Cotton Bobs

Photograph: Aroline Voagen Nelson

Bobby Fintor, owner of children’s shop Cotton Bobs, knows his market: He’s worked with kids for the past 15 years, first as a teacher in Southeast Asia, then as a hairdresser at Locks ’n’ Lads. His new outpost, which shares its space with the popular East Village hair salon, carries a carefully curated selection of hip clothes and accessories for tots; most are either locally made or fashioned from organic fibers. Choose from rocker bodysuits with sayings like blondie makes the boys drool and black sabbath rules ($24.50) from Jersey-based Sourpuss, colorful tulle tutus ($36) from Manhattan designer Pamela and Little Twig organic bath products ($12–$18). Along with a thumb’s-up from moms and dads, the store draws rave reviews from kids. We think that might have something to do with the in-house play area, life-size tree and blue fuzzy sitting stumps, perfectly sized for little tushes.
123 E 7th St between First Ave and Ave A (212-677-2262, cottonbobs.com)