Free Bird

The demand for swimwear definitely saw an uptick during the pandemic.

–MAUREEN SCHMIDT

replenish stock throughout the year. That way, we keep the inventory fresh rather than bringing in the bulk for one delivery window.

ER: For S 2023, what are the top trends you think will perform the best and why? Maureen: There are so many fun trends emerging right now such as crochet details, smocking and shimmer fabrics. We believe fashion silhouttes, unique fabrications and the small details will continue to be important. Today’s consumer is so informed and savvy!

The demand for swimwear definitely saw an uptick during the pandemic. Everyone wanted to be outside and not confined in the house whenever possible, even if it was just to be in their own back yard.

ER: How has your business been affected by supply-chain disruptions? Fred: The global supply chain continues to be a challenge for everyone on both side of this industry and the labor shortage here in the U.S. is greatly contributing to the delays as well. Our biggest challenge has been absorbing the freight costs, which have tripled since the pandemic began. We have worked hard so we don’t have to pass these additional costs on to our retailer partners. We’re also working much further ahead this season to help navigate any possible delays.

ER: What advice do you have for a company that wants to get into childrenswear? Fred: It’s very simple: Be authentic and work tirelessly at exceeding your customers’ expectations. Also, be kind to everyone–your employess, suppliers, customers and fellow vendors.

DISCOVER

ORDER bini GET INSPIRED

Sloane is wearing a swimwear top by Submarine, shorts by Feather 4 Arrow and her own cap.

Jolie is wearing a swimsuit and swim shorts by Puma and her own sunglasses. Opposite page: Catherine is wearing swimwear by Coral & Reef Beachwear, tie-dye shorts by Mabel & Honey and her own hat.

Owen is wearing swimwear by Pepita & Me and shoes by adidas.

Jolie is wearing swimwear by Submarine, bucket hat by Puma and her own watch. Opposite page: Sloane is wearing swimwear and T-shirt by Feather 4 Arrow.

Catherine is wearing a swimwear top by Snapper Rock and shorts by Vintage Havana. Special Thanks to Zuri Agency

STEP RIGHT INSIDE

FEATURING CUSTOM DISPLAYS that will serve as models for future brick-and-mortar outlets in the U.S. and abroad, footwear company Floafers has opened a location shared with its corporate headquarters in Holmdel, N.J. The concept shop will double as a lab and retail experience, allowing the team to garner direct feedback from consumers, according to CEO Larry Paparo. The Floafers shop highlights product against a backdrop of lifestyle imagery that includes a range of outdoor activities to a day at the office. “The concept stores and shop-in-shops will enable us to present a consistent face of the brand to consumers,” Paparo said. “Our goal is to create a fun and easy way for people to step into the world of Floafers.”

Floafers Concept Shop

THE NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MARKETPLACE

Only in Dallas you can source over 750 top baby and children’s lines across a complete lifestyle marketplace. Explore trending children’s products in a variety of categories: apparel, accessories, footwear, gift, toys, décor, and more.

Dallas KidsWorld

AUGUST 23 – 26, 2022 OCTOBER 25 – 28, 2022

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