Fall’s Fashion Forecast is for Capes and Ponchos

Trends are the lifeblood of all retail, but let’s agree some trends can be done wrong. Picture “Ugly Betty” upon hearing that ponchos are now in style showing up in something that should be draped on a burro. Luckily, the new capes and ponchos trend is nothing like her burro blanket, and it’s hitting the younger set fast. Light, breezy and easily layered, the trend is totally wearable.

Unlike many sweaters or jackets, capes and ponchos give kids the warmth they need while letting them move the way they want. Parents love the combination of style and functionality, and girls love the twirlability. Big-button capes and detailed ponchos are in for fall, so deliver with these designers who do the trend best, including the little hummingbird, NICO.NICO, Girl and a Mouse and Babylady Inc.

the little hummingbird is Making Some Buzz

the little hummingbird will appeal to outdoorsy girls who love to play and be fashionable at the same time. The 2012 line of adorable capes and ponchos is true to the brand’s motto: “like hummingbirds, little kids bring the same love and magic into the world while laughing, playing and growing along the way.” Founders Archna and Olivia are both graduates of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in California and definitely know how to translate adult fashion trends to little girls.

the little hummingbird shows its commitment to preserving the natural world and creating a safe and compassionate environment with its animal-stenciled poncho. Covered with whimsical woodland creatures including moose and wolves, their khaki-colored poncho is sure to be a favorite.

Their cape-style coat, also in khaki, goes with casual or dressy clothes and is perfectly roomy for an active child. Knee-length and with large decorative buttons, little girls don’t need to be covered head to toe in pink to feel like a princess. Designed for girls ages 2 to 8, parents will love the earthy colors and well-made fabric.

Flutter on over to www.thelittlehummingbird.com

NICO.NICO Organic Ponchos are Perfect for Fun and Fashion

For a vibrant take on the cape, check out NICO.NICO. Named for her son, Sue Tsai created her children’s line to combine style, simplicity and comfort at reasonable prices. Believing strongly that designs can be modern and environmentally conscious, NICO.NICO is made from fine organic and sustainable fabrics. Better still, it’s made in the United States.

Sue has an amazing way of playing with textures that thrills parents and children alike. Her grey poncho with small delicate buttons has a fleecy, fuzzy look that’s soft and cozy, while her bright red poncho harkens a fishing vest with its roominess, big pockets and simple buttons. Perfect for a walk in the park or a day on the playground, little ones can carry favorite trinkets or whatever they pick up along the way in the nice wide pockets.

Designed for ages 18 months to 12 years old, her designs aren’t just for girls. Sue pays close attention to her son, Nico, as he grows and she focuses on making sure what he wears is simple, comfortable and fashionable. Little boys will love going out to play in the loose-fitting and masculine grey capes with loose sleeves.

Expand your definition of fall outerwear at www.niconicoclothing.com

Girl and a Mouse: Styles for All Seasons

Girl and a Mouse, the clothing collection for girls two through eight, is hot on the trend of capes and ponchos this year. The clothing has a timeless quality and uses an eclectic mix of fabrics and prints, incorporating interesting details with breezy and relaxed silhouettes for the active child.

One holiday star for fall is the flowy red and white gingham poncho. Girl and a Mouse incorporates surprise elements within each collection: a touch of embroidery, a frill, or a pop of color in just the right spot to be girly and classic. Ideal for layering, parents will appreciate that the ponchos can be used through all seasons.

British sisters Nicola and Fiona White are in their third season of designing clothes they wish they could have worn when they were kids. Transport your customers to sunny California even in the fall with their breezy, beachy style of clothing beyond ponchos. Nicola is inspired by photos and vintage garments she collects from North America, Europe, and Asia. Despite their travels and influence, the sisters make all their items in the U.S.A., using high-end manufacturers with a keen eye for quality pieces.

Direct your mouse to www.girlandamouse.com

Babylady Capes are the Cat’s Meow

If you want to sell capes that buck the trend of classic or girly, meet Babylady Inc. Their cat-like poncho is cute as a kitten, ideal for back to school. It frames a child’s face in a soft grey hood, complete with plaid lining the inside and little cat ears on top. Made for everyday wear, it could double as a less restrictive Halloween costume. The poncho has a sweet little collar with a small button that matches the one you find on its chest.

Founder Kat West’s pet cause is to help support New York City’s suffering Garment District and so Babylady Inc. is currently manufacturing 100% of their designs in Manhattan. After this cause was touted in Project Runway this season, whether you’re in New York or Idaho, customers will relate to the plight of the local designer and be able to help give back by purchasing fall fashions by Babylady.

Find out what capes can do for your fall season at www.babyladyinc.com