Color, Texture and Design: Extraordinary Clothing from April Cornell

Take a mental journey across the centuries, stepping back to the courts of Paris and following trade routes to exotic destinations within India, to Hong Kong and then around the globe to the New World. Now, transport that cultural tapestry back to the present and weave it into an uncommon line of feminine clothing for children. Such are the inspired visions for infants, little girls, and big girls as captured in children’s clothing from April Cornell.

”Unusual” would be an understatement in describing April’s bold and beautiful children’s clothes. Everything about them — from colors and fabrics to styles — wardrobes girls in rich but demure couture and hints of times passed. Her designs take shape as vintage dresses, skirts and blouses, long-sleeved ruffled collared petticoats, elegant full-length jackets, and accessories.

Discover the simple Dots dress ($59.00 retail) of white polka dots on navy cotton voile, layered with white cutwork embroidery and scalloped ruffles at the hem. Paired with a white petticoat, it turns a school day into a special occasion. In contrast, the red-on-black velvet Caroline dress ($69.00 retail) expresses luxury in ornate ruffles, pleats and sashes. It, too, requires a petticoat and boasts a pleated waistband-cum-sash tied at the back and matched to a ruffled flounce at the hem. Such a fashion statement transforms an already-special occasion into nothing less than a memory-making event!

The event might be a soirée with parents for a first taste of grown-up society at the theatre or holiday party. Either venue warrants a fancy dress and an equally festive full-length jacket. Perhaps the occasion is more intimate: a portrait sitting with Mama while clad in a “Mommy and Me” dress, because April Cornell also makes uncommon adult clothing.

Extraordinary ensembles of vintage design and sumptuous needlework, textiles, and color must surely emanate from an art-driven psyche. Painting-like, they’re rendered from impression to specific detail, integrating images of nature and rich world cultures. Indeed, a region in India represents both cultural inspiration and a core production region for April’s clothing. She “gives back” to this area, empowering women and helping impoverished children through the Concern for India Foundation and the Giving World Foundation.

Retailers, experience the color, texture and design of April Cornell’s children’s clothing at www.aprilcornell.com