How the Oldland Family Built Hatley One Illustration at a Time

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How the Oldland Family Built Hatley, One Illustration at a Time

Brothers Nick, Jeremy and Chris Oldland continue to honor their mother’s artistic expressions and family-first approach to business, both in their operations and the design of happy, sustainable clothing for children. By Michele Silver

From left: Chris, Nick and Jeremy Oldland

A Hatley original design

IT ALL STARTED in 1986 with matriarch Alice Oldland, a talented artist who handpainted whimsical animals on aprons that she sold with her husband, John, out of their little gift shop in North Hatley, Quebec. In 1999, the parents were ready to retire to England and handed their manufacturing company to their three sons, Nick, Jeremy and Chris.

Nick recalls in the company’s video story on their website that, “My parents literally gave us the keys and said, ‘Don’t call.’’ Nick inherited the drawing gene from his mother, so he became the new creative force behind Hatley.

Nearly 25 years later, Hatley still maintains itself as a children’s art house of sorts, with original prints driving its collections. The company has more than 450 accounts in 25 countries and its categories comprise apparel for baby, girls, boys, and women as well as sleepwear, swimwear and rainwear for the younger set. This year will see the expansion of Hatley outerwear.

With 300 employees, including six graphic designers and 12 garment designers, the company still adheres to its illustrative roots, seeking inspiration in nature and staying true to Alice’s original art aesthetic. Hatley has never rested on its laurels, >32

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