaper prices to those on diapers.com—never once pondering if a vintage boom-box print was a must-have for my son—this whole scenario feels worlds apart from my experience with raising kids. Even the most fashion-forward parents I know are savvy enough to dress their little ones in cute yet affordable clothes. They create charming nurseries using hand-me-downs and finds from Ikea. Even affluent families are aware that every dollar spent on unnecessary items detracts from more meaningful investments, like college funds and charitable donations.
These online stores are a prime example of the Pinterest-ification of everyday life—where everything from spices to décor must conform to the latest trends. Seriously, who buys a whale faucet attachment that brings water closer to a child’s hands? You’ll need it—for a month, at most.
I admit, I’ve been lured by the cuteness of children’s items myself. When it came time to decorate my son’s room, I went to great lengths to secure a mobile so charming that I might have driven to Maine to fetch it if the seller hadn’t shipped it promptly. Marketing is a powerful force, and it often convinces us that paying $110 for a chair that might see one use or $40 for a dress that only fits for six weeks is perfectly reasonable.
That perfect tomato-red and turquoise mobile? Absolutely essential, right? At least until your baby grows into a toddler, and suddenly the mobile is just taking up space. Anyone interested in a gently used mobile?
This article was originally published on March 24, 2015.
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In summary, while these online kids’ stores may feature trendy items that catch the eye, many parents prioritize practicality over high price tags. Whether it’s through hand-me-downs or budget-friendly finds, there are always ways to outfit your little ones without breaking the bank.
Keyphrase: Online Kids’ Stores
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