From mommy-and-me spa robes to t-shirts emblazoned with that adorable photo you took two minutes ago, and plush toys to "OMG, we forgot the kids’ swimsuits" practical wear – Palm Springs is a playground of kids’ shopping opportunities.
Fashionistas-in-training love the fun, upscale apparel, toys and accessories at Baby La La! (inside Oooh La La boutique) on South Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs.
We call ourselves "Grandma Bait," laughed Michelle Gonzales, boutique manager. She admits that moms and dads often can’t afford their sparkling treasures—“but the grandparents can.” Baby La La is the go-to for grandmas who want the best-dressed grand-darlings in town. One show-stopper is a little girl’s spa robe, in a cuddly white plush, and hot pink shag collar ($55) – so-o-o Palm Springs. And on a nearby rack, the matching woman’s spa robe ($110) makes the ultimate mother-daughter fashion statement. Not to forget male family members. The spa robes also come with handsome, smooth black-and-white hounds-tooth print collars for boys ($55) and their Dads ($110). Pink high-top tennies ($45), adorned with glittery flowers and hearts are a girlie dream come true; tutus, stylish sundresses, tank tops and gift items add to the retail magic. Sizes range from infants to teens.
For the giggly family fun of wearing t-shirts with matching photos or sayings, and quality custom tees for kids and adults—pop into Teez Me, also in the heart of town on South Palm Canyon Drive.
Don’t let its t-shirt shop storefront fool you – this is a darling children’s-focused store stocked floor-to-ceiling with tees, sporting fun and catching sayings. Many phrases are unique. Opened two years ago by daughter-mother team, Cherie and Peggy Pearson (after years of success in Long Beach), Peggy was a professional t-shirt phrase-maker and holds patents on many sayings. "That’s it! I’m Calling Grandma," is one of the best sellers. Customization is instant. "If you like a phrase, but want it on a blue shirt instead of a yellow one or in a different size – we’ll make it for you on the spot," Peggy emphasized. The same goes for photos. Bring in a favorite pic – or one you’ve just snapped – and it can be on a t-shirt immediately. Every shirt can include “Palm Springs” for souvenir memories, or not. Sizes range from infant to 6XL-adult and include golf shirts, hats, silk butterflies and toys. The prices are totally family friendly -- most shirts are $10.
Palm Springs legendary resale shops are fabulous for kids. From Cinderella gowns to knock-about sports wear, stuffed toys, books, girls’ purses, boys’ sports equipment – the Angel View Prestige Boutique on North Indian Canyon Drive has it all – often for $1 or $2 a piece.
Be sure to check your resort gift shops. The Spa at Spa Resort Casino Hotel in downtown Palm Springs carries boys' swim trunks in the workout boutique. "Are there girls’ things, too?" I inquired. No. "Girls don’t forget their swimsuits," the clerk laughed.
