Dear Reader, There’s so much to celebrate this season. As travel resumes and people congregate again, some international trade shows held their first in-person events in almost two years. In Paris, the weather was perfect and spirits were high at the Who’s Next and Maison & Objet shows, where visitors enthusiastically admired a wonderful selection of fashion and décor products. In Florence, Pitti Bimbo made a very welcome return to debut Spring/Summer 2022 children’s wear collections, while in New York, Playtime and Kids Hub joined together for a lively, successful event. Kids a la Mode shared in the joy of discovering great new brands, re-visiting favorite lines, and re-connecting with colleagues. We’re delighted to convey the energy we felt, and to show you the best of what we’ve seen. What better way to celebrate anything than with flowers? This edition is full of fabulous florals, from our flower-filled cover, to trendy floral print fashions for girls and boys, to the beautiful flower paintings of our guest artist Katja Katarina Karlsson. Throughout the shows, there was lots of talk about up-cycled and re-worked fashion, a concept that is fast-growing in all segments of apparel and accessories. Kids à la Mode #8 includes profiles of Unie & Co and Threads of Habit, two cool young companies whose love of “vintage” translates into unique, stylish and sustainable clothes for kids. We invite you to get inspired, refreshed and informed by joining us in celebrating the new design season.
Kids à La Mode | 01
contributing staff Janet A. Jacobs Publisher / Editor-in-Chief Janet has been involved with nearly every aspect of children's fashion for over thirty-five years. Graduating from Fashion Institute of Technology, New York with a degree in fashion design, she has been working continuously in the industry ever since. Janet has designed children’s apparel and products for clients throughout the United States and South America. As a photo / journalist she has written and photographed for major fashion and trade publications, traveling the world to pursue the latest trends and most current news. Her expertise and exposure to global markets enable her to bring relevant, selective information to Kids à la Mode magazine. Janet also enjoys teaching swim and aquacise classes to children and adults.
David Jacobs Contributing Editor David's love of literature started early and continues to this day. He is the author of over sixty published novels and works of nonfiction, covering diverse genres as action/adventure, true crime, science fiction and especially American Westerns. For decades he has brought his unique and witty writing style to fashion publications as a copywriter, proofreader and contributing editor.
Rick Celano Art Director Rick is a graphic designer and illustrator from Montclair, New Jersey. His love of graphic design, comic books and all things Art came from the fact that his father, his mother, and his grandmother were all artists. He just didn’t have a choice. Also known as “Rickman”, he has taught art and design to ages 5 to 95. Some of his art and design can be seen on his website RickmanArt.com along with the comics and children’s books that he’s published. Rick hopes that one day he will be the first comic book artist is space, though he fears the lack of oxygen may impede his progress.
Katarina Karlsson Contributing Artist Katarina is a prolific artist who enjoys the freedom and creativity of painting. Her love for mixing colors and media has blossomed with each year, and her work is inspired by New York and Sweden's landscapes and people. She paints primarily with acrylics and watercolor. Katerina has extensive experience designing textiles, graphics, apparel and products for babies and children. Recently, Katarina has branched out and used her experience in textile surface design to create art for greeting cards, gift bags, notebooks, and wrapping paper. We are delighted to highlight Katarina’s paintings of flowers for this issue of Kids à la Mode magazine. katarinaart.net
Maria Bowden Layout and Graphic Designer
Studio Bosch Layout and Graphic Designer Located in Amsterdam, Studio Bosch brings together designers and artists with expertise in graphics, textile design, photography and fashion design. With such a diverse range of experience, Studio Bosch works on projects including magazine layout, children's wear design, textile prints, decor and lifestyle design. Studio Bosch is united in its passion for art, design and especially nature... after all, the name "bosch" means tree in old Dutch language!
Maria began her design career early by sketching designs for her father’s embroidery business. She went on to study art and design at New Jersey City University and textile design at Fashion Institute of Technology, New York. As a freelance designer she has created designs and graphics for many infant and children’s apparel companies. Most recently she was stylist for a large children’s product company in New York. Maria’s interests extend to all forms of art including water color painting, house portraits and Coastal art.
Carly Michelson Layout and Graphic Designer
Carly is a New Jersey based photographer and graphic artist. She studied art and art history at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York. She currently works as a product photographer, while also shooting landscapes, family portraits, and events on the side. In her spare time, Carly volunteers with local animal welfare group New Jersey Strays, contributing her skills in photography, design and social media marketing.
Contents
#8
8 Kidding
An inside look at a French press bureau specializing in kid’s apparel and accessories.
Pajamas for Peace The latest news from this eco-conscious, ethical brand.
11
Cote d’Azur Timelessly chic summer fashions evoke the French Riviera.
12 20
Knot The children’s wear brand from Portugal tells their philosophy, concept and story.
Katarina Carlsson
16
Celebrating the season with lush flower paintings from this multi-talented artist.
Trade Shows First-hand news from in-person editions of: Who’s Next, Paris; Pitti Bimbo, Florence; Playtime, New York.
24
22 Essential Trends Key looks from top brands for Spring/Summer 2022.
Unie & Co An original concept-company transforms adult clothes into new pieces for babies and children.
32 Free Spirit Far-out fashions let color and creativity run wild.
30
#8
Contents 34
The New Society Meet a Spanish children’s wear brand that is “beautiful, sustainable, and emotional.”
Color Trends Three photo-collages display fresh seasonal palettes.
44
Ligne Noire
38
Profiling a truly original fashion knit wear line for kids.
Maison & Objet Welcoming the return of the world’s greatest trade show for home and décor.
46
Bukowski Design This Sweden-based family run business makes teddy bear design an art.
50
Atsuko Matano A well-loved artist designs a distinctly vibrant array of products.
53
Mc Alson
52
The Belgian brand focusing on luxury briefs and swim shorts for boys.
Little Lights Presenting dazzling lamps with unique designs inspired by kid’s imaginations.
54
Threads of Habit One-of-a-kind designs created from up-cycled vintage finds.
56 Paris Street Art Extraordinaire Amazing murals astound and attract art lovers. COVER Picture from Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini Kids www.pilcommunications.com Cover design by Studio Bosch
58
Joe Schoenfelder CEO 511 Central Avenue Cedarhurst, NY 11516 1-631-708-1278 joe@Showroom21.us Showroom21.us
Kids à la Mode enjoyed an informative tour of the charming office of Kidding, a Parisian press bureau specializing in children’s apparel and accessories. Company founder Tiphaine Macrez tells us all about this fascinating business.
office offering journalists and fashion editors a wide range of styles and universes of design.
How and why did Kidding begin, and how has it evolved since then? I realized that something was happening in the world of children. New talents were emerging and, like the media at the time, I discovered a real passion for this market that was undergoing a period of renaissance. After 10 years of experience in communication and press relations for the big names in fashion, it was a perfect time to take the plunge and open my own PR [Public Relations] agency. At the start my clients were French and Belgian, and my contacts were French or French-speaking print magazines. Little by little the business expanded into European print and digital media, then international press more widely. European, American, and Asian designers became interspersed with those French designers in the 8 | Kids à La Mode
Tiphaine Macrez photo by Louise Desrosiers for MILK
quickly and in good spirits. Camille has been with me for 6 years now and is the pillar of the office! She knows each of the journalists, as well as the influencers in the industry. And her quirky sense of humor makes working together all the more enjoyable. Isabela arrived at the office a year ago and quickly found took her place, making herself totally indispensable. She is our little Swiss Army knife from Brazil! We are also assisted by super interns that we choose with care. George is our mascot. He was found when he was just a puppy in a public dump on the Ile de Reunion. When I saw photos of him being rescued, posted by the charity that found him, I fell in love! He is very affectionate with all of us and follows us everywhere around the office. He also makes a point of being present for every video call! What are some of the services that Kidding offers their clients? It depends on the needs of each brand. It ranges from style consultancy to event organization, including, of course, traditional PR services and digital marketing management via influencer campaigns. Please tell us a little about your staff, including George the dog! We are a small, close-knit team working in harmony and in a relationship of total trust. It’s a precious thing! We come to work lighthearted because we know that whatever little difficulties we face in the day, we can always manage them Kids à La Mode | 9
this new collection, these new products are interesting from their point of view. Of course, the newcomer has to be complementary to the brands in the office and not take over any of the brands already presented. People are also important to me, and I like to get involved with a designer I admire or with talented and exciting teams! Since your company is based on personal connections, I’m sure the pandemic has greatly affected the way you work. Please tell us about some of these changes, and which new ways of working to you expect to continue.
Do you work with children’s fashion press, on-line content providers, newspapers and trade shows? We work with every type of press in France and abroad, children’s fashion of course, but also women’s press, decoration magazines, more general news, online magazines… and for 4 years now we have been working with influencers from all over the world. What types of products do you represent? Are the brands mostly French or international?
In the end, work hardly slowed down during the pandemic because, working with many different countries, the scale of health crisis was different at different times across the world. We obviously worked a lot more via digital platforms, but that was also the case before the crisis. We of course missed the office meetings, events and press presentations a lot, but as the relationships we had built with our contacts were already strong and longstanding, so they remained unchanged. Does Kidding have any plans for upcoming new projects that you’d like to share? We are greatly developing the digital and influencer side to the business, and our event projects. Looking to the future we may be looking for someone to join the dream team…? That is if George agrees of course!
We represent clothes and accessories collections for children, but also décor and lifestyle brands, nursery collections, toys and even Playtime -the children’s fashion fair in Paris. We represent brands from numerous countries (France, UK, US, Spain, Korea…). What do you look for when selecting a new brand to represent? We like to represent brands that have created a universe with a very personal feel, a style that is really their own. I also put myself in the shoes of journalists and influencers and ask myself if 10 | Kids à La Mode
Kidding mascot George
Kids à La Mode | 11
EMC
Please Kids Paade Mode MC2 Saint Barth Wynken
The Nice Fleet
12 | Kids à La Mode
Amallure Pan Con Chocolate
Monnalisa
Lapin House The Nice Fleet
Lapin House
Kids à La Mode | 13
Fun & Fun
Monnalisa
Monnalisa Monnalisa
Adlib 14 | Kids à La Mode
Paade Mode
La Martinica
Paade Mode
Jey Cat
Simonetta
Kids à La Mode | 15
Carla Caetano, founder and partner of Knot, shares with Kids à la Mode the concepts and philosophy behind this very special children’s wear brand. Portugal offers many benefits to children’s wear manufacturers, such as beautiful fabrics and excellent workmanship. I believe you are very inspired by your country — I even remember a past collection that featured motifs indigenous to Portuguese culture, such as a print of sardines [Portugal is a leading supplier of sardines to the world!] Please tell us the unique advantages of designing and producing in Portugal. Knot was always meant to be a Portuguese brand, ever since it was born more than twelve years ago. The goal for our brand has always been to produce high quality clothes, comfortable for the children who wear it and with very much attention to detail. So, what better way to achieve this than with your own design team and working closely with carefully selected producer partners? We can be close in every part of the process; we have a national textile industry that is gaining more and more international relevance due to its high-quality work and in the end, we are also contributing to the local economy and for a more sustainable planet. Do you include organic fabrics in the collection? How is Knot helping to promote sustainability? And please tell us about your “re-loved” garment project. 16 | Kids à La Mode
Yes, we do. We have always cared about the planet, from the beginning, this being one of the reasons we chose to produce locally and with natural materials. And in the last years we are becoming more and more aware of our role in
The colors and graphics of Knot are always so lovely — soft, subtle and sun-washed color palettes seem to be your signature look. Please tell us your thoughts about designing clothes for children.
the society, either through the introduction of more organic materials in our collections, selling previous collections at special prices, avoiding the waste of leftover fabrics by producing special garments with them, and encouraging customers to reuse our cotton tote bags whenever they visit us. Even at our headquarters we have been trying to reduce the use of paper to a minimum. And in the last year, we launched our most recent project – re-love. We aim to reduce the number of as good as new clothes that end up going to waste by rethinking the way we consume fashion, because a piece of clothing can have multiple lives in multiple families. Ultimately, we need to reeducate our habits into buying less clothes, with more quality and re-using as much as we can. Also, the project has a social purpose as well, as we donate a share of the sales to a local organization that improves the life of children – Fundação do Gil.
We want our clothes to be more than that. We want them to mean something for the kids who wear them and awaken their curiosity and imagination. Each collection has a story behind it, and the color palette, patterns and prints always follow that guiding thread (for instance, a collection about the movies, or about the revolutionary Seventies). Also, besides designing practical and comfortable clothes, we are always trying to bring joy and special messages in every item, from raising awareness for endangered animals to simple colorful forms that spark creativity. What are your favorite fabrics? What are some of the design details that make your garments special? We always privilege fabrics with natural
Kids à La Mode | 17
fibers and the ones that allow us to ally comfort with quality. So, cotton, cashmere and wool knits, jersey or cotton denims are some of the fabrics we use the most. This is a part of what makes our garments special, but what we believe makes them truly unique is this story they tell, either separately or together, based on the theme of the collection as I mentioned earlier. Then we have the personalized wood knot
buttons, the personalized Knot labels for each collection, the embroidered motifs in the collars and the personalized linings in the pockets that are the finishing touches not left unattended. Your company’s booths at the trade shows such as Pitti Bimbo and Playtime Paris are always wonderfully decorated to tell the story of the season’s collection. How are you selling the line since there have been no live trade shows for more than a year? Are you planning to return to live trade shows when they resume? This last year and a half have definitely been a challenge in so many levels, as I believe it has also been for other brands in different sectors. Ultimately, we had to adapt a lot of our operations to focus on our online presence, and the wholesale market was no exception. Some trade shows adopted online versions in which we are present, we invested in our B2B website to improve the shopping experience for our partners and also on our communication to this segment to try and acquire new customers. All of this has helped a lot but we believe that the live trade shows still have a great importance, and that presenting our collections live and being in personal contact with potential customers is key so we do plan to return when they resume. Please tell us about the theme and story of your Spring/Summer 2022 collection. The Spring/Summer 2022 collection is called Head in the Clouds. It’s based on the place where all children live and 18 | Kids à La Mode
where anything is possible – in the clouds. Where imagination knows no limits, fairytales and enchanted worlds exist with all kinds of surreal and magical creatures and there is a desire to explore nature and all of its surroundings and living beings. We want to invite everyone to travel with us on Spring/Summer 2022 to this magical place that is children’s heads and imagination, with botanical gardens, fairytales with princesses and a world by the sea inspiring our designs through the season.
Kids à La Mode | 19
artist profile
Katarina is a prolific artist who enjoys the freedom and creativity of painting. Her love for mixing colors and media has blossomed with each year, and her work is inspired by New York and Sweden's landscapes and people. She paints primarily with acrylics and watercolor. Katerina has extensive experience designing textiles, graphics, apparel and products for babies and children. Recently, Katarina has branched out and used her experience in textile surface design to create art for greeting cards, gift bags, notebooks, and wrapping paper. We are delighted to highlight Katarina’s paintings of flowers for this issue of Kids à la Mode magazine.
20 | Kids à La Mode
“Art has always been a great journey for me. My first degree was a BFA in illustration from Fashion Institute of Technology, New York. I absolutely fell in love with painting and drawing. It was a truly amazing experience for an eighteen-year-old kid from the countryside in Sweden to all of a sudden be in the middle of a bustling New York City for an education in art and design. There were so many impressions and opportunities for art experiences everywhere! I worked in the fashion field for various companies over the years, mainly designing baby clothes and different baby products. I like designing and it has always paid my bills. Still, the passion that stayed with me was to create my own art, free from design restrictions. My excitement and love of mixing color and experimenting with different art media is stronger than ever. I often do something I describe as ‘sketching’ with paint. I love the surprise element when just starting to apply wet acrylic paint, experimenting with quick loose brush strokes onto paper. The only goal is to stay loose and let the paint lead the way.” katarinaart.net katja_art_studio Kids à La Mode | 21
trade shows
In Person Trade Shows Return!
The September weather was gorgeous, and spirits were high at the Who’s Next show. Held at the usual venue of Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles, the pop Sixties-styled outdoor displays of balloons and daisies created the perfect vibe for a fun and upbeat show. Although the show included only a few brands that were specifically for children, there was plenty of inspiration to be had from the wonderful selection of apparel and accessories, including many lines that can be great for teens.
Creenstone
The theme of eco-awareness was evident in the many companies using natural fabrics and materials. The trend for second-hand clothes is stronger than ever, and companies with vintage collections were especially well attended. At Malicieuse, a company that makes original embroidered patches and accessories, one could get a complimentary patch ironed on to anything… while a nearby booth offered visitors a restful spot to get their nails painted. All added up to a delightful, very welcome return to the wonderful world of live trade shows. Malicieuse
22 | Kids à La Mode
Pepita & Me Playtime display
Lapu
Kid’s wear Spring/Summer 2022 collections made a strong debut in New York City at Playtime and Kids Hub. This exciting joint venture offered something for all levels of retailers, as it included both international brands and well-known American lines. In the Playtime section of the show, many European brands presented selections of their full line, while a large group of companies from Colombia gathered favorable attention with fresh, colorful collections. Especially eye-catching Colombian companies included Teeny Tiny’s miniature toy food and utensils made of handpainted leather; unique paintings as prints on swimwear from Pepito & Me; and a modern, gender-neutral line with cute graphics from Lapu Kids.
Bimbo pavilion, the familiar iconic characters representing Dolce & Gabbana welcomed visitors to their booth. Inside the impressive Fortezza buildings, a wonderful group of brands showcased their new season, including many well-loved Italian lines. “We have made about ten thousand people work in total safety this week,” says Raffaello Napoleone, CEO of Pitti Immagine -- “and this is the first great result that I want to highlight. The Pitti trade shows were the first among the major international fashion events to reopen. We have been a forerunner and a model. “Generally, I do not indulge in sentimentality, but if there was a special figure for the days of the fair that ends today, it is the combination of desire, need, and the pleasure to return to confront each other in person, to exchange ideas and comments, even to share the difficulties experienced in the recent past and which are still with us, together with the reaffirmation of an intact love for work through the presentation of the new collections.”
At Fortezza da Basso, Florence, the Pitti trade shows made a greatly anticipated restart for major international fashion. Outside the Pitti
EMC Everything Must Change
Byblos
Dolce & Gabbana
Kids à La Mode | 23
essential trends Byblos
BOYS DAY OUT All dressed up, with somewhere to go. Oeuf
There’s no need to forfeit comfort for elegance. Relaxed styles and natural fabrics can go easily from formal to casual occasions. It’s the season for smart shirts: in cotton, linen or silky rayon; in stripes, solids and geometric prints. Update the look with vests, scarves, and placket-front shirts with mandarin collars. Neil Katter
Manuel
Pan Con Chocolate Byblos
Please Kids
DouUod
24 | Kids à La Mode
Spring/Summer 2022
Arsene et les pipelettes Tutto Piccolo
Atsuko Matano
Mola
Jose Varon Pan Con Chocolate Please
BOLD MOVES Big patterns have big impact on this season’s kid’s clothes. Oversized gingham checks are playfully chic for boys and girls. Wide stripes patch it up on multi-colored denim shorts, and mix with thin stripes on ruffled short set. A striking summer dress puts it all together: two stripe patterns, floral print, and two colors of denim. Kids à La Mode | 25
Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini
FLOWER FIESTA A garden variety of botanical looks for spring. Girls party in pretty flower-covered dresses, from painted tulip print to embroidered eyelet patterns. Finely drawn wildflowers make a perfect print for apron-front dress with ruffles and lace. Tie a watercolor floral top with striped trim over sunshine yellow tutu. Kenzo
Il Gufo
Lapin House
Twin Chic 26 | Kids à La Mode
Cocote
Spring/Summer 2022 Arsene et les pipelettes
4funkyflavours
Sanetta
GREEN DREAM Earth-friendly fashions take a stand. Natural fabrics, non-toxic dyes and sustainable production are key factors in today’s collections. Motifs such as roosters, hens, and vegetables are farm-fresh fun.
Aletta
Lilliputiens
Eco-graphics and prints are naturally colored in soft shades of leaves and earth. Kids à La Mode | 27
HIGH CONTRAST Black and white pairings prove that opposites attract. Graphic motifs such as heart and lion’s face are sketched in black on white sweatshirts. Black binding brings out details of black floral print dress, and adds athletic touches to sportswear. Valentines don’t always have to be red: black and white heart prints are just as sweet. Tres Ovejas
4funkyflavours
Elisabetta Franchi Senorita Lemoniez
Please Kids
Fun & Fun
28 | Kids à La Mode
Spring/Summer 2022 Petit Pan
Paade Mode
Stella McCartney
Lapin House
TONALLY YOURS The color story told in a spectrum of shades. Red hearts and lips sweeten pink-grounded prints, while pink stars dazzle against red. Running through ranges of orange, pink and red -- on a sheer tiered dress with puffed sleeves. Rice Tutto Piccolo
Tones of blue soothe on ocean-themed short set, pajamas, and a dress mixing three denim shades. Kids à La Mode | 29
“Clothes transformed in France with love.” Unie & Co. is based on a concept whose time has come: re-using existing adult clothes to create unique and fashionable pieces for babies and children. The results of their efforts stimulate creativity while making use of favored fabrics and textile know-how… a winning formula! “Vintage Heritage” is the name of the collection for babies 6-18 months old. Customers are asked to send their selected garments, and to pick from an assortment of styles that are illustrated in the guide book, such as tops, rompers and bloomers. After receiving the adult clothing, Unie & Co. transforms them into the chosen baby garments and sends them back to the consumer in a lovely gift box. Transformations are made with zero waste and in a circular economic way. The collection for children two to six years is created from garments obtained from one of France’s biggest secondhand clothing importers. Depending on what styles they receive, Unie & Co. re-designs and creates completely
30 | Kids à La Mode
new styles for kids. As with the baby collection, sketches clearly illustrate the available patterns. Each piece is unique and offers a nice surprise for all.
Kids à La Mode | 31
Pan Con Chocolate
Color and creativity run wild.
Raspberry Plum Stella McCartney
Wynken
Raspberry Plum
32 | Kids à La Mode
Stella McCartney
RickmanArt.com
Wynken
The only rule is... to have fun!
Monnalisa Little Lights
Kids à La Mode | 33
Estefania Grandio, founder of The New Society, uses her values to inspire an exciting fashion label. What is your history in the fashion business? I’ve always felt fascinated by art, fashion and photography, so once it came to it, I decided to take a leap into the fashion industry. I was very young when I started working for big multinational companies, spending the majority of my professional career working for Inditex. After more than 15 years, I decided it was time to take all those acquired learnings and values to place them in something that would be my own project. That’s how The New Society’s concept was born. Why did you start the company, and what is the meaning of the name The New Society? When I was pregnant with my second child, I started thinking that this new kind of fashion concept had an easy fit in the industry, particularly in the kid’s segment. I started researching and imagining what would that brand look like, beginning to end, and that’s when it all started. I sought to create a concept brand that could be beautiful, sustainable, versatile and emotional all at once. Part of that was that this “ideal” brand would have to be different from other companies I had worked in, thus why I thought to start the name with “The New.” “Society” is a word that I believe gathered nicely the concept to which I wanted to move towards, a new and aware generation, very conscious of their impact in the world, and in constant search for how they can leave a positive footprint in the world. To me it was clear, those were going to be the ones I wanted to approach. 34 | Kids à La Mode
How would you describe the brand? I always describe it as: “Conscious, timeless, sustainable and emotive. Concerned with the aesthetic and the endless search for beauty.” It just highlights all of our values and image perfectly. What is the style of the collection? Always trendy, but without losing sight of our identity touches.
We carefully select every supplier (both for manufacturing and fabric), just to ensure not only that we have outstanding quality, but also that it’s all made in a fair, exemplary process. Each item goes through very extensive and careful control, from each initial detail in the pattern, to every last modification with the production samples. We love our suppliers and are so thankful for the relationship we’ve established with each of them, where they don’t just appreciate the business part of it, but they also understand the value of The New Society, and that’s shown in each item of the collection. How important is sustainability and eco-consciousness to your brand?
What inspires you as a designer? One of the things I love about being a designer is that you can get inspired by anything. It can be ordinary like someone’s outfit, a person walking on the street, a fabric, a particular print, a color… or it can go deeper like a memory or an emotion. The best creative source for me comes from quiet evenings at the office, sitting on the floor surrounded by all the colors, fabrics, vintage designs by my side, and a cardboard box that holds the collection’s overview. That’s where I can just easily see what’s missing, and make sense of the collection. I believe you live in Spain and produce in Portugal? Please tell us about your company’s production.
It’s not only important, it’s the core of the business. As of right now, we’re looking into new materials for the upcoming collection, and our visit to Premiére Vision was mostly for that (and some very cool things came out!), but also, we have some new exciting sustainability projects in The New Society, that go beyond the materials, and we’re working very hard to make them come to life!
How is concern for the environment reflected in the brand?
One of the sources of our value comes from our production. Kids à La Mode | 35
How do you sell the brand? We have two main channels: Online and Wholesale, both of which are growing quite rapidly and steadily as every season comes by. We are lucky enough to count on wonderful clients that are growing along with The New Society, many of which have been part of our journey since the very beginning. Will you be attending trade shows this January? If so, which ones? Yes! This year we’ll be attending Playtime in Paris in January. We’re always very grateful to be included, and it’s such an amazing
We go beyond superficial or simple sustainability, we apply it in every part of each process we have, from social responsibility with TNS’s employees and stakeholders, to the environment by always looking for new materials, changes in procedures, and so on.
36 | Kids à La Mode
Estefania Grandio
opportunity to expand the brand and get to meet new potential clients. For us, it’s such a blessing to be able to meet them in person, because we believe deeply in the importance of staying true to one’s values, and part of that
is to make sure there’s always a nice fit between The New Society and our clients, so that we can establish a long-term, fruitful relationship! So, meeting them in person is very helpful, and we feel so lucky!
“Conscious, timeless, sustainable and emotive. Concerned with the aesthetic and the endless search for beauty.”
Do you sell on buying platforms? Directly from your website? We sell our products online through our website. For that, we always make sure that every detail is taken care of in it, we want the best purchasing experience for our clients, beginning to end. However, you will also find our collection in other platforms such as Maisonette, Smallable, Mytheresa, and many more! You’ll have to wait and see! Please describe your Spring/Summer 2022 collection. Our SS22 collection is a very special one for me, “All the Things I Love.” Every colour, fabric and design are all part of that. I’ve been able to include many elements that are so dear to my heart, and if put all together they tell a story. Special moments, memories and stories… The great thing is, anyone can identify with it, this collection can tell anyone’s story one way or the other. I’m very proud of how it’s turned out, and the great success can only mean that our clients understood what we’re trying to say.
Kids à La Mode | 37
color trends
DAZZLE ME Painterly treatments of brilliant colors.
Pan Con Chocolate Please
Pan Con Chocolate
Arsene et les pipelettes
Global Affairs 38 | Kids à La Mode
Pepita and Me
Spring/Summer 2022
Il Gufo
The Nice Fleet
Amallure
Boboli Kids à La Mode | 39
MIX MASTERS Spicy and sweet combinations using cinnamon, mustard, mint and lilac. 4funkyflavours
Il Gufo
Karlsson
Oeuf
Paade Mode
40 | Kids à La Mode
Spring/Summer 2022 Manuel Pan Con Chocolate
Il Gufo
Raspberry Plum
4funkyflavours
Yukob
Kids à La Mode | 41
SALT WATER TAFFY A box full of pastel-colored treats. Mimookids Boboli
Stella McCartney
Billieblush
42 | Kids à La Mode
Infantium Victoria
Spring/Summer 2022 Global Affairs Philosophy di Lorenzo Sterefini
No No
Pucci
Retour
Maan
Kids à La Mode | 43
Company founder Davide tells Kids à la Mode about his contemporary fashion knitwear label for kids.
I was delighted to discover Ligne Noire last season. This truly original line showcases brilliant colors, unexpected pattern mixing and wonderful, witty campaign photos. I’m curious to learn more about the company — the name Ligne Noire is French, you are based in Italy, and the models in the photos are often Asian children. Please tell us a bit about the brand. My brand is Italian but with the name in French. I live in Italy on the border with France and here we speak both Italian and French. The models are my children (of Vietnamese descent, and then some of their friends, I like to have genuine children as models). The collection is inspired by the tradition of the Italian mountains, but also from Italy in general. I find that Italy is the most beautiful country in the world. I understand that your Fall/Winter 2021 season was inspired by American film director Wes Anderson. I hope he has seen the collection! How did this concept evolve?
44 | Kids à La Mode
I love Wes Anderson I am crazy about the use of colors in his films. Like me, Wes is passionate about fashion. I love all his films and his characters, I think Wes' films are similar to
Fellini's, a world parallel to ours. Is Ligne Noire exclusively knit garments? Where are they produced? What type of yarn do you use? All the design is made in Italy, all the yarns, fabrics and accessories (buttons, zips, etc.) are of Italian production. While the production is followed by a team in Shanghai, the costs in Italy to produce a baby line are too high, but in China they are very good and the whole collection is cruelty-free.
Except for little dresses or skirts, the collection is for both boys and girls. I find that pink is very nice for boys too, as a child I had a pink Lacoste, it was one of my favorites. What countries are the biggest clients of Ligne Noire Enfants? Do you have strong sales in the United States? I hope so! We have stores all over the world: Japan, China, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Korea, India, Holland, Italy, USA and Canada, where we started a collaboration with SSENSE.COM one of the largest luxury online stores in the world.
You seem to use certain design elements which are part of the signature Ligne Noire look, such as “Chanel” type suits, classic cardigans, and large fish or animal shaped back-pack. Are these favorite styles? Each collection always has styles that continue. I love that my collections are timeless. Please describe the Spring/Summer 2022 collection: what is the theme, what are the colors, what are special pieces. The SS22 collection is inspired by the holidays I used to take as a child in the mountains, the colors are those of the meadows, the earth, the sun of the trees ..... August was the month of the mountains where the sun was hot during the day but the evening was fresh. I was inspired by my mid-eighties garments, full of stripes and color all placed in a wooden wardrobe that smelled of lavender, the collection rediscovers that wardrobe. I especially love the boy’s styles for Spring/Summer, such as an exaggerated polo shirt type sweater. Are you expanding the boy’s line, or do you consider all your styles to be gender-neutral? Kids à La Mode | 45
trade shows
Kids à la Mode was thrilled to attend the first in-person edition of Maison & Objet to be held since January, 2020. Located at Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre on September 9-12, 2021, the show was lively, well-attended, and filled with stunning displays of top-level designs. International brands represented such categories as house wear, gift wear, home décor, kid’s furniture, toys, craft items, Christmas products and more. Throughout the venue and seen in virtually every product category, the overwhelming theme was an appreciation of nature and concern for the environment.
46 | Kids à La Mode
M&O goes
GREEN!
Kids à La Mode | 47
Lama Palama Petit Pan
Doudou et Compagnie
The majority of child-related lines were situated in the “Kid and Family” section of the fair. Here one could find a wonderful selection of the latest (and cutest) plush toys, including whimsical characters by Lilliputiens; mounds of bears, bunnies and more at Bukowski Design; a celebration of twenty years in business from Doudou Compagnie, the originator of dou-dous, French “security blankets” for babies; and a droll collection of crocheted llama dolls with their own interchangeable wardrobe, by Llama Palama.
Scoot and Ride
48 | Kids à La Mode
Spieluhrenwelt
There were lots of wonderful products in the show’s other sections which could easily be adapted for children. Cheerfully colored bedding, pillows and throw rugs from Rice have great appeal for kids, while hand-woven wood furniture and tapestries from Splot would add a welcome piece of art and craftsmanship to any room. There was a decidedly nostalgic, retro styling seen in many collections of toys and Christmas decorations. The amazing display of ornate, very clever items from Spieluhrenwelt, showcased an array of retro-themed designs that will delight children and adults of all ages.
Splot
Kids à La Mode | 49
Everybody loves teddy bears, but nowhere is the love more evident than in the artistry and vision of Bukowski Design. This Sweden-based familyowned business designs, manufactures, markets and sells teddy bears around the world. Having created over five hundred items, the firm presents new collections of 50-60 items twice every year.
In Poland 1957, the future Barbara Bukowski, then 12 years old, was inspired by her grandmother Paulina’s traditional handiwork and artistry to create her first rag doll collection. Later married to husband Janusz Bukowski, the couple followed their star to Sweden. In 1985, awaiting the arrival of her first-born son Patrick, she created her first teddy bear, “Kanini” …and so it began. In 1990 Barbara and Janusz founded Bukowski Design. Each Bukowski Design teddy bear is based on a real human being, further enhancing their abundant “personality plus.” In 1994 their “Rudolf ’s Family” collection received the prestigious Best Toy of the Year award from Sweden’s Foraldrar magazine. A show at the Paris trade fairs in 2003 made Bukowski Design a truly international company. 2020 marked the company’s 30-year anniversary. It was also the first year of the Covid pandemic. If ever there was a time when everyone, adult or child, needs their own teddy bear, this is that time. And Bukowski Design is there to serve and satisfy the need with their lovingly crafted line of teddy bears. 50 | Kids à La Mode
Kids à La Mode | 51 01
Who doesn’t feel happy seeing gorgeous bright colors and exquisite graphics? That’s the hope of Japanese designer Atsuko Matano, who believes, “The product is more than just a thing, it exists as an art and enriches people's lives.” Every textile design, selection of materials, patterns and color schemes are carefully created by Matano’s hands to enhance the beauty of those who use them. The creator of
52 | Kids à La Mode
the brand is a multi-talented artist, designer, illustrator, and novelist who is recognized and loved by a large number of fans. Her distinctive artwork is featured on such products as towels, scarves, gloves, bags, cups and dishes. In addition to designing, she established a Towel Museum featuring Japanese towel art, and has worked on stage productions mixing visual art and music. There is also an Atsuko Matano store in the stylish Marais section of Paris.
This twenty-year old, family-owned Belgian business is based on a very specific and important product: high quality and stylish briefs for boys and men ages two to a hundred-and-two years old. The brand offers luxury briefs, as well as swim shorts and pajamas, in a huge assortment of patterns and prints which were shown in an eye-catching wall display at Maison et Objet. Some of the print motifs are quite whimsical and especially appropriate for kids, such as sports figures, cars, bowling pins, baseballs and even ice cream cones, along with brightly colored geometric patterns and stripes. Special print designs are added for various holidays, which are sold in special boxes for giftgiving appeal. High quality cotton and a carefully constructed fit make the briefs extremely comfortable, while European craftsmanship and attention to detail add further value. Kids à La Mode | 53
Shining brightly at Maison et Objet, the luminous display of Little Lights deservedly attracted attention from attendees across the show’s busy aisles. This small, family owned manufacturer from Krakow, Poland has created a dazzling, delightful universe of lamps for children and families, each featuring a unique design inspired by children’s imaginations.
All of these one-of-a kind lamps are made of 100% natural solid pine, giving the lamps a unique aura, texture and sense of timelessness. Little Lamps is a labor of love, product of the hard work and talent of dedicated craftspersons. The lamps go through a long, detailed process, with the majority of work being done by hand 54 | Kids à La Mode
with great precision and attention to detail. The wide array of lamp designs is equally special, representing a charming world of characters and objects such as foxes (the company’s original design), deer, possum, robots, rainbows and even a vintage ‘’hippie’’ type van. Each lamp is truly a work of art.
Little Lights are currently being sold throughout the world. In the United States they can be found at Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, and were recently featured as a Pop-up store at Pottery Barn. “In the end, what’s most important for us is that we inspire childlike imagination, add some color and warmth, and provide a small sense of joy to every home we enter. Little Lights’ sole goal is to help create a cozy and unforgettable atmosphere that becomes a part of the beautiful memories made every day in your family home.”
Kids à La Mode | 55
Long before such terms as “re-worked” and “up-cycled” were trendy, as they are today, Halima Garrett had an eye for selecting interesting vintage items and fabrics, and transforming them into something updated and original. Today, through her company Threads of Habit, she presents exciting collections of one-of-a kind fashions created from her vintage finds. When did you develop a passion for vintage, and how did that passion evolve into the business you have today? It all started when my grandmother ran a thrift shop in Brooklyn. I would sift through donations and see items that I really liked. That was how my passion for finding unique items began. I was around 8 or 9 at the time. Fast forward to my early 20's when I began heavily thrifting and buying vintage on Etsy. I realized my habit of thrifting could become profitable and started Threads of Habit as a side hustle.
56 | Kids à La Mode
What eras of fashion and fabrics inspire you the most? I'm all about prints so I love the psychedelic and flower power prints of the 60’s and 70’s. They are like pieces of art! How would you describe your own personal style? At this point my wardrobe is at least 80% secondhand and mostly vintage. I like to keep styling simple and let my vintage pieces speak for themselves. For example, if I'm wearing a crazy printed top, I will simply pair them with jeans. Or vice versa if I have on vintage printed pants, I will keep my shirt plain. I do like to mix prints on occasion though!
How important to you is the ethical and environmental aspect of what you do? It's not the reason why I do the work that I do but it's definitely a bonus. After watching the True Cost documentary about the impact the fashion industry has on the planet, I realized how important it is to use what we already have! Please tell us about your recent collaboration with Fashion Institute of Technology, New York. It was during Sustainability Awareness Week. I took the audience through a short tutorial of how to upcycle a skirt into an asymmetrical blouse and spoke about the importance of upcycling. The YouTube video is up on their channel. What are your hopes and ideas for future projects? Any plans to expand your Threads of Habit collection for children’s fashion? We hope so! I would love to eventually branch out to children's fashion once I have a solid foundation of women's pieces. Right now, I will keep upcycling for my kids and see where that takes me!
Kids à La Mode | 57
Photography and text by Janet Jacobs The magical melding of art and life that is Paris is particularly evident in the 13th Arrondissement (district), where the facades of entire buildings are covered by amazing painted murals. The mayor of the area encouraged the project to transform the neighborhood to a vibrant attraction for art lovers of all ages and cultures. Walking through the streets for the first time, it’s a wonderful surprise to discover paintings around every corner, some partially hidden by trees, some visible from afar. The effect of suddenly discovering yet another spectacular painting is somewhat dream-like, leaving one not exactly sure what is real and what is trompe l’oeil, and seeing Paris Street Art Extraordinaire everywhere.
58 | Kids à La Mode
Kids à La Mode | 59
Contacts
Like what you see? See more online!
Andy & Evan andyandevan.com Atsuko Matano atsukomatano.com Bukowski Design Bukowski.se Carly Michelson carlym.carbonmade.com Katarina Karlsson katarinaart.net Kidding kidding.fr Kids à la Mode kidsalamodemagazine.com Knot knotkids.com Ligne Noire lignenoire.com Little Light littlelights.com Maison & Objet maison-objet.com Mc Alson mcalson.com Pajamas for Peace pajamasforpeace.com Pan Con Chocolate panconchocolate.com Philosohy di Lorenzo Serafini Kids pilcommunications.com Pitti Bimbo bimbo.pittimmagine.com Playtime iloveplaytime.com Rick Celano rickmanart.com Showroom 21 showroom21.us Stones and Bones stonesandbones.com Studio Bosch studiobosch@xsforall.nl Threads of Habit threadsofhabit.com Tutto Piccolo usa.tuttopiccolo.com The New Society wearethenewsociety.com Unie & Co @unieandco Wellipets wellipets.co.uk Who’s Next whosnext.com