Sarah Tomczak, Red magazine editor and mother of the beautifully-attired Coco, 7, and Sylvie, 4, reveals her favourite independent children’s labels exclusively to Chic Little List
1. Folpetto
I love this swimwear brand for their simple, chic shapes with special details like frills and tassels, exceptional quality (the fabric is really thick but dries quickly and is SPF 50) and gorgeous colour palette including sage, peach, mint and cornflower blue.
2. Olivier Baby and Kids
I’m still a sucker for anything Liberty print and every season this brand chooses a beautiful selection of fabrics to create their dresses, dungarees and blouses. The swimwear is lovely too, as is the cashmere; both excellent quality. In the sales, I stockpile pieces in larger sizes – most of the styles can be worn bigger so I get a few years out of them.
3. Outside the Lines
Now Coco is getting older (she just turned seven) she wants her clothes to have a bit more edge. Outside the Lines has done a brilliant job of designing clothes that older kids approve of, but are still playful and stylish. They’re also great with details – like a splash of neon or a metallic trim.
4. Faune
They’re supposed to be nighties, but the pretty cotton dresses created by the women behind Faune are way too special to save for bedtime. The ‘wren’ style is a particular favourite in our house. Again we get them bigger so we can squeeze as many years out of them as possible.
5. Velveteen
This brand has just opened a store in London and not only is it a lovely space (with a corner to breastfeed and desks so kids can colour), but their collection is also totally gorgeous. Great prints and unusual designs –particularly good for partywear that feels contemporary but chic.
6. Caramel London
Classic, cool pieces which truly never date (I have passed baby dresses and blouses I bought seven years ago for Coco, onto my niece and they are still perfect). I don’t think any other brand designs fabrics as well as Caramel and their slouchy cuts make them as laid back and comfortable as they are elegant. I’m as in love with the women’s collection as the kids.