Luxury Family Holidays Handpicked for Parents

Fashion and beauty


Heidi Klein competition giveaway

We have teamed up with the gorgeous folk at Heidi Klein swimwear and, as a result, have a fabulous rash vest, shorts and a pair of espadrilles from their new boys’ range to give away. Simply follow Heidi Klein and Kodomo.com on Facebook and share the post for a chance to win. A winner will be selected on December 5th 2015.

 

Heidi Klein boy on beach

Heidi Klein boys' rash vest

Heidi Klein boyswear


Everyone who knows kodomo.com well, knows that we are big Heidi Klein fans. Every inch of sumptuous, colourful, textured, perfectly-fitting swimwear in the collection delights us and we’ve now even more reason to rave: there is a new boys’ collection available.

Heidi Klein designer Heidi Gosman told us, “The boys’ line was a natural progression after our girls’ launch last year.  My two boys were the inspiration for this nautical collection of shorts and rash vests that is easy to wear and made with only quality fabrics.”

Last year saw the launch of the (seriously adorable) girls’ range and, now, it’s the boys turn to shine. With inspiration drawn from classic American cool – Key West, Newport Beach, Long Island and Cape Cod are all big influences – the hip collection of shorts and rest vests are irresistible. And with unisex espadrilles available in navy, orange and light blue, your little ones will shine on the beach this winter. Question is, where to take them?

Heidi Klein boyswear

Heidi Klein boys' rash vest

Heidi Klein boy on beach

New Resort GIRLS and BOYS is now available at Heidi Klein stores in London and online here.

To read our interview with Heidi Gosman click here.


Ok, so you all know how much we love a little Heidi Klein round these parts. And if you’re in London today or tomorrow, head to Selfridges for some personalised Heidi in your life.

Heidi Klein monogrammed espadrilles

We’re headed into summer and, let’s face it, an hour or two in Selfridges never hurt anyone. And from 12 – 8pm today and tomorrow (May 15th and 16th 2015), renowned fashion embroiderer Laura Lees is offering Selfridges shoppers the opportunity to have their initials embroidered in gold thread on either their Heidi Klein swimwear or accessories.

“We wanted to offer the Selfridge shopper something personal this summer.  Having your initials, or those of  your little girl, sewn onto a bikini or even espadrilles by expert Laura Lees is a luxurious touch we hope shoppers will enjoy. It’s great for gifting and our new girls collection,” says co-founder Penny Klein.

Heidi Klein model on boat

And if you’ve not checked out the new range of Heidi Klein swimwear for girls, this is a great excuse to do so. With gorgeous hues and pretty anchor designs across both one-piece swimsuits and bikinis, the collection also features rash vests and adorable knee length dresses. And for big girls, the cut of Heidi Klein’s swimwear is wonderfully forgiving, sexy and extremely comfortable. And, personally, we adore monogramming so this is our idea of a weekend well spent.

Heidi Klein blue dressHeidi Klein girl in pink swimwearLola poolside in Heidi Klein

To view the Heidi Klein girls’ range click here.

To view the entire Heidi Klein range click here.

To read our interview with Heidi Klein about the launch of the girls’ range click here.

Heidi Klein with her daughter Madeleine


As a woman I’m always on the hunt for the latest, greatest “best beauty buy.” And as a Mum, I’m knackered. Not being a martyr, but my skin is tired, far more sensitive than it used to be, and let’s face it, short of surgery it could really do with any help it can get. Add a glass (or three) of Pinot Noir now and then, food that is woofed on the hop, and bucket loads of multi-tasking, I am open to anything.

ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY

And so it was with absolute joy that I was introduced to the range that is Elemental Herbology. Made in England and packed with nutrients, the Elemental Herbology range is all about responsible harvesting and 100% free of any nasty fragrances, mineral oils, sulphates or parabens and preservatives; it truly delivers without loading your bloodstream with unpleasant, unnatural additives and, I promise you, after three months of using their range, I can assure you the results are instantaneous and long-lasting. Now, every lotion, potion, fragrance and oil I have tried I have loved, but a few stand out as being brilliant for tired mums and life-savers for those who travel.

 

Elemental Herbology Tree Of Life Balm

TREE OF LIFE BALM

Loaded with 8 bio-oils, this is a wonder balm. An intensive moisturiser, it is recommended by Elemental Herbology for stretch marks and chapped feet, lips and hands. It’s fantastic for daily use on your belly when you’re pregnant, but I personally like to use it nightly in place of a cleanser. Rinse with warm water and a muslin cloth and, if you have seriously dry skin like me, you’ll see a difference in days. I’ve also tested this throughout long haul flights. I never ever fly with make up on and, hourly, popped some of this on my face to keep skin from dehydrating as only it can at 38,000 feet. This makes a wonderful lip salve, too.

Elemental Herbology Harmonising cleanse

HARMONISING CLEANSE

Infused with 100% plant oils, again, this is great for those with dry skin but it won’t cause break outs either. It’ll easily remove all stubborn traces of make up, though I personally use it every morning and it’s a glorious start to the day. Rub it onto dry skin and then remove with water for best results.

Elemental Herbology cell food

CELL FOOD

There is no doubt the beauty market is saturated with serums these days. Cell Food has no less than three patents though, and with very good reason. Blend into cleansed skin before applying moisturiser, and you’re basically dosing your skin with a power house of anti-oxidants, proteins and vitamins. If you’re suffering from dull skin and purchase only one product from the Elemental Herbology range, this is the one.

Elemental Herbology Cell Plumping facial moisturiser

CELL PLUMPING FACIAL HYDRATOR

With an essential built-in SPF, this is a lightweight cream that intensely hydrates skin and, applied following the Cell Food serum, will leave your skin plumped and beautifully nourished. Fortified with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and ultra-hydrating botanicals, it is ideal during winter months and is designed with dry and mature skin in mind. It is for that reason that it is a fantastic in-flight moisturising option. Apply throughout the flight and on arrival and no one will know you’re tired and jet lagged.

Elemental Herbology Neroli and Rose Damask body cream

NEROLI AND ROSE DAMASK BODY CREAM

We all love a good moisturiser and this ticks every box. It blends straight into skin – I don’t have the time or patience for anything that doesn’t absorb rapidly – it serves as an intense moisturiser (I keep it on my desk as it makes a wonderful hand cream, too) and it smells heavenly. Infused with pure Rose Damask water and lashings of botanical nourishment, this moisturises and soothes even the most sensitive of skin. Either buy one to take abroad or treat yourself to one of these at home. Loaded with 6 bio-oils, it intensely nourishes as any excellent body creams should do. (The body wash is wonderful too and used in tandem doesn’t overload skin).

Elemental herbology can be order at www.elementalherbology.com or purchased at Space NK.


Down here in deepest Dorset the sun is shining today and, as I sit typing away from my kitchen table, it looks almost like spring outside. Almost. Rewind three hours as I stepped out on the school run, I wondered how it hadn’t snowed down here given the arctic temperatures and my frozen eyelashes. But we are next to the water so snow comes harder in these parts and it is that very same water, lapping against my garden (yes, we are that close) that enables my mind naturally wander to warmer climes. I know I’m freshly home from a hot weather holiday but, quite frankly, it’s left me wanting more. And here’s where I’m day-dreaming of today….

THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Rosewood Little Dix Bay poolRosewood Little Dix Bay palm tree and poolRosewood Little Dix Bay beach

 

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are not just a piece of paradise best suited to savvy sailors and loved-up honeymooners. Oh no. They are hands-down family-friendly, loaded with beauty, and dotted with stunning, luxury family hotels. Before you step off the plane you’ll be begging for a bikini and a beer (or, in my case, a Bellini) thanks to the laid back Caribbean vibe and crystal-clear water. Endless water activities are available for the kids and you are guaranteed maximum tranquillity. Lying east of Puerto Rico, and dubbed ‘nature’s little secrets,’ the BVI are a cluster of over 50 stunning – we mean stunning – islands and cays. Their lure is exclusive seclusion and, in choosing a shore-side hotel or villa, with a view of twinkling, turquoise waters and pristine white sands, you have absolutely no choice but to slow right down.

ROSEWOOD LITTLE DIX BAY

Rosewood Little Dix Bay bedroomRosewood Little Dix Bay living roomRosewood Little Dix Bay bathroom

The Rosewood group are resolutely dedicated to luxury. And this beachfront beauty is no exception. This resort magically pulls off the very tricky balance of being, at once, extremely tranquil and elegant, but also child-friendly, and it does so with utter grace. Every last detail has been considered to make sure babies, children and parents feel deliriously pampered. From babysitting to bottle warmers, there is nothing they haven’t thought of and, should your little ones feel too tired by the end of the day to walk to the restaurant for supper, the resort’s golf buggies can be arranged through the concierge to collect you from your door.

The rooms, suites, villas and beach cottages are divine, all adorned as they are with a sumptuous blend of natural wood, local stone and pale linen furnishings. The views jut out across the half-crescent bay and the resort’s private beach; the water is shallow and protected, so it’s perfect for splashing and paddling with babies and toddlers. Older children will love the complimentary kayaks, floatables and snorkelling gear, all available at their disposal. Girls will covet having their own mini robes and slippers on arrival, and even their own range of toiletries. You get the picture – there will be no cries of boredom here.

And for you? Well, babysitters are on tap should you want a night off to enjoy an intimate supper in the delightful Sugar Mill restaurant. And by day, you’ll adore the cliff-top Sense spa where you can indulge in blissful botanical treatments with vast views over the BVI.

THE LITTLE DIX BAY COLLECTION BY HEIDI KLEIN

 

Regular followers of the kodomo blog will note our slight obsession with Heidi Klein swimwear at the moment, and so it was with great excitement we learnt about the collaboration between the sensational swimwear designer and Rosewood Little Dix Bay. Recently launched, the chic ten-piece collection is out in time to mark the resort’s 50th anniversary. The exclusive line of swimwear and cover-ups named after Little Dix Bay comprise of easy-to-wear bikinis and a stylish one-piece, a bandeau maxi dress, a beautifully soft gathered batwing dress and a pin tuck shirt.  A blend of deliciously bold Ikat prints in the resorts’ signature blue and white, the collection is reflective of Heidi Klein’s signature look. Boosting in the right parts, smoothing down in others, the collection showcases the usual sexy but sophisticated look of Heidi Klein that we know and love. Speaking of their latest collaboration, co-founder and designer Heidi Gosman explains ‘the beautiful setting, elegant evenings, and Rosewood Little Dix Bay’s glamorous history provided all the inspiration needed for this collection.’ Yep, one of these swimsuits and a private villa at Rosewood Little Dix Bay would suit me fine. Now, back to my coffee and multi-layers here in Dorset…..

Heidi Klein for Little Dix BayHeidi Klein for Little Dix BayHeidi Klein for Little Dix Bay

 

For more luxury family hotels in the BVI, click here.