CWB Schoolwear

SCHOOLWEAR | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

0#&11% -., 47: News 54: SA campaign 2014: Your child is worth it In the run-up to Back To School, the Schoolwear Association is stepping up its latest campaign to support the school-specific sector.

56: Parents’ poll: School-uniform buying habits CWB quizzes parents on their experiences of shopping for school uniform.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE‌ 14: Return to sender Why stores of all sizes should factor returned goods into their business plans.

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August/September 2014 - 45

New products and innovations 2015 brochures and prices New suppliers Existing suppliers face to face Three great days of networking opportunities

Visit us at...

www.theschoolwearshow.co.uk

SCHOOLWEAR NEWS | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

0 '' /" 2 " + /2 ")/()2$/ (2 ' 2) / ( '' /" 2 $ ()  

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Cottingham High School in North Humberside teamed with Lara Jensen, milliner and costume designer to stars such as Lady Gaga, Johnny Depp and Kylie Minogue, to re-style its school uniform for the new term.

Jensen accepted the East Riding academy's challenge to smarten-up the uniform, which previously included polo shirts, sweat shirts and trainers, moving instead to a more conservative image encompassing shirts, jackets and black polished shoes.

Designed with students’ feedback in-mind, the new uniform includes individual designs for the upper and lower school, the option of either a V-neck jumper or jacket, shirts and the introduction of a tie.

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    Blue Max Banner (BMB) has seen marked improvements to customer service levels since the installation of a new PrimaNet ERP fully integrated warehouse management system.

The system, which required an investment of over £200k, is now up-and-running and has delivered significant improvements across many areas of the business.

“We can now manage stock levels much more accurately so that the right goods are available at the right time for our customers,” says Angela Brettell, business systems manager at BMB. Nigel Plenderleith, MD at BMB adds, “The Back To School Period is the real testing time when we can ship up to 35,000 garments per day and we are fulfilling orders successfully and with much greater efficiency and accuracy.”

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  This year’s annual Schoolwear Association (SA) fundraising event will take the form of a Roaring 20s themed evening, sponsored by William Turner & Son and Charles Kirk.

Following the second day of The Schoolwear Show, the SA event will be held on Monday 13 October at Hogarths Hotel in Solihull. Starting at 7.30pm and running until late, the evening will consist of a sit down meal, 20s-style entertainment, dancing, a fundraising auction and a few surprises to be revealed on the night.

The dress code is 20s theme or black tie. For tickets, which cost £50 per person, and further information, email Marie Bradburn at marie.bardburn@hotmail.co.uk.

In conjunction with the event, Hogarths Hotel, which is in close proximity to The Schoolwear Show’s venue at Cranmore Park, is offering a special Schoolwear Association rate of £105 B&B for any night of the exhibition’s duration.

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                  

School shoe brand Toughees is extending its product remit to include boys’ and girls’ school shirts, which it will be launching at this year’s edition of The Schoolwear Show on 12-14 October in Solihull.

Available for delivery in 2015, the easy-care shirts are available in long or short sleeve and feature a double yoke, raised collar and reinforced pockets for durability. Made from 65 per cent polyester and 35 per cent cotton, they are suitable for low temperature washes.

Available for ages 7-8 years through to 13 years, followed by sizes small, medium, large and extra-large, Toughees’ shirts have an RRP from £11.99 for a two-pack.

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  As part of their mission to promote organic, Marina Petrova and Irina Price, founders of organic school uniform brand Eco Outfitters, are providing informative and interactive presentations to schools that opt for its uniforms.

“Green and sustainable living has become a big part of the UK curriculum,” says Petrova.

“Our uniforms are not only healthier, comfortable and ethical, but competitively priced, durable and practical, disproving the widely held belief that cotton uniform cannot withstand the playground test. Organic cotton is stronger than its non-organic counterpart, since the fibre is not weakened by the chemicals.”

Eco Outfitters’ schoolwear is made of ethically sourced, 100 per cent organic cotton certified by the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS).

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                

                  

August/September 2014 - 47

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ď€ˆď€?ď€? ď€? This season, 1880 CLUB is continuing to build on its reputation by creating and presenting their most comprehensive range of Schoolwear yet. By ensuring every piece is built for the classroom, yet durable enough for the playground, the 2014 Schoolwear Collection is made for the long-term.

Tel: 028 9332 7777 Email: schoolwear@1880CLUB.com www.1880CLUB.com Another quality brand from Douglas and Grahame

ď€’ď€‘ď€›ď€œď€ž ď€? ď€? High quality school knitwear: stock and bespoke soft-handle TPA 100% Acrylic, Wool-Acrylic, Wool-Nylon and fine-knit, fully-fashioned Cotton-Acrylic. • Quick and reliable deliveries. • UK and off-shore manufacture.

Tel: 01900 829 229 Email: info@balmoralsales.co.uk www.balmoralknitwear.biz

ď€?ď€&#x;ď€?ď€?   ď€?ď€œď€ž ď€&#x; ď€šď€„ď€€ď€Ąď€˜ď€™  ď€Ąď€žď€›ď€™ď€˜ď€Łď€›ď€›ď€€ď€’ď€? Proud to be hosting the Schoolwear Show at Cranmore Park for the 16th successive year, AIS is the largest non-food buying group in the UK. Members include Department Stores, Garden Centres and Intersport UK sportswear stores; who sell specialist schoolwear. charlotte.roberts@aistores.co.uk Patrons of The Schoolwear Association

ď€‘ď€œď€‘ď€Śď€‘ď€€ď€Ąď€‘ď€›ď€•ď€Ąď€€ď€Łď€šď€€ď€›ď€˘ď€” ď€?ď€?

Suppliers of Melco/Amaya XTS Embroidery machines, Texjet Plus Direct to Garment Printers, Graphtec Vinyl cutters and Vinyl.

See how the these products can drastically improve your production.

Amaya Sales UK Ltd Tel: 02392 590281 Email: sales@amayauk.com www.amayauk.com Showrooms in Hampshire and Nottinghamshire.

ď€’ď€›ď€Łď€•ď€€ď€œď€‘ď€Ľď€€ď€’ď€‘ď€?ď€? ď€€ď€›ď€™ď€œď€™ď€˘ď€•ď€”

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As the largest supplier of Schoolwear to the independent market, we offer a wide range of Bespoke and generic product of the highest standard of quality, service and value.

Tel: 0845 23 00 888 Email: sales@bluemaxbanner.co.uk www.bluemaxbanner.co.uk

Bo-Bell with over 25 years experience developing leather children’s shoes all produced in our factory in Portugal.

Specialising in leather School Shoes sizes 24-39. Boy’s FGH fitting, Girls DEFG fitting.

Email: davidroberts11@me.com Tel: 07809 426922 Email: billy@studio03.co.uk Tel: 07836 559688 www.bo-bell.pt

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The UK’s No. 1 multi-brand distributor of promotional clothing, schoolwear, corporate wear and workwear. With over 45 market leading brands, massive stocks, great value and huge choice. www.btcactivewear.co.uk

Caribee offers a wide selection of backpacks, schoolbags and accessories. Caribee have a reputation for great quality, stylish and practical backpacks that offer excellent value for money.

Tel: 0131 554 5555 Email: jacquie@brandagility.co.uk www.caribee-uk.com

Cartasport: UK made, skortz, skirts, ath. briefs, gym knickers, lycra shorts, special design football socks. Cricket & rugby clothing.

Masita: Tracksuits, rain jackets, football jerseys/shorts, polo & T-shirts, Bags.

Tel: 01535 600342 Fax: 01535 611489 Email: sales@cartasport.com Web: www.cartasport.com

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“Brand quality” performance teamsport garments, a fully coordinated stock range.

Meeting the growing demand for high quality functional sportswear in the education sector – “fit for purpose” – talk to the experts.

Tel: 01619272565 Email: sales@chadwicktextiles.co.uk www.chadwicktextiles.co.uk

The Chantry brand was established in 1951 to manufacture and distribute specialised knitwear and is now one of Britain’s leading Schoolwear Suppliers. Stock comes in a wide selection of colours, trims and bespoke embroidery options enabling uniforms to be custom made for schools.

Tel: 028 9332 7777 Email: schoolwear@chantry.co.uk www.chantry.co.uk Another quality brand from Douglas and Grahame

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Cybertill provides EPoS and ecommerce systems to schoolwear retailers. Cybertill is web-based and allows retailers to manage their stock and business more efficiently from any location.

Tel: 0800 030 4432 Email: enquiries@cybertill.co.uk www.cybertill.co.uk

David Luke are a leading supplier of School Uniform and Sportswear to Retailers throughout the UK. With a focus on products with Eco credentials that make a difference environmentally through the supply chain; we’re #totalecool !

Tel: 0161 272 7474 Email: sales@davidluke.com www.davidluke.com

Specialist manufacturer, supplier, printer & embroiderer of school knitwear, sweatshirts and accessories.

Tel: 01903 244863 Fax: 01903 700577 Email: sales@charleskirk.co.uk www.charleskirk.co.uk

Bespoke manufacturers of shirts, blouses, dresses, skirts, kilts, tunics and smocks.

Made to the highest standards in the UK and offshore.

Tel: 01226 738390 Fax: 01226 289140 Email: charles@denbydaleclothing.co.uk www.denbydaleclothing.co.uk

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Diamond Textiles (KGA) Ltd has over 20 years of experience in manufacturing high quality, durable fabrics; specialising in fleece fabrics and school wear.

Tel: 0116 2510121 Email: sales@diamondtextiles.co.uk www.diamondtextiles.co.uk

Eskimo EPOS is the multi-channel till and stock control solution with integrated e-Commerce for the Schoolwear Industry.

Retailers across the UK are benefiting from the many Schoolwear specific features that come as standard with the Eskimo EPOS System.

Tel: 01202 477111 Email: gary@nebulasystems.net www.eskimoepos.com

Large stock range and specialist manufacturers of school clothing. We can develop your designs and supply the ready to wear garments complete with logo’s embroidery / print. New ranges for 2014.

Contact: Ian Beach Tel: 0116 288 1105 Email: ian@europasports.co.uk www.europasports.co.uk

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2015 will see a new concept within Falcon’s product offering.

Visit our stand and enquire about “Type-R”…

Tel: 01274 306440 Email: email@falconsports.co.uk www.falconsports.co.uk

The Dunairn and Glengarnock brand Bespoke school wear School Kilts, Skirts, Pinafores, summer dresses, ties. Junior and senior trousers, shorts Bermuda shorts, Breeks and cord garments. Any garments can be made in tartan. Bespoke school wear Tel: 0141 774 5900 Email: tina.gibson@gdgarments.co.uk Email: robert.carey@gdgarments.co.uk

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

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As one of the most respected multisport manufacturers Gymphlex will be boasting the latest additions to our School Sportswear Solution and GFORCE range. Also available for immediate orders will be our GFORCE stock brand.

Tel: 0116 2556326 Email: sales@gymphlex.co.uk www.gforcesportswear.co.uk

Halbro supply bespoke technical sportswear and stock items ideal for all team/school sports and associations. Always at the cutting edge of garment design and using the latest technical fabrics to produce a wide range of performance clothing, all finished to the highest specification and with short lead times.

Tel: 01204 696476 Email: sales@halbro.com www.halbro.com

Helix Trading offer a choice of 3 of the World’s most recognised educational brands. Oxford is traditional academic school accessories, Helix is technical school equipment and Maped offer colourful and innovative products for school.

Helix Trading Ltd, Building 92, The Pensnett Estate, Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 7FP Tel: 01384 286860 Email: customerservices@mapedhelix.co.uk www.mapedhelix.co.uk

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Tailored Bespoke Schoolwear, made to the most exacting standards. We create distinctive schoolwear garments to a high specification of design, style, colour, fabric and manufacture.

Our range includes... Skirts, Kilts, Pinafores, Summer Dresses & Outerwear Contact: Mona Houston Tel: 028 7963 2188 Fax: 028 7963 4077 Email: mona@kkschoolwear.com www.kkschoolwear.com

Kwik Tapes complete label printing solution means that you can now produce a wide variety of labels, from iron-on and sew-in clothing labels to shoe labels, trophy labels and even ribbon printing.

Please contact John or James Tel: 0121 689 2211 www.kwiktapeslabels.com

Gardiners offer a complete footwear range from wellingtons to school shoes including plimsolls and trainers backed up with a comprehensive range of accessories and bags.

Tel: 01452 727300 Email: adrian.cornell@gardinerbros.co.uk www.gardinerbros.co.uk

Lollipop’s extensive range of quality hair accessories for school enable stockists to gain valuable additional sales. Cotton mix, velvet and ginghams plus many styles of quality basics, all in 12 colours. Colour brochure available or order from our trade website where products can be seen in fine detail.

Primrose Marketing Ltd Tel: 01494 447000 Fax: 01494 447052 Email: sales@primrosemktg.co.uk www.primrosemktg.co.uk

   The Preferred choice for Knitwear and Socks.

Magicfit offer the largest range of School Socks, Tights and Sports Socks as well as their unique and often imitated Magicfit School Knitwear in plain colours or with special trim.

Magicfit, the preferred choice.

Tel: 0116 2779789 / 2773857 Fax: 0116 2784395 Email: info@magicfit.co.uk

   Textile manufacturers Marton Mills offer a wide range of compositions and designs when choosing school wear fabric.

Tel: 0113 2843364 Email: enquiries@martonmills.co.uk www.martonmills.com

   Quality Woven Name Tapes, Iron-on Name Labels, Name Tape Printing Systems, Same-day Despatch, Proud to be a UK Manufacturer!

Tel: 01834 861 446 Email: sales@nationalweaving.co.uk Redstone Mill, Redstone Road, Narberth, Pembs, SA67 7ES VISIT US ON STAND 18

   

  

     

Three unique brands all available from the OPROGROUP: OPRO self-fit, the most advanced self-fit mouthguards in the world with great margins achievable, Maru, the perfect choice for stylish yet functional swimwear and Mueller sports supports and accessories.

Tel: 01442 430690 ext.1042 Email: Catherine.hughes@oprogroup.com www.oprogroup.com

Orion specialise in team & leisure wear.

Our high quality, short delivery times and value for money pricing alongside outstanding customer service all stand us apart from the competition. Our in-house design team can produce bespoke logos, themes and even design kit from scratch to your exact requirements.

Tel: 0191 266 7651 www.orionteamwear.com

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Petasil BTS a British brand made in Portugal from fine leathers, developed for style and durability, leather linings and insocks, arch supports for comfort and fit, sizes 24-42 multiple widths.

Tel: 01604 876 800 Email: sales@marrum.co.uk www.petasil.com

    Supplying quality fabrics to the public and commercial sectors since 1964. With the acquisition of Wittrex International, a specialist in development and manufacture of school wear fabrics we have become one of the premier UK stockists.

Tel: 0044 161 727 4470 Email: info@pandrfabrics.co.uk www.pandrfabrics.co.uk

School socks and tights in every colour and design and always in stock, for the best quality and service.

Tel: 0116 2861616 Email: info@pex-kids.com www.pexwholesale.co.uk

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Suppliers of Schoolwear, and in particular knitwear, plain or bespoke with special stripes. Speedy personalised embroidery, quick delivery, small minimums, and excellent customer care.

Tel: 0161 477 7791 Email: sales@rowlinson-knitwear.com www.rowlinson-knitwear.com

  Quality footwear since 1976.

With a reputation for quality leather school shoes at competitive prices, Pod footwear will be previewing their Back to School 2015 collection. (some styles up to UK size 17) Tel: 01234 240 440 Email: sales@aegisshoes.co.uk www.pod-footwear.com

 

 We offer a full range of sports equipment, clothing and accessories. The Precision Training range of textiles includes a wide range of football socks and our best selling shadow stripe short.

The range also includes tracksuits, rainwear, team wear and our exclusive range of ladies polo shirts and skorts.

Unit 17, Easter Park, Lenton Lane, Nottingham, NG7 2PX Tel: 0115 900 2342

Meet the SA team.

Hear our plans for 2015.

See what we are doing for the industry.

Tell us how we can serve you better. www.schoolwearassociation.co.uk

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Target Dry’s collection for 2015 includes the new Carter boys’ and Charlotte girls’ coats.

Perfect for casual and schoolwear, with the usual Target Dry high quality and excellent value.

Stand contacts Ian Ambler and Colin Adams.

Tel: 028 90 790588 Fax: 028 90 792164 Email: sales@targetdry.com

TheMagicTouch Toner based image transfer process enables the decoration and personalisation of a vast range of printable items including garments, textiles and so much more using professional heat pressing equipment, Colour Laser Printers and Copiers and coated Image Transfer Papers.

David Pearce, National Sales Manager Tel: 01582 671444 Email: sales@themagictouch.co.uk www.themagictouch.co.uk

STABILO have developed a range of ergonomic products that have a different version for left and right handers. From starter pencils to a ballpoint pen with integrated touch-screen stylus, the range focuses on comfort and efficiency to help children when they are both learning and improving their handwriting.

Tel: 01753 605656 Email: sales.UK@stabilo.com www.stabilo.co.uk

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  

Specifically designed for the school wear retailer, Top to Toe is a clear, well structured, stock management and Epos system. The system provides full size and colour tracking, size/colour matrix throughout, instant look ups, EPOS tills, automated web linkage, customer records, analysis by school, supplier and much, much, more.

Tel: 020 3376 5888 Email: info@toptotoe.com www.toptotoe.com

Trutex will be launching an innovative blazer at this year’s Schoolwear Show, which is unlike anything else currently on the market.

We will also be presenting a new fleece and senior boy’s trouser.

Contact Trutex on 01200 421 200 or email sales@trutex.com www.trutex.com

William Turner & Son look forward to welcoming you on to Stand 3 where we will be displaying some exciting new additions to our stock bag range.

Tel: 0161 480 8582 Email: sales@william-turner.co.uk www.unicol-schoolwear.co.uk

   

 

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William Lamb is a privately owned business that has grown since 1887 to become a leading footwear distributor. We will be showing: Buckle My Shoe, our premium leather school shoe brand. Goody 2 Shoes, our budget range. Licenced school shoes, including Hello Kitty, Peppa Pig, Minnie Mouse, Spiderman and many others.

Tel: 01924 836954 Email: info@wlamb.co.uk www.wlambwholesale.co.uk

Full “Stock Supported” ranges are available from Winterbottom Schoolwear including School Blazers, Shirts & Blouses, Girls Pinafores, Skirts and Trousers, Boys Shorts and Trousers, Knitwear, Sweatshirts, Polo Shirts and Outerwear. Plus Specials Made to Order. Cultural Uniform new for 2014.

Tel: 01254 390700 Email:info@graham-winterbottom.co.uk www.graham-winterbottom.co.uk

Wren Schoolwear is an independent manufacturer of school dresses, blouses, tunics and skirts using long established British fabrics made to customers own individual requirements.

Contact: Keith Farrer Tel: 01206 841222 Fax: 01206 841118 Email: wrenschoolwear@ymail.com www.wrenschoolwear.co.uk

  Schoolwear suppliers. Range includes school skirts, pinafores, girls trousers and bootleg, boys trousers, shorts, t-shirts & polo’s, sweatshirts & knitwear, gingham dresses & accessories, hair accessories, leotards, rugby jerseys & football shirts, socks & tights, plimsolls, swimwear, bags & belts, ties, blazers & jackets, aprons & outerwear.

Stock all year round.

Tel: 01708 739 390 Email: sales@zecoschoolwear.com www.zecoschoolwear.com

        

 

New for 2015 Caribee Bombora

See us at The Schoolwear Show 12th - 14th October 2014 For 2015 catalogue and more information contact:

Jacquie Sandison Brand Agility Ltd, 35 West Bowling Green Street, Edinburgh EH6 5NX Tel: 0131 554 5555 Email: jacquie@brandagility.co.uk

REPORT | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

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In the run-up to Back To School, the Schoolwear Association is stepping up its latest campaign to support the school-specific sector.

This year, the Schoolwear Association has launched a national drive entitled Your Child Is Worth It, seeing it appeal to the government to make quality school uniform, from participating schoolwear stores, tax deductible, and thus more affordable for hardworking families. Taking a double-pronged approach, the Schoolwear Association campaign is also actively working to educate parents on why quality school uniform is an investment.

And by inviting a group of local mums to a behind-the-scenes day at personalised schoolwear manufacturer Rowlinsons Knitwear in Stockport, it has also been able to demonstrate first-hand how quality school uniform is produced.

School’s out for summer, meaning the start of the annual battle between chain stores and independent school-uniform suppliers as parents race against the clock to get their children geared up and ready for the new

term. Subsequently, the Schoolwear Association is stepping up its latest campaign to convince parents that good-quality school uniform is what children need, spearheaded with the strapline, “Your child is worth it�.

At the heart of the campaign, the Schoolwear Association has set up a petition to persuade the government to bring in school uniform vouchers – along the lines of the current childcare voucher scheme – which would give parents a tax break on the cost of schoolwear, and help with budgeting.

FIGHTING FOR PARENTS TO HELP THEM AFFORD THE BEST UNIFORM MONEY CAN BUY The Schoolwear Association has set up a government e-petition – http://tinyurl.com/schoolwear – calling for a voucher scheme to be introduced, with the aim of making school uniform tax-free. The scheme would involve parents receiving a small amount of their salary in the form of vouchers, which they can then spend in participating schoolwear retailers. The system

would be available to all employers and employees who wish to opt in. The vouchers would be tax exempt, and would enable parents to spread the cost of school uniform throughout the year.

The e-petition is attracting significant attention, with the number of signatures currently achieved over 1,000, positioning it firmly in the tiny five per cent of government petitions that make it past the 1,000 mark.

Greater momentum and attention are now needed to reach 100,000 signatures, at which point the petition will be brought to the attention of the Prime Minister.

PARENTS GET AN INSIGHT INTO HOW SCHOOL UNIFORM IS MADE Children spend more time in their school uniform than in their everyday clothing and get through on average four pieces of uniform a year. A poll for the Schoolwear Association showed the average child wears his or her uniform for 10 hours a day – that’s 1,500 hours a year – and it has to stand up to the rigours of everyday school life. The challenge August/September 2014 - 54

REPORT | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

for the Schoolwear Association, therefore, is educating parents – and teachers – about the value of good quality, smart-looking, long-lasting uniform, rather than opting for the cheapest garments on the shelf.

To help demonstrate this point, the Schoolwear Association arranged for a group of mummy bloggers to have an in-depth look behind the scenes in a schoolwear factory to see first-hand how much work goes into producing quality garments. The bloggers will be sharing their experiences with their followers, but the resounding verdict of the mums who took part in the day was that “children deserve quality school uniform, even if it does cost a little extra.”

Rowlinsons’ warehouse in Stockport was full of life when the mums from Manchester arrived, busy with workers getting ready for the hectic Back To School period. Boxes full of knitwear garments lined the high shelves, ready to be packed up and delivered to schoolwear retailers up and down the country.

The event at Rowlinsons Knitwear, which is a member and active supporter of the

Schoolwear Association – gave the parents an unprecedented insight into the production of school uniforms; from fibre to finished garment, including the embroidering of school badges.

One of the bloggers, mum-of-two Pippa Ainsworth, from Bolton, was amazed at the level of work that went into the garments.

“I never realised how much work and attention to detail goes into creating even a small school badge, so it was great to see it for myself,” she says. “A badged logo is part of the identity of a school, and each school child who goes there, so I think it is very important.”

Fellow blogger and mother-of-three Helen Costello, from Merseyside, adds, “Price used to be my main consideration when it came to buying school uniform, but I’ve realised that you get what you pay for the majority of the time. In actual fact, you can save so much money in the long-run by spending a bit more on better-quality school uniforms that will actually last.”

HOW TO BECOME A SCHOOLWEAR ASSOCIATION MEMBER: The Schoolwear Association represents businesses nationwide involved in the manufacture and supply of school-specific uniform from manufacturers and wholesalers to independent retailers and school suppliers.

The Schoolwear Association is run entirely by volunteers. Set up in 2006, it has more than 250 members working towards a better future for children, parents and schools. If you are not a member, visit www.schoolwearassociation.co.uk to find out more.

Member benefits include media support, invitation to events, help and advice, access to fact sheets, marketing collateral, a 10 per cent discount at Travelodge hotels and a discount on subscriptions to CWB magazine.

—

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" ## $ ! # ! $ ! "$ ď€˜ď €ď€˝ď€ľď€šď€łď€€ď€–ď€­ď€Żď€śď€€ď€Śď€şď€€ď€Ľď€Żď€´ď€şď€şď€ˇď€…ď€€ď€—ď€Šď€–ď€€ď€źď €ď€ľď …ď …ď€ąď€°ď€€ď€ťď€­ď€˝ď€ąď€šď€żď€žď€€ď€­ď€Žď€şď €ď€żď€€ď€żď€´ď€ąď€ľď€˝ď€€ď€žď€Żď€´ď€şď€şď€ˇď€†ď €ď€šď€ľď€˛ď€şď€˝ď€¸ď€€ď€Žď €ď „ď€ľď€šď€łď€€ď€´ď€­ď€Žď€ľď€żď€žď€…ď€€ď€­ď€žď€€ď ‚ď€ąď€ˇď€ˇď€€ď€­ď€žď€€ď€żď€´ď€ąď€ľď€˝ ď ď€ľď€ąď ‚ď€žď€€ď€­ď€šď€°ď€€ď€ťď€ąď€˝ď€Żď€ąď€ťď€żď€ľď€şď€šď€žď€€ď€şď€šď€€ď€śď€ąď „ď€€ď€ľď€žď€žď €ď€ąď€žď€€ď€žď €ď€Żď€´ď€€ď€­ď€žď€€ď€ťď€˝ď€ľď€Żď€ąď€…ď€€ď€źď €ď€­ď€ˇď€ľď€żď „ď€…ď€€ď€Żď €ď€žď€żď€şď€¸ď€ąď€˝ď€€ď€žď€ąď€˝ď ď ď€­ď€ľď€ˇď€­ď€Žď€ľď€ˇď€ľď€żď „ď€‡ď€€ ď ‰

ď€•ď€ˇď€ąď ƒď€€ď€–ď€şď „ď€° ď€&#x;ď ď€ąď€žď€“ď€€ď€œď€şď€ˇď€¸ď€˛ď€ľď€˝ď€żď€´ď€…ď€€ď€Šď€ąď€žď€żď€€ď€Ťď€şď€˝ď€śď€žď€´ď€ľď€˝ď€ąď€€ ď€? ď  — “I shop for school uniform when one of my children starts at a new school, so this is usually in July. The rest of the time I buy throughout the year as and when needed.

I buy from a schoolwear retailer and the supermarket. Although customer service and product expertise is lacking in supermarkets, when I have made the effort to buy ‘grey wear’ at a specialist retailer, the quality has unfortunately been disappointing. As far as online shopping, I have purchased school jumpers online, but only from a specialist retailer that I also visit in person.

What would make the process of buying school uniform easier is being able to go to one shop for all my needs; unfortunately I have to visit two different schoolwear shops to purchase primary and secondary school uniforms. It would better if they both stocked the two uniforms. I can’t understand why this is, and it is very frustrating.

For me, the value of quality versus price are equal – my children don’t grow out of many items, but they definitely wear them out. Paying a little more for a good-quality jumper is preferable to seeing them wear it out and having to replace the garment.

I would definitely take part if a tax-exempt salary sacrifice scheme was introduced to help budget for school-uniform purchases. School uniform is essential; it brings children to the same level, and their code of conduct should reflect the smartness of the uniform.� —

 ď€&#x;ď ď€ąď€žď€“ď€€ď€—ď€˝ď€ąď ‚ď€ąď€…ď€€ď€—ď€´ď€ąď€žď€´ď€ľď€˝ď€ąď€€ ď ď€? — “I do my main school-uniform shop in late August. I go to a local retailer for the school logoed jumpers and sports T-shirts, with the rest of the uniform purchased at a supermarket.

I don’t currently buy any uniform items online, but if logoed items were available online, it would make the shopping process much easier, rather than travelling to a local supplier that may not have the size I want in stock. In terms of quality versus price, price is paramount to me, but I do look for better-quality items where I can as they tend to last longer. The school trousers and shorts I buy are size-adjustable, which is great as it increases the garment’s longevity. I would definitely be interested in a tax-exempt salary sacrifice scheme to budget for school uniform. I’m in full agreement with school uniform; it promotes a clear unity within the school, in turn making the children proud of the school they belong to.� —

ď€¤ď€­ď€Żď€´ď€ąď€ˇď€€ď€–ď €ď€żď€ˇď€ąď€˝ ď€&#x;ď  ď€—ď€´ď€ľď€ˇď€°ď€˝ď€ąď€šď€“ď€€ď€˘ď€˝ď€ˇď€­ď€…ď€€ď€Žď€…ď€€ď€œď€ąď€šď€˝ď „ď€…ď€€ď€‹ — “I generally buy my daughter’s school uniform in July and August, in time for September. I have bought from a range of shops – a schoolwear retailer, Marks & Spencer and supermarkets – and I have purchased school cardigans, sweaters and PE T-shirts online.

From my experience, supermarket school uniform is generally cheaper, but I’ve found it can come up smaller in size. School uniform shops on the other hand tend to be slightly more expensive, and don’t always stock uniform for every school in our area.

Unfortunately, our local school uniform shop has just closed down, so now I have no choice but to buy from the supermarkets and other high-street retailers. It would make the process much easier if I could buy the entire uniform in one shop and get everything I need at affordable prices.

Quality of garments is definitely important; you don’t want uniform items falling apart after a couple of weeks. However, most children need new uniform every school year as they’ve grown, so that’s where price then comes into play. Uniform needs to be affordable because we have to buy it yearly,

but it also needs to wear well and cope with being washed continuously without fading or looking tired. I personally think that school uniform needs, at the very minimum, to last a school year. Size-adjustable waists would be good in trousers and skirts so that if a child grows throughout the year the waist can be adjusted accordingly. For my daughter, who is very tall and slim, I have to buy her age-appropriate uniform, but then it’s generally too big around the waist. If I bought it to fit her waist, however, the skirt or trousers would be too short.

I think the Schoolwear Association’s proposal of a tax-exempt salary sacrifice scheme to help parents pay for school uniform is a very good idea – especially when children get to secondary school age and you can’t buy uniform from supermarkets and high-street retailers. With regard to my views on school uniform, I think all children should wear it, from pre-schoolers to the top-end of secondary school.� —

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  

   — “I do the bulk of my school uniform shopping in July and August. High-street stores and supermarkets have their schoolwear buying promotions, including sales and offers, before the summer term has even ended, which is really annoying, as you don’t want the hassle of thinking about the next school year before the current one is over. One of the great things about schoolwear retailers is they have stock all year round, so you can top up and don’t have to rush.

I buy from a combination of school-uniform retailers, supermarkets, high-street stores and also direct from school. I don’t make any school-uniform purchases online – I need to be able to see the sizes, lengths and fabrics properly – although I would repeat buy from a website. The overall process of buying school uniform is quite straightforward for me as I use a combination of suppliers, so I get the quality and service from the schoolwear stores with the convenience of the supermarkets and high-street stores when I’m shopping for other things. When it comes to customer service and quality of product, the school uniform shops win hands down. There’s never anyone around to help in a supermarket or high-street store, so you have to wrestle products out of plastic bags to look at sizes, and there’s not much performance information.

Quality-wise, supermarkets and high-street stores are getting better, but they still have a way to go to meet the standards of ‘proper’ school uniform.

When it comes to quality versus price, both elements are important but, as with anything, you get what you pay for, and I’d rather spend a bit more for something that isn’t going to lose its colour – particularly knitwear – and is adjustable and hardwearing. It’s actually cheaper to buy better in the long run. I already buy size-adjustable garments, but reversible blazers might be a good idea, though in my experience, they get treated so badly I’m not sure how much longer they would survive.”

—

— “I buy school uniform during the last week of the summer holidays from a mixture of retailers. I get basics from Marks & Spencer, school-specific items from a local uniform shop, and summer dresses from Asda.

I find that the supermarket items don’t wash as well and tend to shrink, yet some school-specific pieces from the local uniform shop have lasted two school years when passed on from one child to another. I haven’t made a school-uniform purchase online so far, but Tesco has started doing school-branded items, so I may do this year.

Something that would make the process of buying school uniform easier would be a pre-ordering service, where I could collect orders in bulk.

When it comes to price versus quality, I

find it depends on the item. The quality of summer dresses, for instance, isn’t such an issue because they are only worn for a few weeks. Also, children tend to lose things, so sometimes I prefer to buy cheaper things in case they need to be replaced often.

I think a tax-exempt salary sacrifice scheme to help budget for school uniform is a good idea. It can be an expensive shopping trip when it comes to school uniform, so knowing it would be taken care of through the year – as well as if items need replacing – would be good. I thoroughly believe in children wearing school uniform, it is a great leveller and it makes children feel part of the school community.”

—

    — “I buy school uniform before the end of the summer – in July – so I have time to get it all ready for September. I mainly buy uniform items from John Lewis and Marks & Spencer, along with navy sports trousers from Next as it offers styles without elastic ankles, which I prefer. I make some uniform purchases online with John Lewis for my child’s school’s logoed polo shirts, coats and cardigans. If I could purchase all of the school uniform I need online, from a good website, the experience would be a lot easier for me. When it comes to quality versus price, I would always rather pay a bit more for good quality. Design features that increase the longevity of a school uniform, such as such as size-adjustable or reversible garments, appeal to me, too. Overall, I’m in total agreement with children wearing school uniform; it’s best for the children and the parents.”

—

     — “I do the majority of my school-uniform shopping in August. I purchase my 11-year-old’s direct from school, and my 7-year-old’s from the supermarket. I don’t make any purchases online.

Undoubtedly, the quality of product is better when purchased direct from the school, but it is a lot more expensive than the supermarket. The service is better direct from the school as stock is guaranteed, with the supermarkets often running out of certain items and sizes. I feel quality is more important than the price as uniforms are washed repeatedly and really need to be hard-wearing for what they go through on a day-to-day basis.

What would make the process easier would be a better range in stock all year round in the supermarkets, as outside of July and August it can be difficult to get some items.

Also, clearer sizing on products bought from school – as the sizing is in inches, it is difficult to know which is needed without trying on.

Sizing in ages for younger children, followed

by British dress sizes for older girls, would be much simpler. Size-adjustable garments are also of interest to me.

As far as opting into a tax-exempt salary sacrifice scheme to budget for school uniform purchases, this isn’t something I would do. We already have money taken out for childcare vouchers and a pension, on top of tax and NI, so I would not want another deduction, even if it saves money in the long run.

My general view on school uniform is that it is fundamental. The pressure on children to conform and wear the latest trends would detract from the purpose of school if they had to choose an outfit to wear each day. It would also emphasise differences in economic status, which can remain largely unnoticed when all are wearing the same.”

—

August/September 2014 - 57

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1: 1 Two Kids 01383 735134 www.1two.co.uk A: ABC123Me 020 7373 9792 www.abc123me.com • Aden + Anais 020 7801 6279 www.adenandanais.co.uk • Ama 07989 594891 • Angel & Rocket 07841 410823 www.angelandrocket.com • Animal 0845 026 7267 www.animal.co.uk • Annaliv 020 8144 2118 www.annaliv.co.uk B: Babine 0034 954828159 www.babinebebe.es • Bambi 07796 766669 www.bambi.hr • Beanie & Bear 07977 211879 www.beanieandbear.com • Beau Loves www.beauloves.co.uk • Bêjaks 07856 90999 www.bejaks.com • Believer Jewellery 0033 0642797126 www.believerjewellery.com • Billy Bandit 020 8964 8605 www.groupecwf.com • Billie Blush 020 8964 8605 www.groupecwf.com • Blue Max Banner 01225 715070 www.bluemaxbanner.co.uk • Blue Poppies 0033 563218279 www.bluepoppies.fr • Bobux 01280 700949 www.bobux.com • Bogs 0131 317 0200 www.bogsfootwear.com • Bonnie Baby 01273 227779 www.bonniebaby.co.uk C: Castell 07887 750276 www.avarcacastell.co.uk • Chipmunks 01925 710110 www.chipmunksfootwear.co.uk • Colourful Dove 07780 603446 www.colourfuldove.com • Cuddledry 01823 323363 www.cuddledry.com D: Dainty Dizzy 07815 146313 www.daintydizzy.co.uk • Daisy Roots 01604 880066 www.daisy-roots.com • D’Alfaiate 0035 1234646965 www.dalfaiate.com • Dot Delicate Baby Clothes 0035 1912345251 www.dot-baby.co.uk E: East End Highlander www.littleicons.co.uk • Elvetik 07885 606073 www.elevtik.ch F: Fabrikoko 07545 618082 www.fabrikoko.com • Froddo 01707 888388 www.froddo.com • Frugi 01326 572828 www.welovefrugi.com G: Gioseppo 0116 259 7427 www.gioseppo.com • Gnu Brand (Lemon Loves Lime & Lemon Loves Layette) 0016 302607885 www.lemonloveslime.com H: Happi Joey 07928 106435 www.happijoey.co.uk • Hook & Loopy 0800 240 4560 www.hookandloopy.co.uk • Hug and Hatch 01843 652031 www.hugandhatch.com I: I Love Gorgeous 01748 822055 www.ilovegorgeous.co.uk • Il Gufo 0039 0423951300 www.ilgufo.com J: Joyfolie 0018 677548461 www.joyfolie.com K: Karen Brost London 07739 580932 www.karenbrostlondon.com • Kite 01202 733222 www.kite-clothing.co.uk • Konfidence 01566 777887 www.konfidence.co.uk L: La Queue du Chat 01832 776588 www.laqueueduchat.com • Lelli Kelly 0039 05834311 www.lellikelly.it • Lemon Loves Lime 0016 302607885 www.lemonloveslime.com • Lilly + Sid 07789 397092 www.lillyandsid.com • Little Green Radicals 020 7733 6402 www.littlegreenradicals.co.uk • Little Joule 01858 435261 www.joules.com • Lollipop 01494 447000 www.primrosemktg.co.uk • Lollipop Designs www.lollipopdesigns.co.uk 07919 536638 • Lucy Peach Slice 07798 771739 www.lucypeachslice.com M: Malvi & Co 0039 0437927411 www.malvi.net • Maggie G 020 8372 1868 www.maggieengland.com • Milliemanu 020 8878 7863 www.milliemanu.com • Miss Grant 0039 0518908411 www.grantspa.com • Mooi en Lief 07961 273896 www.mooienlief.com • Molo 07718 987756 www.molo-kids.com O: Olly M Jewellery 07879 816980 www.ollymjewellery.com P: Picaloulou 01208 814392 www.picaloulou.com • Pigeon 01865 379230 www.pigeonorganics.com • Pippo 0191 246 1474 www.pippofootwear.com • Pixie Toes www.pixietoeshoes.com • Plae 07971 190446 www.nordicfootwear.com • Plumeti Rain 0034 658113646 www.plumetirain.com • Poppy England 01642 790000 www.poppyengland.co.uk • Pretty Blue Fox 0046 723501381 www.prettybluefox.com Q: Question Everything 07815 145459 www.questioneverything.com R: Rachel Riley 020 7935 7007 www.rachelriley.co.uk • Raspberry Plum 07516 920347 www.raspberryplum.com • Reef 07775 586295 www.reef.com • Replay & Son 020 7713 9404 www.replay.it • Richter 07834 862770 www.richter.at • Ricosta 0116 259 7427 www.ricosta.co.uk • Rowlinson Knitwear 0161 477 7791 www.rowlinson-knitwear.com S: Sally Nencini 07866 802238 www.sallynencini.com • Samantha Sotos 07880 638482 www.samanthasotos.com • Seventy Tree www.seventytree.com • Sew Heart Felt 01367 244277 www.sewheartfelt.co.uk • Silvian Heach 020 3432 6387 www.silvianheachkids.it • Spud Kids 07850 291264 www.spudkids.co.uk • Star51 07532 033253 • Sticky Fudge 0027 871514883 www.sticky-fudge.com • Sunuva 020 7286 3939 www.sunuva.com • Superfit 07775 995547 www.superfit.at T: Tails and Tales www.tailsandtales.co.uk • Tale of Boy www.taleofboy.com • Toby Tiger 01903 766777 www.tobytiger.com • Tootsa MacGinty www.tootsamacginty.com • Toughees 01202 707461 www.newbrandslimited.co.uk • Travis 01442 289898 www.travis.co.uk • Tutto Piccolo 0034 965546899 www.tuttopiccolo.com • TuTu Gorgeous 0115 921 5690 www.tutu-gorgeous.com V: Velveteen www.velveteenclothing.com W: When We Were Little 07949 296914 www.whenwewerelittle.co.uk Y: Young Soles 020 7749 0903 www.youngsoles.co.uk

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ACCESSORIES

BABY & KIDS SHOES

MANNEQUINS

SCHOOLWEAR

        

   



      

• Soft Leather Shoes • Handmade in England • No Minimum Order Tel: 01509 817600 www.starchildshoes.co.uk

SCHOOLWEAR

CARRIER BAGS

 

SCHOOL TIES

           

WILLIAM TURNER & SON

SSchool Sc cho ho o l Ties Tie ies & Accessories A ccesso ssorie ie s

HATS & SWIMWEAR Schoolwear SScho Sc cho ho o lwea we ear Accessories A Acc cce essor ssorie es

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   



BABY & KIDS SHOES

      

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August/September 2014 - 60

PROMOTION | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

# 2" # ## " + /2/((/$) " 2 $ / 2)'2" /$)(2"$ 2( ' '' (2 $2) /2 2 2! / "$ SOUTH WEST

ď€¨ď€•ď€Ąď€œď€§ď€? 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€&#x;  40 Bedford Street, Belfast BT2 7FF Tel: 0044 28 90236330 Fax: 0044 28 90236330 Email: nuala@mckenna.orangehome.co.uk EMILE-ET-ROSE, KANZ, LILLY & SID, HATLEY, LOFFF, STEIFF, STARDUST FIRST COMMUNION DRESSES, FIRST OCCASION CHRISTENING WEAR, TORRES DRESSES High quality children’s fashions for babies, boys and girls up to 14 years - specialising in occasionwear.

Showrooms in Belfast, Dublin, Cork & Limerick.

NORTH EAST

 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€&#x;ď€˜ď€˘ď€Ąď€€ď€•ď€›ď€™ď€Ąď€—ď€? Weldon Agencies, Southport, Merseyside Tel: 01704 576033 Email: barrieweldon@btconnect.com, andrewweldon@btconnect.com www.weldonagencies.co.uk FUN & FUN, LE CHIC, DEUX PAR DEUX, NO NO, BOBOLI, FOQUE, SARDON, MOOD STREET 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 EAST

ď€&#x;ď€?ď€?

ď€&#x;ď€?

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€?ď€&#x;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.minizzz.com CATYA (IT), MINIZZZ 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.

��� 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.

MIDLANDS

ď€¨ď€•ď€Ąď€œď€§ď€?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, ROOM SEVEN CHILDRENSWEAR, PERSNICKETY CHILDRENSWEAR ROOM SEVEN KIDS INTERIORS, BEDDINGHOUSE KIDS BEDDING

Van Huizen Agencies is a young, fresh and vibrant agency, for the more discerning retailer requiring beautiful and unique collections.

� Roccapina, 8 Pembroke Close, Thrapston, Northants, NN14 4XJ Tel: 01832 776588 Fax: 01832 730188 Email: sales@roccapina.co.uk www.roccapina.co.uk LA QUEUE DU CHAT, BABINÉ BB, STURE&LISA, LEMON LOVES LIME, LOLLIPOP TWIRL, LEMON LOVES LAYETTE, GNU BRAND Agency representing high quality International brands offering classic, colourful and chic collections for ages 0-14 years. Covering the whole of the UK.

# 2" # ## " August/September 2014 - 61

TALKING POINT | WWW.CWB-ONLINE.CO.UK

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Samantha Sotos: The Samantha Sotos womenswear brand launched in 2006 when I opened my first studio in the vibrant, meatpacking district of Athens. The label quickly gained acclaim in the city and the glamorous islands of Mykonos and Crete, before swiftly spreading to Australia and Asia.

Living in Sydney, Athens and London at different times in my life, there were certain styles that I loved in each city, but there was always something missing for me. I wanted a bit of Australia in Europe and a bit of Europe in Australia. Hence the term I coined for the brand – Euralian – the perfect combination!

LT: What led you to branch into childrenswear?

SS: I began receiving commissions to create bespoke christeningwear. As a result, I launched a permanent christeningwear collection in 2011 – which has since evolved into childrenswear. The decision was based on demand from parents and godparents seeking pieces for their little ones that offered modern shapes, colours and materials while still providing the freedom to play and look as good as mummy and daddy. Clothes “For the Little Ones� aims to create collections that offer style and comfort; perfect for children’s fast-changing tastes and desire to be acknowledged as they grow-up and want to feel like little ladies and gents.

LT: What can we expect from the debut collection?

SS: S/s 14 comprises around 25 pieces for ages 0-10 years. We want pieces that can be worn in different ways and with different colours, so you feel that you are constantly playing with the look and keeping things interesting.

LT: What are the synergies between the women’s and children’s lines?

SS: We want to harmoniously connect the womenswear line with the childrenswear, creating a strong bond between the two.

Hence the use of the same colours and high-quality, carefully resourced fabrics. Each childrenswear collection is an extension of the womenswear collection, with the Euralian philosophy consistent in both lines. Given the cohesion between the womenswear and childrenswear, we aren’t at all surprised that some stockists have been tempted to present both lines simultaneously. But, at the same time, the collections work independently, too.

LT: How does the creative process differ designing childrenswear compared to womenswear?

SS: The womenswear collection is designed first, so this has the initial feeling and proposal for the new season, inventing new lengths and cuts. The childrenswear line is based on the womenswear line, but we have to be more practical for the little ones. We have to always think of comfort, yet make sure the clothes look pretty enough for kids to want to wear.

I love designing clothes for kids’ everydaywear; combining colours for them that you wouldn’t necessarily expect for a child. Again, because the children’s collection is based on our womenswear line, it emphasises the diversity of ages that our brand appeals – and applies – to.

The design philosophy behind For the Little Ones is to create comfortable, stylish clothing that allows these beautiful, carefree kids to explore and be free and act their age while still being sophisticated and well-dressed, which ultimately, makes mum and dad proud.

LT: Are there plans to develop the children’s line?

SS: Definitely. We plan to expand the line; at the moment I have to admit that we have more proposals for the girls, but more boyswear is on the way. For future collections, we’re excited

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to introduce some Australian vintage prints, which will be exclusive to the childrenswear line. These will be mixed with beautiful Greek lace trims, creating a fresh and modern folk look. I am careful, however, to focus on small, dedicated collections for the childrenswear, so that stores can still play with the choice of colours on offer.

LT: What’s your favourite design from the childrenswear collection so far?

SS: The “not a child not yet a lady dress� is a favourite with customers and it just so happens to be my favourite, too. The dress is quite indicative of the brand – there is a timeless, girly sophistication to it. My friends’ little girls have put that dress on and the smiles that burst onto their faces when they get to run around in it are just glorious.

LT: Which other childrenswear brands do you admire?

SS: I love Stella McCartney for kidswear and womenswear – I like the urban feel she offers to her kidswear line, while still creating fun clothes.

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