Local Gems: A Guide to Baby & Children’s Boutiques in Westfield, NJ and Beyond

Hey mamas! Scrolling endlessly for that perfect outfit for your little one? ‍ Wishing there was something more special than the usual big-box brands? As a family and newborn photographer serving families in the Westfield, NJ area I hear you! The internet is a treasure trove, but there’s something magical about finding one-of-a-kind pieces and supporting local shops. So, if you’re looking for adorable and high-quality clothes for your little ones, get ready to ditch the online overwhelm! I’ve compiled a guide to the top baby & children’s boutiques in the Westfield, NJ area. ️

Baby & Children’s Boutiques at A Glance

Westfield, NJ

• Francis Henri for Hard-to-find luxury global brands – Newborn – 4

Summit, NJ

• Murray & Finn for everyday basics designed with care & consciousness – Newborn – 6
• The Red Balloon for timeless to modern clothing – Newborn – 14
• Jacadi Paris for clothing with a classic Parisian flair – Newborn – 12

Francis Henri – Your Go-To for Children’s International Brands

If you’re a parent in search of the perfect blend of style, quality, and charm for your little ones, look no further than Francis Henri. This modern children’s boutique nestled in the heart of downtown Westfield, NJ, is the brainchild of Katherine Oyer, a passionate entrepreneur and mom of three. Founded in 2020, Francis Henri began as an online shop, delighting customers for two years before Katherine opened her first brick-and-mortar store in 2022. In June of 2024, Katherine opened a second shop in Montclair.

Step inside, and you’ll discover an enchanting atmosphere of adorable and sweet selections of clothing that perfectly blend luxury retail with a genuine passion for children’s fashion. Whether you’re searching for rompers, onesies, tops, bottoms, socks, booties, gowns, or even books, games, puzzles, and art, Francis Henri has something special for every little one.

What sets Francis Henri apart is its commitment to being the go-to destination for children’s international brands, bringing the best of global fashion right to your doorstep. Brands include Louise Misha from Paris, Búho from Barcelona and MarMar Copenhagen to name just a few. From delicate newborn ensembles crafted from organic cotton to charming vintage-inspired dresses, each piece exudes charm and comfort.

Timeless and Modern

Katherine’s exuberant and friendly face reflects her deep love for fashion and dedication to offering families a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. She has a keen eye for timeless and modern pieces that resonate with today’s parents and capture the essence of childhood. Regular visits to trade shows in Europe ensure that the boutique stays ahead of the curve, offering the latest trends and designs.

One-of-A-Kind Baby Gifts

But the magic doesn’t end there. Francis Henri also offers convenient services like baby registries and wish lists, making it easier than ever for friends and family to shower your little one with love and thoughtful gifts. With options to shop online or visit the boutique in person, Francis Henri caters to your every need, allowing you to browse by country, age, or category with ease.

Address:

258 E. Broad Street, Westfield, NJ

47 S. Park Street, Montclair, NJ

Max & Luna – Where Quality and Style Come Together

Update September 16, 2024 – Sadly, Max & Luna will be closing its doors on September 9th, 2024. Be sure to visit Cori’s other shop Anthem for most sought after baby products and shop for gifts for little ones.

Located in the vibrant Downtown Cranford community, Max & Luna offers a versatile destination for families seeking quality, style, and a touch of whimsy. This boutique, specializing in unique baby and children’s clothing, accessories, and gifts, is the brainchild of owner Cori Eberling Ardente. With a passion for quality and durability, Cori has curated a collection that reflects her dedication to providing families with the very best.

Max & Luna is more than just a shop; it’s a haven for parents seeking stylish yet practical pieces for their little ones. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a delightful array of clothing lines, including Quincy Mae, Max and Luna, Colored Organics, Posh Peanut, and many more. Cori’s inspiration for opening the shop stemmed from her desire to create a space where parents could easily access popular online brands and discover unique gifts for their own children or others.

Quality and Durability

One of the standout features of Max & Luna is its commitment to quality and durability. As the mother of two young children, Cori understands the demands of parenting, especially when it comes to clothing that can withstand the adventures of busy toddlers. Every item in the boutique is carefully selected to ensure that it not only looks great but also holds up to the rigors of everyday play.

But Max & Luna isn’t just about clothing. The shop also offers an impressive selection of accessories and gifts for babies and young children up to age 6. From adorable baby shoes to trendy toddler accessories, there’s something for every little fashionista at Max & Luna. And if you’re looking to make a splash this summer, be sure to check out their collection of pool toys and more, perfect for fun-filled days in the sun.

Cori’s dedication to providing exceptional service doesn’t stop with Max & Luna. She also owns Anthem Style & Gift, a testament to her commitment to enhancing the shopping experience for her customers. Whether you’re in search of the perfect outfit for a special occasion or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, Cori and her team are dedicated to helping you find exactly what you need.

Address:

Visit Anthem at 100 North Ave. Cranford, NJ

Murray & Finn – A Cozy Shop for Ethical Baby Essentials and More

Are you in search of ethically made baby essentials that not only look adorable but also contribute positively to the environment? Look no further than Murray & Finn, a delightful baby boutique set in the center of downtown Summit, with a second store in Maplewood, NJ. Murray & Finn offers a collection of everyday basics designed with care and consciousness.

Stepping into Murray & Finn feels like entering a warm and inviting haven. The shop embraces a minimalist aesthetic, featuring a soothing earthy color palette throughout. Murray & Finn was born out of a love for simple, thoughtfully designed, beautiful and well-made pieces to last a life time, says owner Erica Finnan, mother of two.

The focus is on showcasing sustainable brands that align with their values. They also offer their own line of everyday essentials called Eadaie, available for children. Other clothing brands include:

• Piupiuchick
• Liewood
• My Little Cozmo
• Rylee & Cru
• Quincy Mae
• Apolina
• Soor Ploom
• Misha & Puff
• Maileg
• Haps Nordic
• Olli Ella
• Banabae

Another beloved feature of Murray & Finn is the vintage-inspired clothing designs. Follow them on Instagram for the latest offerings like the darling dresses below.

Mystery Bundles Make the Perfect Baby Shower Gift

And if you’re looking for a unique gift idea for an expecting mom, you’ll love Murray & Finn’s Mystery Bundles. Each surprise bundle contains 4 pieces from their in-house line. Pieces range from their first season to their last so items can be Spring/Summer or Fall/Winter. Choose from among three options for baby girls, boys or unisex.

More than Just Clothing

Besides a wide selection of children’s clothing, Murray & Finn has curated a charming, well-crafted collection of toys and products for the home including baskets, tableware, posters, and more from premier brands across the globe.

Convenience at Your Fingertips

Shopping with Murray & Finn is easy and convenient. Whether you prefer browsing in-store or shopping online, you can explore their carefully curated collections from the comfort of your home. With just a few clicks, you can adorn your child’s wardrobe or enhance your living space with thoughtfully designed pieces that reflect your values.

Address:

46 Maple Street, Summit, NJ (Second location: 98 Baker Street, Maplewood, NJ)

Jacadi Paris – Timeless Style and Sophistication with a Parisian Flair

If you’re a parent seeking timeless elegance and impeccable quality for your little ones, look no further than Jacadi Paris in downtown Summit. Whether you’re shopping for high-quality bodysuits, jumpsuits, and rompers for newborns, or searching for dresses, tops, and pants for toddlers, Jacadi offers a diverse array of options that blend classic Parisian flair with modern sensibilities.

But what sets Jacadi apart is its unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each garment is meticulously crafted from the finest materials, ensuring both comfort and durability for even the most active little ones. From soft, breathable fabrics to intricate detailing and exquisite finishes, every piece reflects Jacadi’s dedication to creating clothing that stands the test of time.

Pull Up a Chair: Jacadi Paris’ Secret Spot for Kids to Color and Relax

Beyond the fashionable garments, Jacadi Paris offers a delightful surprise for both parents and kids alike. Tucked away in the back of the store is a charming little nook, complete with a small table and chairs for children to enjoy. It’s the perfect spot for little ones to take a break while parents browse the latest collections.

Whether you’re shopping for a special occasion or simply looking to add a touch of Parisian chic to your child’s wardrobe, Jacadi Paris has something for everyone. From cozy sweaters and accessories to stylish ensembles for children up to 12 years old, there’s no shortage of options to explore.

Address:

487 Springfield Ave, Summit, NJ 

The Red Balloon – Timeless Charm with A Modern Twist

Looking for high-quality, stylish clothing and accessories for your little one? Look no further than The Red Balloon in downtown Summit, NJ.  For over 40 years, it’s been a beloved local destination for parents seeking classic and trendy children’s wear. This charming boutique offers a delightful selection of clothing and accessories for babies, kids, and tweens up to age 14.

A Vibrant Explosion of Style

Step inside and you’ll be greeted by a vibrant explosion of colors – from playful pastels to bold brights. Whether your little one fancies a floral sundress, a handsome button-down, or a tropical swim ensemble, The Red Balloon has something to make them shine. They cater to all your little one’s clothing needs, from everyday basics (think comfy footies and playful rompers) to special occasion outfits and accessories for weddings and other formal events.

From Newborns to Grandkids: A Legacy of Style

Eleven years ago, mom-of-two Nicole Kavanagh took the helm of The Red Balloon. She’s maintained the shop’s timeless charm, while injecting a modern twist into the clothing selection, especially catering to fashion-forward tweens.  This ensures families keep coming back year after year. The Red Balloon grows alongside its customers, welcoming newborns and outfitting school-age kids. But the story doesn’t end there.  “What truly warms my heart,” says Nicole, “is seeing parents return as grandparents, even those who’ve moved away, to find the perfect newborn gifts for their grandchildren.”  These long-lasting relationships with happy customers are a testament to the unique experience The Red Balloon offers.

Quality & Cuteness Mom’s Love

The Red Balloon carries a delightful selection of clothing from top designers like Florence Eiseman, Mayoral, Pink Chicken, Hatley, Kissy Kissy and Angel Dear. You can be sure your little one will be dressed in well-made, comfortable pieces that turn heads.

More Than Just Clothes

They also carry a curated selection of accessories like towels, blankets, and adorable toys. It’s a one-stop shop for all your baby gifting needs (or a little something special for your own precious one!).

Alongside their clothing selection, you’ll find baby towels and blankets in classic designs, toys from brands like Zubels, Jack Rabbit, and Peaceable Kingdom, and gift certificates. 

Personalized Service

And, if you’re struggling to coordinate outfits for family photos, The Red Balloon can help! They carry a variety of brands that make mixing and matching sibling outfits effortless. Plus, Nicole’s happy to assist you in selecting pieces that perfectly complement whatever outfit you’ve chosen for yourself.

Address:

386 Springfield Ave., Summit, NJ

Need some help deciding what to wear for your newborn or family photo session, or how to coordinate outfits? I offer complimentary styling suggestions and am always happy to help.

Do you know of any baby & children’s boutiques that I missed? Let me know in the comments below or get in touch. I’d love to hear from you!