cHildrenSWear BuYer: MarcH/aPril 2013 iSSue 81 cwb-online.co.uk £8.50
Made for SucceSS The story behind luxury children’s fashion boutique Melijoe.com WinTer WalkerS key looks for a/w 13 as seen at Moda footwear Talking PoinT roksanda ilincic on her childrenswear collection Blossom
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REGULARS 05: Comment 06: News 08: NCWA news 12: Open for business Legal and business advice plus industry opinion 14: Retail therapy Store profiles, news and events 16: Brands to watch Editor’s pick of brands 39: Style guide Sleepwear 41: Laura Loves The coolest products for kids 54: Talking Point Roksanda Ilincic
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18: Industry measure Bestselling children’s footwear brands 20: Made for success The story behind luxury children’s fashion boutique Melijoe.com 24: The look of a/w 13 CWB’s favourite a/w 13 trends from the leading UK and overseas shows
SCHOOLWEAR 45: News 47: Product focus: school accessories The latest schoolwear accessories on the market 50: Stock: Footwear
26: Cool kicks Highlights from the footwear collections on offer at the a/w 13 edition of Bubble London 30: Indie shop n’ soul The launch of the Indie Easter campaign targeting independent stores in all sectors of retail 32: Winter walkers The key looks for a/w 13 as seen at Moda Footwear
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Tel: +44 1527 8941 55 Email: info@crownsandcoronets.co.uk www.crownsandcoronets.co.uk
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Rebuilding and working with communities, local businesses supporting fellow local businesses, new independent stores opening and established independents embracing innovative means to grow and develop are all things we are hearing of more frequently at CWB. There is a definite sense that independent retailers are thinking much more inclusively in terms of how they can help both their own business and the community in which they work.
Take this month’s Indie Easter campaign, which follows the launch of Independent Retailer Month and Indie Christmas last year. The latest initiative, as with the previous campaigns, is aimed at reinvigorating the independent retail sector as the heart and soul of the high street, encouraging independents to join forces in their local communities. You can read more about Indie Easter on page 30, together with accounts from participating childrenswear independents on how, by working closely with their respective communities, they are both improving their own sales and contributing to the success of the vicinity in which they work.
CWB is published 6 times per year by RAS Publishing Ltd, The Old Town Hall, Lewisham Road, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield HD7 5AL. Call 01484 846069 Fax 01484 846232 cwb-online.co.uk Copyright© 2012 CWB Magazine Limited. All rights reserved.Reproduction of any written material or illustration in any form for any purpose, other than short extracts for review purposes, is strictly forbidden. Neither RAS Publishing Ltd nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage to transparencies and any other material submitted for publication.
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Also this issue, we round up a/w 13 with reviews of the fashion and footwear on offer from the leading UK and overseas trade shows. We have the latest in kids’ shoes from Moda Footwear on page 32, as well as footwear highlights from Bubble London on page 26, and a selection of key fashion looks from the a/w 13 collections on page 24. In schoolwear, we put the spotlight on school accessories in our product focus feature on page 47. We also take a look at the latest school footwear styles in the stock feature on page 50 and, in news, we reveal why this year’s edition of The Schoolwear Show, taking place on 13-15 October at Cranmore Park, Solihull, is set to be the most exciting to date. We will be keeping you up-to-date throughout the year on all of the exhibition’s news, both in the magazine and online at cwb-online.co.uk.
Laura Turner Editor
On the topic of inspiring retailers, don’t miss our interview on page 20 with Nathalie Christen-Genty, founder of luxurious French online children’s boutique Melijoe.com. Nathalie discusses the company’s latest developments and international expansion plans, including the site’s recent UK launch.
Editor Laura Turner laura@ras-publishing.com Contributors Isabella Griffiths isabella@ras-publishing.com Christina Williams christina@ras-publishing.com Victoria Jackson victoria@ras-publishing.com Fashion writer Natalie Dawson natalie@ras-publishing.com Sub editor Amanda Batley amanda@ras-publishing.com Editorial assistant Carey Whitwam carey.whitwam@ite-exhibitions.com Designers Michael Podger mick@ras-publishing.com Clive Holloway clive@ras-publishing.com James Lindley james@ras-publishing.com Richard Boyle richard@ras-publishing.com Sales manager Sharon Dennis sharon@ras-publishing.com Subscriptions Caroline Mackinnon caroline@ite-moda.co.uk Production director Gill Brabham gill@ras-publishing.com Group sales director Lindsay Hoyes lindsay@ras-publishing.com Marketing director Stephanie Parker stephanie@moda-uk.co.uk Managing director Colette Tebbutt colette@ras-publishing.com Reprographics/printing Image Data Group Ltd 01482 652323
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CWB is a joint venture between RAS Publishing and the National Childrenswear Association.
A Buyer Series Fashion Business Publication CWB is a fashion business publication produced by RAS Publishing Ltd. Other titles include WWB, MWB, and Footwear & Fashion Extras. RAS Publishing is an ITE Group company.
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From April, the Little Darlings christening range will be produced in England, a development introduced by the brand’s new owner, Adrian Wilkinson, MD of Michelle De Leon (MdeL).
Jelly shoe brand Juju Footwear has created a range of limited-edition children’s jellies to help raise awareness for Mencap, the UK’s leading learning disability charity. Aiming to repackage charity in an innovative way, Project Jelly sees the brand donating 25 per cent of profits from the limited-edition range directly to Mencap.
Wilkinson, who also owns Little Darlings’ sister brands Coco Collection and Abella, will have the Little Darlings range produced from the company’s group manufacturing facility in Ashbourne, Derbyshire. The group manufacturing business, Roger Silcock & Co, will increase manufacturing capacity to cope with the extra demand. “This is a very exciting development after importing textiles on a worldwide basis for over 25 years,” says Wilkinson. “It’s good to be at the forefront of the resurgence of UK textile manufacturing.”
Two limited-edition styles are available – glittery pink and a unisex red with neon lime sole – both in sizes four to 10 junior.
This month sees supermarket giant Morrisons launch its first own-brand clothing range in the form of a value childrenswear line that will be available across 100 of its stores. Nutmeg, which offers items such as toddlers’ T-shirts for £2 and jeans for £5, provides garments designed with comfort and ease in mind, with highlights including itch-proof collars, expandable waistbands and chunky zips. “We are delighted that Nutmeg is now here, and hope our customers love the collection as much as we have enjoyed creating it,” says Tim Bettley, director of clothing at Morrisons. “The team behind Nutmeg is really proud of the range and confident it brings something different to the world of supermarket fashion with thoughtful details that will delight our shoppers.”
Crowns & Coronets is a new luxury British clothing label for children aged newborn to six years, offering handcrafted, ethical knitwear produced from Himalayan yak down and sustainable bamboo to create timeless knitwear pieces. Signature looks include sailor collars, stripes and sporting influences from the 20s, glamorous boleros and dresses from the 30s, and the more masculine, structured lines and jackets of the 40s. “Every detail in the making of Crowns & Coronets’ garments embraces British skill and meticulous craftsmanship, from the hand-embossed mother of pearl buttons to hand-stitched swing tags,” says designer and founder Helena Hubbard.
Project Jelly’s Jujus are available for wholesale delivery from April, with independent stockists already on board including Gently Elephant, Cissy Wears, Olive Loves Alfie, Stella C, The Elves & The Shoemaker and Klodhoppers.
Belle Enfants: winners of Best Independent Children’s Footwear Retailer 2013
Bubble London, the UK’s national children’s fashion trade show, saw a year-on-year visitor increase of three per cent for its a/w 13 edition. Additionally, the exhibition achieved a 20 per cent increase in overseas visitors, further strengthening its position as a key buying destination on the international fashion calendar. Showcasing over 280 collections encompassing children’s fashion, accessories, interiors and lifestyle products, including more than 90 new brands, a/w 13 also marked the launch of Nest, a new area dedicated the most exciting product entering the UK market. “Bubble London has come a long way since its inception,” says event director Lindsay Hoyes. “Now in its 11th edition, I am proud of how integral a part of the industry the show has become, which is reflected in not only the quality of UK and overseas retailers it attracts, but also the variety of exciting and innovative labels that take part.” Bubble London s/s 14 will take place on 16-17 June 2013 at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London.
Last month’s Footwear Industry Awards, which took place on the first evening of national trade fair Moda Footwear, saw cause for celebration for the children’s sector. Hosted at the Motorcycle Museum in Solihull, the event saw brands and retailers gather to enjoy a champagne reception, three course meal, live entertainment and the awards ceremony. Winners from the children’s footwear sector included Start-rite, who was awarded Children’s Footwear Brand of the Year; Belle Enfants was awarded Children’s Independent Retailer of the Year while Little Soles was bestowed the accolade of New Independent Retailer of the Year. The next edition of Moda Footwear for s/s 14 will take place on 11-13 August at Birmingham’s NEC.
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For s/s 14, men’s and women’s fashion brand Dsquared2 is launching a junior line for newborn to 14 years.
This month, Cheeky Chompers is launching a new dribble bib concept with an attached teether.
For the next five years (2014-2018), ready-to-wear and accessories will be produced under licence by Brave Kid, which specialises in the manufacture and distribution of children’s clothing and accessories. The footwear licence will be given to Andrea Montelpare, a leading firm in the industry from Fermo, Italy. The collection will remain true to the brand’s DNA, featuring irony and playfulness across the junior boy, junior girl and baby range and will be distributed in Dsquared2 flagship stores in Milan, Paris and Tokyo as well as key department and speciality stores.
Fully reversible, the Neckerchew is made from jersey cotton with an absorbent middle layer with the textured, triangle-shaped teether at the base developed in a specialised silicone. The UK-manufactured product will launch in nine designs, each with its own patterned front, and secures with a double popper fastener that is fully adjustable and suitable for up to two years.
Global fashion brand Lee Cooper has been acquired by Iconix Brand Group for $72m. Founded in 1908, the British denim label has grown considerably to become a global business with 40 partners selling in over 100 countries, namely Europe, Asia and the Middle East. It has over 500 Lee Cooper branded stores and, from a consumer sales perspective, is expected to achieve in excess of $700m in global retail sales by 2015.
“Our objective with Neckerchew is to create a teething product that looks stylish and fashionable but above all practical and that works,” says Cheeky Chompers’ director, Amy Livingstone. Plans are to expand into UK retail outlets before distributing internationally.
Department store retailer John Lewis is investing £32m into extensive refurbishment across four of its stores. The biggest investment will be on the retailer’s High Wycombe property with a £16m redevelopment fund in place. Plans include converting its 35,000 sq ft office space into a selling area and the introduction of a full fashion, nursery and childrenswear offer. The flagship store on Oxford Street, along with High Wycombe, Kingston and Nottingham, will benefit from the fund later in the year. A further £25m has been planned for other smaller investments across the chain’s 39 stores before 2014.
Little Fashion Gallery, the online concept store for children’s fashion, furniture, books and toys, has launched an own-label collection for s/s 13. Sold exclusively at littlefashiongallery.com, the label is capitalising on the established and highly regarded Little Fashion Gallery brand name. “I have always seen Little Fashion Gallery as a label, and when I launched the business six years ago I treated it in the same way as launching a product or brand,” says founder Marie-Soudrén Richard. “The own-label range is the epitome of our values.” Catering for three to 24 months and two to 10 years, the brand focuses on colourful and easy-to-wear pieces including T-shirts, trousers, dresses, knitwear, coats, tops, nightwear and accessories.
Body shape analyst and supplier of technical fit mannequins, Alvanon, and sizing research company Select Research, have launched a Shape GB Children’s Sizing report and series of supporting technical fit mannequins. The Shape GB report and fit forms, which are based on the findings of the Shape GB children’s size survey, are the result of a collaborative project between Alvanon, Select Research, and six childrenswear retailers; George at Asda, Monsoon, Marks & Spencer, Next, Shop Direct Group and Tesco. The result is a de-facto “working standard” for sizing clothes for British children. The new Shape GB report and fit form range is available to any childrenswear supplier producing garments for British children from four to 17 years.
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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COMMENT: What a show we had at Bubble London in January. The aisles were buzzing, stands were full and an atmosphere of optimism was evident throughout the Business Design Centre in Islington. Have we witnessed the first real signs of an economic recovery, or was this another false dawn? It may be too early to say, for much of the hard work has to be done during the weeks after the show, confirming orders and following up new leads. That said, I was not alone in being struck by the positive reaction that all at the show demonstrated and people are still talking about it. We British are a resilient bunch, and after so many seasons of recession and double dips, perhaps we really have reached the bottom and can now start to make our way back up.
LITTLE STARS 11 St Leonards Street, Lanark, Lanarkshire Marion Martis’ own children were the inspiration for her to open a childrenswear shop, which she did in 2010, naming it Little Stars. The store stocks clothing and footwear for birth to eight years from brands such as Mayoral, Tutto Piccolo, Valenri, Emile et Rose, Andanines, Timberland, I DO and Lelli Kelly. Online sales are an area of growth for Little Stars, although not to the detriment of the bricks and mortar shop. Broadening the clothing ranges and working on window displays to best draw in customers are also key focuses for the business. www.littlestarsclothing.co.uk
The situation on the high street remains difficult, however, and explains why the NCWA chairman, Sharon Beardsworth, has written to the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Rt Hon Vince Cable MP, to ask him for his support and to use his influence with his colleagues to ensure a level playing field for independent retailers. With press reports that one in seven high street shops is now empty, the Chancellor of the Exchequer could address the issue of business rates in his Budget on 20 March. Persuading banks to lend to small businesses has met with little success. Their short-term mindedness is only matched by landlords, who would prefer to see premises empty than take a realistic attitude towards rent reviews. On a recent visit to a small market town in the West Country, I was struck by the large free car park, just off the high street. Yes, there was a large supermarket on the outskirts of the town, with its own large car park, but the high street had restaurants, pubs, even an independent grocers (although sadly not a childrenswear shop), and was a hive of activity. Why can’t other local authorities take such an enlightened attitude to the provision of free car parking? But, what can you do? Well, why not write to your MP if you are concerned about the state of the high street? Such letters do get passed to the relevant minister and there can be no doubt that the volume of letters received has an impact. On a local level, any MP worth his or her salt will want to be seen to be doing something for their constituency. If you would like to discuss this further, do contact me. Elizabeth Fox, NCWA executive director NCWA is based at 3 Queen Square, Bloomsbury, London WC1N 3AR Tel: 020 7843 9488 Fax: 020 7843 9478 Email: enquiries@ncwa.co.uk Visit: www.ncwa.co.uk NCWA Council: Chairman SHARON BEARDSWORTH Emile et Rose Manufacturer Vice Chairman DAVID HULL Agent Imm Past Chairman DAVID BURGESS David Luke Ltd Manufacturer Treasurer COLIN WILSON
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Council Members: TONY RIDEWOOD APR Agencies Agent NUALA MCKENNA Nuala McKenna Agencies Agent DIANE SHAW Agent SARAH TAYLOR Agent RAY WILLIAMS Agent HANNAH MCHALICK Oh Baby London Manufacturer MALCOLM TRAVIS Travis Designs Manufacturer JO PERSECHINO Antz In Yer Pantz Retailer JANETTE REED Cotswold Kids Retailer VIRGINIA ROSS Pollyanna Retailer President: KEN SCATES Marketing and sourcing consultant Vice Presidents: LESLEY FALLON Retail consultant JACKIE COOK Retail consultant Executive Director: ELIZABETH FOX
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www.pretendtobee.co.uk David and Sue Palmer, owners of the fancy dress costume website, Pretend to Bee, have manufacturing experience via their family business that dates back to 1948. Their website is designed to be easy to navigate, with close-up images a must to enable customers to see exact detail of designs. The feedback facility is also a key feature. The website receives between 5,000 and 10,000 hits per month, which varies according to demand. Going forward, the Pretend to Bee brand is expanding its baby and toddler range.
• Membership is open to everyone involved in the British childrenswear industry. • Associate membership, open to non-British organisations, is now available. • Membership costs from £85.
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In order to meet customer demand, baby leggings brand Blade & Rose is extending its age range to cater for older children.
Available to order this month will be Blade & Rose leggings in sizes four to five and five to six years. To reflect the older age bracket, these leggings differ from the baby sizes, featuring a design – initially a cupcake, rabbit and an owl – as a small motif on the ankle of the leggings, rather than on the bottom, as with the baby leggings.
Starchild, the boys’ and girls’ soft leather shoe and bootie brand that offers breathable footwear for infant, toddler and child, has been contracted to supply the House of Lords gift shop.
Childrenswear brand Kite has added to its UK sales team with the appointment of Derek Hollyoak (pictured) as full-time sales manager responsible for supporting Kite’s existing retailers as well as adding new stockists.
Beating competition from other baby shoe labels and following a meticulous tendering procedure for supplying government departments, the brand has been awarded the contract with exclusive co-branded portcullis design baby shoes (pictured).
Hollyoak has a wealth of experience in the UK childrenswear market including his most recent role as sales manager for Yumi Girls and Uttam Kids.
“Starchild’s flexibility to provide bespoke prototypes at short notice and deliver bulk goods with short lead time proves itself in this competitive market,” says Starchild sales director, Steven Bryant. “It’s such a high-profile place to get into and I’m sure it will lift our brand and lead onto other new markets.”
Cocobaci is a new luxury online boutique that launched this month specialising in clothing and gifts for newborns through to two years. Founded by three friends and former colleagues – Antonella Bettley, Linda Alexander and Sarah Edwards – Cocobaci features the trio’s personal edit of clothing brands and locally handmade gifts. Key names stocked include Magnificent Baby, an American label that offers a range of babygros and sleep suits with magnetic fastenings, and babywear from French brand Absorba. Other highlights include luxury packaged gift bundles and bespoke and personalised gifts made to customer specification from British craftsmen, designers, artists and manufacturers.
“Kite continues to grow strongly, and the appointment of a full-time sales manager is the natural next step for us as we look to offer even higher levels of service to our customers,” says Kite director Roger Hakes.
Prior to the Chancellor of the Exchequer delivering his Budget this month, NCWA chairman Sharon Beardsworth has written to Vince Cable MP in his role as Secretary of State for Business Innovation and Skills, to plea for more help for UK independents. Beardsworth highlighted the wide-ranging challenges facing independents, such as high rents and rates, parking charges, the unwillingness of banks to lend to small businesses and the blight of empty premises on most high streets. “The future for many retailers looks bleak and this will have a knock-on effect on UK brands and their agents,” says Beardsworth. “Top labels rely on independents to sell their wares, so if they disappear, so will the brands and their agents.”
Ethical and organic children’s clothing brand Frugi is launching to John Lewis stores and on johnlewis.com for s/s 13. Frugi co-founder Kurt Jewson is confident in the brand’s partnership with the retailer due to the companies’ shared views on customer care, ethics and brand loyalty. Jackie Zorn, babywear buyer for John Lewis, is equally enthusiastic. “Frugi will definitely appeal to the John Lewis customer,” she says. “The designs are exciting and the fabric is lovely, 100 per cent organic cotton. We are pleased to be working with this brand.” Frugi’s growth also extends to its ranges with the introduction of washable nappies and an increase in its size range, which will see the brand cater for up to age 10 years.
Boys and Girls Clothing Made in Britain Tel: 01842 819464 Email: sales@WISConline.co.uk
16 & 17 June 2013 Business Design Centre, London
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Photography: steven visneau, swvphoto.com
A great mix of children’s products A unique buying experience
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HOW CAN I MANAGE STAFF ABSENCE IN BAD WEATHER? First it was floods, then snow, and the forecast is more extreme weather in the future, which inevitably affects staff attendance. It is important to understand your options for dealing with employees who cannot or do not make it to work, to minimise cost and damage to business continuity. Preparing in advance by implementing an adverse weather policy and developing a strategy for dealing with major disruptions is key. It enables you to avoid panic when bad weather strikes and enables managers to understand their responsibilities in advance. It also forewarns employees of what is expected and the consequences of missing work. There are a number of options for dealing with employees who do not make it in. When deciding on which to adopt you need to balance the cost saving of not paying absent employees’ wages with the negative impact of a policy staff may feel penalises them when they cannot get in through no fault of their own. You need to keep your workforce motivated, but you also need to encourage them to make every possible effort to get to work. Pay is a stormy issue. You could insist on absent staff taking unpaid leave – unless the employment contract provides otherwise, employees are only entitled to be paid for work done. You could require them to take absence as holiday but that depends on them having sufficient accrued but untaken holiday entitlement. Not an option if extreme weather coincides with the end of the holiday year. Employees can be asked to make up the hours – you may already have a flexitime scheme in place that could be extended to cover the
circumstances. Some employees might be able to work from home. It is reasonable, provided they have the necessary facilities, to require this. Consider setting up key staff with appropriate facilities to enable them to do so. It may be tempting to shut up shop if your outlet cannot be staffed appropriately, not least because customers may be as scarce as your employees. However, if you choose to shut a workplace, salaried employees with contractual agreed hours will still have to be paid if they would otherwise have been ready and willing to work. Consistency is important in achieving the best reaction from staff, so bear this in mind when you take any decision on pay or other arrangements. A policy that allows some discretion may give flexibility, but you need to ensure managers apply it consistently to avoid grievances. Think about recognising the efforts of those who struggle in, as it might encourage better attendance. Finally, make sure the workplace is safe for those who do make it in – get your supply of grit ready! Joanna Chatterton, partner and member of the Fashion Law Group at Fox Williams LLP, specialising in employment law Visit www.fashionlaw.co.uk Contact jkchatterton@foxwilliams.com. —
MAXIMISE THE POTENTIAL OF 2013 While we all are wishing for a crystal ball to give us an accurate view on what will happen with the UK economy during 2013, sadly it doesn’t exist. Therefore it is wise to anticipate all such risks, as preparation for all eventualities may avert a catastrophe. I don’t see interest rates rising in 2013. That is not to say your borrowing costs may not rise as most lenders are leaning more to individually costed rates depending upon the risk involved – ie your credit history – whether you are a retailer or a consumer. The Bank of England will be keen to keep interest rates at their present low level to avoid the economy creeping back into recession. The most absorbing issue is confidence. If consumers are confident that their jobs will continue, they will spend. However, there is evidence to show consumers are becoming more discerning in their choices, and therefore a product that displays excellent value for money from an independent retailer will fare well with this group of people. The most important issues for independent retailers this year will be to keep a keen eye on budgeting and not overextend any credit. Marketing is important – social media is an excellent way to engage with your target customer base and to entice them to your store. It also enables you to keep a handle on what your competitors are doing and keep one step ahead. Also explore an online presence – many consumers now prefer to buy or order goods online and collect from the shop – encourage feedback so new customers can see what existing customers really think about a product.
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Have you noticed a rise in the number of grandparents shopping for children’s clothing? — It’s not a new trend as such; grandparents have shopped for children’s clothing during the 10 years I have been open. I have, however, noticed a rise in the number of grandparents accompanying their offspring when they are shopping for young children. The 50-plus consumer may have more disposable income, perhaps because they have paid off their mortgages, and they’re helping out the parents who are struggling in the current economy. Does the older consumer approach shopping in a different way? — Grandparents have always tended towards wanting to buy something special and, in that way, they are more prepared to purchase a premium product. They’re perhaps not as focused on sale items as parents may be. Do you do anything specific to attract older consumers into the store? — We keep the window display looking nice and make sure that people know that we’re independent and we are different to the high street. That’s not to specifically attract the older consumer but, if they are looking for something a bit different and a bit special, it may draw them in. Are grandparents specifically buying special occasion purchases? — We are seeing more grandparents buying the Christening gown, for example, if a family comes in specifically shopping for a special occasion. But grandparents are also helping out with buying everyday clothes. They often shop without the children, so they can take their time browsing without pester power becoming an issue.
Are many of your consumers in the post-50 age consumer demographic? — Our stores have an all-round appeal, but we do have a loyal following of grandparents. Lots of grandparents shop with us, whether visiting or local to the area, and they often try to help parents in buying clothes or shoes for both everyday wear and special occasions. How do shopping habits of grandparents differ to those of parents? — Grandparents often buy the higher end products we have in-store as treats, perhaps because the parents themselves cannot afford these items. They will often buy entire outfits with matching accessories, and will also buy for each grandchild in order to be fair. Very often, if it is the mother’s parents buying, they will buy according to their own tastes, so will perhaps opt for a more traditional outfit whereas, if grandparents are buying for a daughter-in-law, they usually try to ensure the purchase is to the daughter-in-law’s taste, even if they are not too keen! How do you ensure your in-store offer appeals to all demographics? — Because my daughter and I do our buying together, we have a good spread of the younger, more on-trend items and the more traditional and classic styles. Collectively, our tastes appeal to both parents and grandparents. How do you encourage customer loyalty among the over-50 consumer group? — Grandparents in particular love our loyalty scheme and we make great efforts to remember our regulars – after all, everyone likes to feel special. We find that granddads are the easiest to serve as they nearly always purchase exactly what we suggest.
Who is your core consumer? — Grandparents have always been our core customer, with over-50s making up around 75 per cent of our sales. Grandparents are helping out more with everyday clothing and, being based in Devon, which is relaxed and outdoorsy, means high-quality, practical, hardwearing clothing is our best selling point. The last three years have been incredibly tough for families with young children, especially where childcare costs are taking up a lot of income, so grandparents are enjoying being more involved; at least this is my impression. Do grandparents opt for different products to parents? — No, we find grandparents buy a diverse range from us; from practical wear such as full outdoor outfits because they like the children to be wrapped up, through to shoes and, quite often, baby clothes, which they love buying. Can you describe grandparents’ shopping habits when it comes to babywear? — They tend to buy immediately after the birth and go for something special such as a wool blanket or cashmere booties and a hat. Knitwear is always a special gift and more expensive. We find grandparents are very generous and can get carried away in terms of spending; they’re not particularly interested in sales. Do you do anything specific to attract grandparents into the store? — We did a talk at the Women’s Institute on organic children’s clothing – such as the benefits for the farmers and the higher quality of the cotton for children with eczema – and this brought some new ladies into the store who were given a 10 per cent discount. We also give mums a 10 per cent discount card to pass onto grandparents to encourage them into the shop. For more industry opinion visit cwb-online.co.uk
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EENY MEENY Campdale Road, Tufnell Park N7 Between graduating from Central St Martins and becoming a mother, Eeny Meeny co-owner Clare Jay worked as a freelance designer and illustrator. She also ran family workshops at Tate Britain. Her affinity with design is evident throughout the store, with inspired displays showcasing clothing, shoes, toys, gifts, artwork and books from brands such as Vilac, Djeco, Maileg, Londji, Froy & Dind and Tootsa MacGinty. “Colour is our thing,” says Jay. “We tend to group things by colour as it adds certain coherence and I love to contrast different textures of product to add an element of surprise.” Very much community-focused, Eeny Meeny runs free, monthly in-store events such as professional face-painting, with customers kept informed of upcoming activities via Facebook and Twitter. This spring sees the introduction of footwear from Bensimon, Imp kids and Sun San Saltwater. The age range is being extended to 10 years and, all being well, children’s bedding and homeware could be on the cards, too. www.eenymeenykids.co.uk
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YOUR CHILDREN’S WARDROBE Denby Dale, Huddersfield Your Children’s Wardrobe is a newly rebranded childrenswear boutique in Denby Dale, Yorkshire. Previously trading as Pied Piper, former customer and now owner Amanda Evans bought the business in July. Evans’ multichannel sales approach means the business now has an online presence; one that mirrors both the rebranding and the customer experience offered in store. Services have been increased to include personal shopping, gift ideas and style advice. Brands include Jean Bourget, Little Marc Jacobs, Scotch Shrunk and SuperTrash. www.yourchildrenswardrobe.com
GENTLY ELEPHANT Brockley Road, London SE4 Gently Elephant opened in May 2012, offering toys, childrenswear, books, gifts and homeware. The store has a cool and calm environment, featuring nostalgic touches such as an old haberdashers’ unit for the counter. Brands stocked include footwear from Start-rite, Petasil, Geox and Camper; clothing and accessories from Boys & Girls and Hatley; and toys and gifts from Djeco and Sew Heart Felt. www.gentlyelephant.co.uk
Fendi has opened its second own-brand store dedicated exclusively to its Kids’ and Junior lines. The new 70 sq m Fendi Kids boutique is located on the ground floor in the luxury brand area of the Villaggio Mall in Doha, Qatar. The first Fendi Kids store opened in June 2012 in the Dubai Mall, Dubai.
SPROGS INC
Former city stockbroker Nicky Stewart launched Sprogs Inc in January. As well as her own professional experience, she tapped into the skills and knowledge of family in the UK and US, and consulted with contacts including an internet software developer and Australian childrenswear designer. The Sprog’s Inc ethos is to profile product simply, presenting children’s clothing, footwear and toys without the distraction of complex own-branding. Blogs, pop-up shops and possibly retail stores will support the site. www.sprogsinc.co.uk
Oscar de la Renta has opened its first London boutique located at 103 Mount Street, on the corner of Berkeley Square. The 3,000 sq ft store spans three floors and boasts Dominican coral stone and high-gloss white wood. Alongside the ready-to-wear bridal collections, it houses childrenswear, accessories, beauty and home décor.
NEW ONLINE BABY BOUTIQUE
BESPOKE BANKING FOR INDEPENDENTS
INDEPENDENT RETAIL UPDATE
For more retail news visit cwb-online.co.uk
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01: CUTE GRAFFITI
02: NOT FOR PONIES
New UK label Cute Graffiti offers predominantly unisex, hand painted designs, which are screen printed onto 100 per cent organic T-shirts. The debut collection consists of four retro-inspired designs, each of which is available in two colours and a choice of short or three-quarter length sleeves. Currently available for birth to three years, the brand’s next collection will include bigger sizes and, going forward, more children’s clothing items will be introduced. Wholesale price £9. www.cutegraffiti.com
Clothing brand Not for Ponies includes a childrenswear line defined by mischievous appliqué designs and quirky characters. Catering for boys and girls age one to 12 years, highlights include brightly coloured statement T-shirts and sweaters featuring appliqué, novelty graphics, and pop art inspired imagery. Seasonal products are launched throughout the year, with gift-led matching T-shirts for parent and child also available. Wholesale prices range from £7 to 10. www.notforponies.co.uk
03: GIOSEPPO
04: MINI MEN UK
05: LUCAS FRANK
Launched to the UK for a/w 13 at Moda Footwear is Spanish footwear brand Gioseppo. The broad children’s collection spans fashionable leather styles through to slippers and Wellingtons in sizes ranging from baby to teen. The a/w collection has three themes: Romance, which includes velvet and suede; Cool Winter Days, featuring leather, furs and wool; and Circus, marked by glitter, sequins, leopard print, stripes and spots. Wholesale prices range from ¤5 to ¤30. www.gioseppo.com
Sponsored by The Prince’s Trust, Mini Men UK is a new boyswear line featuring positive slogans and artwork to encourage boys’ confidence and self esteem. The collection is sub-divided into three ranges – Let’s Play for 2-5 years, The Future for 5-8 years and Mr Cool for 8-12 years. Each range is relevant to its age group and features different colourful and comfortable garments relating to the name of the collection. Wholesale prices range from £9.99 to £15. www.minimenuk.com
Established in 2010, UK boyswear label Lucas Frank is a clothing line that offers what the brand describes as an “authentic British look with a boyish edge”. Creating around 40 pieces per collection, key garments include polos, T-shirts, rugby shirts, outerwear and a chino collection. Sizes range from 18 months to 10 years, with the brand’s sizing designed to allow room for growth. Wholesale prices range from £6 to £60. www.lucasfrank.com
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03 Hush Puppies
03 Start-rite
02 Geox 01 Start-rite 02 Bobux
01 Ecco
Bestselling brands for infant footwear
Bestselling brands for school footwear
01 Lelli Kelly 02 Primigi Ricosta 03 Hush Puppies
Lelli Kelly
Hatley
Bestselling brands for outdoor footwear 01 Geox 03 Start-rite 02 Hush Puppies
Bestselling brands for boys’ footwear
Bestselling brands for girls’ footwear
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Laura Turner: What was your career background prior to Melijoe? Nathalie Christen-Genty: After finishing my studies and obtaining a Masters degree in communications, I began my career in the digital universe. It was a long time ago, when things like Flash and CD-Roms were brand new. I moved over to consulting in e-business and launched a small online boutique of interior design products. The business model wasn’t sustainable long-term, but I learned to deal with every detail of a start-up, from buying and customer care to selling and shipping. I used this experience to launch Melijoe in 2007.
LT: Where did the idea for Melijoe come from? NCG: I began to take an interest in children’s fashion after my first child was born in 2003. It was a niche industry that I had previously been unaware of and, as with women’s fashion, I was immediately seduced when I began following the world of children’s design, style and luxury. When my child was born, I was really disappointed to see the fashion choices in the multibrand shops. The clothing was simply not attractive to me, and was organised by size, not trend, which is one of the more important aspects for me when I shop for my children. The name is simply a mix of two names – a girl’s name, MÊlie, and a boy’s name, Joe. In fact, it was Melijoe that inspired me to name my daughter MÊlie. If I had another baby, I would name him Joe. LT: What does the website offer in terms of product, age range and price range? NCG: We currently offer products from a variety of brands and showcase over 60 collections for babies, girls and boys, ranging from 0 to 16 years. The prices vary depending on the designer, collection and materials used.
LT: Which are your bestselling brands? NCG: Rykiel Enfant, Monnalisa, John Galliano Kids, Scotch & Soda, Dolce & Gabbana and Little Marc Jacobs. LT: How much brand exclusivity does Melijoe have? NCG: To date, we have nearly 30 exclusive web deals in France and, each season, we receive between 20 and 30 exclusive pieces from around the world. LT: Where do you tend to do your buying, and which trade shows do you visit? NCG: We buy from all the top brands and I am often invited directly to collection presentations, from Paris and Italy to Milan, Venice and Belgium. In terms of trade shows, we never miss Pitti Bimbo in Florence. LT: Which countries do you currently sell to? NCG: We ship to anywhere in the world; all over Europe, of course, but also the US, United Emirates, Russia, Australia and Asia. We are currently implementing a strategy to develop sales in Arab-speaking countries as well as North America in general.
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LT: You recently launched Melijoe in the UK. How do you view the market? NCG: We officially launched in England at the end of January, but we have already sent plenty of packages there and count stylish mums in the UK among our clientele. One thing I love in particular about children’s dress in the UK is that children go to school in uniforms, which perhaps makes their parents more exigent in terms of the fashion choices they buy for their children, knowing they will most likely be worn on special occasions outside the school week. The English market is very different from the French market – you just have to look at what collections are sold in Galeries Lafayette versus in Harrods. In general, the options offered at Harrods are more differentiated and rich in terms of complexity. In France, there is less variety.
LT: How would you describe the website? NCG: Our website is a mix of inspiration drawn from American Tumblrs and classic e-commerce sites that specialise in luxury clothing. Our vision is one that is constantly evolving to try and propose something new and interesting, and it gives our clients a reason to keep coming back. Like everything else at Melijoe, it grew very quickly, and we are constantly working to expand our vision to reach a global audience. LT: The website offers editorial features and trends. Can you explain the thinking behind this? NCG: I am passionate about the stories behind the brands and each new collection, and I use these in the selection of images and text. We have launched a Pinterest account that is dedicated to classic mood boards, and are working to develop a stronger editorial content so that our clients visit the site to see the products, certainly, but also to learn about what is new in the world of children’s luxury fashion and style. I am a big fan of fashion magazines and women’s fashion, but there isn’t always a bridge between high fashion and children’s
fashion. I am trying to build that bridge through editorial features and a blog-inspired digital platform. It is not possible to sell a £750 dress if we are not able to properly communicate the link between high fashion and children’s fashion. LT: How has the children’s fashion industry changed since you launched Melijoe? NCG: The biggest change has been the rise of the luxury fashion industry in the children’s market. I’m not sure customer demand and views have necessarily changed with regard to children’s fashion over the years, but there has been a development inside a niche industry that has given rise to a new genre of high fashion. Those individuals interested in luxury fashion for themselves are likely to be interested in luxury fashion for their children, except there used to be a lack of offer in the market. This is no longer the case. The demand was always there, and now we are able to satisfy it. LT: Are there any key retailers, brands or designers in childrenswear that you admire? NCG: In terms of retailers, no, which was one of the reasons I launched my business. In terms of brands, yes, there are a lot, which is one of the other reasons I launched my business. I admire the creativity of Scotch & Soda, for example, and I adore that the brand always follows an established trend. I also love Dolce & Gabbana’s collections for girls because there is a real link with its Italian heritage, and its adult collections are magnificent. On our site, we showcase posts called Mini Me, which are dedicated to a brand that draws inspiration directly from its current adult collection for its children’s range. This season, there was a Dolce & Gabbana dress that was redesigned from a catwalk look in an age-appropriate cut, which resulted in a beautiful and stylish black brocade dress for girls. I love to see things like that.
LT: Will you be adjusting the brand for the UK? NCG: Our brand offering will stay the same. However, since we are a French company, we will try to add that special “French touch” that is often associated with the luxury fashion industry. LT: How has Melijoe maintained its market share through the difficult economic climate? NCG: It’s true that retail has really suffered with the economic crisis, but even during times of severe economic strain, the luxury industry usually comes out unscathed. The From France image is carried internationally, and has helped us establish ourselves in the midst of one of the worst economic crisies in recent history. However, it doesn’t mean consumers can be duped. I am first and foremost a consumer, and especially a consumer of children’s fashion. I am a mother of four, and if I am going to pay ¤120 for a puffa for my child, it had better be made of real feathers and proper material otherwise there is no point. That is the base we have imposed on our website – quality is key. LT: What are your long-term plans for the brand? NCG: We want to establish ourselves as the world’s number one luxury fashion site for children. That is our goal, plain and simple. Past that and, as I have mentioned, we want to turn our website into a fashion reference to keep parents up-to-date on fashion news, luxury travel, new collaborations and collections and so on. We are also proud to announce the launch of our print magazine, Travel Jam, dedicated to a jet-set lifestyle for families who travel with their children. The paper version will be distributed in some of the world’s most prestigious hotels as well as concept stores such as Opening Ceremony in New York City and Colette in Paris. The magazine will be launched in iPad form this spring, and will also feature on our website.
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GRAPHIC DESIGN Graphics are always popular within childrenswear and this season was no different, with particular focus placed on hand-drawn designs for a/w 13. Styles incorporating faces were key, alongside animal designs, which always prove a popular choice.
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JACKET REQUIRED Statement jackets featured heavily for a/w 13, ranging from contemporary cuts through to more classic, Chanel-inspired designs. The aim is to stand out from the crowd, and this is achieved through all-over sequins, vivid block colour and detailing.
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GEEK CHIC Directed primarily at boys, this look saw sci-fi themes such as space, stars, planets and robots combined with retro-inspired jackets, cagoules, sweatshirts, knitwear and shirts. Colours were eye-catching and included bold shades of blue, green, orange and yellow.
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MINI MONOCHROME Artistic licence allows for unlimited use of colour in childrenswear, but that’s not to say monochrome doesn’t have its place, too. This season, choose from bold black and white stripes, patterns and designs through to more subtle uses of the trend via detailing.
IN A SPORTY FASHION A clean and fresh take on the sporty trend showed itself this a/w. Some retro-inspired styling was evident, including tracksuit, hooded and cardigan tops. Colours were kept cool, centred around a fresh colour palette of blues and greens.
WILD CHILD This trend provides an edgier look for childrenswear this season. Highlights included hints of glam rock through use of sparkle, sequins and metallic yarns, the colour black, quirky detailing and a tougher take on girlswear.
WINTER PASTELS Winter doesn’t just have to mean dark, sombre colours and, this season, a number of collections included a colour palette of cool pastel shades. Fresh hues of sage green, icy blue and dusty pink all featured to uplift a/w 13 outfits.
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March/April 2013
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Designer and founder Margot Verschoor created LiLi Shoes three years ago, originally selling in the Netherlands and Belgium. Bubble London was the first step into the UK market for the brand, whose a/w 13 collection is based on the imagination of the child; one day a princess, another day a rocker. Shoes are designed to be both nostalgic and on-trend with sizes ranging from 17 to 34, divided into baby and junior lines. Key pieces for a/w 13 are boots, ballerinas and sneakers in leather, sequins and fake fur in tones of camel, brown, fuchsia, petrol and electric blue. Wholesale prices range from ÂŁ16 to ÂŁ40.
January’s edition of Bubble London represented a step up for jelly shoe brand Melissa as a serious player in the children’s footwear market. This was the first season the collection was big enough to warrant its own stand, completely separate of the women’s line. Bestsellers at the show included Minnie Mouse sandals, available in six different colours including black, alongside cat character designs (pictured) in Melissa’s signature bright colour palette. Other highlights were tartan bow peeptoes in red, cream and black and trainers with contrast colour toe caps. Wholesale prices range from £14.40 to £24.
Early Days’ brand new collection of leather pram shoes launched at Bubble London for a/w 13, receiving a fantastic reaction from buyers. The new collection is manufactured entirely in the company’s Leicester factory, as are its shoes, which have been since 1952. Only the finest quality Italian leather is used in making the new designs, and customers have the choice of receiving footwear supplied in a luxury shoe box with care card for a small extra charge. Sizes come in UK 0-3, with wholesale prices ranging from £11.50 to £16.50.
The versatile a/w 13 range from Pippo was heavily influenced by the design tastes and traditional shoe-making background of the brand’s two founders, Rob and Jude Gallacher. Their aim is for the quality and style of the product, which is not always trend-led, to shine through first and foremost, with particular attention to good fit and reasonable prices. Key looks this season include Velcro-fasten trainers in leather with thick soles in winter tones of brown, purple and black. Wholesale prices available on request.
Launched in the late 90s, Tinny Shoes has continued to expand its range of footwear to include both classic and on-trend styles. For a/w 13, it introduced a new range of boots for sizes 18-40. Mary Jane styles continue to be a bestseller, as does the brand’s loafers. Tinny Shoes also offers a large selection of pre-walkers in a wide choice of designs. Wholesale prices available on request.
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March/April 2013
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American footwear label Venettini showcased a collection full of print and textures to make the winter selection stand out from the crowd. Moccasins continued to be strong for the brand, but jazz-style lace shoes gained ground with loyal customers, with both styles featuring leopard pattern designs. Other highlights for the season included loafers in croc for boys and high-shine patent ballet pumps for girls. Wholesale prices range from $35 to $43.
The January edition of Bubble London was Olang’s first time at the show, armed with a bijoux stand full of animation and the brand’s signature snow boots. The a/w 13 collection was inspired by adventure and fashion; quilting offered a classic country look while neon colours provided personality. The boots are fully insulated throughout, while sole flexibility and easy access aims to make life easier for parents. Retail prices range from £40 to £50.
Chipmunks Footwear’s a/w 13 collection consisted of fashionable faux fur lined boots, party ballerinas and hi-tops for every occasion. All shoes are designed in the UK, and for this season the brand introduced a colour palette of delicate pastels and bold brights in a variety of leathers and suedes. A selection of wide-fit shoes was also available to accommodate young toes and feet, allowing them to grow naturally without restrictions or pressures. Wholesale prices range from £6 to £15.
Every pair of Funky Feet Fashions’ soft baby shoes will now arrive in a free transparent gift bag. Launched at Bubble London, the new packaging allows retailers to display the shoes with a clear 360º view. The bag can be hung or stood up and has strong branding and large, clear sizing swing ticket. Also launched were 21 new footwear designs including Whales, Pin Wheels, Poodles and Sail Boats and a new larger size of 5-7 years. Wholesale prices from £9.
UK brand Poco Nido creates modern, limited-edition footwear based around simple functional shapes, vibrant graphic patterns, colour and print. Concentrating on the functionality of the product, the label favours child-friendly pull-on shapes over fussy fastenings and quirky illustrated scenes and repeat patterned animals to decorate. A/w 13 sees the range expand to include longer-leg illustrated wellies and a larger range of complementary garments, which are mostly organic. Footwear wholesale prices range from ÂŁ8 to ÂŁ12.50.
The next edition of Bubble London for spring/summer 2014 takes place on 16-17 June at the Business Design Centre, Islington. For more autumn/winter 2013 Bubble London coverage visit cwb-online.co.uk
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The changing landscape of retail has become a defining characteristic of the 21st century. When Woolworths closed its 807 UK stores in 2009, society reacted with an outpouring of nostalgia. Just four years on when Jessops, HMV, Blockbuster and Republic became the latest victims of the recession, the reaction was one of resigned acceptance – just another high street casualty to bite the dust of the economic downturn. For independent stores, however, the story has been somewhat different. Following the launch of inaugural event Independent Retail Month last July, independent retailers have started to take matters into their own hands when it comes to keeping their sector alive. Christmas 2012 saw 50 UK towns getting involved with Indie Christmas, coming together within their respective communities to drive footfall to independent stores over the festive season. Now, having seen the success of previous campaigns, over 100 UK towns and cities are preparing to take part in Indie Easter, the nationwide campaign to drive footfall towards independents between 23 March and 14 April. Encompassing the vast majority of the UK school holiday period, the consumer-facing campaign aims to encourage families into areas and shops they may not have previously visited, opening up public consciousness of the smaller, independent stores that are alive and kicking. Spearheaded by advocate of independent retail Clare Rayner, the campaign suggests that
retailers join forces to offer activities such as an Easter Egg hunt, which sees consumers collect an egg sticker from each qualifying independent retailer they visit. The reward for collecting the required number of eggs is a chocolate Easter Egg, whereas the reward for increasing footfall into independent stores can be felt throughout the entire community. Research published by the Federation of Small Businesses states that, for every £1 spent locally, between 50p and 70p circulates back into the local economy. For that same £1 spent online or out of town, only 5p would make its way back into the local economy. For Rayner, any local activities such as an Easter Egg hunt are merely initial steps towards to the ultimate aim of raising awareness of the eclecticism of the UK independent sector. “Consumers have fallen out of love with the UK’s high streets and retailers need to give them a good reason to come back,” says Clare Rayner. “Step one is to create a good reason that’s where the campaign activities come in. Step two is for the businesses themselves to really showcase what the consumers have been missing out on. The Indie Easter Egg hunts, if well implemented, can deliver exactly that.” www.IndieEaster.co.uk
Overleaf, CWB talks to independent retailers about their take on the forthcoming Indie Easter campaign.
CLARE RAYNER
IMAGE SUPPLIED BY FTPICTURES
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SUSIE CROOK OWNER, THE LEVERET, AMERSHAM, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE A year ago, Susie Crook, together with her mother, Joan Jarvis, opened The Leveret in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, selling children’s clothing, toys and gifts.
MELANIE KERR OWNER, PRETTY SPECIAL, BRISTOL Melanie Kerr is the owner of Pretty Special, an independent childrenswear retailer with a brand portfolio that includes Bonnie Baby, Jack & Ava, Lilly + Sid and Mini A Ture. “I live in the area of St George in Bristol, which is around five miles from the city centre on a main road that runs all the way to Bath. Having started out as an internet-only business, I developed a relationship with an existing toy shop in the area, and now run our business from the upstairs space of their premises on Saturday afternoons. This collaboration was welcomed by the community, and I have had great feedback. It’s testament to the strength that independent retailers can have when they work together. There is a great camaraderie between shops in the St George area and a strong sense of community. During the summer, we all participate in Redfest, a day festival that takes place in our local park, St George’s. The festival is managed by one family who owns several businesses in the area, and the event always attracts a large number of people to the area. Having come across Indie Easter earlier this year, I am now following the project on Facebook and Twitter and will be looking to promote it as a great campaign. There is always something to be done to attract more customers, and Easter is a good time for retailers to promote the change of season and draw attention to our new spring stock. Although a lot of the UK has been affected by the recession, with many areas overwhelmed by charity shops or pound shops, St George seems to be weathering the storm. We only have three charity shops in the area and, although there is an Aldi and a Tesco, these giants do not dominate the high street, but actually add value. The independent retailers in the area are varied, and are in the majority. We saw several new units being built over the last few years without being leased, and it did give the area a desperate feel. More recently, however, we have seen a flurry of new shops opening, which have reinvigorated the high street. Our high street sells items that consumers would not necessarily go into town for and, because house prices are a lot cheaper than some other areas of Bristol, the community is full of young professionals with young families. These families understand the implications of shopping locally and keeping a community going, and that is vital to the independent sector within our area. I feel positive about Indie Easter and think we can certainly do all we can to further promote our area as a destination for independent retail. Like most retailers, we are definitely up for helping and receiving help at all times and, if other retailers are happy to come on board, it’s very much a case of the more the merrier.”
“The independent retail scene is strong and varied in Old Amersham. We have quite a few small shops in old listed buildings that make for a quaint, intimate shopping experience. Small retail spaces inspired by the character features of the old buildings provide a special backdrop for merchandising fun, different items. We have a good relationship with our fellow retailers. We took care not to sell products that were already being sold in Old Amersham high street and if we don’t have what a customer needs, and we know a shop nearby that does, we will tell the customer. Likewise, we have received customers from other shops in Old Amersham on their recommendation. The Indie Easter campaign was brought to our attention by a leading article in the Bucks Free Press about the Christmas Old Amersham High Street Crawl, a national campaign to help increase footfall before Christmas led by Jen Garrity, owner of ladies’ boutique Coco Marie, and organised by retail expert Clare Rayner. We were curious and wondered why we hadn’t known anything. I contacted Jen and she told me all about both the Christmas Crawl and Indie Easter. By participating in Indie Easter, we hope to attract more customers. We are also getting involved in the Ambers of Amersham Fashion Shows on 9-10 April, showing our s/s clothing modelled by local drama school children. Having opened at the end of March 2012, we only know what trading is like in a recession. Although we have slow days, we can see a huge upward trend starting, which can only be a positive thing. Ultimately, by promoting the town and working with other retailers, we hope to increase customers’ desire to shop in Old Amersham.”
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ANGULUS retail price £99, 020 8987 8313
CROCS £20, 0808 101 3890
PABLOSKY from ¤26, 01202 707461
CHIPMUNKS FOOTWEAR price on request, 01925 710110
UMI From £19.50, 07917 062262
O’NEILL From £22.73, 020 7089 9465
FLORSHEIM £18, 07917 062262
FRODDO CHILDREN’S SHOES £26, 01727 760101
:
GEOX £23.75, 020 3227 0502
PINEAPPLE FOOTWEAR £7.75, 01992 769612
GARVALIN price on request, 01953 851190
SHEPHERD OF SWEDEN £51.90, 01455 891711
CROCS £25, 0808 101 3890
COUCHE TOT £12.95, 01708 331990
SKECHERS £20, 01707 655955
FRODDO CHILDREN’S SHOES From £34, 01727 760101
GEOX £22.50, 020 3227 0502
PODLERS £8, 01234 240440
HENGST FOOTWEAR price on request, 01785 662102 Photographs: Kevin Peschke www.kevinpeschke.com Styling: Natalie Dawson Unless stated otherwise, all prices are wholesale
Eskimo EPOS is the intuitive multi-channel, stock control retail solution suitable for single or multi-store organisations in most retail sectors including Clothing, Toys, Gifts. • Eskimo is an in-house developed retail solution • 10 years experience • UK wide customer base Call Gary Dyett on 01202 477111 Email: Info@EskimoEPOS.com www.EskimoEPOS.com @EskimoEPOS
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March/April 2013
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AVA & LUC £12 07580 556750 —
HELEN GORDON Price on request 07767 828048 —
AURALEY £21.35 07979 154185 —
HATLEY £11 020 7544 4833 —
PIXIE DIXIE £15 020 7631 2084 —
PICCALILLY £10.50 01729 822288 —
Unless stated otherwise, all prices are wholesale. For more children’s sleepwear visit cwb-online.co.uk
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March/April 2013
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NORTH EAST
ď€ ď€?ď€Žď€…ď€ƒď€‘ď€€ď€ƒď€? Showrooms will be held in Leeds, Manchester and London for further info contact Bib Sohel Tel 07850 754 853 email bib.sohel@sky.com DESIGUAL, FORE!! AXEL AND HUDSON, LEMMI, BEBE BY MINIHAHA, DARCY BROWN, SUGARLOAF KIDS, MINI VANILLA, MINI ZZZ A diverse selection of highly desirable brands for UK independents and stores from baby to 16yrs. European distributor for Fore!! Axel and Hudson.
NORTH WEST
ď€?ď€Œď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€? Weldon Agencies, Carr House Business Centre, Carr House Lane, Bretherton, Lancashire, PR26 9AR Tel: 01772 603912 Email: barrieweldon@btconnect.com www.weldonagencies.co.uk NO NO, S & D LE CHIC, DEUX PAR DEUX, ABSORBA / CONFETTI, BOBOLI, POM POM, FUN + FUN, FOQUE Established for over 25 years, two generations, covering all areas of the UK. Representing leading brands from Europe and Canada, catering for boys and girls 0 to 16 years. Styling from contemporary to traditional.
SOUTH WEST
ď€“ď€ ď€Œď€‡ď€’ď€ˆď€–ď€…ď€Œ The Old Barn, Shurnhold Farm Business Park, Bath Road, Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 8DF Tel: 01225 700699 Mobile: 07785 290154 Email: Monique@vanhuizen.co.uk Web: www.vanhuizen.co.uk www.oililybag.co.uk MIM-PI, PAGLIE
IRELAND
ď€Œď€’ď€ ď€Šď€ ď€€ď€‹ď€ƒď€‰ď€…ď€Œď€Œď€ 40 Bedford Street, Belfast BT2 7FF Tel: 0044 28 90236330 Fax: 0044 28 90236330 Email: nuala.mckenna@ukgateway.net FRENCH CONNECTION, EMILE-ET-ROSE, KANZ, LILLY & SID, HATLEY, LOFFF, STEIFF, STARDUST, FIRST COMMUNION, FIRST OCCASIONS CHRISTENING WEAR High quality children’s fashions for babies, boys and girls up to 14 years - specialising in occasionwear. Showrooms in Belfast, Dublin, Cork & Limerick.
SOUTH EAST
ď€?ď€‰ď€•ď€Šď€ˆď€Œď€…ď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€?
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Bizspace Business Centre, Unit 203, 4-6 Wadsworth Road, Perivale, Middlesex UB6 7JJ Tel: 020 8567 2384 Mobile: 07971 190446 Fax: 0800 007 3359 Email: skylineagencies@gmail.com PRIMIGI SHOES, FALKE & BURLINGTON SOCKS AND TIGHTS, GIESSWEIN HOME SHOES Covering the whole of the UK with London based showroom and offices.
ď€Œď€ˆď€†ď€…ď€Šď€€ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€? 5 Evelyn Grove, Ealing, London, W5 3QG Tel: 0208 992 0552 Mobile: 07860 230918 Fax: 020 8993 6568 Email: Nigel.Ross@btinternet.com Web: www.littledarlings.co.uk ABELLA, CATYA (IT), CO CO AND LITTLE DARLINGS Manufacturers’ and Distributors’ Agent - Northern and Southern Home Counties, including London Postal districts. NCWA and APSA member.
Unit H7 & H7a, Capital House, 2 Michael Road, London SW6 2AD Tel: 0207 348 7316 Email: info@solobi.co.uk Web: www.solobi.co.uk MINI A TURE, TOFFEE MOON, LILLE BARN, AYA NAYA SoLoBi represents modern high quality children’s brands with a playful attitude and sharp attention to detail. Offers very good and transparent service.
ď€?ď€…ď€ˆď€‘ď€…ď€Œď€?ď€‘ď€…ď€ˆď€Œď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€? 19 Addison Grove, Chiswick, W4 1 EP Tel: 078 5550 9069 Fax: 02081816458 Email: shoes@breitensteins.com clothes@breitensteins.com ANGULUS AND BOBUX SHOES, CLOTHES FROM CHRISTINA ROHDE, MILIBE, VER DE TERRE, FUB CHILDREN’S WEAR An agency representing classic, stylish and contemporary Danish children’s clothing and shoe brands. Plus the best baby shoes from New Zealand.
ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€Œď€„ď€?ď€Œ 8 February to 8 March 2013 Europa Studios, Victoria Road, London NW10 6ND (Tube: North Acton, Central Line) Email: info@rebelshow.co.uk Web: www.rebelshow.co.uk I LOVE GORGEOUS, KIDSCASE, ANGULUS SHOES, ARAVORE, LUCKY BOY SUNDAY AW13 collections by I Love Gorgeous, Kidscase, Angulus Shoes, Aravore, Lucky Boy Sunday and many more new and exciting brands
MIDLANDS
ď€“ď€ ď€Œď€‡ď€’ď€ˆď€–ď€…ď€Œď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€?
ď€ ď€Žď€?ď€€ď€ ď€†ď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ˆď€…ď€?
Unit 1, First Floor, Paragon Works, Wilsthorpe Road, Long Eaton, Nottingham NG10 3JW. Tel: 07967 560633 Email: franck@vanhuizenagencies.co.uk Web: www.vanhuizenagencies.co.uk OILILY CHILDRENSWEAR & BAGS, ROOM SEVEN BEDDING AND BAGS Van Huizen Agencies is a young, fresh and vibrant agency, for the more discerning retailer requiring beautiful and unique collections.
1 Brickwood Place, Burton on the Wolds, Leicestershire LE12 5AW. Tel: 01509 881110 Mobile: 07860 481376 Fax: 01509 880135 Email: tony@apragencies.co.uk Web: www.ncwa.co.uk PETER RABBIT, PADDINGTON BEAR, COSAN BABY, COUDÉMAIL, ELLE EST OÙ LA MER? APR Agencies was started in 1991, working with a team of fellow agents from showrooms in the Midlands and Covent Garden by appointment only. Selling to all department stores and boutiques throughout the UK and Ireland.
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March/April 2013
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01: LIGHTWEIGHT TODDLER SHOES Attipas ÂŁ6.50 07985 747660
02: THE LITTLE OAK TRACTOR Hop & Peck ÂŁ9.25 01799 588076
03: DUPION SILK NEWBORN COCOON AND CHANGE MAT Su Bach ÂŁ136.50 020 7244 9096
04: LUNCHBOX
05: SAFARI RANGE OF KIDS’ PORCELAIN TABLEWARE
06: JELLY SHOES
Bobble Art ÂŁ6.87 01420 511405
Colourful Dove From ÂŁ3.12 07780 603446
Juju Footwear From ÂŁ3 01604 718604
Unless stated otherwise, all prices are wholesale.
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March/April 2013
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45: News 47: Product focus School accessories
KK MODEL
50: Stock Footwear
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March/April 2013
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ď€?ď€ˆď€“ď€‹ď€“ď€‘ď€€ď€‹ď€‚ď€“ď€?ď€„ď€‰ď€†ď€‘ď€€ď€ƒď€’ď€‘ ď€? Danish footwear brand Angulus is launching its first dedicated Back to School collection, available in stock from May 2013.
ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€Œď€€ď€“ď€? ď€?ď€”ď€†ď€‘ď€’ď€Œď€†ď€?
New styles are introduced alongside bestsellers in red, black, blue, brown, patent and nubuck. The collection is broader than before, offering 15 different options for girls, six for teenagers and 13 for boys.
A Leeds schoolwear firm has relocated to new premises with the support of a £10,000 grant from Leeds City Council’s business growth fund – an initiative to help small and medium sized companies investing in growth and creating new jobs.
“The essence for Angulus is to manufacture perfectly fitting shoes with great comfort in outstanding quality that can last and resist daily hard wear,� says brand owner Christian Dawe. “By producing an Angulus school set collection we can offer competitive prices on a premium product.�
Manufacturer and online retailer Perry Uniform is using the grant to help expand and equip its new Armley premises, which will offer 30,000 sq ft of manufacturing and storage space, and create extra full-time jobs. In the last three years, Perry Uniform has seen a 31 per cent average growth per annum and is now set to drive turnover up to ÂŁ4.5m.
ď€ƒď€‹ď€“ď€†ď€€ď€Œď€‚ď€–ď€€ď€ƒď€‚ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€ˆď€’ď€‰ď€†ď€? ď€?ď€?ď€? Blue Max Banner has appointed Bruce Freeland in the newly created board role of operations director to improve and enhance the group’s operational procedures. Freeland’s remit will cover the company’s supply chain, with the position assuming responsibility across departments such as planning, customer service and distribution. Freeland’s experience in operations stands him in good stead for his position at Blue Max Banner, with his most recent role being general manager operations at Roper Rhodes, a ÂŁ36m turnover business specialising in the import of bathroom furniture from the Far East to the UK retail trade.
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ď€?ď€?ď€…ď€ ď€‰ď€Šď€’ď€’ď€Šď€?ď€ˆ ď€„ď€‚ď€Œď€?ď€‚ď€Šď€ˆď€?
Plans are well under way for the 2013 edition of The Schoolwear Show on 13-15 October at Cranmore Park, Solihull, with organisers expecting a sold-out event.
This summer, the Schoolwear Association (SA) will target schools and consumers with a series of campaigns to reinforce the benefits of school-specific uniform from local suppliers and promote the contribution to local communities made by its 250 members.
To allow retailers more time to plan their visits, and provide exhibitors with a wider platform to market their offers, this year sees the organisation and promotion of the show being brought forward. Visitor registration is opening earlier, commencing this month at www.theschoolwearshow.co.uk, and the event will be given a higher profile throughout the year via strategic media partner CWB magazine. The exhibition’s ongoing support of the Schoolwear Association (SA) includes the return of the annual SA fundraising evening after the first day of the show. Hosted at The National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull, it will include a drinks reception and three course dinner. For details on sponsoring the SA evening call 01400 250477.
ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€? ď€?ď€˘ď€—ď€Ľď€™ď€•ď€Śď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€˜ď€™ď€Ąď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€€ď€šď€Łď€Ľď€€ď€? ď€?ď€?ď€’ď€”ď€“ď€€ď€ ď€?  ď€?ď€? ď€™ď€€ď€“ď€§ď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€•ď€Ľď€˜ď€Śď€‚ ď€?ď€?ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€Śď€—ď€œď€Łď€Ł ď€Şď€™ď€•ď€Ľď€…ď€€ď€”ď€œď€™ď€€ď€—ď€Łď€Ąď€¤ď€•ď€˘ď€Źď€ƒ ď€Şď€œď€?ď€—ď€œď€€ ď€•ď€¨ď€˘ď€—ď€œď€™ď€˜ď€€ ď€•ď€Śď€§ď€€ď€Śď€¨ď€Ąď€Ąď€™ď€Ľď€ƒď€€ď€Łď€šď€šď€™ď€Ľď€Ś ď€?ď€?ď€Ąď€•ď€Ľď€Źď€€ď€Śď€—ď€œď€Łď€Ł ď€—ď€œď€? ď€˜ď€Ľď€™ď€˘ď€€ď€•ď€›ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€§ď€œď€Ľď€™ď€™ď€€ď€§ď€Łď€€ď€‡ď€ˆď€€ď€Źď€™ď€•ď€Ľď€Śď€…  ď€€ď€•ď€Śď€€ď€™ď€Šď€™ď€Ľď€Źď€˜ď€•ď€Źď€€ď€Śď€—ď€œď€Łď€Ł  ď€?ď€§ď€™ď€Ąď€Śď€€ď€Śď€¨ď€—ď€œď€€ď€•ď€Śď€€ď€§ď€Ľď€Łď€¨ď€Śď€™ď€Ľď€Śď€€ď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€€ď€Śď€&#x;ď€?ď€Ľď€§ď€Śď€ƒ ď€? ď€?ď€˜ď€™ď€Śď€€ď€Ąď€•ď€˜ď€™ď€„ď€§ď€Łď€„ď€Łď€Ľď€˜ď€™ď€Ľ ď€Śď€—ď€œď€Łď€Ł ď€?ď€?ď€—ď€€ď€¤ď€Ľď€Łď€˜ď€¨ď€—ď€§ď€Śď€…ď€€
The campaigns, which will include consumer, online and in-store media backed up with direct communications for head teachers and governors, aim to highlight the added value of badged and school specific uniforms. They will also encourage support of local retailers, manufacturers and other independents involved in the sector and encourage schools and consumers to pay a premium for quality instead of low-cost generic goods. By building awareness, the SA believes head teachers and governors will be supportive of the benefits of quality school specific uniform and therefore more inclined to specify these uniforms from local SA members.
ď€ď€™ď€™ď€Śď€€ď€“ď€—ď€œď€Łď€Ł ď€?ď€? ď€§ď€œď€™ď€€ď€™ď€Šď€™ď€Ľď€„ď€¤ď€Łď€¤ď€¨ ď€•ď€Ľď€€ď€Śď€—ď€œď€Łď€Ł   ď€&#x;ď€?ď€§ď€œď€€ď€?ď€§ď€Śď€€ď€‰ď€Šď€‰ď€€ď€œď€Łď€Łď€˜ď€™ď€˜ ď€Śď€Şď€™ď€•ď€§ď€Śď€œď€?ď€Ľď€§ď€ƒď€€ď€Şď€œď€?ď€—ď€œď€€ď€?ď€?  ď€?  ď€Łď€¨ď€Ľď€Śď€…ď€€ď€”ď€œď€™ď€€ď€œď€Łď€Łď€˜ď€Źď€€ď€œď€•ď€Śď€€ď€–ď€™ď€™ď€˘  ď€&#x;ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€€ď€šď€™ď€•ď€§ď€¨ď€Ľď€™ď€Śď€€ď€• ď€˜ď€Łď€¨ď€–  ď€•ď€Źď€™ď€Ľď€€ď€œď€Łď€Łď€˜ď€€ď€Şď€?ď€§ď€œď€€ď€•ď€€ď€š  ď€˜ď€Ľď€•ď€Şď€Śď€§ď€Ľď€?ď€˘ď€›ď€ƒď€€ď€˘ď€™ď€Şď€€ď€Śď€œď€Łď€¨ ď€˜ď€™ď€Ľď€€ď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€€ď€œď€™ď€Ą ď€?ď€Łď€˘ď€ƒď€€ď€Ś ď€? ď€™ď€™ď€Šď€™ď€Śď€ƒ ď€?ď€˜ď€™ď€Ľď€€ď€—ď€¨ď€šď€šď€Śď€ƒď€€ď€œď€Łď€Łď€˜ď€€ď€§ď€Łď€¤ď€Śď€§ď€?ď€§ď€—ď€œď€€ď€˜ď€™ď€§ď€•ď€? ď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€€ď€œď€™ď€Ľď€Ľď€?ď€&#x;
  ď€€ď€Œ ď€¨ď€–ď€€ď€œď€•ď€Ś ď€?ď€˘ď€Šď€™ď€Śď€§ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€?ď€?ď€&#x;ď€?ď€&#x; ď€˘ď€™ď€Şď€€ď€—ď€œď€•ď€¤ď€§ď€™ď€Ľď€€ď€?ď€˘ď€€ď€§ď€œď€™ď€€ď€Œ ď€¨ď€–ď€Żď€Śď€€ď€œď€? ď€?ď€Žď€Łď€Ľď€—ď€™ď€ƒď€€ď€§ď€œď€™ď€€ď€¤ď€™ď€Ľď€šď€Łď€Ľď€Ąď€•ď€˘ď€—ď€™ď€€ď€•ď€¤ď€¤ď€•ď€Ľď€™ ď€–ď€Ľď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€€ď€–ď€Źď€€ď€?ď€Źď€Ąď€¤ď€œ ď€™ď€Ťď€€ď€§ď€œď€•ď€§ď€€ď€•  ď€?ď€Šď€™ď€€ď€Śď€—ď€œď€Łď€Ł  ď€Ľď€•ď€˘ď€›ď€™ď€ƒď€€ď€œď€•ď€Śď€€ď€—ď€Ľď€™ď€•ď€§ď€™ď€˜ď€€ď€§ď€œď€™ď€€ď€˘ď€™ď€Şď€€ď€&#x;ď€?ď€?   ď€&#x;ď€€ď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€€ď€Ľď€™ď€˜ď€…ď€€ď€? ď€&#x;ď€?ď€§ď€Śď€ƒď€€ď€Śď€Ąď€Łď€—ď€&#x; ď€&#x;ď€™ď€§ď€Śď€€ď€•ď€˘ď€˜ď€€ď€Şď€•ď€§ď€™ď€Ľď€¤ď€Ľď€Łď€Łď€šď€€ď€§ď€Łď€¤ď€Śď€€ď€•ď€˘ď€˜ 
For more industry news visit cwb-online.co.uk
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CARIBEE The Caribee Cisco style has had a facelift for 2013 and is available in Atomic blue (pictured), green, red and black. Features include a harness system, an audio pocket cord port, bottle pockets and an organiser panel in a lightweight construction, ideal for school use. Caribee is distributed through Brand Agility in the UK. Wholesale price £13.50. www.caribee.com
KICKERS Having been the brand of choice for generations of school children, Kickers complements its footwear with its new Back to School kitbag. Wholesale price available on request. www.pentland.com
PREMIER NAMETAPES Premier Nametapes offers woven iron–on name tapes that are designed not to fray, tear or peel, and can be applied in seconds. A school fundraising facility program is available with this product, allowing schools to directly benefit from purchases. For more information on the fundraising programme email nametapes@esunproof.co.uk. Wholesale prices range from £5.75 to £7. www.esunproof.co.uk
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March/April 2013
BEATRIX NY Beatrix NY introduces two new characters to its collection of children’s accessories this season. Katarina the Frog (pictured) and Penelope the Octopus are both available as insulated lunchboxes – created from heavy-duty nylon and designed to carry a name tag – and as backpacks. Wholesale prices available on request. www.beatrixny.com
BOBBLE ART Designed in Australia and distributed in the UK by Jomoval, Bobble Art offers Back to School accessories that include large and small PVC backpacks, canvas backpacks, swimming and PE bags, lunchboxes and water bottles. Wholesale prices range from £4.58 for a small water bottle to £14.66 for a canvas backpack. www.jomoval.com
VANS The Vans Gannett backpack (pictured) adds subtle style while remaining neutral in its colouring with its Brilliant Blue Speckle cotton canvas finish. The bag features a side water bottle, an exterior laptop sleeve, and articulated shoulder straps. Wholesale price £22.75. www.vans.com
UNICOL Ideal for school wear during summer is Unicol’s gingham sun hat available in two sizes – 53cm and 56cm – and in popular gingham shades – blue, green, pink, purple, red, royal and yellow. Other styles in the summer headwear collection are baseball caps, legionnaire’s hats and sun hats in a wide range of colours. Tested for UVF protection, they can also be supplied complete with embroidered logo. Wholesale prices; baseball cap plain £1.40, with logo £2.65; legionnaire’s plain £1.75, with logo £3; sun hat and gingham hat plain £1.95, with logo £3.20. www.unicol-schoolwear.co.uk CANDY BOWS Candy Bows offers handtied hair bows, headbands and hair clips. The brand’s school set comprises a bowtie headband with a 2in bow, two 2in mini bow clips securely attached to a ribbon-lined alligator clip, and two 2” bow tie ponytail bobbles. Available in 13 colours and six ranges of gingham ribbons. Wholesale price £2.35. www.candybows.co.uk
MITT CLIPS Available in black, navy, red, grey, bottle green, royal blue, brown, fuchsia and pink, Mitt Clips are designed to keep children’s gloves and mittens attached to their sleeves en route to school and in the playground. Wholesale price £2.35. www.primrosemktg.co.uk
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March/April 2013
EASTPAK Eastpak offers a range of backpacks suitable for school use, each of which comprises a range of features including padded shoulder straps, a padded back and a front pocket. Manufactured from tough-wearing polyamide, each bag also comes with a 30-year guarantee. Wholesale price £18.37. www.eastpak.com
ASTABILO Stabilo’s Point 88 fine liners are iconic in the stationery industry and have been branded the number one fine liner in Europe. Ideal for students on the go, Stabilo has launched new, portable packaging for the Point 88 Minis in the style of a resealable energy drink bottle. The Point 88 Minis come in 18 different colours with a smudge-free nib and can be used for writing, drawing and sketching. Added features include a metal enclosed tip for extra-long life and a long cap-off time. Wholesale price £6.24. www.stabilo.co.uk
CROCS Footwear brand Crocs offers accessories distributed in the UK by Sunproof Limited. Highlights include backpacks, lunchboxes, pencil cases and key chains made from Crocs’ lightweight, durable PCCR material in bright colours. The backpack is available in four colours from stock and wholesales at £10. www.esunproof.co.uk
LITTLE GRIPPERS Preventing the common problem of socks slipping down, the Little Grippers range incorporates 100 per cent natural, hypoallergenic “stay on technology” that helps the sock gently adhere to the skin without irritation or residue while moving and stretching with the body. Applied directly to the cuff of the sock, the “stay on technology” has been proven to survive extensive wash and wear tests. Available in a selection of styles, colours and sizes, the school socks are suitable for four to 14 years. Wholesale prices range from £1.65 to £2.10. www.littlegrippers.co.uk
PLAYGROUND WADER This Norwegian-designed rain jacket is made from 0.3mm Plavitex material and has no seams, being welded instead to provide waterproof protection with no leaks. It features a zipper and snap buttons on the front and snap buttons on the sleeves. The jacket also has a detachable hood, and reflective bands front and back for added visibility. Colour options include green, pink, dark blue and baby blue, with other colours available by minimum order. Wholesale price £16.35. www.playgroundwader.com
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March/April 2013
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05: HUSH PUPPIES
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Unless stated otherwise, all prices are wholesale
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March/April 2013
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0: 4 Funky Flavours 0031 402180567 www.4ff.eu A: Alvanon 020 7792 5977 www.alvanon.com : Angulus 07855 509069 www.angulus.dk : Auraley 07979 154185 www.auraley.com : Attipas 07985 747660 www.diddywear.com : Ava & Luc 07580 556750 www.avaandluc.com B: Beatrix NY 0012 124315860 www.beatrixny.com : Beau Loves‌ 07903 949650 www.beauloves.co.uk : Belle Enfant 07531 822807 www.belleenfant-boutique.com : Blade & Rose 07920 752260 www.bladeandrose.co.uk : Blue Max Banner 0845 230 0888 www.bluemaxbanner.co.uk : Bobble Art 01420 511405 www.jomoval.com : Bóboli 01772 603912 www.boboli.es : Bobux 07769 177865 www.bobux.co.uk : Bulle De BB 0033 442469212 www.bulledebb.com C: Candy Bows 07768 253267 www.candybows.co.uk : Caribee 0131 554 5555 www.caribee.com : Cheeky Chompers www.cheekychompers.com : Chipmunks Footwear 01925 212212 www.chipmunksfootwear.co.uk : Colourful Dove 07780 603446 www.colourfuldove.com : Corby Tindersticks 07834 270320 www.corbytindersticks.com : Couche Tot 01708 331990 www.peppermintphoenix.com : Crocs Accessories 01460 258040 www.esunproof.co.uk : Crocs Footwear 0808 101 3890 www.crocs.eu : Crowns & Coronets 01527 894155 www.crownsandcoronets.co.uk : Cute Graffiti 020 8350 8916 www.cutegraffiti.com D: Danco 020 7613 5076 www.dancofootwear.com : Derhy Kids 0033 147705690 www.derhy-kids.com : Dis Une Couleur 0033 147284857 www.disunecouleur.com E: Early Days 0116 271 6944 www.earlydays.ltd.uk : Eastpak 0845 601 1151 www.eastpak.com : Ecco 0045 74911625 www.ecco.com : Ettel Bettel 0097 2522777271 www.ettelbettel.com F: Florsheim 07917 062262 www.umishoes.com : Froddo Children’s Shoes 01727 760101 www.kidsnewshoes.com : Frugi 01326 572828 www.welovefrugi.com : Funky Feet Fashions 01743 762316 www.funkyfeetfashions.co.uk G: Garvalin 01953 851190 www.garvalin.com : Geox 020 7833 8811 www.geox.com : Gioseppo 0116 259 7427 www.gioseppo.com : Gravel + Grass 07771 708789 www.gravelandgrass.com : Gymphlex 01507 523243 www.gymphlex.co.uk H: Hatley 020 7544 4833 www.hatleynature.com : Helen Gordon 07767 828048 www.helengordon.co.uk : Hengst Footwear 01785 662102 www.hengstfootwear.com : Hop & Peck 01799 588076 www.hopandpeck.co.uk : Hush Puppies 020 7860 0100 www.hushpuppies.com I: Il Gufo 0039 0423951300 www.ilgufo.it : Indikidual 07882 178873 www.indikidual.tumblr.com J: Jerzees Schoolgear www.russelleurope.com : Juju Footwear 01604 718604 www.jujushoes.co.uk K: Kickers 020 89702497 www.pentland.com : Kite 01202 733222 www.kitekids.co.uk L: La Queue Du Chat 01832 776588 www.laqueueduchat.com : Lelli Kelly 0039 0583431219 www.lellikelly.it : Lili Shoes 0031 652461651 www.lilishoes.com : Lilly + Sid 07789 397092 www.lillyandsid.com : Little Darlings 0161 474 8000 www.mdlltd.co.uk : Little Grippers 07803 613987 www.littlegrippers.co.uk : Little Joule 01858 435261 www.joules.com : Little Troll 07821 319131 www.little-troll.co.uk : Lucas Frank 0870 0502 580 www.lucasfrank.com : Lux Des Anges 0033 675230938 www.etsy.com/luxedesanges M: Marmalade & Mash 07850 897304 www.marmaladeandmash.co.uk : MIJN 07894 905996 www.mijn-kleding.nl : Mini Melissa 020 7377 2570 www.melissa.com.br : Mini Men UK 07951 476019 www.minimenuk.com : MiniMyo 07919 185843 www.minimyo.co.uk : Mitt Clips 01494 447000 www.primrosemktg.co.uk : More Stories 01344 776857 www.morestories.co.uk N: Not For Ponies 07841 871591 www.notforponies.co.uk O: Olang 01787 881144 www.olang.co.uk : O’Neill 020 7089 9465 www.oneill.com P: Pablosky 01202 707461 www.pablosky.com : Paul Smith 0115 968 5821 www.paulsmith.co.uk : Perry Uniform 0113 238 9520 www.perryuniform.co.uk : Petit Bateau 020 7462 5770 www.petit-bateau.co.uk : Piccalilly 01729 822288 www.piccalilly.co.uk : Pineapple Footwear 01992 769612 www.pineapplefootwear.com : Pippo 01912 461474 www.pippofootwear.com : Pixie Dixie 020 7631 2084 www.pixiedixie.co.uk : Poco Nido 07941 089702 www.poconido.com : Podlers 01234 240440 www.pod-footwear.com : Premier Nametapes 01460 258040 www.esunproof.co.uk : Primigi 0039 0755028239 www.primigi.com R: Ricosta 0116 259 7427 www.ricosta.co.uk : Rock N Regal 07985 392705 www.rocknregal.com : Ruff & Huddle 07894 942414 www.ruffandhuddle.co.uk S: Shepherd of Sweden 01455 891711 www.shepherd.nu : Skechers 01707 655955 www.skechers.co.uk : Stabilo 01753 605656 www.stabilo.co.uk : Starchild 01509 817601 www.starchildshoes.co.uk : Start-rite 01603 595200 www.startriteshoes.com : Su Bach 020 7244 9096 www.subach.com : Superfit 07775 995547 www.superfit.at T: The Textile Forum 020 7843 9496 www.textileforum.co.uk : Tinny Shoes 0034 96 534 8427 www.tinnyshoes.com : Tootsa MacGinty 07977 239817 www.tootsamacginty.com : Trutex 01200 421200 www.trutex.com U: Umi Children’s Shoes 01953 851190 www.umishoes.com : Unicol 0161 480 8582 www.unicol-schoolwear.co.uk V: Vans www.vans.com : Venettini 0013 054774011 www.venettini.com Y: Young Versace www.versace.com
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ACCESSORIES
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CHILDRENSWEAR
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March/April 2013
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SHOP HAIR ACCESSORIES Balloon Accessories See main advert under Accessories LOLLIPOP, Quality Hair Accessories for School, Brownies & Ballet. Tel: 01494 447000 www.primrosemktg.co.uk
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www.unicol-schoolwear.co.uk www.unicol-schoolwearr.co.uk Tel: T el: 0161 480 8582 sales@william-turner william-turner.co.uk r.co.uk
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March/April 2013
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Laura Turner: What inspired you to launch a childrenswear collection? Roksanda Ilincic: Having my own daughter, Efimia, definitely provided the inspiration to extend my designs into a range for children. Now, she can be seen making a sneak preview in some of the lookbooks. LT: How does designing childrenswear compare to womenswear? RI: Children are, of course, very active, so the clothes not only need to be comfortable but hardwearing, too, even if they’re for special occasions. Fun, easy shapes and bright colours are a key part of my vision for childrenswear. LT: What were the key considerations you took into account when designing for children? RI: The design aesthetic of the season always carries through into Blossom, but the line also has its own spirit. There is a playful element to the range, and it always embodies the fun side of the women’s collections. LT: How would you sum up the look of Blossom? RI: Blossom is always tied into the inspiration of the season for the womenswear line. For summer, this was seen in bright, sorbet coloured dresses, a camouflage flower print and a monochrome scribble print mixed with laminate cotton accessories. The dresses feature fun details such as oversize ruffles, contrast buttons and bows. LT: What does the collection comprise in terms of pieces? RI: The focus of the collection is dresses in bold colours with feminine, playful details. Macs, hats and tops complete looks. LT: What is your favourite piece from Blossom so far? RI: It has to be the scribble dress with the Peter Pan collar and puffball skirt. I think it really sums up the spirit of the collection.
LT: Are there any plans to introduce a boyswear collection? RI: Absolutely. I think it would be fun to experiment and expand the brand further at some stage. LT: Which retailers currently stock Blossom? RI: Blossom is currently stocked at Liberty, Alex and Alexa and Selfridges. LT: What are the plans for Blossom going forward? RI: We plan to increase the age range while continuing the growth of the collection. Autumn/winter will also see the addition of knitwear and little accessories.
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For further information please call 078 5550 9069 agency@breitensteins.com www.angulus.dk