Children’s Fashion Reviews: Itzy Bitzy

Itzy Bitzy

Every once in a while, something comes to The Review Broads and I find tears in my eyes.  The unbelievable story of “Itzy Bitzy” and its founder, Michelle Ruesch, whose inspiration came from her twin girls, touched me deeply and made my realize what truly amazing moms can accomplish.  Born in 2005, daughter Brooke came out perfect.  Her twin, Sydney, was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes underdevelopment of facial bones and structures.  Michelle, a dental hygienist, did what extraordinary women do.  She found a niche – when her twins were learning to walk, she purchased an expensive pair of squeaky shoes.  She hated the non-availability of cool kid styles.  When the kids outgrew them, she decided to stretch her entrepreneurial wings and came up with Itzy Bitzy, squeaky shoes that are affordable, hip, and whimsical in design for both girls and boys.  She went on to add hair clips, hats, hair bands – and more- to her adorable boutique collection.  She donates money to both the Treacher Collins Connection and Children’s Craniofacial Association, among others. 

Squeaky Shoes are a fun and functional tool for teaching kids how to walk in heel to toe style.  When the children step correctly, the shoes emit a soft squeak letting kids know audibly that they are doing it right.  Kids LOVE getting the shoes to squeak, and quickly learn how to walk and run.  And her line of shoes is so darn adorable – and fun!

Michelle didn’t stop there – she was on a roll.  Besides working, taking care of Brooke and Sydney (with the help of her husband), learning how to manage all the medical requirements of Sydney, and paying massive medical bills, Michelle didn’t spend one second on the pity-pot!  She enlarged Itzy Bitzy to include irresistible headbands, and flower hair clips as well as flip flops, and gorgeous knit hats!

Not only that – can you believe this amazing woman?  Ben Affleck’s daughter Serafina loves her Chloe Silver Metallic Squeaky Shoes!  Matthew McConaughey’s daughter Vida wears her hair clips and Camila Alves asked Michelle to make the sound device removable – which Michelle did – for Church!  Courtney Cox’s daughter Coco loves her new Itzy Bitzy shoes!  Jennie Garth’s daughter Fiona sports the Chloe in pink!  And the list of Hollywood stars who buy Izty Bitzy goes on and on!

Marketing genius, entrepreneur, and first and foremost mom to darling Sydney and Brooke, Michelle’s story transcends amazing.  She is truly inspiring.  Itzy Bitzy’s Squeaky Shoes come in polka dots, metallics, and all kinds of innovative “kid” chic, and are totally flexible (and run about 20.00 per pair).  Another safety feature – if you are strolling the Mall, you can hear your little one as she squeaks in her shoes – and she won’t get lost!  I’m tooting Michelle’s horn here, and tooting it loud!  Did I say brilliant?  BRILLIANT!  Check out her website for the newest designs and her new line of flip flops for savvy kids!

Review by Broad “A” – Ava

We received product for our review. All opinions are our own.