It’s A
A Buyer’s Reference Guide
August/September 2015 Volume 45
Footloose
On the Scene: European Trends
Trade Show Calendar Inside
It’s a Kidsworld | 1
2 | It’s a Kidsworld
It’s a Kidsworld | 3
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Phone: (914) 330-3056 shari@butterflieszebras.com Ilene Oren Showroom - New York, NY (212) 563-5020 Lesley Lewis Showroom - Dallas, TX (214) 630-4649
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It’s a Kidsworld | 7
From the Publisher
130 Rio Vista Drive, Norwood, NJ 07648 Phone/Fax: 201.969.1600 Email: caryn.kidsworld@gmail.com PUBlisher/ceo Caryn Salomon Vice PresiDent/controller David Salomon
dear readers, slather on the sunscreen, spring/summer 2016 is right around the corner and it looks like it’s going to be a strong season. Manufacturers are scrambling to add their last details on color infused designs and are finalizing their lines for upcoming markets. Bright and bold seems to be the theme for ss 2016. Flip through our pages to see what some of the most outstanding brands in the industry have to offer. It’s A Kidsworld loves to bring you brands you know and love as well as some newcomers whose product lines are sure to impress. don’t miss our on the scene feature where you can see first hand what is trending abroad. all buyers, should check out our trade show calendar to plan ahead. with a plethora of shows in so many regions this season there are definitely no shortages of resources. here’s to a fabulous market all around and happy shopping!
eUroPean contriBUtinG eDitor Janet A. Jacobs trenD rePortinG/color ForecastinG Fashion Snoops art Direction/MaGazine layoUt Christine Décary www.parallelbranding.com
Caryn Salomon Publisher/CEO It’s A Kidsworld
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if you would like to receive a digital copy of it’s A Kidsworld please email me at caryn.kidsworld@gmail.com on the coVer Brand: Truly Me by Sara Sara designer: GBYM Inc. Design Studio Photography by: Katy Pritchette
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It’s a Kidsworld | 9
News snipits
Elizabeth Cate Real Southern Charm
Elizabeth Cate is a Tennessee-based, high-end clothing line mixing bold, prominent prints with timeless silhouettes for the Spring Summer 2016 collection. This sweetly sophisticated southern collection will help each young girl stand out from the crowd in their beautiful bold patterns. The new collection will bring brighter colors with new patterns, including hydrangeas, paisley, and polka dots. “Our best sellers have consistently been our cotton dresses in vivid prints, therefore this collection emphasizes classic, not trendy dresses for young girls, with the idea that one look will work for girls of various ages,” says owner and chief designer Lauren Hines. Elizabeth Cate is a Made in USA brand, manufactured in California, with wholesale pricing ranging between $30 and $40 per dress. For this collection, they are bringing their southern charm to new markets. They will be showing for the very first time at Magic Playground in August, as well as ENK Children’s Club. The full Elizabeth Cate line is carried in a permanent showroom, Summer Place, at Atlanta Americasmart, as well as by independent sales rep Julie Zimmerman. For more information please visit: www.ElizabethCate.com
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News snipits
Sugar Rush
Malibu Sugar has expanded their line well beyond seamless styles, making them anything but Basic! This trendy Tween line has grown over the past 5 years to include Fashion Tees, The One Piece, Sublimation Leggings, and other fashion accessories making them a definite destination brand. Jil Garcia, the owner of Malibu Sugar felt the timing was right to expand the line to include additional products as her customers are always looking for trendy, new and fresh products. When Jil brought the One Piece samples to the March ENK show, she just wanted to see what the response would be, hoping to ship them in late fall as the weather got colder. But the response was incredible and everyone wanted them for camp. After selling out in record time, Jil knew she has a hit on her hands and needed to continue to produce them for the colder weather ahead. She has definitely been able to translate Trend to the Tween market. Not only has she introduced the right styles but her screens and designs are what girls want. Malibu Sugar’s sublimation leggings are another hit. Jil is using her high quality “Made in the USA” Seamless leggings and adding the look of distressed denim. She has also added the trending details of plaid, patches and emojis. What could be better than the comfort of leggings with the look of jeans? We can definitely see Malibu Sugar has become a major player in Tween fashion and is a stand out brand for Tween “must have” fashion. For more information please visit: www.MalibuSugar.com
It’s a Kidsworld | 11
News snipits
Classic Style Meets Today’s Playtime
Harry & Violet, established in 2013 is a brand of Solo International Inc. This vintage inspired collection has a modern feel, offering layette and playette clothing for both newborn & infant boys and girls. Harry & Violet is a timeless collection featuring precious silhouettes with extra special attention to details and trims. Their fine fabrics are made of the softest and highest quality cotton knits and wovens. Harry & Violet’s unique styling appeals to both the traditional and modern mom. The garments are designed to be of the utmost comfort for all babies for sleep and play. Dedicated to staying true to its roots of vintage artful design Harry & Violet continues to grow into the classic collection that it is destined to be. For more information please email sbailey@solonyinc.com
snipits
Pulla Bulla... Hits the US Market!
Orlando, FL based Pulla Bulla is the company behind this fun and playful brand. They may be new to the United States, however they have been making kids fashionable since 1980. Pulla Bulla originated in Brazil and is responsible for each and every item that is manufactured. From the cotton fields to the shelves; Pulla Bulla does it all, allowing them to guarantee the quality customers expect and deserve. The excellence of this brand is extremely well known all across South America and Europe and they now are bringing that same level of distinction here to the U.S.
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Pulla Bulla can be found in select showrooms across the country. They carry a full range of fashionable clothing for boys and girls with sizes ranging from newborn to tween. These limited collections offer a truly distinctive style at very competitive price points. From fun colored designs to simple tees. Pick up one of their catalogs or visit them for more information at www.PullaBulla.com
News snipits
Welcome Bebe
BeBe Gabrielle is the new line added by Macis Design created to address the stylish needs of newborns and infants, size NB to 24 months. They offer a wide range of adorable knit outfit styles; dresses, bloomers, onesies and wrap sets. Each product is uniquely styled with lace, flowers or bows and is the perfect “coming home” outfit. Each outfit includes either a headband or hat, offering the consumer a complete all in one ensemble. Several of the styles are being used by customers as “after” christening gowns or less formal, more cost effective choices for christenings with a wholesale price of around $28. Macis Design has a full line of christening gowns and suits for both boys and girls. There are a wide variety of styles, from simple to jeweled, laced and delicately trimmed gowns. The new Spring 2016 christening collection now offers new shorter length dresses which provides an option from the traditional long length. Two new boy’s christening styles feature a more tailored look, accented by diamond shaped embroidery or a pleated formal looking top, both include attached bibs as part of the styling. The boy’s christenings are $49 and the girl’s range from $69 to $99 wholesale. For more information please visit: www.BeBeGabrielle.com or www.MacisDesign.com
It’s a Kidsworld | 13
News
snipits
Kissy Kissy: individual charm
This season, Kissy Kissy was inspired by the many family outings that occur in warm months. The line is filled with themes and prints that reference trips both near and far, as well as the brand’s signature animals and geometrics. It’s a huge selection that allows buyers to create bespoke assortments, shoppers to mix and match according to their tastes, and moms to coordinate siblings and multiples while helping them maintain their individuality. for more information please visit: www.KissyKissyonline.com
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Phone: (914) 330-3056 shari@butterflieszebras.com Ilene Oren Showroom - New York, NY (212) 563-5020 Lesley Lewis Showroom - Dallas, TX (214) 630-4649 Rochelle Perlman Showroom - LA, CA (213) 489-7164
It’s a Kidsworld | 15
News
snipits
Party Time!
New Jersey based SpecialTee Designs has cornered the market on birthday party attire. They have just added even more fabulous designs to their new line, PARTY-TIME HATS. Choose from over 20 fun filled styles for girls and boyseach lovingly made to order in the USA. For more information and to view the full selection of Birthday Apparel and PARTY-TIME HATS please visit: www.SpecialTeeDesigns.net
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It’s a Kidsworld | 17
Trend Report
Fall/Winter 2015/16
| By Ania Witkowski and Nicole Yee, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops
> Newborn Folkloric Fairytale
New for F/W 15/16, storybook scenes spring to life across classifications. Popping up in rich wintry blues on outerwear, the small repeat scenes add a familiar touch to warm pieces. Matched sets carry the designs in softer pinks while accent stitching imbues the fairytale print with a homespun feel. Vibrant bursts of deep red and purple add depth to bucolic scenes on long sleeve tops.
Anna
Liv
Barbeline
Lilly
and
Sid
Cozy Cocoon
An explosion of soft textures, including cozy shearling, breathable jersey and cashmere, plays with loose, lounge-inspired silhouettes in Cozy Cocoon. Paneled sweatshirts, y-shape joggers and luxe sweaters serve as key pieces while a muted color palette of warm whites and creamy greys adds a sophisticated touch.
Bonnet
a Pompon
Ferre Gianfranco
Pequeno
Tocon
Minialist Chic
Gender-neutral pieces move toward slouchy silhouettes in muted colors this F/W. Speckled knits pair with textured jersey on pieced sweatshirts as linear typography adds a mini-me touch. Loose chambray jackets emerge with mandarin collars and dropped shoulders while trousers appear in slouchy fits.
Moromini 18 | It’s a Kidsworld
Mummymoon
Papu
Fashion Snoops provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.Fashionsnoops.com to learn more.
It’s a Kidsworld | 19
Trend Report
Fall/Winter 2015/16
| By Ania Witkowski and Nicole Yee, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops
> Infant/Toddler Girls Miss Prim
Skipping ahead a decade, Miss Prim serves as a 70s update to last season’s decidedly mod aesthetic. Woven tops forgoe vibrant geos for psychedelic florals, oversized collars and micro-envelope pockets. Pleated skirts pop in accent colors while matched sets pair refreshed intarsia plaid sweaters with highwaisted shorts in softer hues.
Agatha
Ruiz de
la Prada
rutter
T by K KNAS
Laura
Biagiotti
Sport Sophisticate
Designers gravitate toward chic, sophisticated silhouettes in this active theme. Neoprene sweatshirts carry knit collars and peplum shapes. Unfinished hems and mock-turtlenecks breathe new life into varsity sweatshirts. Slouchy joggers are rethought in dark, moody floral designs.
I dig
Denim
Maison
Labiche
Peach
and
Cream
Winter Boheme
Rich colors and elaborate intarsia designs characterize Winter Boheme, moving last season’s Global Trotter towards a decidedly Old World aesthetic. Quilted jackets carry painterly ikats and structured trims while sleeveless dresses emerge in thicker fabrics and intricate prints. Intarsia sweaters pair deep navy with pops of coral and cream in traditional designs.
Amber 20 | It’s a Kidsworld
Anikka
Funky
Fashion Snoops provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.Fashionsnoops.com to learn more.
It’s a Kidsworld | 21
Trend Report
Fall/Winter 2015/16
| By Ania Witkowski and Nicole Yee, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops
> Infant/Toddler Boys Astro-Zone
Celestial scenes emerge across classifications, updating lightweight jersey tees and printed puffers. Constellation prints provide a graphics update to rolled sleeve tees while long-sleeve shirts feature moon phases for a fresh feel. Allover stars cover nylon puffer jackets in a refreshed take on camo.
Diesel
OBS RC JAC A M E ITTL
L
Phister
and
Philina
Sweet
Finishing School
Collegiate pieces, including baseball jackets and raglan tops, get a textural update for F/W 15/16. Wool emerges in brushed plaids with leather sleeves on sporty blousons while raglan tees play with bold graphics. Knit panels serve as an unexpected touch on baseball jackets, adding a layering effect to athletic ensembles.
Bellerose
la Monkey
Bla B
GSUS
Mini Gamer
Pops of color and vibrant prints breathe new life into Mini Gamer. Playing with structural plaids, kangaroo pockets and pop drawstrings, slouchy joggers appear in a refreshed color palette. Asymmetrical zips complement brushed graphics on onesies while graphic faces peek out on colorful tees beneath knit cardigans.
Funky 22 | It’s a Kidsworld
Smafolk
Silvian
Heach
Fashion Snoops provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.Fashionsnoops.com to learn more.
It’s a Kidsworld | 23
Trend Report
Fall/Winter 2015/16
| By Ania Witkowski and Nicole Yee, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops
> 4-6x Girls Factory Girl
An artistic blend of whimsy and Pop art, this eclectic story mixes in imaginative elements for a story rich in embellishments, prints and materials. Warholinspired lip prints, collaged imagery and jewel and sequined encrusted faces make a splash on highlow tunic dresses, sweaters and woven shirts with metallic collars. Over-sized hearts on teddy bear fur coats, metallic leggings and furry bold-colored sweaters are key items in this eye-catching and fashion-forward story.
IZ DE
HA RU AGAT
ADA
LA PR
Fun and
Fun
ARIA
Finishing School
Menswear-inspired looks meet with feminine details in Finishing School. Over-sized boiled wool plaid coats, window pane plaid skinny pants and paper bag waist pants are paired with dainty bow ties, floral prints and winter pastels for a fresh take on preppy for Girl.
CAS NO LU
E
QU MI PE
D OS AN ALOB AREZ L IL V NV VES ALV NIE
COLO O PIC TUTT
Folkloric Fairytale Fall take on hippie, Folkloric Fairytale is full of florals and exotic prints that are reinterpreted for Fall/Winter. Heavy layering mixes sweater dresses, ruffled skirts and cardigans in a plethora of prints for eclectic pattern mixing. A variety of cultural references in vibrant colors is highlighted by a cornucopia of embellishments like hand-stitched embroidery, cascading crochet flower and cheerful pom poms.
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Desigual
UC
TUC T
Fashion Snoops provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.Fashionsnoops.com to learn more.
It’s a Kidsworld | 25
Trend Report
Fall/Winter 2015/16
| By Ania Witkowski and Nicole Yee, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops
> 4-6x Boys Aspen Retreat
Rugged, outdoor apparel experiences a luxurious finesse for F/W 16 as monochromatic looks blend with finer fabrications like cashmere, fine wool blends and smooth velour. Heavy layering includes oversized chunky knit infinity scarves, quilted vests, plaid shirts and marled yarn sweatshirts with thick ribbed trim. While utility hues like green and khaki remain key, softer blues and greys create a more refined look that is underscored by skinny fit velour pants, oversized cowl neck sweaters and monochromatic color palettes.
E
FOQU
CAS
NO LU
QUE MI PE
a band
Sara
Finishing School
Proper, preppy ensembles are updated with casual pieces for a new spin on back-to-school style. This heavily layered look combines crisp khakis with a jersey fleece blazer or denim with a preppy twill jacket. Resplendent in plaids, Finishing School layers on crisp woven shirts with hearty cable knit sweaters, long-sleeved polo shirts and blazers. Bright pops of orange and green update a color palette that uses scholarly reds and blues or autumnal favorites.
LION
S RCHE
OF PO
a band
Sara
ZIPPY
Mr. Mischief
Rock ‘n roll gets cleaned up with an active spin as the leather and skulls from past seasons subside for more minimal interpretations of this classic theme. Fleece jersey and wool replace leather and cire while comfy silhouettes like joggers and varsity jackets find a home next to ripped denim and moto jackets. Words like “Bandit” and distressed denim prints are new ways to pay homage to this rebellious, reoccurring theme.
nd Fun
Fun a 26 | It’s a Kidsworld
Philipp
Plein
Junior
YCLU
Fashion Snoops provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.Fashionsnoops.com to learn more.
It’s a Kidsworld | 27
Trend Report
Fall/Winter 2015/16
| By Ania Witkowski and Nicole Yee, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops
> Tween Girls Astro Zen
The future is now as silhouettes take on genderneutral shapes in a neutral color palette of white, black and grey. Minimalism is key with detail coming from the textured fabrics—boiled wool, shearling and textured knits. Cocoon-shaped sweaters and coats are paired with skinny pants or leggings for proportion play while 3D fabric embellishments or engineered ribbing on knits creates a wearable item for the future and now.
RAL MAYO
YCLU
N LOSA
Miss Mischief
Gravitating toward high-shine leathers, this season’s take on rock-and-roll moves towards oversized silhouettes with a nod to rebellion. Sophisticated coats take their cue from Women’s balmacaans while athletic touches include sporty joggers and elongated sweaters.
n Losa
Philipp
Plein
Junior
`YCLU
Vintage Varsity
Retro collegiate silhouettes experience a revival as designers emphasize vintage cheerleader skirts and varsity jackets. Fit-and-flare dresses feature ribbed waistbands and mock turtlenecks while baseball jackets are rethought in active-inspired mesh. Flared cheerleader skirts carry drawstring waistbands and varsity side stripes for a winning combination.
nd Fun a 28 | It’s a Kidsworld
Fun
S AND LOBO REZ A L IL NV V VES ALVA NIE
and MACK KATE
TTI BISCO
Fashion Snoops provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.Fashionsnoops.com to learn more.
It’s a Kidsworld | 29
Trend Report
Fall/Winter 2015/16
| By Ania Witkowski and Nicole Yee, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops
> Tween Boys Good Sport
The ubiquitous activewear story continues on for Men’s as well as Tween Boys. A relaxed but refined air is showcased on matte surfaces mixed with shiny, more tailored fits and substantial dense silhouettes. Sporty basics like anoraks, sweat suits, and hoodies have a much more exaggerated and rounded shape when done in neoprene. Monochromatic looks, textured reinforcement details and luxurious linings elevate the sporty aesthetic for Tween Boy.
ANAIS
AND
I
nd Fun
Fun a
YCLU
Grunge
Rock ‘n roll is revised for Tween with a Grownup Grunge influence from Men’s. An evolution of outdoor, rocker and grunge, this story artfully combines layers of plaid, camouflage, ripped denim and utility twill. Ultra relaxed styling and heavy layering are key to Grunge Boys whose key items include ripped jeans, marled slouchy sweatpants, oversized plaid shirts and patched silk bombers with an outdoor spin.
GER
DILON
nd Fun
Fun a
Philipp
Plein
Junior
Honor + Valor
The history of the uniform is examined in Honor + Valor as a militant color palette combines with workwear influences and crisp utilitarian details. Military-inspired patches, slouchy cargo pants, camouflage prints and oversized wool pea coats spin an updated, edgier vibe to this timehonored tradition.
n Losa 30 | It’s a Kidsworld
Philipp
Plein
Junior
a band
Sara
Fashion Snoops provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.Fashionsnoops.com to learn more.
MAKE 2015 MORE PROFITABLE! Showcase your brand and reach key buyers and decision makers for market.
October Spring/Summer 2016 Color Forecasting Eurowatch Special Occasion Trend Report
For more information please contact caryn.kidsworld@gmail.com OURBABYCHINADOLL Photography *Editorial content subject to change
+
Bonus distribution at all major trade shows and marts Reach over 25,000 cOnsuMER hITs with our online publication! It’s a Kidsworld | 31
Footwear Report
Footloose
Kids shoe Creators Kick Up a storm of success — By Janet A. Jacobs
sABAtino shoes
Garvalin
the makers of children’s shoes must walk a fine line between the demands of construction and creativity. Parents want value, kids want style. Parents prize durable, long-lasting shoes able to withstand the rough treatment given them by active youngsters. Kids (all but the very youngest) demand the latest styles and trends, up-to-the-minute fashionable footwear that the cool kids are wearing and that they’ve simply “got to have”. the challenge for shoe makers is to satisfy both groups of consumers, parents and children. It’s a Kidsworld profiles five unique, outstanding american shoe industry talents who have met and mastered that challenge. they include a veteran maestro who’s been making kids shoes since the middle of the 20th century and is still going strong; a texas teen whose fancifully adorned beach flip-flops are riding a high tide in the top markets; a dynamic Brooklyn-born kids shoe expert whose company represents an impressive six leading brands; and a pair of creative Californians who’ve created a rainbow of novelty decorations for shoes to make them especially fun.
Biomecanics
sabatino shoes is a fine example of a company that combines Old World artistry and craftsmanship with modern business strategies and fashion styling. The company’s headquarters, a historic and architecturally impressive building in Paterson, New Jersey, made an ideal setting for It’s a Kidsworld to learn the intriguing history of Sabatino Shoes. Tony Sabatino, the company’s founder and president, is rightly proud of his achievements in an industry he first became involved with in the 1950’s, the middle of the last century. The Sabatino family itself began making shoes in downtown Los Angeles in the 1940’s. While attending college in 1950, Tony first got his foot in the door, so to speak, by helping his brother to “spot” shoes—that is, placing the shoe’s heel in its proper position before it went to press. Some years later Tony was contacted by relatives in Italy who were also involved in making shoes. He took their suggestion to travel to Italy and work with homegrown artisans inspired with a rich tradition of shoemaking excellence.“We locked into a factory in Italy that made high quality shoes which were exclusive to us,” said Tony.“We had our own designers, and soon we were placing orders for 10,000- 20,000 shoes twice a year.”While attending shoe trade shows in the United States, Tony became acquainted with members of the Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn. This special clientele was particularly interested in finding good Shabbos shoes for their children to wear at the synagogue. (Shabbos,
Tony Sabatino, Founder of Sa ba
tino Shoes
or Sabbath shoes, are the Jewish equivalent of Sunday dress shoes for churchgoing.) “At first they were skeptical about buying shoes made in Italy,”Tony recalled.“I had to sell them on this idea because it was something completely new in the market.” So began the robertino collection of comfortable, stylish dress shoes that today continue to maintain the high-quality details of the original shoes. Alan Blum, president of the The Children’s Great Event Shoe Show and a high-profile industry expert, observed,” Sabatino Shoes try to deliver the best quality shoes at the best price. They stock their shoes, so the customer can place an order and have it in one or two days. It’s an in-stock program, where people pay for future orders, and they are backed up with extra shoes at all times.”While the styling of the boy’s dressy Robertino shoe tends to be classically elegant, Sabatino Shoes now has more than 20 styles including a new line of moccasins as well as ballerina shoes for girls. The Sabatino Shoe group
Agatha Ruiz de la Prada 32 | It’s a KIdsworld
also includes other well known labels such as Biomecanics Footwear, and agatha ruiz de la Prada for kids, both made by the Garvalin company in Spain. Said Tony,“We refer to Biomecanics as a Back-to-School shoe. It’s a fabulous walking shoe. If they made shoes for my size feet, I would wear them!” Started by the Garvalin company in 1996 as a special research project, Biomecanics are ergonomically designed to fit so well they are sold in medical stores for kids with feet problems. In fact, Sabatino Shoes will soon have a podiatrists’ certification endorsing the shoe. This great quality shoe offers fit and comfort especially suitable for kids’ fast-growing feet. With the goal of expanding, in 2001 Garvalin began a relationship with designer Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, whose recognizable signature looks are highly creative, fanciful and always
Garvalin
ultra-colorful. Categories offered in the Agatha Ruiz de la Prada collection include basketball sneakers, ballerina pumps, boots and more. The whimsy and originality of the line’s designs, combined with excellent craftsmanship and materials, make these shoes a stand-out addition to the versatile, ever evolving Sabatino Shoes corporation.
fishflops The lively young spirit of FishFlops’ line of bright and energetic footwear is embodied by its seventeen year old designer and founder Madison Robinson. Madison’s story is an inspiration to creative entrepreneurs
Robinson, Madison Nicole s Creator of FishFlop
of all ages. Raised in Galveston Island, Texas, Madison loved to draw sea-related themes at a very young age. Over the course of many beach vacations with her family she created a series of fun nautical characters, soon adding a drawing of flip-flops to her portfolio. The combination was a natural winner, developing into a collection of fashion flip-flops covered by Madison’s colorful artwork of her cast of charming sea creatures. By 2010, FishFlops were appearing in national trade shows. Two years later, Madison wrote to a buyer at Nordstrom about her collection. The result was an immediate order, and within a short time FishFlops were being featured in sixty-four Nordstrom stores. No “flops” here, they were a big success! Soon afterwards Madison’s story began to be publicized in the press, media and internet features, enabling her to share her “never quit attitude” and her philosophy for achieving success: “Be creative, work hard, give back and have fun with a smile!” Today the collection has grown to include a great variety of products and designs. In addition to the company’s signature
flip-flops covered with bright, whimsical artwork of sharks, octopus, crabs, seahorses and coral reefs, there are also fashion items such as wedgies sandals with glittering trim and printed fabrics such as Hawaiian hibiscus prints. Slip-on sneakers are decorated with sea-themed artwork and a layer of transparent sequins, so you can see the designs underneath. Madison has also designed a young contemporary line of apparel for teens and tweens under her Madison Nicole label, which is available in better boutiques nationwide.
FishFlops
It’s a KIdsworld | 33
Footwear Report
Nine West
lJp inteRnAtionAl Larry Paparo, president and CEO of lJP International, brings a unique combination of experience and expertise to his company. Larry has been involved with kid’s shoes since he was a teenager, when he worked on the selling floor at Lester’s in his hometown of Brooklyn, New York. After many years of working with such shoe industry leaders as Kenneth Cole and Steve Madden, Larry achieved his dream of starting his own company in 2006. His extensive
Nine West
34 | It’s a KIdsworld
knowledge of sourcing was the company’s initial strength, but soon they were involved with all aspects of the business, from design and merchandising, to sales, marketing and licensing.“We’re kids shoe experts,” says Larry.“We know what the important trends for women are, and we make them fun and comfortable. We take the best of the brand’s styles and take them down for kids.” LJP International now represents six brands including Bruno Magli, robert Graham, Bare traps Kids, Nine west Kids, Mootsies tooties and Ccilu, an innovative lightweight shoe so comfortable its’ name means “to liberate” or “freedom for selfexpression” in Japanese. The Nine West Kids collection is especially successful, as the LJP team skillfully interprets all the best selling styles of the women’s line, making them kid-friendly and well-fitting, but still highly fashionable. When LJP first launched an authentic riding boot for kids, their buyers were not sure if this sophisticated style would be accepted. Happily, the kids’ riding boots have been a huge success, offering all the same recognizable details as the women’s boots. The Nine West Kids collection today includes a wide variety
of boots with design features such as Sherpa or faux fur lining, classic boot buckles and zippers, top-stitching details and sleek, chic styling. The boots are made of synthetic fabrics that look amazing, while including a distressed finished and a soft, flexible feel. Breathable fabric linings add to the comfort of all the boots. Ballerina- inspired dress shoes continue to be another strong category for the company. The “Faye” shoe features a fashionable wide ankle strap that is decorated with glittering metallic studs. The “Fern 2” ballerina shoe has a pleated ribbon ruffle inserted into the seam of the patent leather toe cap. Since nude colored shoes are so popular for women, Nine West Kids offers a big variety of girls’ shoes that are nude, tan and natural colors.“Mom is wearing these colors now and kids are recognizing it as a trend”, says Larry. ”We’re bringing a fashion color to our most basic styles.” Since little sisters often want the same styles as their big sisters, many styles are brought down to smaller sizes, including a newly launched Toddler collection. All LJP shoes are flexible, well-fitted, and have memory foam inside the footbed, which makes them extremely comfortable. Larry likes to describe kids’ reaction to the comfort of LJP shoes as the “Ahhh…. moment”. LJP International’s combination of trend-right styling, comfort and competitive pricing are sure to keep kids and clients saying “Ahhh…” for a long time to come.
Caitlin Zapf an Co-founde d Amanda Kludt, rs and Bumbums owners of & Baubles
Bumbums & Baubles
BuMBuMs & BAuBles “Our concept is about combining what moms and girls both want when it comes to footwear. Moms want style and quality while girls want something fun. At Bumbums & Baubles, we’ve combined the two,” said Amanda Kludt, co-founder of the company. She and her partner Caitlin Zapf debuted their collection in August 2013. Already they’re enjoying the success of selling to such prestigious shoe stores as Harry’s Kids NY, Stride Rite stores and Von Maur department stores in the Midwest, as well as many other premium stores throughout the United States. The “baubles” of this unique shoe collection refer to molded novelty decorations that are attached to the shoes via straps that are seamlessly
incorporated into each shoe’s design. Girls can customize their boots, sneakers and sandals by interchanging the baubles. Colorful varieties range from butterfly baubles, bows, stars, rainbows, unicorns, feathers and scented cupcakes and candies— with some baubles coordinating to printed canvas and lining fabrics. Girl customers can even submit their own bauble designs, with a chance of seeing them in the next collection! Customers also get to customize and make fun choices with their purchases: a pair of coordinating baubles is included in each box, and several additional baubles may be purchased separately. Since the shoes’ styling and quality stands on their own, there are bracelets available to hold baubles for those girls who prefer un-adorned shoes. Bumbums & Baubles create a unique niche in the market because they appeal equally to the girls who wear them and their mothers. “The shoes are stylish and well-made, which appeals to the moms. The baubles
add fun for the kids!” said Amanda. For Spring 2016, Amanda and Caitlin highlight some of the newest styles that have gotten a great reaction. A high top, slip-on sneaker with elastic laces and zipper is lined with cute printed fabric such as a candy print called Sweet Treats. These are paired with a Sweet Treat bauble that is fragrantly scented. Sandals have been an especially important category, such as the fringed Boho sandal which Amanda describes as “off the charts”. The new gladiator sandal styles are still going strong, while an adjustable sandal opening with Velcro can easily accommodate girls with narrow or wider feet. White patent leather T-strap sandals can be worn with a bauble to “kid it up”, or worn alone for a more sophisticated look. This versatile T-strap style is also offered in metallic gold, black, fuchsia, and mint colored faux snakeskin. “We’ve had a lot of people on our team that see our vision and have steered us in the right direction,” said Amanda. She and Caitlin anticipate lots of exciting new things on the horizon for their brand, such as a boy’s shoe line and licensed character collections. And the recent experience of having had a hugely successful launch at Zappos is yet one more reason for Amanda and Caitlin to be optimistically excited about the future of Bumbums & Baubles.
Bumbums & Baubles It’s a KIdsworld | 35
Style Watch
On the Scene:
EUROPE —Text and photography by Janet A. Jacobs
It’s a Kidsworld traveled to the best international kid’s wear trade shows, in Florence, Paris and Amsterdam, to report on the season’s new collections and current street fashion. A record heat wave in Europe (hitting 100 degrees is Paris) fired up the quest to find the hottest Spring/Summer styles! At Pitti Bimbo, Florence, the show’s theme was“That’s PittiColor!”as seen in displays outside and on plenty of colorful fashions inside. Lively runway shows debuted exciting new collections: hyper-colorful mixed prints and eye-catching graphics at Desigual; urban/active-inspired black and white outfits from Fun & Fun; lots of lace used on everything from dresses to spring jackets, seen in sherbet shades at Barcarola; and charming strawberry striped classics for girls and boys at Il Gufo.
Two style-savvy kids of Firenze showed off their fashion flair in a trendy ruffled print jumpsuit and elegant pique polo with matching shorts. A true sense of style starts in the genes—as this fun tee shirt from Little Eleven Paris proclaims, “Karl [Lagerfeld] is my father”!
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At Kleine Fabriek, Amsterdam, the always innovative Dutch designers succeeded yet again this season. Neon trimmed baseball jackets and palm trees printed on fleece were some of the colorful, creative styles seen for boys. Many girls’ lines featured a loose fitting knit pant which was a welcome choice after several seasons of very tight jeans. The wonderfully eco-conscious line by Wild was dedicated to saving the wild life of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. A special dress was designed for the event: all profits from this style will be donated to the cause.
Moving on to Paris for Playtime, the fast-growing kid’s wear show that’s gotten a buzz for innovative, directional fashion trends. On the streets, the big news was the “soldes”— bi-annual, government regulated sales that keep the entire country doing serious shopping for weeks. For Parisian kids that had not yet left for vacation, the choice for cool dressing was tasteful graphic tee shirts with shorts for boys, and loose, lightweight cotton sun dresses for girls.
Wrapping up two weeks in Europe was a quick visit to Copenhagen, where rows of picturesque multi-colored painted houses along the canal provided artists and designers with inspiration for sophisticated color stories.
Don’t miss full coverage of the Spring/Summer 2016 European collections in the October issue of It’s a Kidsworld. It’s a Kidsworld | 37
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It’s a Kidsworld | 39
trade show calendar August 2015
August 10-14 Kids Market NYC 34 W. 33rd St., New York, NY 10001
August 25-27 Playtime Tokyo Belle Salle Shibuya Garden
August 1-3 Playtime New York Metropolitan Pavilion 125 West 18th St., New York, NY 10011
www.nykidsmarket.org
www.playtimetokyo.com/en
August 12-15 Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market | Dallas KidsWorld Market 2100 Stemmons Freeway Dallas, TX 75207 214.744.7444
September 2015
www.playtimenewyork.com August 2-4 ENK Children’s Club Javits Center 644 W. 34th St. New York, NY (212) 951-6600
www.enkshows.com August 3-4 Kids Shoe Association Los Angeles California Market Center 110 E. 9th St., Los Angeles CA
www.ksalosangeles.com August 3-6 LA Kids Market California Market Center 110 East 9th St., Los Angeles, CA 90079
www.lakidsmarket.com August 5-8 CIFF Kids Julius Thomsens Plads 1 1925 Frederiksberg Copenhagen, Denmark
http://ciff.dk/ciff-kids-home.html August 6-10 Atlanta Apparel Market AmericasMart Atlanta, GA (404) 220-3000
www.americasmart.com August 9-11 Chicago Kidz at STYLEMAX 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza - Suite 470 Chicago, IL 60654 312-527-7759
www.kidzatstylemax.com
www.dallasmarketcenter.com August 8-11 Midwest Children’s Apparel Group: The Children’s Show at Deerfield Deerfield Embassy Suites Deerfield, IL
www.midwestchildrensapparelgroup.com August 11-12 The Children’s Great Event Shoe Show The Marriott Teaneck at Glenpointe Teaneck, NJ
www.tcgess.com August 15-18 NY Now Javits Center 655 W. 34th St., New York, NY 10001
www.nynow.com August 17-19 MAGIC PLAYGROUND Las Vegas Convention Center 3150 Paradise Rd Las Vegas, NV 89109 1.877.554.4834
September 10-12 Dallas Total Home & Gift 2100 Stemmons Freeway Dallas, TX 75207 214.744.7444
www.dallasmarketcenter.com September 10-13 Kind+Jugend Cologne Exhibition Center Messeplatz 1, 50679, Koln, Germany
http://www.kindundjugend.com/en/ kindundjugend/home/index.php September 16-18 Atlanta Gift & Home Market AmericasMart 240 Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
http://www.americasmart.com September 20-22 United Boston Children’s Wear Show 75 McNeil Way Dedham, MA (781) 407-0055
www.unitedbostonchildrenswear.com
August 17-19 KIDShow Las Vegas Bally’s Hotel
September 20-22 California Kids Show Embassy Suites San Francisco Airport South San Francisco 250 Gateway Blvd, South, San Francisco, CA 94080
www.kidshow.cc
www.cakidsshow.com
August 24-26 United Boston Children’s Wear Show 75 McNeil Way Dedham, MA (781) 407-0055
September 27-29 Midwest Children’s Apparel Group: The Livonia/Detroit Children’s Show Embassy Suites Livonia, MI
cs@magiconline.com
www.midwestchildrensapparelgroup.com
www.unitedbostonchildrenswear.com (continued next spread) 40 | It’s a Kidsworld
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Trade Show Calendar September 26-28 Northwest Kids Show DoubleTree Suites - Southcenter 16500 SW Southcenter Parkway, Seattle, WA 98188
October 6-10 Kids Market NYC 34 W. 33rd St., New York, NY 10001
www.nykidsmarket.org nyckidsmarket@gmail.com
October 24-27 Chicago Kidz at STYLEMAX 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza - Suite 470 Chicago, IL 60654
www.kidzatstylemax.com
www.nwkidsshow.com
October 2015 October 1-2 Midwest Children’s Apparel Group: The Indy Children’s Show Embassy Suites North Indianapolis, IN
www.midwestchildrensapparelgroup.com October 4-7 United Boston Children’s Wear Show 75 McNeil Way Dedham, MA (781) 407-0055
www.unitedbostonchildrenswear.com
October 12-15 LA Kids Market California Market Center 110 East 9th St., Los Angeles, CA 90079
October 10-13 Midwest Children’s Apparel Group: The Children’s Show at Deerfield Deerfield Embassy Suites Deerfield, IL
www.lakidsmarket.com
www.midwestchildrensapparelgroup.com
October 15-19 Atlanta Apparel Market AmericasMart Atlanta, GA (404) 220-3000
October 18-20 ENK Children’s Club Javit’s Center New York, NY
www.enkshows.com
www.americasmart.com October 18-21 ABC Kids Expo Las Vegas Convention Center 3150 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89109
www.theabcshow.com
October 21-24 Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market | Dallas KidsWorld Market (Apparel, Gift, Accessories, Toy) 2100 Stemmons Freeway Dallas, TX 75207
www.dallasmarketcenter.com
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Fashion Hot Picks
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that
It’s a KIdsworld Features thIs season’s best FInds Isobella & chloe
dedo
andY & eVan
lIttle mass
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agree 2 dIsagree
hIbou wee ones agree 2 dIsagree
t2loVe
le club orIgInal
sara sara It’s a KIdsworld | 45
The “IT” List
Where to find it Brand
Contact
Size Range / Product
ABC Children’s Show
Sarah Kokernot
Baby & Kids Trade Show
210.691.4848
Adams & Company Realty
David Levy
Premier Children’s Building
212.679.5500
Agree2Disagree
Marissa Senzon / Lauren Miglis
Girls 7-14
646.422.7500
Andy & Evan
info@andyandevan.com
Boys 0-7 years
212.967.7908
BeBe Gabrielle / Macis Design
Marion Chen
Newborn - 24 m
732.246.2988
Butterflies & Zebras
Shari Horowitz
Girls dresses and lifestyle
914.330.3056
Children’s Club / ENK
Stanley Kaye
Trade Show
212.759.8055
Dallas Market Center
Meredith Hite
Regional Mart
214.760.2883
Dedo Kids
Asma Iqbal
Girls casual and dress-up apparel, sizes 2T-6X
240.481.8110
Dignity U Wear
Karin Bunell
Non profit charity for kids
888.364.1305
Elizabeth Cate/ Elizabeth Cate LLC
Lauren Hines
Girls Dresses / 2T to 8
251.605.9663
Great Event Shoe Show
Allen Blum
Footwear Trade Show
718.370.1703
Harriet & Violet / Solo International
Solomon Bailey
Layette, playette, play wear — newborn/infant boy and girl
212.221.1611
Hibou Clothing
Janna Page
3 months - 7 years
714.960.4522
Isobella and Chloe / Best of Chums
Emily Fong
Newborn-16, dresses, infant gifts
626.457.8823
KidShow
Denise Raeside
Las Vegas Trade Show
908.232.0867
Kissy Kissy / Tatianna & Co
Beth Campanella
Peruvian Pima Cotton baby clothing & accessories preemie - 4T
732.345.5073
Le Club Original
Moises Hirshbein
Kids swim and resortwear / Sizes: baby - 16 yrs
786.802.3324
Little Mass
Tina Chang
Girls 2t - 12 years
323.234.9086
Malibu Sugar Inc.
Jil Garcia
Girls 4 - teen
310.883.8385
Nine West Shoes / LJP International
Larry Paparo
Kids Shoes Toddler is 7-12 / Missy 12.5-5
732.771.8700
PARTY TIME HATS by SpecialTee Designs
Mary McCart
One Size Fits Infant / Toddler
973.595.5200
Playtime
Clare Posnack
Children’s Trade Show
212.563.7301
Pulla Bulla
Brittney Niquette / Ericka Peña
Boys / Girls sizes 0-16
800.805.0294
Sara Sara / GBYM Inc
Wayne Lee
Girls dressy dresses 4-14 years
213.248.1777
T2Love
Terri Kuoch
Tween active wear sizes 2-14
818.477.1379
Wee Ones
Miles Faust
Premium hair bows, headbands, clips and other fashionable accessories / babies - teens
1.800.258.9996
For more information on how to get on the “IT LIST”, please email caryn.kidsworld@gmail.com 46 | It’s a Kidsworld
Phone
It’s a Kidsworld | 47
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