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ENK Children's Club January 2009: Established Lines - Part I
With very few exceptions, almost all of the well known, established names, those who always make an appearance at Children's Club (the 'usual suspects' as I endearingly refer to them), showed up January 5-7, 2009, adding their support, optimism, and of course, experience, to the mix.
Andrea's Beau Beautiful, high quality hair accessories for girls and women Designer: Andrea Chafetz Wholesale: contact manufacturer Sizes: Toddler, Girls 4 - 6X, Girls 7 - 14 Standouts: The narrow and dainty elasticized headbands on an adjustable strap (they are not only beautiful but "fit well"); the satin and organdy covered headbands with vintage sequins, brocade, gossamer flowers in dusty muted pastels; the unapologetically extravagant styles with feathers and flowers; the bows (which are sewn rather than glued); the crystal Communion hair pins.
FYI: Headbands are a major category but from the look of things, the name of the company could just as easily be, Andrea's 'Bow' because bows are not only such a large part of Andrea's business, but she takes pride in having "the best bows around". "We make a great bow" she proudly exclaims! Andrea has also taken great pains not to "compromise", even these days. "We try to pick the prettiest things we can find. It's all about luxury!" Tel: 202-966-7004 E-mail: info@andreasbeau.com
Zutano Whimsical, colorful baby clothing and accessories Designer: Uli Belenky Wholesale: $4.75 - $25 Ages: Preemie to toddler Sizes: Preemie, layette, infant, toddler Standouts: The plush toys (bunnies, monkeys, etc.); the monkey scarves and hats; the colorful court jester hats; the patterned socks and tights (all of which coordinate with the clothing each season)
FYI: The name Zutano is Spanish for "what's his name?" It's also the last word in the Spanish dictionary. The Cabot, Vermont-based company is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Their motto is, "Clothes and accessories as unique as your baby". The designers are husband and wife and were inspired to create the company after the birth of their son. Tel: 802-563-2961, 800-827-5139 E-mail: zutano@zuntano.com
Fingerprints Bath accessories, children's sweaters Designer: Susan Skeels Wholesale: $14 - $27 Sizes: Infant, toddler, girls 4 - 6X, boys 4 -7, boys 8 -20 Standouts: The 100% cotton novelty sweaters (the cabled Aran knits; the roll neck pullover with shoulder buttons in white, pink, or blue with rolled hats to match; the gingham checked ribbon trim sweaters; the 'blanket edge' cardigan; the 'Grace Kelly'); the waffle weave terry lined "spa" robes which are perfect for beach, pool, or bath; the classic fleece lined toggle coat
FYI: Personalization and customization are a large part of Susan's business and she will add embellishments to order…she will also dye to order but she admits she keeps making white because everyone "wants white". Tel: 845-268-3527 E-mail: fgrpts@aol.com
MJK KNITS Custom made children's sweaters and coordinating hats Designer: Melissa Karetsky Wholesale: $20 -$46 Sizes: Preemie, Layette, Infant, Toddler, Girls 4 -6X, Boys 4 - 7 Standouts: The well priced, high quality hats which are made to coordinate with the sweaters (the beanie is a 'keepsake', and the earflap hats are new this season)
FYI: Every sweater will vary slightly since each one is custom made; the New York-based Ms. Karetsky has been in business for 18 years Tel: 212-751-7065 E-mail: mjkknits@nyc.rr.com
Carolyn Forsman Conversation Piece Jewelry Designer: Carolyn Forsman Wholesale: 25 cents - $20 Ages: Girls 4 - 6X, Girls 7 -14, PreTeen Standouts: The 'Obama Makes History' Mini Newspaper Pin; the 36 words 'Stretch Marks' Party Ice Breaker rubber bracelets; the 'Banned Books Necklace' on adjustable chain; the large pearl choker and matching bracelet in pink or white; the stackable metal 'Slinky' Bracelets; the rainbow hued hair barrettes and hair clips
FYI: The New York born Ms. Forsman earned an MLS Degree from Berkeley and describes herself as a "walking trivia person" but always had a creative streak, always loved the idea of mixing form and function, always wanted to be a jewelry designer, and was always interested in making "affordable, upbeat, pieces". Tel: 212-664-7621 E-mail: hello@carolynforsman.com
Teeny Tiny Optics 100% UV protective sunglasses for kids Designer: Alice Lando Wholesale: $3 - $8.50 Size: Baby to teen Standouts: The large oversized 'glamour' glasses embellished with little peace signs; the 'tortoise shell' frames embellished with 'bling' on the temples; the decidedly retro Ray Ban inspired frames; the classic 'Burberry' influenced plaid frames; the colorful and fun tropical florals; the boys' Spiderman wraparound frames
FYI: All the glasses offer 100% UV protection from the sun and have impact resistant lenses. Ms. Lando's husband owns 'Clic', a line of adult readers that 'click' to close in front. Tel: 415-927-3535 E-mail: order@teenytinyoptics.com
Jannuzzi Edgy and fun styles for boys and girls Designer: Rose Jannuzzi Wholesale: $12 - $28.30 Sizes: Infant, toddler, girls 4 - 6X, girls 7 - 14 Standouts: The brand new Eco Chic Collection (T's emblazoned with eco friendly messages); the colorful and girlie 'Cotton Candy Collection' (tanks and bloomies trimmed with ruffles, like the one photographed on Joely Fisher's daughter in People Magazine, November 2008); the 'All Star Collection' featuring T's, one-pieces, burp cloth gift sets appliquéd with baseballs, footballs, basketballs, helmets.
FYI: Rose Jannuzzi originally launched her eponymous line in 2005; it began as a collection of hand embroidered women's tanks (they immediately sold out and customers began asking for matching baby outfits) and the rest is history. Tel: 949-725-3404 cj@jannuzziclothing.com
China Doll Shoes and accessories for women and girls who love being feminine Designer: Treesa Robinson Wholesale: $7 - $25 Ages: Infant - adult Standouts: The sequined Maryjanes which are a signature style and constant best seller; the leopard and zebra printed ballerinas; the penny loafers and driving mocs in faux zebra; the black and white houndstooth Mary Jane with black satin bow; the beaded coral trimmed thongs
FYI: The company is known for fun, colorful, and ultra feminine styling and details (lots of trademark sequins and embellishments); sequins have always been their signature (the sequined Mary Jane is not only a signature style but a perennial best seller), but precision beading is their signature now. Nowadays, Ms. Robinson is more concerned than ever, with keeping prices moderate and meeting the needs of those who have lots of style but not necessarily big budgets. Tel: 323-655-1345 E-mail: dollofchina@aol.com
Originally published February 9, 2009
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