When I asked the moms on the Gilt Baby & Kids team what they liked to cook with their kids, I got a resounding “Bake ‘N Brake” “mac and cheese,” and “I don’t cook. I order in.” Some help they are! So in an effort to think outside the (cardboard) box, I asked Colleen Levine of Foodie Tots for simple recipes that even the most kitchen-phobic moms can pull off. A mother of two, Levine knows that stirring the pot is the best way to get kids to try new things (here are some items to prep your little Top Chef), so she came up with three meals even the youngest toddlers can help prepare.

Kale Salad with Strawberry Dressing
Serves 4
Look for red kale, which is more tender than other varieties and perfect for salad. Kids will love smashing the berries for the dressing – just be sure to use a large bowl and have them wear aprons in case of splattering juice!

Ingredients
1 bunch red kale, washed and stems removed
1 cup strawberries, hulled and extra for salad
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper

Instructions
1. Tear kale into bite-sized pieces and place in salad bowl
2. In a separate bowl, mash the strawberries to a pulp using a potato masher or fork. Add vinegar, olive oil, pinch of salt and pepper and stir to combine
3. Gently toss the greens and dressing, then top with additional sliced strawberries

Chilled Asparagus Pea Soup
Serves 4
Your kids aren’t fond of salad? Let them slurp their greens in this delicious “green monster” soup. If you can find fresh English peas at the market, shelling them is a great project for little ones.

Ingredients
1 pound asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup shelled fresh peas (or frozen peas, thawed)
1 small yellow onion
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
6 leaves fresh mint
1/2 cup half and half (or cream)
salt and pepper

Instructions
1. Warm olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add asparagus, a pinch of salt and pepper, and broth. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil; then reduce to a simmer and cook for 7 minutes. Add peas and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Asparagus should be just tender when pricked with a fork. Remove from heat and let cool a little.
3. Add mint. Process in small batches in a blender until smooth. Pour into a bowl, stir in the half and half or cream, and let chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. (You can accelerate the cooling by setting the bowl into a larger bowl filled with ice and water.)
4. Garnish with additional mint leaves to serve

Whole Wheat Cherry Crumb Cake
Serves 9
Baking a simple coffee or crumb cake is a great way to bond in the kitchen on a weekend morning – and mixing up the crumb topping is the perfect job for your little helper.

Ingredients
For the crumbs:
2/3 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

For the cake:
1/3 cup whole milk yogurt
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 cup cane sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sweet cherries, pitted and halved
1 tablespoon tapioca starch

Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Butter an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Toss cherries with tapioca starch and set aside
3. To make crumb topping, melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt and stir until combined. Use a fork to mix in flour and set aside.
4. For the cake batter, whisk together yogurt, egg, egg yolk and vanilla. In the bowl of a mixer, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add butter and mix on medium speed until flour is moistened. Gradually add yogurt/egg mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the baking dish. Spread cherries over the batter, then spread crumb mixture evenly over the top. Bake 45 to 55 minutes, until crumb topping is lightly browned and cake is cooked through. Cool before cutting, and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar.

From the office to weekend brunch, Theory has the perfect piece for every occasion. Which is precisely why the Gilt.com office is abuzz over our big sample sale event with the brand on Wednesday, May 16! Perfectly cut pants, easy dresses, breezy knits, and decadently luscious leather jackets are just a few of the blockbusters in the sale.

And we aren’t the only ones that love Theory! Famous fans range from Jennifer Aniston and Jessica Simpson to Fergie and Rachel Bilson. Even her royal hotness Pippa Middleton has been spotted in pieces by the NYC-based brand.

Theory isn’t just for the ladies either — the menswear is sleek, tailored and urban, so don’t forget to shop for your guy on May 16 as well. And if you are in NYC, drop by the Theory sample sale in person at 139 Fifth Avenue.

Shop the Theory sale on Gilt.com, beginning at noon ET on May 16 — just don’t be late, or you’ll miss out on all the fun!

Alanna Bess is the kind of jewelry designer we can definitely get behind. Her rings, necklaces, and other creations are beautifully feminine and utterly unique, but they achieve a versatility that makes them easy enough to wear every day. Featuring notably unusual stones — and trust us, we’ve seen a lot! — the Alanna Bess styles that populate our sale on Gilt.com on May 14 range from demure gold and silver drop earrings to daring statement necklaces and rings beset with chunky geodes.

The bold visual effect of the stunning Blue Lapis, Jasper & Green Turquoise Pendant Necklace is offset beautifully by its long, simple gold chain. Pair it with your favorite white v-neck and cutoffs for a cool, boho look; wear it with a simple neutral shift; or go bold by throwing it on over your favorite printed dress — just stay away from hues that are too perfect a match, or you’ll ruin the effect.

The Light Grey Tabasco Geode Ring achieves the uncommon affect of being both a statement piece and a wear-with-everything neutral. Pair it with your favorite black or white summer dress and sandals for an elegant study in easy chic.

The beachy Carved Agate & Gold Nugget Bracelet is a standout piece for sure, but it will look amazing stacked with your favorite friendship bracelets. Prefer to put it in the spotlight? The bracelet is the perfect accessory for anyone wondering how to wear a summer maxi dress.

Inspired? So are we. Shop Alanna Bess Jewelry on Tuesday, May 15, at noon ET, on Gilt.com.

When you have a newborn, you give up your right to a sound slumber. And figuring out how to send your peanut off to dreamland in the safest way possible could trigger a new-parent anxiety attack. Not anymore: Enter the Halo SleepSack. We talked to founder Bill Schmid and got the scoop on why this wearable blanket is literally a lifesaver.

Why did you create the Halo SleepSack wearable blanket?  
I came across research from the Netherlands (where the SIDS incidence has always been very low) that showed that the use of a sleeveless “sleeping bag” (a “Trappelzak” in Dutch) had a protective effect against SIDS. We “Americanized” the design and introduced it to the U.S. market a dozen years ago.

What kind of fabric is it made of?
It’s available in premium, breathable fabrics like 100-percent cotton, micro-fleece, velboa, chenille, and organic cotton that will keep your baby warm (but not too warm).

Tell us about the benefits, and why it’s safer than using a regular blanket.
The Halo SleepSack wearable blanket replaces loose blankets in the crib that can cover your baby’s face or wrap around her neck and interfere with breathing. We’ve taken great care in the design to ensure that it’s the safest way to sleep: It’s a roomy sack with ample leg room that allows a baby’s legs and hips to flex properly for healthy hip development. In fact, it’s been approved as ”hip healthy“ by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. The sleeveless design reduces the risk of overheating and the “back is best” message reminds parents to put the baby to sleep on her back. It’s used in more than 800 hospital nurseries nationwide in an effort to help educate parents about safe sleep practices.

Does it actually help babies sleep better? If so, how?
Yes! It’s a cozy blanket they can’t kick off, so they’re comfortable all night long. Our SleepSack Swaddle with a 2-in-1 adjustable swaddle wrap also helps babies sleep better by preventing the “moro” or startle reflex that can wake them up. It also helps many babies better tolerate the supine or back sleep position, which is the only position your baby should sleep in. As your baby grows, the adjustable swaddle allows you to swaddle them with one arm in and one arm out for an easier transition out of swaddling (and into the SleepSack wearable blanket). Moms tell us this process works like a charm!

While designing jewelry may not have been Doron Hakimian’s first passion — that would be architecture — we couldn’t be more thrilled he discovered his hidden talent for it! Doves Jewelry stands out from the pack with innovative cuts, deep, luscious colors, and a strong, passionate aesthetic we love. So we jumped at the chance to interview the designer on the occasion of his upcoming sale of Doves rings, necklaces, and more on Gilt.com. Read on for Doron’s fascinating answers, and shop Doves Jewelry on Gilt.com on May 14 at noon ET.

Q: How did you decide to become a jewelry designer?
I was raised in a family of jewelers, but architecture was always my passion. Upon getting my architecture degree I decided to spend a summer creating designs for my family’s upscale wholesale jewelry business. What followed was a whirlwind of orders that drew me into the business. I always tell people that I studied architecture but instead of buildings I “build” earrings, pendants and rings.

Q:How does your knowledge of architecture influence your designs? What are the other great influences on the way you design?
Architecture is about space and shapes and understanding how to work with both. When I create a pendant I think about where this will fall on a woman’s neck to be most alluring. When I’m designing an earring I imagine how it will frame a woman’s face and flatter it. I make rings that lengthen a woman’s finger. Women wear jewelry to feel beautiful, and my goal in every design I make is to do just that.

My designs are influenced by art, nature and all things of beauty. Recently on a trip to St. Barths I was struck by the incredible color of the Caribbean Sea. When I came home I immediately began sketching pieces that would capture the experience. The St. Barth’s Blue collection is a doublet of Turquoise and white topaz. Our artisans set a sheet of the finest sleeping-beauty Turquoise beneath crystal clear white topaz and set them in 18 karat gold and diamonds. I take pride in the fact that many of my customers have told me how much the pieces remind them of the ocean in St. Barth’s. As an artist and a designer that tells me that I am doing my job well.

Q:Do you have a woman in mind when you are designing? Where do you see your pieces being worn?
The woman who wears Doves is the woman who strives for the exceptional. Our pieces are exceptionally beautiful and incredibly well-made. The artisans who hand-create each of our pieces make sure that they are durable and can be worn and enjoyed for generations to come. Our pieces are so versatile they can be worn in the boardroom, out for a night on the town, or just spending a day with the family.

Q: Do you have advice on how women can incorporate statement jewelry into their wardrobe?
Jewelry is the most important element of a woman’s wardrobe. A woman can wear a classic black dress but still make a statement by wearing bold, exotic jewelry. The great thing about our pieces is that they are classic yet fashion forward. They are fun and easy to wear.

Q: What do you see in the future for your brand? Are there any major milestones you have in mind to hit this year?
We have gotten quite a bit of celebrity attention in the past year with our pieces being worn at award shows, on celebrity A-listers and on the red carpet. We hope to continue getting not only celebrity attention, but to become a household name. I hope that the Doves name will be synonymous with exceptional designs and incredible craftsmanship.

Why did you decide to be a brand ambassador for Nourish beauty products?
When I first heard about Nourish, I was really impressed by the purity, high quality, and the authenticity of the brand. They offer something really unique – all 100 percent USDA certified organic ingredients, beautiful scents and textures, and an amazing price point with everything under $10! I love that they can provide a wholesome, luxurious product at an affordable price. I’m really excited to be working with them because we share the same philosophy that what we put on our body is as important as what we put in our body.

Which Nourish product is your favorite, and what do you love most about it?
I must say I absolutely love the Nourish Organic Body Butter in Fresh Fig. It is my favorite scent! I have particularly dry skin so I apply it everywhere – to my legs, feet, cuticles, elbows – to just smooth everything over and add a bit of a glow. My secret is putting it on before I go to sleep so I wake up with soft, silky skin in the morning.

What are some of your secrets to keeping your skin looking fabulous?
Plenty of rest, water, and eating organic foods are my biggest tips for better skin, but I love a good exfoliator too. I use the Nourish Exfoliating Body Polish every few days. It is very gentle and does not leave an oily residue.

We love that the Nourish products are 100 percent organic. What are some other things you do to maintain a green lifestyle?
My family and I have made a conscious effort to make healthier choices, from eating organic foods and switching to chemical-free products, to conserving our natural resources. I can tell you that these choices have made a difference in my energy level, the clarity of my skin, the way my whole body feels…everything. It’s really proven to me the difference that high-quality, natural, and organic ingredients can make to your entire well- being.

Also, how are you encouraging your kids to protect the planet?
Kids learn by example so my husband and I really strive to practice what we preach. We are a big recycling family. We bring our own bags to the grocery store, and have special recycling bins for paper, plastic, and cans. What’s amazing to me is when our kids come home from school and teach us something new, or remind us of ways to help protect our planet. For example, composting is something they do at their school in the garden. They also remind us not to leave the water running when we brush our teeth. These may seem like tiny bits of advice, but every little bit helps….and it’s extra sweet coming from them.

Tart is the Gilt go-to brand for luscious jersey pieces: from the comfiest maxidress to the sexiest going-out dress, husband-and-wife team Jamie and Dana Finegold have us covered for every occasion. Since we’re all such huge fans, we were thrilled that we got the chance to chat with Jamie about what makes him tick as a designer and an entrepreneur – and what we can look forward to next from the brand!

Q: How did you get started in the design business?
I had a clothing line I was designing in college. A sorority friend asked me if I could make 120 sailor dresses for her Delta Gamma sorority. The salesman in me said yes before I had thought it through. It was incredibly hard to pull this off from my dorm room in Santa Barbara, but I made it happen. I got a Ph.D in apparel in 4 months. Not a very profitable venture, but it started my career.

Q:How did Tart come to be? Why do you think the brand has resonated so well with women?
I was always critical of the wardrobe my girlfriend was wearing, her mom would show up with a box of Ann taylor and I would say, “You’re not wearing that”. I sort of took over as her personal stylist. I had always loved clothes for myself and was always spotting or developing my own trends. I guess I developed my own aesthetic of what I thought my girl should look like. After marrying her it was a continuation of what I had done with her all through college. It’s funny today to have myself and 2 oldest daughters still dressing Dana for any event we might go to. The brand is just cut right, the silhouette are all so flattering, the clothes make you feel great when you put them on. I have women come up to me all the time to tell me that have a five-year-old Tart dress that they cannot get rid of because it’s still their favorite piece in the wardrobe. If you want to go out and get stopped on the street, start dress is a sure way to make this happen.Women have gravitated to the line because it’s easy. Whatever you put on is effortless!

Q: Who do you see as your customer? Have you been surprised or extra excited to see anyone in your designs?
Our girl is definitely not any particular age. She cares about staying in good mental and physical shape. She prefers Whole Foods to 7-Eleven. Would rather ride her beach cruiser to the beach and loves to travel whenever possible. She also drives her kids to soccer practice and doesn’t have time to think about a complicated wardrobe. Toddlers are her main focus these days. I think our it girl currently would be Alessandra Ambrosio.

Q:What’s the secret to balancing work and relationship with the same person?
It can be a challenge, these days I ask the question, “Can we talk about work” if I get a smile that means its ok, a frown means back off. Our strengths are complete opposite so there isn’t a lot of stepping on each other’s toes. I respect her skill set and vice versa, our mutual appreciation for each other’s talents keeps things fresh.

Q: We all love the iconic Infinity dress, but what do you think your next must-have piece is?
We are seeing a big trend back towards our jumpers again. They are so versatile, it very cliche to say this but it’s true that you can dress them up or down. Great for looking casual but together at the pool and then super sext and glam at night. Everyone that puts them on oozes over the fabric . It’s so luxurious you feel like you are royalty.

Q: What’s the one item every woman should have in her closet?
Maxi dress! Every year someone predicts the end to the maxi. It’s constantly our best selling body. New prints keep them fresh and updated. They can always be accessories to fit your event and they are always sexy.

Q:What’s your favorite trend for Summer?
I grew up in the ’80s so I Have an affection for brights and neons. When I was at UCSB, Mossimo was just blowing up with bright neon beach gear. I was dripping in neon…good times.

If Cinderella and Prince Charming had a child, this is what their modern-day baby’s room would look like. Project Nursery, one of the top destinations in children’s design, used the items in our sale to create these fanciful kids’ rooms, and we think it’s a perfect fit for moms who strive to mix the old-school with the new-school. Who needs a glass slipper when you can step into one of these beautiful bedrooms every day?

For Your Little Prince or Princess (see above)
“Regal and glamorous, the Haven Crib by Newport Cottages is the perfect crib for a fairytale-inspired nursery. The custom gray finish updates this classic canopy design, making it fitting for the modern prince or princess. Carousel Designs’ Zig Zag crib bedding keeps you chic and on trend by incorporating a graphic element along with the popular gray-and-yellow color scheme. “

1. Flutter Wall Decals by Blik
2. Valentino Chandelier by Jubilee
3. Empire Rocker by Nurseryworks
4. Gray & Yellow Zig Zag Crib Bedding by Carousel Designs
5. Haven Crib by Newport Cottages
6. Tree Limb Mobile by Fischtale Designs
7. Cody Changer Dresser by Newport Cottages
   

For Your Little Prince

“The two-tone custom-built crib and bookcase, Cody by Newport Cottages, has a lavish look without being overdone. No fuss and simply clean and modern, the Cody Crib is truly eye-catching. The colors pair beautifully with the soft gray-blues of Carousel Designs’ Windy Day crib set. And in our opinion, the uber-hip “snake skin” crib sheet makes the look complete. Lastly, the traditional yet playful Nurseryworks Empire Rocker is a true standout in slate gray for both parent and prince.”

1. Windy Day Crib Bedding Set by Carousel Designs
2. Harp Chandelier by Jubilee
3. Elephant Art by Avalisa
4. Dinosaur Wallpaper by Aimee Wilder
5. Cody Bookcase by Newport Cottages
6. Empire Rocker by Nurseryworks
7. Cody 6 Drawer Dresser by Newport Cottages
8. Cody Crib by Newport Cottages

For Your Little Princess

“Bratt Decor’s Casablanca Iron Crib is both classic and elegant. In a gorgeous gold finish, this crib will be the crown jewel of the nursery (aside from the baby of course!). Sweet handmade accessories like the Tree Limb mobile by Fischtale Designs completes a room scheme fit for a princess.”

1. Tree Limb Mobile by Fischtale Designs
2. Grand Glider by Newco
3. Wall Sconces by Jubilee
4. Table Lamp by Jubilee
5. Classic Changing Chest by Bratt Decor
6. Blanket by Little Giraffe
7. Casablanca Iron Crib by Bratt Décor
8. Doll House by KidKraft
9. Shag Rug by Momeni
   

Fact: Motherhood stirs up all kinds of creativity. This playful clothing line (made especially for mini glamour girls) is proof of that. Mai-Lis Bahr and Meghan Hampton say their brand was born because their children were born, and when you see their whimsical designs, it’s obvious that their young daughters, named (you guessed it!) Addie and Ella, approved every one of them. We put these two moms in the hot seat, and here’s what they had to say.

How would you describe the style of the clothes?
Girls grow up so quickly, so we create designs that keep them appropriately dressed for their age. Our designs are sweet with enough of an edge to make them trendy (but not overly trendy). The clothes are whimsical, refreshing, and classic — some are fashion-forward while others offer a vintage twist.

Where do you get your design inspiration? 
Simple! Our girls and all the little girls and their moms out there. Our designs are born from the desire to make little girls feel special. We all live an on-the-go lifestyle, so we create clothes with comfort and practicality in mind — Addie & Ella lets girls be comfortable at school or play yet ready for an impromptu play date, party, or event out.

Tell us about the popular kids’ trends for spring and summer.
Color!  Florals!  Ruffles! Light and airy fabrics for hot summer days. Hip looks that mom’s themselves would wear if they were little again.

What are your top three favorite looks from the Gilt sale and why?

Racer Back Dress, $47
“It can be worn as a dress alone or with capri leggings for afternoons on the playground. This is Addie’s go-to dress because it offers cool, comfortable style. It’s truly kid-tested and approved.”

Infant Dress, $48
“It’s the easiest way to let your little girl run around in style. The dress and bloomers are in a cheerful bright floral that allows for stylish, comfortable play.”

Ruffle Back Dress, $49
“This is a hands-down favorite of Ella’s. The dress has REAL pockets for treasured finds and ruffles down the back. Enough said.”

What should parents look for when they’re shopping for kids’ clothes?
First and foremost, quality. There’s nothing more disappointing than a single-wash garment. After that it’s all about the style: we’ve all had those dreaded clothing wars, but the Addie & Ella line is truly tested by the real Addie and Ella during the sampling process. If these two finicky girls love the line, we promise other little ones will too! Girls want to be comfortable and stylish, mostly in that order.

What’s the best parenting advice you ever got, and who was it from?
We were both fortunate to be raised by a mom and dad who taught us from an early age to think for ourselves, be confident, and be independent. Since there is so much that can work against young girls today, it’s important to raise a confident daughter who can think for herself and be her own leader. We attribute those qualities to much of our success in business and in family. And from a mother of 11: Just keep them alive! Thankfully we have managed to do that while keeping them dressed well too.

Anything else about the line we should know about?
We love giving back to our community. We hold a special place in our hearts for the Neo Natal Intensive Care Unit at Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina — using cheerful and colorful fabrics, we have gifted more than 1,000 blankets to them.  We’re also part of the founding committee for “In the NIC of Time,” an annual event benefiting Levine’s NICU and the Women’s Institute, and we support Baby Buggy, a New York-based charity founded by Jessica Seinfeld.

Smashbox Cosmetics is coming to Gilt.com with an amazing range of products built from years of photo-shoot know-how. So who better to tell us how to achieve the ultimate in LA beauty (from beachy natural to red carpet glam) than the brand’s lead makeup artist Lori Taylor? We hit her with our burning questions and she answered with all the wit and wisdom you could hope for! Shop Smashbox on Gilt.com on May 8, starting at noon ET.

Q: What do you love most about Smashbox? What drew you to working with the brand?
The brand as a whole! Being able to collaborate with our creative department in creating a theme for seasonal makeup collections, working with product development to choose colors and products that reflect our studio brand personality, shooting with Davis Factor to create beautiful images that are reflective of the collection and finally seeing these products become favorites of the everyday woman to be used in real life. It’s an amazing process.

Q:What’s your “hero product” from Smashbox?
Photo Finish Foundation Primer! It creates the perfect canvas for foundation application, minimizes pores and fine lines and keeps your makeup looking fresh longer. It can even be used to tame frizz in hair!

Q: So, why should we all be adding primer to our makeup routine if we don’t already use it?
Primers have changed the way woman wear makeup. In the past 6-8 years many brands have stumbled upon what we have always known at Smashbox— makeup is best applied to skin that has a smoother, softer texture. Primer is key for helping makeup look fresher longer by prepping the skin, filling in fine lines and minimizing pores. Smashbox primers do everything from correcting color, adding hydration and adding luminosity to keeping skin matte and makeup looking fresh. We have created a primer to address each skin issue, with more to come. We are the primer authority!

Q:What’s the key to keeping your face looking fresh all day long?
Minimal makeup with maximum results. Skin that looks naturally fresh, not cakey. Applying makeup the Smashbox way with sheer, thin and natural layers.

Q:What’s the most common makeup mistake you see?
Hiding behind your makeup. Makeup that looks unnatural or mask-like. Makeup should enhance, not mask.

Q:What’s the next big makeup trend you love?
The sky is the limit. We have our finger on the pulse of modern makeup technology, which sets Smashbox apart as a brand. Our studio is our lab, so we have the ability to come up with formulas in the most creative environment and share that with the masses. Our studio is what sets us apart!