Items tagged “Children (4-7 years)”

Michele Keeler is a triple threat in the design world, creating clothing, shoes, and items for the home. This is quite the impressive resumé for someone who became a professional designer by “accident.” It was 1996 and Michele was a single mom of two young children. Like many moms, especially those living on a single income, she faced the challenge of keeping her little ones in clothing that looked good and fit them well. Luckily, she had sewing skills and a good eye for fashion, so making clothing for her kids wasn’t just a task to endure, but a pursuit that made her happy.

The rise in allergies has had a dramatic impact on the landscape of families and fun time. Gone are the days when classroom cupcakes were the norm and children painted with whatever was handy. Glob founder Ashley Phelps understands sensitivities. As an artist, she suffered through skin irritation from paints, but just bore the trouble as part of her trade. However, life was about to get better: a friend who was developing a house paint from plants inspired her to investigate new, safe ways to color her world. She started Glob, and has been helping families with her non-toxic, environmentally-positive products ever since.

Few milestones are as important to parents as a child’s first steps. What’s on their little fearless feet during this time is crucial for development and safety. As studies continue to show the importance of keeping tykes toddling in soft shoes or socks, some can be too tight or too slippery. These four companies can keep little feet rocking without compromising security or fashion: Zuzii, Bubysums, Snowflakes and Sunflowers and Vs. Stuff.

There’s nothing like a celebrity endorsement to bring a company more attention and business. Problem is, these endorsements can be difficult to obtain, not to mention expensive. Luckily for children’s clothing company Busy Bees, they got a super star endorsement for absolutely free. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow mentioned them in her blog, saying that their clothing was the kind that her children “love to wear.” This shout-out was among the many reasons that Busy Bee is enjoying so much popularity right now, and with top-quality products and lots of good feedback, they’re likely to stay on top of their game.

Often, when a company does good deeds or creates life-enhancing products, they benefit by getting increased media attention and positive word of mouth. It’s Business 101; when customers feel good about their experience with a company, they’re likely to buy from that company again and to recommend it to others. It also helps if your products are interesting and unique. Seeds of Happiness and Peace Passion Positivity are two companies that are getting plenty of good buzz right now.

REDONDO BEACH, CALIF. (February 24, 2014)—Kikli Design continues its quest to inject the excitement of travel into every little girl’s wardrobe. After a successful launch collection brimming with the colors and patterns of India, the line heads to Great Britain for Fall ’14. The line’s custom prints recall the textile and wallpaper design style made famous by William Morris, while others reveal a fondness for the legendary Hidcote gardens. And, of course, no British floral collection would be complete without the iconic English Rose.

Contact: Caletha Crawford

Spring is just around the corner (it just doesn’t feel like it in some places!), and soon the air will be full of birds’ songs and croaking frogs. Green shoots bring back new hopes for a fresh start, and one great way to kick off the season is with earth-friendly pieces. Fred’s World, a Scandinavian company that produces attention-grabbing, comfy children’s wear, is poised for another blockbuster year. Part of the company’s attraction has been its very strict dedication to creating clothes that are wearable, adorable, and gentle on the planet.

Shark Tank has been a Friday night viewing tradition of mine since its premier in August, 2009. Many children’s businesses have been on the program, so it is also a favorite for our industry. Recently, Betsy Johnson and her brother Berry Wanless pitched the “Sharks” to invest in their SwimZip brand of protective designer sunwear for a $60,000 investment and a percentage of equity ownership.

It’s a familiar tale with tip-toeing parents, a sleepy baby and a squeaky door. In 2007, Gail Calderon and Darlene Garcia came up with a solution born from necessity while combining their business acumen and sewing skills. The Original Cushy Closer Door Cushion answered the need to close doors without a sound, letting baby sleep. Without turning a doorknob or handle, Cushy Closer allows parents to enter or exit a room while keeping children from locking themselves in or out of their room.

In February, we celebrate love on Valentine’s Day and our country’s leadership on Presidents’ Day. For retailers, it’s a season for fun gifts and personal presents that show affection in all degrees, from puppy love to lifelong commitment. Make the season a reason to find new gifts for your store. Here I present one handful of finds that I love…

Donning the right clothes sets a child’s day, as the fit and fabric determine comfort and movement. They also serve as the canvas for family memories: tiny flowers on a neutral background may call to mind little angels picking wildflowers. Companies that understand the intimate connection between clothing and memories have a particularly important link to customers. The Portuguese company Anjo Kids has the creation of memories in mind with its luxury collection of children’s clothing.

KidShow - Las Vegas, Nevada (2/17/14 - 2/19/14)

This February, with celebrations of Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day, thoughts turn to personal achievements, leadership and, most of all, the loves and motivating passions of our lives. Passion, leadership and love for the children’s industry can all be found at KIDShow Las Vegas, at Bally’s on February 17-19, 2014. A sampling of KIDShow exhibitors shared with me about their own personal passions and what motivates them to be a leader in the children’s business: No Slippy Hair Clippy, CIRCUS 212, Le Top/Rabbitmoon, Coral & Reef, and Wee Ones.

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