Childhood has a way of turning even the smallest moments into something worth remembering—and what’s worn along the way becomes part of the story. Now open in Winnetka, Little Elm answers that call for a chic, meaningful destination for children’s clothing and gifting, with an emphasis on quality and wearability.
The shop’s thoughtfully curated inventory makes Little Elm a dynamic new North Shore destination.
Located just across from Dwyer Park, Little Elm is the brainchild of Winnetkabased mothers Kristi Jensen and Kitty Brandtner, who, between them, have six children and kept running into the same issue: There wasn’t an easy, local place to find a stylish children’s outfit or last-minute gift. The frustration—combined with the influx of new and expecting families to the area during the pandemic—inspired the pair to answer that need in the community. Says Jensen, “Winnetka was home to a couple of children’s shops for decades, but they have since closed, so this felt like a natural opening to bring one back.”
Inside, the shop reflects that perspective, with a tightly edited mix of brands that balance charm with timelessness. You’ll find everything from piped tees by Oso & Me to special-occasion pieces from Beaufort Bonnet, alongside labels like Minnow, Pink Chicken and Rylee & Cru, as well as under-the-radar European names including Floss, Hello Simone and Konges Sløjd. The through line is craftsmanship, with a strong emphasis on woman-founded brands—an intentional choice that shapes the boutique’s point of view as much as what’s on the racks.
Charming knit staples are among the many finds inside the Winnetka boutique.
That same sensibility carries into the store’s programming, where children’s beading events and casual classes sit alongside mom-centered gatherings—from sip-and-shops to mahjong nights—giving the space a social rhythm that extends beyond retail. “Ultimately we want Little Elm to be a place of community, while also offering an authority on style and gifting,” Brandtner explains. “Whether you need a baby gift, outfits for pictures or just another white collared shirt since your son’s other one has a spaghetti stain—we are the local go-to where you can breathe easy knowing we can take care of that.” 847 Elm St., Winnetka, littleelmshoppe.com
