Post written and photographed by Leah
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The Sydney 2011 edition of the Life InStyle trade-only event, incorporating , Kids InStyle, the baby and kids component of the show, was held at the Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter, Australia, last weekend. Showcasing around 200 baby and kids brands, and over 300 lifestyle and homewares brands, I was awed by the quality of the exhibitor produce and displays, and producing this issue of KidStyleFile’s Best In Show picks has proven to be one of my hardest assignments yet.
Strong trends noticed at the show included the continuation of nostalgic and retro themese in fashion collections, a definite movement towards bold colours, particularly red, the re-emergence of pastel paisleys, and an emphasis on quality and ethical products.
Without, further ado, please find here, the first 10 of our top 30 picks from Kids InStyle, Sydney 2011.
Read Best In Show: Kids InStyle Trade Event, Sydney Australia 2011 – Part 2 here.
Read Best In Show: Kids InStyle Trade Event, Sydney Australia 2011 – Part 3 here.
Have you ever had that feeling that you’ve come across something very special? As soon as I spotted Pigeonhole Kids I just knew that I had happened across something that was far from run of the mill kidswear. It was quirky, colourful….different. There is a certain preppy feel to many of the garments for boys.
For Western Australian readers, you are certainly already well aware of Pigeonhole who have had a significant presence in the adult fashion world of Perth since the opening of their first store in October 2007 (to view their stores and locations click here). Johann Kim – owner/designer of Pigeonhole Kids natural progression into children’s apparel sees his Korean heritage edging its way into many of his designs, and his own natural style bombarding the range.
Browsing the boys racks I had visions of Richie Cunningham, but with edge. For the girls, the Rose Coat (see second image below) is simply divine and the hair pins – well you have your pick of volumes of super cute buttons in bright colours, wooden bunnies, roses, hearts and so much more. My pick just has to be the square button clips.
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Minnetonka Moccasins – have a rich history. 60 years young, the American designed and made label has been inspired by the countries rich American Indian history to produce their range of modern moccasins. They still make a number of traditional styles, but have also designed many that will cope with the modern world of asphalt and gravel. Minnetonka Moccasins are a celebrity favourite, worn by the likes of Kate Moss, and have been picked up by Sportsgirl in women sizes. Teamed with a pair of skinny jeans, they are certain to rock this winter. Watch this space for stockists.
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Wishbone Design‘s first prototype was developed in a teeny tiny bathroom of Rich and Jen’s New York apartment. Rich, a country kid at heart, was on a quest to provide their children with a taste of the childhood that he had experienced; a childhood of outdoor fun and excitement.
The sustainably designed, innovative 3 in 1 Wishbone bike was revealed to much applause. It begins with three wheels for stability for the one year old toddler, converting to a two wheeler which can then be flipped when your kidlet reaches 4-5 years old for a larger frame. Rich tells me that your kidlet will usually then progress to a two wheeler pedal bike without training wheels! Revealed at KIS was the Limited Edition Wollemi design in celebration of 2011 International Year of Forests with an indigenous Australian flavour.
Right on the back of the 2011 New York Toy Fair, Australian buyers were able to glimpse the newest Wishbone design – the Flip. This eye catching number in a sleek curve design with bold red features introduces a 2 in 1 concept to kids rockers. Suiting ages 1 through to 5, the flip transforms from a rocker to a ride on in literal seconds and even has a storage space ready for your kidlet to place their favoured items to be moved around at their will. I just know this will be a favourite on birthday lists this year.
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Tea Princess never fails to impress me, and the Autumn/Winter 2011 collection is no exception. Dubbed the “English Pony” collection, you’ll find gorgeous jodhpur style leggings to wear with leather boots, divine dresses in Tea Princess signature pastels with lace detailing and embellishments, and the pièce de résistance – an English style riding jacket which is my absolute must have this winter. The collection has been inspired by three little girls, Bella, Annie and Gigi, whose favourite past time is riding their ponies in the English countryside. Watch out for Bella with her pony when the range launches in the coming weeks. I feel a mixture of boho and romantic flavours throughout the range, and just love the attention to detailing that Tea Princess has become renowned for – just look at the lace!
Tea Princess has taken the UK by storm, with Harvey Nichols snatching up the collection and doubling their last order! This label is one to watch for its whimsical, dreamy feel.
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As a little girl, sitting on my nan’s lap, I learned to crochet and knit. I was totally enthralled when we sourced a pattern book which stepped you through the process of hand knitting soft animals. As soon as I came across the and the little dog laughed stand I was immediately taken back to those times. Overwhelmed with nostalgia, I perused the upcoming range. Kylie Platt, the Australian designer has drawn on her own childhood to create a number of fun, whimsical pieces that evoke an old world charm. 100% cotton handknitted puppies grabbed my attention. Softer than anything I made as a child, more beautiful and with the perfect combination of modern touches and the traditional make these an item to grab for baby showers and for newborn gifts. Of course, and the little dog laugh have some brand new fashion pieces for their little fans. Denim bloomers are on their way, as well as a gorgeous charcoal smock dress among my favourites.
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Bursting out from the market scene, Boohoo? is a young Australian designed label certain to become a favourite among the kids fashion devotees. Featuring pieces across the 0-7 age range for both boys and girls, you’ll find exclusive prints and the most delectable designs. The summer 2011/12 range features spectacular paisley, navy creams, peach, pastels and bold colour prints perfect for girls in stunning dresses, playsuits and bloomers, whilst the boys won’t be disappointed with cheeky boardshorts (watch out for the Walk Short in Palm) and statement graphic t-shirts exclusive to the Boohoo? label. Available in August/September 2010, this is one label to watch out for.
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Cocoon Couture showcased their newest products within a very vibrant and fun stand. I oohed and ahhed as I spotted the latest addition – two new wall sticker ranges (Enchanted Wood and Love Struck)! Oh my, these will take your breath away. Cheeky squirrels, forest butterflies, dreamy owls and early birds are among the menagerie of animals that could become feature pieces on your nursery wall – let your imagination run wild. Of course, all of the Cocoon Couture products tie in with each other including the new denim bean bags and wooden money boxes. Watch out for the newest characters to join the team!
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Lilly and Sid is one of the latest UK labels to hit our Aussies shores. All 100% cotton and fully coordinated across the range (that means you can mix and match everything!), the jersey and knitwear products will be delightful additions to any infants wardrobe. The signature black polka dot pattern runs across the range and ties all og the pieces together. Watch out for a July release and keep your eye out for Betty Cat, Alf Bear and Boo Rabbit!
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No Added Sugar from the UK turns ten this year and is celebrating by crossing the great blue sea and launching in Australia. Mum Deborah Medhurst started the label with a simple desire to create witty t-shirts. She has retained this original idea with some rather sweet, yet amusing tees such as “It’s a Girl Thing”, “Lock Up Your Daughters”, ” Queen Bee” and “My Heart Belomgs to Daddy” but has also branched out, creating a full range of year long staples and seasonal wear. Manufactured in Portugal (except the tights which are made in France), and spanning ages 0-12 years, the label is durable and stylish and will be ripe for the picking shortly.
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As an avid Cheeky Chickies fan, having stalked the range since it’s debut (or should I say hatching) only a few years ago, I just had to catch a glimpse of the Spring/Summer 2011/12 range. Deni has outdone herself, and I am certain that this is the best range from the label yet! The manufacturing process behind this label is awe inspiring: the material is knitted from organic cotton in QLD, dyed in Melbourne and then made in Sydney. Oh yes people, feast your eyes on a thoroughly designed and made Australian made label. New to the range is some gorgeous handscreen printed organic cotton/hemp muslin additions to the apparel – just look at the peacocks on the jumpsuit above; more additions to their accessory range and so much more.
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Please check individual stores for availability and postage and delivery information.
