Summer Fun at Playtime NY

The Playtime NY show, which runs from August 3rd to the 5th at a new venue on Wall Street, is an exhibition powerhouse. March show results testify to its growth: over 100 exhibiters had an opportunity to connect with 1,662 attendees, an increase of 12% over the last show. Playtime NY already has 130 exhibitors geared up to make it one of the best shows ever. Stateside and international players line up to connect with industry and retail leaders.

This season’s theme is “Playtime Superstars”, and features a panel discussion on social media chaired by Earnshaw’s publisher, Noelle Heffernan, editor-in-chief, Audrey Kingo, and Carla Zanoni, Director of Social Media and Engagement at DNAinfo.com. Show attendees should keep an eye out for on-trend companies that are ahead of the curve, like Boutan Kids, Jammies Prêt-à-Porter, poopsies, and Chat Mechant.

Boutan Kids: Comfortable Style, International Design

“Sales have been good for Bouton in the U.S., and I am looking to grow my market by exhibiting at Playtime NY,” explains Rekha Iyer-Marchand, founder of Boutan Kids. Launched in 2009 with an eye for quality, classic clothing that fits a child’s lifestyle, Boutan Kids has rapidly expanded. The multi-cultural designs are influenced by Iyer-Marchand’s childhood in India and extensive travel, and are constructed from designs developed in London and textiles in Bombay.

One of the attributes of a Boutan design is versatility: it can be mixed and matched with other pieces in the collection, or go rogue, effortlessly accentuating the child wearing other designer’s separates. Boutan Kids has a variety of strong sellers; dresses like the Gaya are in demand, as are the distinctive pieces like the 100% cotton reversible Aasta Short Jacket with a white/gold flower print on one side and a solid dusty blue on the other. “The [Rocco] tunics do well for both boys and girls,” adds Iyer-Marchand, explaining the strong customer demand for designs like the blue kalamkari print Rocco tunic with mandarin collar.

If you can’t make the show, make sure you visit www.boutonkids.highwire.com

Jammies Prêt-à-Porter: Sweet Success

“We walked the show last season and loved the quality and style of brands exhibiting at Playtime,” notes Meryl Levy, co-founder of Jammies Prêt-à-Porter, explaining why they are going to the upcoming event. Jammies Prêt-à-Porter offers gotta-have clothing packages in BPA-free recycled plastic jam jars — a throw-back to when Levy’s father used to give presents in these unusual, but sweet, packages. With her brother Brian, Meryl grew the company to what it is today — introducing two new styles for their 2014 collection. The jarred pieces make wonderful gifts for birthdays, holidays, and showers.

The Watermelon Body Suit offers full coverage in ribbed Poppy Seed with pink trim on the top, which seals with a crossing snap-closure. Matching trousers sport pink circle kneepads. Purists will want to put their little angels in the Butter Romper made with 95% organic cotton (sizes newborn to 9 months).

Home-made quality is king at Jammies: “Jammies Prêt-à-Porter pieces are made in the U.S.A. at a lovely factory specializing in children’s wear. Quality and attention to detail are key to our brand and we only use the softest fabrics in the production of our garments.”

For more information, visit www.jammiesnyc.com

poopsies: Get the Message Out About Keeping Stuff In

What’s stretchy, comfortable, and keeps baby blow-outs from ruining everyone’s day? poopsies — attractive snuggly clothing with a special lining. Developed by Annemarie Waters, a mother of four, poopsies apparel not only makes baby look good, but also puts an end to embarrassing messes.

Playtime NY is the place to spread their message of comfort and cleanliness. “We were drawn to Playtime NY for its intimacy and focus on high quality children’s and maternity products. For us, it’s not all just about selling our brand; it’s about having fun, enjoying the show, and developing lasting relationships with like-minded parents and small business owners,” says Christy Feltman, Executive Vice President of poopsies.

The integration of design and utility is seamless and adorable. The lining is breathable, so babies won’t suffer from diaper rash. Customers have been quick to snap up the Shobi, a pink and white striped long sleeve outfit, as well as the deep blue Boaz long sleeve outfit. Other stellar pieces include the Lilah short-sleeved suit in blueberry and lilac as well as the classic white Zion (which can be had in both the long and short-sleeved styles). poopsies are made in the U.S.A.

Bring families with diaper-wearing members some peace of mind: www.getpoopsies.com

Chat Mechant: All About Fun Fashion

Another returning exhibitor, Chat Mechant shows that like attracts like: Playtime NY promotes businesses with an eye for unique styles and Chat Mechant is a leader in providing Euro-cool styling with a twist of the playful. Chat Mechant clothing is about fun fashion for babies 1-18 months and children 18 months-14 years old.

The company focuses on creating pieces “designed with love, made with care for man and nature.” It enticed buyers at the Playtime NY 2012 show with its vibrant summer styles full of brilliant tangerines, limes, and lemons. Kicky mixed-neon sandals and chunky laced boots rounded out the bright collection. Warmer autumn/winter pieces are transformed from everyday fashion to whimsical wear with the addition of curious kittens, pouting pandas, and friendly pups.

The company offers a full line of clothing for boys and girls, including pieces like the boys ROEL shirt in the grey mountain print and the girls’ tasty Caramel Sparkle boots. For tiny tots, the one-pieces with adorable animal pics are a hit (available in pink, grey, green, and orange). The Jack Beanie, in green/orange and blue/green, offers generous coverage and elfish style. Little girls love to dress up, and the Zaza frock is a testament to girlhood: this short-sleeved dress falls just above the knee, making it easy to be fashionable and still have fun (sizes 2- 14).

Fun fashion takes the stage at Playtime NY: www.kswyngedauw.wix.com/chat-mechant