Next week my eldest daughter turns six. And while the realization of having such a big girl probably isn’t going to hit me until the night before, I have started preparing a bit for the party and picking out a few birthday presents. i have decided that this year it’s not going to be about quantity but about quality and personality.

For a long time, I have wanted to make Eleanor a birthday present that she can keep for years and maybe even pass onto her own child one day. But for the last few years I haven’t been able to find the time to realize my project. This year I finally did. It is going to be a personal present with a lot of love put into it, and hopefully she’ll like it just as much as I do. It’s a handmade rag doll with a small wardrobe of dresses, tops, skirts and accessories. The clothes are all kept in a timeless style inspired by some of my favorite designers like Raf Simons, Magareth Howell and Dries Van Noten (ok, that part she’s probably not going to care that much about, but it makes me enjoy making it even more).

Apart from the doll (I’ll show you more next week) I’m trying to find some presents which reflect Eleanor’s personalty and our life as a family. And I’m sure that some of these beautiful things will bring a lot of joy to my little girl, even though they might not be found on her hand written wish list.

1. House pillow / Camomile London  2. squirrel soft mask / Sara Lowes Studio  3. Flower press / Acorn shop 4. Necklace / Little Titlee  5. Swimsuit / Christina Rohde  6. Garden Kit / Acme 7. Play tent / Such Great Hights 8. Tool box / Acorn shop 9. Dress / Atsuyo et Akiko 10. kids apron / Odette Williams