Monkeys don’t just live in tropical forests. Nowadays you can find them cavorting in stores all over southeast Michigan – in Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. But unlike the real ones who can be loud, messy and aggressive, our candidates are oh-so-quiet and also very well-behaved.
Click through our roundup of cute creatures we spotted around the region. Each one includes the link to the local shop where we found it. All merch is current as of early November 2012. We suggest calling ahead first to see if shops still have the featured item, just in case (if not, in most cases, you can click on the title to find where to buy it online).
Ty Pluffies Bungle Monkey
Machine-washable and safe for tykes ages 3-plus, these adorable stuffed critters, part of the Ty Classics line, tout being made of a “super-soft” fabric that begs to be hugged and cuddled. It’s about 10 inches tall, and you can score one locally for $12.99.
Buy it at Village Toy Company, 17112 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe; 313-881-1381
Paul Frank Paper Goods at Target
Throwing a monkey party – or just looking for a touch of whimsy to add to dinner? Grab plates, napkins and cups featuring Julius the Monkey, designer Paul Frank’s iconic graphic character. Paper products sport Jules getting into all sorts of monkeyshines, wearing everything from 3D glasses (not pictured) to a scoop of ice cream on his noggin. Available exclusively in stores for about $0.89-$2.24.
Buy them at Target location near you.
Baby Essentials Striped Monkey Onesie and Pants
This orange-and-brown striped body suit – complete with elastic-waist pint-sized slacks (not pictured) that are primo for crawling and toddling alike – is a fab find for any tyke. Sporting a dapper monkey in a green polka-dot bowtie, this long-sleeved cotton number comes in sizes 3 months, 6 months and 9 months for $23.
Buy it at Connie’s Children’s Shop, 23200 Greater Mack Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-777-8020
Lex Modern Art Happy Monkey Canvas
Wouldn’t this look awesome hanging around your kid’s room? Available in a variety of vibrant color combos, these canvases, stretched 1.5 inches deep, are beautiful works based off original pieces by artist, designer and mom Melanie Young. Ask about personalization at The Purple Bear. Get yours for $69-$199.
Buy it at The Purple Bear, 244 E. Maple Road, Birmingham; 248-645-0400
Circo Sleepers With Peace Signs and Monkeys
Now, monkeying around come bedtime is A-OK – thanks to these comfy zip-up pj’s. Made of 100-percent polyester, this ankle-length sleepwear sports a pink crew neck and cuffs – and, of course, a bevy of monkeys and peaces signs every which way. Find this, and other styles, at Target for $12.99 each. In infant and toddler sizes.
Buy them at Target location near you.
Ty Birthday Monkey Beanie Baby
“I like to climb trees around the clock – even though my body was made of a sock.” So says the red-heart swing tag on this playful purple pal by Ty, who sports a festive yellow polka-dot party hat. He’s eight inches tall and has shiny black button peepers. And at just about $4.99, he’s a darling little extra for any party occasion.
Buy it at Connie’s Children’s Shop, 23200 Greater Mack Ave., St. Clair Shores; 586-777-8020
Ceramic Monkey Bank
Toss in a few bucks or a few cents – no matter. This big-smiled friend, complete with monkey faux-hawk, stores kids’ cash – and brighten up anyone who looks at him. Almost looks sweet enough to squeeze, eh? You can pick him up locally at Slades for about $22 (this high-end gift shop has bunches of banks for kids).
Buy it at Slades Gift Shop, 6349 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield; 248-851-0066
