IT'S A KIDSWORLD MAGAZINE - AUG/SEPT 2017

It’s A

A BUYER’S REFERENCE GUIDE

August/September 2017 Volume 53

ONLINE RETAILER REVIEW

Tradeshow Calendar eurowaTCh

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New York Ilene Oren & Company · IleneOrenShop.com · (212) 563-5020 Los Angeles Shayna Masino Sales · shaynamasinosales.com · (213) 689-4950 T2Love.com CoziiUSA.com

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From the Publisher

130 Rio Vista Drive, Norwood, NJ 07648 Phone/Fax: 201.969.1600 Email: caryn.kidsworld@gmail.com

The reTaIl shIfT

PUBLISHER/CEO Caryn Salomon VICE PRESIDENT/CONTROLLER David Salomon EUROPEAN CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Janet A. Jacobs

Dear Readers, Spring orders are starting to roll in and buyers are given a plethora of shows this season to attend to get their Spring/ Summer picks. From New York to Vegas and now the newly added show in Canada, buyers are offered plenty of options to see what’s new and what’s going to sell in store.

Buyers in brick and mortar as well as e-commerce retailers are showing up.

With the addition of online retailers taking their place in the market we are seeing a shift in retailing as we knew it. Manufacturers could be taking notice of this and changing how they are merchandising and marketing their products to buyers. Manufacturers today are relying more and more on the digital world to get product lines and new styles to reach their audience and drum up new business. Just ask Deana Stewart, Owner of Everything But the Princess, who has created her own mark online. You can read what she has to say about it inside, where It’s A Kidsworld had a one on one with this successful e-tailer. You’ll also find up-to-date trend information from recent European shows, and discover – as many major brands have already learned – how online retailing is beginning to change the face of our industry.

TREND REPORTING/COLOR FORECASTING Fashion Snoops ART DIRECTION/MAGAZINE LAYOUT Christine Joy Décary ParallelBranding.com

If you would like to receive a digital copy of It’s A Kidsworld or would like info on how to showcase or be featured in our pages please contact Caryn at caryn.kidsworld@gmail.com

Happy shopping!!

Caryn Salomon Publisher/CEO It’s A Kidsworld

kidsworldmagazine @its_a_kidsworld

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ON THE COVER Photographer: Dani Diamond Stylist: Dana Curtin Designer: Shari Horowitz

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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News snIpITs

dress To Impress BeBe Gabrielle is a newborn and infant line by Macis Design to address the “dress up” needs of sizes NB to 24 months but in a comfortable way, using cotton knit fabrics.

These are perfect for “coming home” outfits. There is a wide range of cute knit outfit styles; dresses, bloomers, onesies and wrap sets. Added new for Spring is a mint color, several styles using eyelet fabric and 3 sack styles in preemie and newborn. Each uniquely styled with lace, flowers or bows. This proves to be a great offering to the consumer, as each outfit includes either a headband or hat. Several of the BeBe Gabrielle styles function as “after” christening gowns, so the baby can be more comfortable. Another use of these styles is as a less formal, more cost effective choice 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 is a wide variety of styles, from simple to jeweled, laced and delicately trimmed gowns. The new Spring 2017 Macis Design Christening Collection offers both short and long length dresses. The shorter length christenings are particularly preferred for infants who are standing or toddling. The boy’s christening styles feature a more tailored look, and wholesale at $49 and $59. The girl’s wholesale prices range from $59 to $109. Macis Design offers two different price points for Girl’s Communion Dresses. The value priced line is named “Love U More” and wholesales from $49 to $69. The Macis Princess line of Communion dresses (www.macisdesign. com) features exquisite lace and sophisticated designs from $109 to $189 wholesale.

for more information please visit www.bebegabrielle.com or www.macisdesign.com

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Adriana Dranoff (305) 345 - 6559 planetseaswim@gmail.com www.planet-sea.com

News snIpITs

Good for you sKIn Care Since 2008 Good For You Girls has been the leader in natural skincare for the beauty beginner. Catering to all tweens and teens, this unique skin care line is a must have for every child’s daily regimen. Made with love in the USA, all Good For You Girls products are vegan, gluten free and free from any harsh chemicals. Free of phthalates, sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrance and dyes. Perfect for ages 8 and up. Good For You Girls teaches healthy habits at the perfect age with products that pamper and protect. They offer a full line of skin care from cleansers, toners, moisterizers, lotions and more.

for more information please visit www.goodforyougirls.com

snIpITs

JusT so you Know, IT’s my BIrThday!

Girls of all ages love to celebrate their Birthdays.... the parties, the friends, the gifts, the cake, the decorations! And now, thanks to industry veteran Malibu Sugar, there is a trend in Birthday Apparel to make sure the world knows it is your special day!

Malibu Sugar just released a Birthday print that is probably the cutest thing we have ever seen! “We are so excited about our collaboration with Dani Kates of Kandi Jewlery to create this “Oh ya baby, it’s my Birthday! print”, states owner and designer Jil Garcia. “We wanted to create a design for girls of all ages to feel extra special on her day and to make sure she stands out!”

The print is available in Camis Shorts & Leggings and is available in Little Girls, Tween & Teen size. I mean, you’re never too old to be a Birthday Princess!

for more information please visit www.malibusugar.com IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 9

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Loungeville is a modern, casual line of upbeat separates, in fun prints that can be worn to suit each girl in her own unique way. A hip and playful loungewear collection for tween girls when they just want to relax and have fun!

Loungeville says buh-bye to the current fabrics and the “typical” prints offered to tweens in loungewear. Nothing is stiff, itchy or uncomfortable any longer. Instead, Loungeville is super soft, comfy, cozy and yummy, something you want to wear 4-evah!!!!

The Loungeville girl, doesn’t take herself too seriously and must always look “on fleek” Whether it’s movie night, pizza parties, camp or weekends with the girls, Loungeville has something that suits every girl!!

RoseAnne Pagac rpagac@earthlink.net (516) 522-1993

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Dino Mignon Montreal / July 30-Aug 1 Childrens Club New York / Aug 6-8 Toronto Gift Fair / Aug 13-16 Childrens Club magic Las vegas / Aug 14-16 New York Now / Aug 20-23 ABC kids expo Las Vegas / Oct 17-19 Cheryl Grossman Managing Director cherylg@tendertyme.com Rose Textiles – Tendertyme 865 Fenmar Dr. Toronto, ON M9L 1C8 (416) 789-2638 Ext. 308

www.RoseTextiles.com IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 13

rose TexTIles Leading Canadian Company Grows with International Super Brand Jainco

R

ose Textiles, a family run business began it’s journey in 1951 in Toronto, Canada and is now in it’s 3rd successful generation. The Rose Textiles team are experts in the Baby Industry being importers, wholesalers and distributors of infant clothing, gift and accessories.

From baby basics to formal wear, Rose Textiles carries a complete variety of merchandise that meet and exceed most retailers needs in servicing their clientele. This long standing company takes immense pride in their level of customer service and loyalty. They pay close attention to the needs of all their retailers from independent boutiques to mass market department stores and they always make sure their buyers have an exceptional buying experience from placing an order to product hitting the retail floor.

The product world of Rose Textiles has grown immensely and successfully over the years. Quality product has helped keep the strong Rose Textiles name as a constant leader in the children’s market. Their main brands include, Baby Mode, Baby Mode Signature, Boker and Laila, Amor Bebe, Tendertyme and RTL kids. Rose Textiles also specializes in private label production for many companies around the world big and small.

Rose Textiles is excited to announce that this past year they have been nominated as the exclusive importer and distributor for the UK company Jainco for North America.

Jainco, established in 1985 began as a family business and has grown into a large team of buyers, merchandisers, designers, and many more key people who pride themselves on the same family values that were integral to the company’s success from the beginning. The Jainco family of brands has a wide appeal from key baby pieces and needs to casual and fancy occasion wear for girls and boys from baby, toddler and beyond. Each season Jainco’s growing offering has as many as 500 selected styles to satisfy the needs in many categories. The well known Jainco family of British brands include Rock a Bye, Rock a Bye Baby Boutique, Bonjour Bebe, Chloe & Louise, Mini Moi, Honour and Pride, Lily and Jack, Little Gent and Snuggles Tots.

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ROCK A BYE BABY The rock a bye baby collection has been the go to for families for decades. Think key pieces which every child needs as they enter the world.

Crafted from the softest fabrics, in traditional hues of pink, blue and cream with a modern twist, your little one will be stylishly cocooned up all year around.

ROCK A BYE BABY BOUTIQUE With the strong foundation of rock a bye baby at its core, the boutique range is the perfect, handpicked selection of premium items which are carefully finished with our luxury branding. For these reasons it is our best selling gifting collection which we are sure will delight you.

BONJOUR BEBE With its heart in Paris, this fashion collection is beautifully designed to ooze “je ne sais quoi” whilst never compromising on quality and comfort. The range caters for boys, girls and has an expansive unisex offering so you will be spoilt for choice.

CHLOE LOUISE A fun, fabulous and on trend collection which encapsulates the dreams of young girls. From casual pieces to dresses, all Chloe Louise items, will make her feel confident and beautiful as she goes on her daily adventures.

Baby Mode BABY MODE Baby mode brand is an everyday basic brand with a fashion and fun spin for all! It’s a well priced line of merchandise covering all needs for your baby’s closet.

BABY MODE SIGNATURE Baby mode signature line takes an elegant spin on key pieces that every child should have in their close. From a beautiful 100% cotton knit blanket to your very first cardigan.

TENDERTYME Tendertyme gift line has all baby gift in one! From wash cloths and hooded towels to boxed gidft sets, Tendertyme covers all gifting needs.

AMOR BEBE Premium quality matching Set for Baby from hooded towel and washcloth to all basic everyday accessories.

BOKER & LAILA Accessories that emphasizes high superior quality and style with exceptional comfort for babies.

For more information please contact: Cheryl Grossman (416) 789-2638 Ext. 308

MINI MOI Mini Moi is your daughters dream wardrobe of high fashion styles. From show stopping occasion wear dresses to on trend jumpsuits, she will find everything she needs to look picture perfect.

HONOUR AND PRIDE Designed in the UK, this exclusive collection, is the epitome of true British style. Classic shapes are given a modern functional twist making this a go to brand for all your boys leisurewear needs.

LILY AND JACK Capturing the spirit of youth; the Lily and Jack collection is inspired by kids. The collection is both durable and fun making it the ideal uniform for your child as they discover the world.

LITTLE GENT Inspired by their Etonian neighbors; this range will transform your little man into a dapper gentleman who will charm everyone in sight. And as we pride ourselves on using the best quality materials, he will feel like a Prince too.

SNUGGLE TOTS To get that perfect nights sleep, for both you and the baby, we recommend our Snuggle Tots range. Sleeping bags from this range are crafted using the softest fabrics and offer a comfortable switch from swaddling for your little one.

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Dino Mignon Montreal / July 30-Aug 1 Childrens Club New York / Aug 6-8 Toronto Gift Fair / Aug 13-16 Childrens Club magic Las vegas / Aug 14-16 New York Now / Aug 20-23 ABC kids expo Las Vegas / Oct 17-19 Cheryl Grossman Managing Director cherylg@tendertyme.com Rose Textiles – Tendertyme 865 Fenmar Dr. Toronto, ON M9L 1C8 (416) 789-2638 Ext. 308

www.RoseTextiles.com

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Trend Report by Nicole Yee + Ania Witkowski, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops

sprInG/summer 2018

> InfanT/Toddler GIrls FARMHOUSE

Farmhouse explores the sweet simplicity of country life. Shabby chic interiors, wooden fences with peeling paint and fresh laundry flapping on the clothesline set the scene. This story goes back to the basics with crinkled linen, cozy cotton and quilted chambray. Details take on a vintage, handcraft aesthetic with wooden buttons, simple embroidery and hand-stitched patchwork. Humble prints and patterns include classic favorites like plaid and gingham, while simple country florals, songbirds and roosters capture the natural beauty of farm life.

IX

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T AGE IN MESS

S DU LUCA E PETIT

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SEAPORT

Seaport explores a heightened level of prestige found in the high society clubs peppered along the northeast coastline. Nautical motifs are reimagined as clean and classic staples are updated with a sporty hand and a vintage vibe. Heavy jersey fleece, cotton pique and breathable nylon create a timeless collection cultivated for a life of sport and leisure along the shoreline. Stripes are energized in new color palettes and updated with playful graphic embellishments. Prints and patterns range from nostalgic and traditional to wonderfully whimsical.

PIUPIA

MO

MINY

HA MOKS

LET THEM EAT CAKE

Let Them Eat Cake explores the dizzying world of the privileged in this over-the-top world of soirees, sugary treats and sensational special occasion items.

Vintage lace, silk and tulle create awe-inspiring dresses resplendent in confectionery colors. These unabashed silhouettes are complete with ruffles, sequins and lace appliques, while a call to the Victorian era is evident in high necklines, ruffled shoulders and bell sleeves. “The more the merrier” is the mantra for this story as embellishments, ruffles and more are piled onto festive frocks that demand attention.

ONE

CIGN

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BEBE

ONE

CIGN

BEBE

LOOM

EVERB

Fashionsnoops.com provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.fashionsnoops.com to learn more.

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 19

Trend Report by Nicole Yee + Ania Witkowski, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops

sprInG/summer 2018

> InfanT/Toddler Boys SEAPORT

Seaport travels along the northeast coastline to find the enhanced level of prestige discovered in the high society clubs. Prints and patterns range from nostalgic and traditional to wonderfully whimsical.

Stripes are energized in new color palettes and updated with playful graphic embellishments.

Nautical motifs are reimagined as clean and classic staples are updated with a sporty hand and a vintage vibe. Heavy jersey fleece, cotton pique and breathable nylon create a timeless collection cultivated for a life of sport and leisure along the shoreline.

ONO

MINIM

LITTL

IANS

E IND

KNOT

FARMHOUSE

Farmhouse explores the uncomplicatedness and ease of country life. Shabby chic interiors, wooden fences with peeling paint and fresh laundry flapping on the clothesline set the scene. Farmhouse goes back to the basics with crinkled linen, cozy cotton and quilted chambray. Modest prints and patterns include classic favorites like plaid and gingham, while simple country florals, songbirds and roosters capture the natural beauty of farm life. Details take on an old-fashioned, handcraft aesthetic with wooden buttons, simple embroidery and handstitched patchwork.

FO

IL GU

TTLE HE BO

NUE

H AVE

RAP TELEG

M

E IN T ESSAG

HIDDEN WORLD

Inspired by out-of-the-way estates and elaborate treehouse hideways, Hidden World for Baby Boy relishes in bold colors and fantastical prints that update classic special occasion apparel. Reality blends with fiction and the past with the present, creating a magical world where anything can happen. Florals, animals and plaids adorn classic silhouettes while casual jersey creates a comfy but tailored look out of blazers and pleated pants.

Onesies are updated with vests, jackets, shirts and pants for a more tailored look for baby.

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BEA THAT

R CIGO

BY

A GNE B

IN ROCK

BABY

Fashionsnoops.com provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.fashionsnoops.com to learn more.

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 21

Trend Report by Nicole Yee + Ania Witkowski, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops

sprInG/summer 2018

> 4-6x GIrls GREEN THUMB

One takes a retreat from reality to a hidden country cottage. Here, among the secret garden with overflowing flowerbeds, chipped clay pots and rusted gardening tools, an homage to individual expression takes bloom. Eccentric pattern mixing and kitschy details update vintage silhouettes inspired by thrift store finds. Florals, fruits and gingham combine classic patterns with a whimsical spin. A vibrant palette of greens, pinks and yellows is reminiscent of a magical summer garden, completing the sweet, country aesthetic made fresh with individual touches.

FUN A

N

ND FU

YCLU

NV

MAKERS CAMP

Arts and craft camp is the inspiration for this narrative that explores the tradition of trade. Here, the young apprentice participates in a variety of workshops where they perfect their craft and sharpen their skills. What appears simple to the naked eye is full of intricacies in this utilitarian utopia. Essential items like denim, overalls and smock dresses build the wardrobe’s foundation.

Homespun cotton, denim and linen are accented by simple, yet skillful design details like rope ties and apron bibs.

RA AYMA

I DIG

DENIM

S

NANO

EXPEDITION

The tour of Tanzania begins in this story that explores the luxury safari. In the tented camps and beachside bungalows of remote reserves is where wildlife meets fantasy. The sun-baked plains and desert sunsets inspire the vibrant and yet earthy color palette of a collection the redefines utility and the new uniform for kids. Tailored and minimal details are explored on structured woven tops, shorts and rompers crafted from twill, nylon and firm jersey.

PSON A SIM JESSIC

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A STELL

JEAN

FO

IL GU

Fashionsnoops.com provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.fashionsnoops.com to learn more.

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 23

Trend Report by Nicole Yee + Ania Witkowski, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops

sprInG/summer 2018

> 4-6x Boys ART HOTEL

Apping through the Grand European Adventure in the 21st Century, the Art Hotel kid stays in artistic hotels as he or she visits off-the-beaten path galleries to see modern, accessible art. Purposefully designed for all, the bold and geometric prints feature hints of dadaism and surrealism in a vibrantly deep palette of sophisticated blues with pops of cheerful reds and raspberry pinks. The clothes are bold and geometric and bring new dimension to wayfinding graphics for the next generation of travelers.

EPART AKE D THE M

YCLU

MENT

U DESIG

AL

MAKERS CAMP

Here, the young apprentice participates in a variety of workshops where they explore the tradition of trade. What appears simple to the naked eye is full of intricacies in this utilitarian utopia. Arts and craft camp is the vision for the narrative and where, the young student sharpens their craft and perfects their skills. Essential items like denim, overalls and smock dresses build the wardrobe’s foundation.

Homespun cotton, denim and linen are accented by simple, yet skillful design details like rope ties and apron bibs.

ALBA

S

KID

NANO

CH N HEA SILVIA

EXPEDITION

In the tented camps and beachside bungalows of remote reserves is where wildlife meets fantasy.

The exploration of luxury safari starts when the story of the tour of Tanzania begins. The sun-baked plains and desert sunsets inspire the vibrant and yet earthy color palette of a collection the redefines utility and the new uniform for kids. Tailored and minimal details are explored on structured woven tops, shorts and rompers crafted from twill, nylon and firm jersey.

FUN A

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N

ND FU

FO

IL GU

FO

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Fashionsnoops.com provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.fashionsnoops.com to learn more.

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 25

Trend Report by Nicole Yee + Ania Witkowski, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops

sprInG/summer 2018

> Tween GIrls SOJOURN

Sojourn follows young thrill seekers as they ascend the great Mount Kilimanjaro. Surrounded by an environment of extremes, the adventurers feed off of the earth’s energy while immersing themselves with technology that enables them to better comprehend their physical space and well being. With prints and patterns inspired by breathtaking landscapes, African culture and wildlife, the activewear collection highlights vibrant hues only found in nature. Materials like waxed cotton, quilted nylon and reversible neoprene are both functional and futuristic and are updated with diverse details from multi-colored bungee ropes to pop pockets.

AV ALISH

AV ALISH

LI BOBO

CAMP CANOE

Camp Canoe explores the nostalgic summers spent by one of the Great Lakes. Bunk beds, wood cabins and floating docks set the familiar scene of days spent tubing in the lake, crafting on picnic benches and reading paperback books in a hammock. Comfy and functional, the clothes take on a hint of the ‘90s as tees, denim and sweats are re-imagined for a new generation of summer campers.

EBBE

LEVIS

ETA

KETIK

FILTERED FANTASY

Filtered Fantasy explores the fine line between reality and make-believe, a phenomenon that has been enhanced with technology. Now with Snapchat filters that easily allow users to don floral garlands, transform into puppies and sport unicorn horns, Girls are exploring accessories and apparel that bring this experience to their real world. Unicorn horns, mermaid sequins and rainbow patterns collide on a collection of everyday items updated to the max. Pastel rainbow hues are key, in addition to a dazzling array of sequins, glitter, pom poms and more on casual denim, silk and jersey key items.

U DESIG

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AL

IA S GAL

E MIS LITTL

PAPER

Fashionsnoops.com provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.fashionsnoops.com to learn more.

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 27

Trend Report by Nicole Yee + Ania Witkowski, Trend Editors, Fashion Snoops

sprInG/summer 2018

> Tween Boys IMAGINARIUM

Imaginarium blends reality with fiction and the past with the present, creating a magical world where anything can happen. Inspired by lush English mazes, hidden estates and elaborate treehouse hideways, the story relishes in bold colors and fantastical prints that update classic boys’ special occasion apparel. Tailored vests, jackets, shirts and pants come alive and spin a new narrative for the next generation. Florals, animals and plaids adorn classic silhouettes while casual jersey creates a comfy but tailored look out of blazers and pleated pants.

A

AROL BARC

MIGA

LA O R

FUN A

N

ND FU

CAMP CANOE

Camp Canoe explores the time spent during a sentimental summer by one of the Great Lakes.

Wood cabins, bunk beds and floating docks set the familiar scene of days spent reading paperback books in a hammock, crafting on picnic benches and tubing in the lake. Comfy and functional, the clothes take on a hint of the ‘90s as tees, denim and sweats are re-imagined for a new generation of summer campers.

N LOSA

FUN A

N

ND FU

AVE RAPH TELEG

SOJOURN

Sojourn follows young thrill seekers as they ascend the great Mount Kilimanjaro. Surrounded by an environment of extremes, the adventurers feed off of the earth’s energy while immersing themselves with technology that enables them to better comprehend their physical space and well being.

With prints and patterns inspired by breathtaking landscapes, African culture and wildlife, the activewear collection highlights vibrant hues only found in nature. Prints and patterns unite to reflect a heightened nature in both a surreal and starkly realistic form.

E LITTL 28 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

MARC

S JACOB

INGS

W PAPER

HEBE

Fashionsnoops.com provides practical forecasting and trend information for fashion professionals. Log onto www.fashionsnoops.com to learn more.

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 29

Shayna’s Shoutout

Hi again, it’s Shayna here!

I’m back with another informative Retailer Review feature. This time we focused on a very successful online store, Everything But the Princess. This online retail destination specializes in mainly kids and tween clothing.

Their website has a unique, distinctive and user friendy layout and they attract most of their customers through the eye catching photos they use.

This unique on line shop truly caters to the digital world and uses all techie outlets to run their business on a daily basis.

Take a look to see what Owner, Deanna Stewart has to say about the success of her online baby!

Hope you Enjoy.

All my love, Shayna Salomon

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reTaIler reVIew:

It’s a Kidsworld talks online selling with web super star everything But the princess —By Shayna Salomon

What was the inspiration for opening your website? How did it start it? How many years are you in business? My inspiration was definitely my two daughters. I loved dressing them fashionably and was frustrated by the lack of original clothing available in department stores. I also sought better quality apparel then I was finding at the time. I fell in love with European fashion that I was ordering direct from Europe and longed for those types of designs to be available here in the United States. I would spend hours scouring European boutiques for new clothing for my girls and would get stopped everywhere we went by mothers asking where I purchased my children’s clothing.

One of my friends said why don’t you open a boutique so everyone can get these fabulous brands here? I was a stay at home mom at that time with two daughters who were then 4 & 7.

I thought why not, I had a business

paper wInGs

degree and plenty of past experience in retail. I combined those with my love of fashion and Everything but the Princess was born. That was 11 years ago. I can’t believe my dream is still alive and thriving.

What are some of the most important categories for your website? What are the best selling items? This is a tough question! Fashion is constantly changing and right now our industry is so volatile that it is impossible to predict anymore what will work and what will not. With buying taking place often a minimum of 6 months prior to the season you’ll be selling it in, it’s difficult to judge what direction your buyers will be going and to predict sales. It’s definitely the question on all retailers’ minds right now. I do feel clients are always looking for great everyday wear items that their children can wear year round. Styles that wash and wear beautifully and can transition through layering from season to season.

Clients are buying less these days so they are looking more for the long term wear rather than just one season. Best sellers for our store include the amazing pima cotton styles by Lemon Loves Lime, the unique looks that keep girls young and sweet from Mustard Pie, and everyone’s favorite; Livie + Luca shoes. Last and definitely not least one of our best sellers is Ooh La La Couture.

Are any of your merchandise products personalized? What are some of the typical occasions that people come to you for gifts? We do not offer personalization at this time. We have a lot of birthday shoppers at Everything but the Princess. Our attention to detail with beautiful packaging and personalized cards all enclosed and sent direct to the recipient keep customers coming back each year for birthday shopping.

How involved are you in social media?

How important is social media to your company? Social Media is vital to any business today. Gone are the days of mother’s flipping through catalogs and to some extent even websites. Buying is done through their phones so putting your product in front of their screen is extremely relevant. In addition being live through those channels to answer questions and inform your clients is key.

How have you managed to keep your company updated and relevant? We spend a great deal of time listening and

conversing with our clients about their needs and what they like and don’t like from our designers. We participate in many social media groups where we get firsthand feedback from consumers.

We also have many discussions on our Facebook pages and Instagram to get feedback from our clients. I value our customer’s opinions more than anything else, it is extremely important to interact with them. Second to that, we do a lot of research on fashion trends so we can offer our customers both timeless styles but also something new each season.

How have you see your business change over the years? In 11 years I have seen a lot of changes. I think the most prevalent would be the use of mobile devices. Over 75% of our clients are using a cell phone or a tablet to order from our store. This is a huge shift from the desktop ordering of the past. We have had to adjust our website, imaging and navigation to keep up with the way our clients view and shop our website. Second to that would be social media. Social media has had a huge impact on our industry. I feel its been a very positive change. We can now instantly update our clients, show them photos and videos. We can use social media to give our clients a live experience just like they are in the store with us!

A n y n ews a b o u t n ew merchandise or special events? Why yes! We are always trying to keep it fresh at Everything But The Princess. We have some great new designers joining us this season such as Serendipity, Velveteen, Huxbaby and Mac & Co. We are also bringing back some old friends; Mayoral, 3 Pommes, Appaman and Kidzart. We are just beginning the process of formulating revisions to our website.

I am most excited about his news! We hope to fine

tune the website with shop by size and easier navigation. We already get great feedback about our webstore but I feel there is always room for improvement and we strive to continually make things even better for our clients.

How has your store evolved over the years? How do you hope to see it evolve in the future? As mentioned we adapt all aspects of our business as the industry and consumer behavior changes. With new technology we ensure our customer service and webstore are compatible and user friendly. We ensure we are available live on all those channels

ooh! la, la!

CouTure

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 31

Shayna’s Shoutout Who are your main buyers/customers?

Our webstore is worldwide and our client base varies as much as our products themselves. We don’t cater to one style genre, or even a particular demographic because every child is unique and everyone is looking for something different. We keep a wide variety of fashions so that we can truly say we have something for everyone.

musTard pIe

Would you ever consider opening a brick and mortar store? And why? I have long dreamed of having a brick and mortar location. It has never been a possibility for us as we live in a small community.

My husband I put our children first and foremost and raising them in this amazing place is something we would never change. Unfortunately our small town cannot support a specialty store such as ours. Forever a piece of my heart will yearn for it as I daydream of whimsical window displays, conversing with parents, and of course the grand prize of seeing children trying on our fashions!

to offer real time customer service.

You have to adapt with the constantly changing shopping modes, and style trends too. We have been striving to do more live viewings of collections and more videos where we can showcase all those details and fabrications that are harder to show just through a web photo.

Seeing a collection in person via live feed or video gives our customer the feelings we had when we chose the items, we can show them the intricate trim, the craftsmanship or texture of the garments.

All of these aspects are so important.

I just love sharing that with them and hope to do more of that this season.

32 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

How do you market to your customers?

How do you find new customers?

Thanks to our lovely clients, our biggest marketing is their referrals. If I can stress anything to another store owner it would be treat your customers like gold, because they are. We love what we do and without them we are nothing. I owe everything we are to my clients and I remember that each and every day. It is the #1 training tool I use with every employee. I think social media would be second to our customers referrals and does play a very important role in marketing and finding new clients.

What are some of the differences of having an online store compared to a brick and mortar shop? A ton more work! It’s an extremely time intensive process to keep up with an online store.

Don’t get me wrong I love what I do but if I calculated my hourly wage I might cry a bit (laughing!) There are hours each day that go into answering emails, updating and loading products, website maintenance, email blasts, social media posts and the list goes on. I don’t think anyone who hasn’t had an online store could ever fathom the work load involved and I do believe that is one of the biggest reasons some who start fail.

An online store is open 24/7, there are no business hours.You cannot lock the door and go home at the end of the day. You will always find me answering emails or Facebook messages while I cook dinner, at my children’s sports practices or even in the grocery store aisle! Being open 24/7 means you’re on call at any given day or time to assist your clients.

“If I can stress anything to another store owner it would be treat your customers like gold, because they are.”

What is your rate of returns? Returns are a part of doing business in the clothing industry. We don’t consider it a big issue as our primary goal is for customers to love everything they purchase and that everything is a good fit for their child.

We try to keep it as minimal as possible more for our customers than anything as it is costly these days to mail things back.

We try to look over orders and flag any issue we might see and contact the client if needed. For existing clients we usually revisit prior season orders and if we feel sizing is off we touch base with them to make sure everything looks right.

How do you manage sizing? We place size charts on each brands page for those that have them. If we notice a certain style is running unusual we note that so the client knows to size up or down. If we have return issues or customer feedback on items and sense a pattern we adjust the site as well to inform buyers.

How do you control your inventory?

Thankfully our website has live inventory so it updates with each sale.

However on rare occasions things can get off with returns so every 90 days we run a hand count on every item in the store. Inventory is a stickler for me, I never want to tell a customer we do not have something our website says we do.

How do you participate in cyber Monday? We send our mailing list clients an email with all of our cyber Monday specials. We also promote those on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Do you have a fulfillment center? Drop ship? Warehouse? I insist on having my hand on everything. This store is my baby and I would never let anyone else package, ship or control any aspect of it.

We have a warehouse where we house and ship all of our store inventory. I love that I am participating daily in

all aspects of my stores operations.

Some days you will find me taking a break from emails and social media to help pack orders, run inventory, or even cleaning. We are a big family here and we all work together to get things completed each day.

for more info please visit: www.everythingbuttheprincess.com

Do you have full time employees? Yes, but we call them family! Everyone that works for Everything But The Princess past and present is an addition to our family. I could not live this dream without them, they next to my customers are the bloodline of our existence. I am beyond blessed with employees who run this company as if it was their very own. Although we each have different roles from customer service, to returns and inventory, packaging and shipping or marketing and buying; we are all well versed to take over or help one another at any given time. We are a welloiled machine because we truly care about what we are doing and moreso each other.

How do you think you would be able to expand in the next couple of years?

I would love to see our store grow both in clients and in product offerings. It is a tough climate for retail right now so I am cautiously optimistic at this time.

I have long wanted to expand our baby clothing and accessories. We have tried it many times over the years but it’s a tough niche and one that I feel still reigns brick and mortar based. I can’t blame them, who doesn’t want to go look at layette and minky blankets in person; where you can touch and ooh and ahh over it all. Gifts is another category I have always loved buying for and would love to see come back in our store. Like layette it is a very in person, in the moment experience. One that I think is hard to duplicate in an online experience.

lITTle mass

Photography by: Shannon Sewell Photography and Our Baby China Doll Photography

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 33

Trade show Calendar auGusT-oCToBer 2017 auGusT 2017 July 30- Aug 1

Dino Mignon Palais des congrès de Montréal 1001 Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle, Montréal dino@dinomignon.com

July 31 -August 3

LA Kids Market California Market Center 110 East 9th St., Los Angeles, CA 90079 www.lakidsmarket.com info@californiamarketcenter.com

August

Aug 6 - 8

August 19-23

August 9-11

August 22-24

August 9-12

August 22-24

Children’s Club Javits Center 644 W. 34th St. New York, NY (212) 951-6600 www.ubmfashion.com CIFF Kids Julius Thomsens Plads 1 1925 Frederiksberg Copenhagen, Denmark http://ciff.dk/ciff-kids-home.html jea@bellacenter.dk

Kids Market NYC 34 W. 33rd St., New York, NY 10001 www.nykidsmarket.org nyckidsmarket@gmail.com

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market | Dallas KidsWorld Market 2100 Stemmons Freeway Dallas, TX 75207 214.744.7444 www.dallasmarketcenter.com

August 1-5

August 12-15

Atlanta Apparel Market AmericasMart Atlanta, GA (404) 220-3000 www.americasmart.com

August 2-3

The Children’s Great Event Shoe Show The Marriott Teaneck at Glenpointe Teaneck, NJ www.tcgess.com

Aug 6 - 8

Playtime New York Metropolitan Pavilion 125 West 18th St., New York, NY 10011 www.playtimenewyork.com hellohello@playtimenewyork.com

34 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

Midwest Children’s Apparel Group: The Children’s Show at Deerfield Deerfield Embassy Suites Deerfield, IL www.midwestchildrensapparelgroup.com

August 14-15

United Boston Children’s Wear Show 75 McNeil Way Dedham, MA (781) 407-0055 www.unitedbostonchildrenswear.com

NY Now Javits Center 655 W. 34th St., New York, NY 10001 www.nynow.com customer.relations@emeraldexpo.com Chicago Kidz at STYLEMAX 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza Suite 470 Chicago, IL 60654 312-527-7759 www.kidzatstylemax.com Playtime Tokyo Belle Salle Shibuya Garden www.playtimetokyo.com/en hello@playtimetokyo.com

sepTemBer 2017 September 10-12

United Boston Children’s Wear Show 75 McNeil Way Dedham, MA (781) 407-0055 www.unitedbostonchildrenswear.com

September 7-9

Dallas Total Home & Gift 2100 Stemmons Freeway Dallas, TX 75207 214.744.7444 www.dallasmarketcenter.com

August 14-16

Children’s Club Magic Las Vegas Convention Center 3150 Paradise Rd Las Vegas, NV 89109 1.877.554.4834 www.ubmfashion.com

(continued next spread)

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 35

Trade Show Calendar September 14-17

Kind+Jugend Cologne Exhibition Center Messeplatz 1, 50679, Koln, Germany http://www.kindundjugend.com/en/kindundjugend/home/ index.php kms@koelnmesse.de

September 17-19

Northwest Kids Show DoubleTree Suites - Southcenter 16500 SW Southcenter Parkway, Seattle, WA 98188

September 17-19

Midwest Children’s Apparel Group: The Livonia/ Detroit Children’s Show Embassy Suites Livonia, MI www.midwestchildrensapparelgroup.com www.nwkidsshow.com info@nwkidsshow.com

September 14-15

Midwest Children’s Apparel Group: The Indy Children’s Show Embassy Suites North Indianapolis, IN www.midwestchildrensapparelgroup.com

oCToBer 2017 October

Kids Market NYC 34 W. 33rd St., New York, NY 10001 www.nykidsmarket.org nyckidsmarket@gmail.com

October

LA Kids Market California Market Center 110 East 9th St., Los Angeles, CA 90079 www.lakidsmarket.com info@californiamarketcenter.com

October 1-3

United Boston Children’s Wear Show 75 McNeil Way Dedham, MA (781) 407-0055 www.unitedbostonchildrenswear.com

(continued next spread) 36 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 37

Trade Show Calendar October 10-14

Atlanta Apparel Market AmericasMart Atlanta, GA (404) 220-3000 www.americasmart.com

October 14-16

Midwest Children’s Apparel Group: The Children’s Show at Deerfield Deerfield Embassy Suites Deerfield, IL www.midwestchildrensapparelgroup.com

October 17-19

ABC Kids Expo Las Vegas Convention Center 3150 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89109 www.theabcshow.com info@theabcshow.com

October 21-24

Chicago Kidz at STYLEMAX 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza Suite 470 Chicago, IL 60654 312-527-7759 www.kidzatstylemax.com

October 25-28

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market | Dallas KidsWorld Market (Apparel, Gift, Accessories, Toy) 2100 Stemmons Freeway Dallas, TX 75207 214.744.7444 www.dallasmarketcenter.com

To submit trade show information please email caryn@markitdirect.com Show dates for all listings are subject to change

38 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 39

TrendSpot

EURO WATCH SPRING/SUMMER 2018 —Text and photography by Janet A. Jacobs

T

he Spring/Summer 2018 children’s fashion season burst into bloom at the flower-themed, 85th edition of Pitti Bimbo called “Style in Blossom”. It was impossible not to be delighted by the décor of pavilions at the historic Fortezza da Basso, which were covered in brightly p a i n t e d Po p f l o w e r s and flowing fabric banners.

Many companies from the widely international selection of exhibitors showcased interpretations of floral prints and fl ower decorations on all types of apparel and accessories. Among the innovative new additions to Pitti Bimbo were several “Pop-up shops” by iconic Italian design companies as Roberto Cavalli Junior and Dolce & Gabanna, who displayed their line in an outdoor shop fi lled with real flowers and vibrant flower printed clothing.

A spectacular garden-inspired collection was seen at Mimisol, created

by Imelde Bronzieri. This season Mimisol announced that the brand has been acquired by FaseUno, a high quality producer with its own prestigious line Val Max. The merging of Mimisol and FaseUno is welcome news as it will enable Mimisol to strengthen its international expansion, open additional mono-brand stores and keep on with its continuing success. Other outstanding lines also focusing on big flower prints were Special Day, who featured lush oversized roses printed on white sateen dresses; and Pan Con Chocolate, who 40 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

PITTI BIMBO

MIMISOL

DESIGUAL

NO ADDED SUGAR

CHARABIA

PAN CON CHOCOLATE

SPECIAL DAY

covered the entire top of a rose-colored bubble dress with a huge dimensional embroidered peony. Twin Set paired Japanese flower prints with red polka dots, a part of their extensive collection which combines traditional Italian elegance with modern day touches.

And what can inspire designers’ color palettes better than flowers? Charabia offered two new variations of their famous “balloon” dress which features rows of multi-colored real balloons as trim. No Added Sugar, a luxury brand of modern-styled garments made in Europe of premium fabrics from Europe and Japan, featured a dropped-waist dress of festive painterly stripes and the season’s stylish big ruffled sleeves; and a lovely asymmetric dress with soft watercolor blossom print.

The runway shows at Pitti Bimbo offered an entertaining, enlightening way to see some of the season’s top trending fashions put together and in-motion. The group of Children’s Fashions from Spain showcased highlights from some of the top Spanish companies: Amaya, Barcarola, Boboli, Desigual, Mayoral and Tuc Tuc. This season’s runway show theme was the American West, complete with impressive sets of majestic Western scenery, country-Western music and kids wearing accessories as cowboy hats and Indian feather headdresses.

Fun & Fun and sister brand She.Ver presented a lively catwalk showing of their signature looks: kid-friendly interpretations of the hottest seasonal trends from the junior market. I Pinco Pallino returned to Pitti Bimbo after a season’s absence, presenting a runway show featuring delicate dresses with soft, feminine details. The brand was recently purchased by the Chinese Little Star Brands group. They launched their new collaboration in an impressively large area which included other Little Star brands.

The next weekend it was Paris’s turn to host kid’s fashion trade shows: Playtime and Kid. Playtime continued to expand its number of exhibitors and also launched a new edition of Playtime in Berlin. The show’s Trend News areas featured topical themes

SENORITA LEMONIEZ

T LOVE

BOBOLI

KENZO

TWIN SET

FUN & FUN

BILLY BANDIT

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 41

TrendSpot as: “All Together”, about solidarity and sharing; “Make”, stressing the return of everything hand-made, featuring organic and natural fabrics; “Repair”, teaching children to refurbish rather than discard; and“Share”, encouraging kids to explore new horizons and appreciate design styles from distant places.

Some companies chose to exhibit at both Pitti Bimbo and Playtime. One of these was Knot , who celebrated their ten year anniversary with an excellent collection called Heritage, a salute to past collections and acclaimed pieces with a 100% Portuguese sensibility.

Motifs of indigenous sardines and Fa d o g u i t a r s m a d e s u r p r i s i n g l y charming prints for girls and boys, while folkloric embroideries and trim celebrated the distinctive craftsmanship of Portugal. Paade Mode continues to attract an evergrowing group of followers who appreciate their unique looks.

The company’s designers skillfully combine beautiful fabrics and traditional sewing techniques from Latvia, a county with a rich history of textile arts, updating them with a thoroughly modern twist. Senorita Lemoniez presented a superb collection that uses exquisitely detailed embroidered fabric as well as bold optical geometric prints, styled with skill by Spanish w o m e n ’s f a s h i o n designer Fernando Lemoniez. Bleu Comme Gris , Kidscase, Tootsa , Red Caribou and many other top-notch collections made a strong showing at Playtime Paris, creating an inspiring showcase for high-level children’s fashion.

42 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

AO 76

NO ADDED SUGAR

KNOT

KNOT

ELISABETTA FRANCHI

CARREMENT BEAU

MAYORAL

SENORITA LEMONIEZ

Couture Fabrics

Intricate, elaborately decorated fabrics take kid’s clothes to couture level; rose patterned lace; shiny, textured geometrics on chiffon; delicate embroidered blossoms on light-as air fabric in shimmery shades.

PAADE MODE

LAPIN

Sleeve Sensation

Big bell sleeves, ruffled sleeves, ruched sleeves trimmed with bows and accented with cut-out shoulders—the newest design focus is most definitely on the sleeve! Crisp woven fabrics give shape to the trend.

PAADE MODE

EUROWATCH

“musT haVe” Trends

BLEU COMME GRIS

FUN & FUN

TUC TUC LE BIG

KENZO TWIN SET

BLEU COMME GRIS

Denim on Top

Denim tops off cool outfits for boys and girls, seen as cropped motorcycle-styled jacket with embroidered flowers; classic jean jacket updated with fun patches; denim pieced top with peplum and frayed edges.

The Big Bag

Practical and fashionable, big bags can go anywhere from the classroom to summer vacations. Variations include straw bags with big pom-poms, big blossom print bag and stylish backpack decorated with fringe, pom-poms and striped trim.

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 43

Show Scenes on The sCene In nyC: JaCoB JaVITs CenTer

44 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

It’s A

A BUYER’S REFERENCE GUIDE

Showcase & Gain MAXIMUM EXPOSURE of your brand · Reach over 13,000 key buyers during your market time... opening new doors for your brand · E-blast to 6000 buyers nationally... reaching buyers you don’t · Bonus distribution at all major trade shows and markets... reaching the shows you don’t

OVER 25,000 CONSUMER HITS on our online publication For more information please contact Caryn Salomon: (201) 969-1600 caryn.kidsworld@gmail.com

· Gain exposure through our social media outlets

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 45

Fashion Hot Picks

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46 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

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IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 47

The “IT” List

where To fInd IT BRAND

CONTACT

SIZE RANGE / PRODUCT

PHONE

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

Baby Deer / Trimfoot Company

Joe Truglio

Infant Shoes, Infant- Toddler (00- 12)

201.965.3244

Bebe Gabriel

Marion Chen

Specialty Dresses

732.246.2988

Butterflies & Zebras

Shari Horowitz

Girls & Tweens Lifestyle

914.330.3056

Children’s Club / UBM

Customer Service

Trade Show

212.759.8055

Dallas Market Center

Customer Service

Regional Mart

214.760.2883

Dignity U Wear

Karin Bunell

Non profit charity for kids

888.364.1305

Dino Mignon Trade Show

Customer Service

Trade Show

514.506.6286

Good for you Girls

Kim Grustas

Teen Skin Care Line

860.489.9912

Great Event Shoe Show

Allen Blum

Footwear Trade Show

516.225.7463

iScream

Amy Anderson

Sizes 6-16

888.559.2634

Jainco / Rose Textiles

Cheryl Grossman

Kidswear newborn - toddler

416.789.2638

Loungeville

RoseAnne Pagac

Girls Loungewear Collection

516.522.1993

Macis Design

Marion Chen

Specialty Dresses

732.246.2988

Malibu Sugar Inc.

Jil Garcia

Girls 4 - teen

310.883.8385

MOD Active + MOD Girl

Kristina Hastings

Girls 6x-16 Tweens & Teens

480.432.2113

Planet Beach Corp.

DBA Planet Sea

Adriana Dranoff

Kids swimwear Infant / toddler 6m 12 m 18m 24m 2t Kids & Teens 2 to 16

305.345.6559

Playtime

Customer Service

Trade Show

212.563.7301

Rose Textiles

Cheryl Grossman

Kidswear newborn - toddler

416.789.2638

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 48 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD

IT’S A KIDSWORLD | 49

50 | IT’S A KIDSWORLD