Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Dococo @ Colette


May stands for Play at Colette, the famous Paris adults'concept store. "Dococo", a one month concept for kids will take place in the mezzanine of the Rue Saint-Honore store with a selection of clothing from APC, Balouga, Bonpoint, Cacharel, Little Marc, and the latest creation of Matali Crasset : the "Composit'" couch for Dunlopillo. Each Wednesday and Saturday kids will be entretained at the store with events around arts and crafts, starting with an animation from Make It Magnetic by Laure Fischbach.

Fashion Bible




Kids Fashion Designers is a Must Have for everyone who is interested in kids fashion. The 400 pages book features a great selection of international designers. Each designer is introduced through many different photographs from articles, catalogues and look-books, as well as various sketches and moods. Most of the designers presented have shown or are showing at Bubble, The Kids Trade Show, some of them in exclusivity. Check out Babybean, Dagmar Daley, Finger in the nose, Flora and henri, Ismodern, lemlem, Mor Mor Rita, No added sugar, Oeuf, Pink chicken, Tzawa, Wovenplay and more.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Kids with attitude



You might have come across the work of Photographer Lesley Semmelhack, who has recently worked with Small Magazine and Marilyn Tov. Lesley says her inspiration has always stemmed from the raw and honest energy of children. This former Conde Nast girl casts all her shoots herself and finds it to be almost as fun as taking pix. We love those "kids being a little less stereotypical" or, in other words, kids with attitude.

Friday, April 24, 2009

Ferd goes online




A couple of years ago, Ferd launched a "boys only" collection that drew a lot of attention. They have grown since, adding a beautiful girl's line. Today they are launching their online store. As a welcome gift, 25% discount is offered to the readers of this blog. www.ferdkids.com, promotion code Bubble25.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Stella roars


Stella McCartney's shop in Mayfair, London exhibits such an exciting window display this Spring. We couldn't help sharing it here: Dinosaurs have taken over in a multicolor fantasy-land. And if you're in town, check out also Dover Street Market's celebrating Barbie's 50th birthday.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

News on the costume side


Freshly arrived at Sweet William are some beautiful new costumes from Wovenplay. Bronagh Staley, owner of the Brooklyn store and former editor at Cookie Magazine says: "it is one of our most popular lines; Wovenplay makes exquisite handcrafted costumes for special occasions or everyday play. Terrific for a very special gift". We have tested and we can only agree.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Portraits at Pomme


Pomme, the uber-stylish and very-unique kid's store in Dumbo/Brooklyn strikes again with one of their coveted events. On the weekend of April 25th, Davina Zagury will set up a temporary photo studio at the store to capture siblings. "Playmates, role models, conspirators, and tormentors: siblings form the only relationship that is as long as life itself". The photos will be exposed at the store for a month and parents will be able to buy prints. By appointment. Pomme 81 Washington St, at York. DUMBO, in Brooklyn Tel 718.855.0623

Monday, April 20, 2009

Rock'in color



Perludi, the Austrian company that provides great design for small people (they have the best bunk beds!) has recently launched the Constantin rocking chair in new colors : orange, green, brown. Made of birch plywood and covered with loden, a warm, wear-resistant woollen fleece fabric. Constantin rocks!

Palates and palaces



The work of Bompas & Parr operates in the space between food and architecture. How cool...and what better way to introduce kids to shapes and taste? Their current project focuses on jelly: the perfect ingredient to examine food and architecture, a fusion of form and flavor. Bompas & Parr have also launched Alcoholic Architecture: take a walk in a cloud of breathable cocktail, step inside a gin and tonic mist full of giant limes and massive straws. But shhhh, that's only for grown ups!

China Express



According to the China Daily, 132 billion tourists will visit China this year.
If you are going, don't forget to bring back Faubourgs Saint-Denis'tees with bilingual French-Chinese texts and featuring the iconic tricycle, Panda bear or bird's market. And for those who aren't traveling, the tee-shirts are available online at faubourgsaintdenis.com. We've heard there's a 20% discount at the moment!

Friday, April 17, 2009

Make it your own way!



We love Make it Magnetic and you will surely do too. Make it Magnetic is a great concept that allows you creating a large scale magnet with the image of your choice. You photograph (your child), then you receive the pix mounted on a soft magnetic surface that you can place where you want (fridge, magnetic wall, even your car when it's sunny!). You can say bye bye to the silver photo frame and hello to lots of fun : your little one will spend hours placing/replacing the magnet upside-down, decorating it his own way. With Make it Magnetic you are an artist, your child is a star, and you can finally cook in peace.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Parisian wonderland



A new concept store is shaking the retail world. Called Merci and created by Bernard and Marie-France Cohen (founders and ex-owners of Bonpoint), the store is located near Bastille at the border of Le Marais. At Merci there is something for every wallet and every age; for children there is a selection of products from Bonpoint at 30 to 40% off. A large amount of items are custom-made for the store and all the profits, (production costs deducted), are going to a children’s charity in Madagascar. Everyone is going to Merci or is speaking about it. That proves that creative new projects can be extremely successful even in hard times. Merci, 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris - Tel +33-55353390.

Phaidon News


Freshly arrived at Phaidon, The Three Robbers is a delightfully woven tale with unforgettable illustrations that tells the story of how a little orphan named Tiffany turns three scary robbers from fierce to friendly. An award winning classic children's book by master illustrator, Tomi Ungerer.

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Beyond coloring



We have become addicted to Rosie Flo's coloring books. The sophisticated and humorous drawings are unfinished, which allows children to use their imagination to finish them whatever way they please. Good news, UK born Rosie Flo's books are now available (almost) all over the world. For the US, visit chroniclebooks.com.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Sher&Sher




Two of the photographers that caught our eye this month share the same surname. We thought that was a funny coincidence!
Angelika Sher (1st pix) and Tamir Sher (second pix) are from the same generation, they both live in Israel but they don't know each other. Either theatrical or more intimate, we love the way their photographs convey emotions.

Friday, April 3, 2009

The wild things...



Good news for the fans of beloved children's book by Maurice Sendak "Where the Wild Things Are" : a film adaptation is on its way, to be released in fall 09. The director is Spike Jonze, known for creating the music videos of Fatboy Slim, Daft Punk and Weezer, also director of "Being John Malkovich". The film will follow the adventures of Max who creates his own world in his mind inhabited by fabulous strange creatures. The images are exactly as they should be : wild!

Rugs for kids




A still relatively untapped market in the children's world: Rugs! Is it changing...? The famous Rug Company has a few models that can fit very well in a kid's room, such as the smarties, and Pappelina from Sweden is increasingly popular with its plastic rugs (the Viggo is on the picture above), found on several designer-focus online stores such as www.kidslovedesign.com. We have a particular crush on Katvig's new line of rugs (we always had a thing for this Danish brand..remember them at the first Bubble New York in March 2006!). Their rugs have recently arrived on the European markets and promise to be a great hit. Who's next?

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Organic growth




Lorena Siminovich from Petit Collage is launching yet another beautiful piece in her collection of modern accessories with a vintage twist: the Tree Friends bamboo mobile. Beginning with various styles of collage on wood, the brand has evolved into wall pieces, posters, mobiles and even a book published by Chronicle. And if you order today April Fool one of her mobile, you will receive a free matted "Owl Love" mini print on wood (value US$28)! Petit Collage is truly a story of organic growth. www.petitcollage.com

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Capes and plaids



In its last style report on Bubble New York, WGSN highlighted, among other trends, the omnipresence of capes and plaids. Judy Lee, designer of Half Dot Brooklyn is right in the air with a collection of wonderfully shaped coats in plaid fabrics. Furthermore, the line integrates some other key trends : organic (all pieces are lined with luxurious soft organic cotton), comfort/cocooning (the lining makes the products as comfortable as a child's favorite blanket), versatility (the entire collection is created for multi-weather wear: the simple click of snap buttons transforms each outfit so that it can be worn across the seasons) and playfulness (multitude of pockets for toys and treasures). This is what we call a hit!

Monday, March 30, 2009

Exclusivity




Collaborations between retailers and designers are the way to go in this difficult environment, and a little sparkle of exclusivity always makes everyone more excited. British artist Camille Roman has created those fun headpieces for girls specially for Little Fashion Gallery, one of the most forward-thinking online shop for kids. The paparazzi at Ascot will be happy this year...

Friday, March 27, 2009

Good bye Guys & Dolls


On a sad note, one of London's most well-known and first cool kids clothing store is shutting its doors: Guys & Dolls on Walton Street in Chelsea. Made famous for its merchandising choices as well as its exciting interior design, they were carrying beautiful brands such as Pepe shoes, Finger in the Nose, Sonia Rykiel, Little Marc Jacobs.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Fresh and Pretty


We love this image from the spring campaign of Hollys. It says it all about the brand: fresh and pretty aesthetics, nostalgic danish design, a recognizable four-leaf clover logo and easy going above all. Hollys will exhibit again at Bubble London June 21st & 22nd, and is sold in London at Sparkle&Spin, a sweet shop dedicated to scandinavian design.

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Lego revival


Iconic retro brands are all making a come back, so it's no big surprise to see the Legos showing up everywhere in the fashion world: from watches to cameras, bags and belts, mobile phones and even cupcakes! In this nostalgic era, it is nice to see a worldwide famous kids brand adapted to everyone's imagination. As seen on the cool hunter.

Thursday, March 19, 2009


Silvana Catazine, graphic designer, changed life and started a creative project in the kid's market when she became pregnant. We've heard that many times but it is still our favorite song. We keep thinking that children are genius, bringing so much strength, so much energy, so much creativity to their parents before they even come out of the womb!
So we can say "Thanks!" to Valentina for inspiring Silvana her mom with the idea of Naif, a colorful, fresh, punchy magazine for parents in the mood. Naif is in Spanish, but sometimes, especially when it comes to kids, no translation is needed!

NOBODINOZ, really?


NOBODINOZ opened in Barcelona in 2006 when Murielle and Roman BRESSAN decided to leave their jobs as a lawyer and an engeneer to combine their passion for art, design and fashion. The concept store offers a great range of furniture, home decor, toys and clothing (Dagmar Daley, Areaware, mor mor rita, manny&simon, i golifini della nonna, etc). They also sell the new kids fashion magazine Naif (an incentive to revise your Spanish!). For those who don't have Barcelona on their travel list, a selection of items is available online at www.nobodinoz.com.

Princess dresses


Mothers who have daughters know that it's all about pink, princesses and sparkles between age 3 and 5. But when your girls insist in wearing their froufrou dresses to the park and to restaurants, it can become a problem. OK, we love the idea of dream and extravagance even outside the house, but with style please, and without the ridiculous Disney archetypes. Dagmar Daley has just the perfect versatile dress (occasion/ceremony and chic disguise), a must in every girl's closet. Dagmar Daley F/W collection will be available from August at Yoya in NYC.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Bubble New York Report (March8-10 2009)




Despite the economic climate, Bubble New York attracted 1,016 visitors, a steady number compared to last season, thanks to a significantly increased visitor database. Leading kids stores attended from the U.S. (Anthropologie, Barney's New York, Bloomingdale's, Crembebe, Erica Tanov, Estella, Giggle, Ibiza Kids, Nordstrom, Pomme, Sons & Daughters, Sweet William, Takashimaya, Yoya, among others) and abroad (Kids on the Docks Antwerp, Kids Love Design Switzerland, Le Bon Marché Paris, NOBODINOZ Barcelona, Papillon London, Ships Tokyo, Stomp Stamp Toyko) as well as several buying offices (Kanematsu USA, Miki House, Mitsukoshi, The Daimaru Inc., United Arrows LTD).

Bubble New York Report, Part II

Bubble New York showcased 95 vendors from eight countries including 41 new collections. A wide array of products was spotlighted including clothing, organic goods, accessories, jewelry, home décor, toys and more. Overall, exhibitors reported being pleased with the event and the high quality of buyers despite the economic climate.

“This edition of Bubble was successful and encouraging for the children’s business in general, knowing the difficult context. Brands keep creating, innovating, infusing fun ideas and concept in their product offer. Retailers on their side reported a noticeable slowdown in sales, but those who conduct their business with an open mind and passion are optimistic about their future. Like every player in the industry, Bubble has a mission to find the best brands and to help them understand the market,” said Florence Rolando, co-founder, Bubble.

What exhibitors said about Bubble:

”The uniqueness of Bubble sets it apart from any other show in the U.S. The venue, the exhibitors and buyers create an exciting experience and help to grow your business.”
- Kate Quinn Organics

“We reached a great range of buyers from start up businesses to major department stores.”
- Ivy Studio

“Bubble provides a rare atmosphere of warm, friendly support with a group of high quality, sophisticated brands – it was the perfect launching pad for our new company.”
- Smiling Planet

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Organic success



Tane organics is a children's collection (newborn infants up to 12 months) using the most luxurious natural fibers.
The line, who was showcased at Bubble last week, had a great success. Buyers and journalists were just thrilled with the color palette, happy to see that organic cotton can be offered in such beautiful sophisticated saturated colors, even in melanges. Stores appreciated in Tane presenting a unisex collection at a time when the economy can be challenging. Additionally, everyone loved the cool display, reflective of nostalgic childhood playroom in a simple, chic and clean way.
Sheree Lee, Tane's owner/creative director said : " It was such a delightful experience launching Tane organics at Bubble New York, and being part of the Bubble family. I couldn't have chosen a better way to introduce the brand."

Friday, March 6, 2009

Everyone is gettin' Ready...Set...Go!


Bubble New York opens to the trade this Sunday until Tuesday with 100 vendors, lots of new ones and our old time favorites too. Everyone is getting ready for the show. Oeuf sent out this very sweet reminder that we wanted to share with you..See you there! Sunday 9:30am til 8pm with a cocktail from 6 to 8pm, Monday 9:30am til 6pm and Tuesday 9:30am til 4pm. Complimentary Bubble Limos are circling between the show and Javits Center so take advantage of them! The Bubble NY team.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Coming soon at Bubble...



Camp designer Suzanna Santostefano studied sculpture, fiber, film, painting and print making. No wonder her collection and website are so exciting. We can't wait to see her booth at Bubble this Sunday!