The Biz: The Grapevine

Retailers’ aisles are stocked with back-to-school accessories. The challenge is to find fun and unique styles that will last the year. Big Love got smart and based their collections on ideas that will never go out of style: Love, Peace, Happiness and Freedom. Based on these values recognized from Saint Francis of Assisi, Big Love packs inspiration on the backs of backpacks. Roomy enough to hold lunch, books, a laptop and even extra clothes, the durable backpack in crinkly nylon fits even tiny backs. With front nylon zippered pockets and top handles for easy carrying, this pack will hold up on the bus or on a weekend trip to Grandma’s.

In July 2004, in the lavish South of France, Bulle de BB was created by an expectant and fashion forward French mom, Samantha Lenient. She was eager to find quality clothing for her new baby that would be both charming, yet modern and trendy. She loved the idea of discreetly adding tiny, tender messages to make a statement. As Cedric Chauvet, Export Assistant explains, “Bulle de BB” is a play-on-words. “Bulle” means “speech bubble” and “BB” means “baby.” The company has grown at a rapid rate since its creation, and the little messages in French always resonate well with the customers.

In another era, children’s clothes were timeless in design and, accordingly, fewer in number. Many of today’s parents hanker for lovely garments made with care that stand up to wear, along with classic looks that don’t go out of style. Eyes will light up when they see designs from Pennymeade, named with a nod to simpler times when kids were dressed as kids and life flowed at a tranquil pace. This company embraces responsible consumerism with fine craftsmanship and coordinating pieces that last long beyond the season.

Dubai is one of the most popular vacation spots among the rich, famous and influential. Its pristine white sands, striking contemporary skyline and top-notch resorts draw multitudes of tourists each year. Children growing up in Dubai have a fun and unique childhood experience. They’re exposed to sights and activities that most other kids can only dream of, and this proximity to an opulent lifestyle will no doubt shape their future fashion choices. Dubai-based children’s clothing company ShoSho Bella is a good example of the luxurious style frequently found in the Emirates.

Every home needs some ambience; a way for the inhabitants to feel cozy, secure and happy. Aesthetic touches like blankets, pillows, throws and other accessories do more than just provide physical warmth and comfort; they add a distinctive look and help create the right vibe. They also provide a way for the residents to express their unique style sense and show appreciation for the things they love. Scene Weaver describes itself as a “feel-good” company that offers multiple collections with a little something for just about everyone. Pickled is a branch of Scene Weaver that offers lighthearted children’s room décor and clothing collections.

Kissy Kissy launches into bigger sizes with its first sleepwear collection. After a small test for Fall ‘14, the brand’s pajama offering has grown to include a range of prints, sizes and silhouettes. With this move from day to night, the beloved baby outfitter has maintained its signature softness and sweet aesthetic. The line comprises snug-fitting, 2-piece Peruvian Pima cotton sets in more than 15 prints. The spring offering includes both long-sleeve tops and pants sets to get children through those last chilly nights as well as short-sleeve tops and shorts sets for when things heat up.

It’s the never-ending conundrum for shoppers: what baby shower gift is unique enough to be remembered but still something a new parent wants and needs? Endue is ending this dilemma with their beautifully practical layette sets and organic baby clothing. Mostly made of 100% certified organic Peruvian cotton, the silky soft brand will please even the most discriminating parent. As if the quality of their product isn’t enough, Endue donates life-saving meals to a child in need for every product purchased.

Clothes shopping should be fun for customers. It’s a great feeling to find new looks and fresh pieces that express one’s fashion sense and are perfect for an occasion. Well-fitting maternity clothes can contribute to this body confidence as well. High-quality maternity clothing helps a pregnant woman show off her best assets and gives her the same style benefits she has with everyday clothes. Maternal America is a good example of the quality and style many women look for in maternity wear. This large company is based in Los Angeles but has subsidiaries in New York, Atlanta and Chicago.

Sometimes the simplest ideas become the most successful. When Lori Cohen’s 6-year-old daughter put on a pair of sneakers that were slightly too big she suggested putting something in the eyelets to make them tighter. “That night Shoeglits came to me in my sleep. I woke up and made my first prototype,” states Cohen. Originally the products were designed for girls ages 5-10 who wanted to “jazz up their sneakers.” Now the brand is growing to include boys, teens and moms.

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