Bubble Wrap Up

Yesterday, I spent some time at Bubble. It's the children's clothing trade show that happens twice a year here in New York. If you are trying to stock the newest, coolest, independent clothing lines for kids, this is a don't miss show. And it's lots of fun to attend.

I was able to meet many of the creators behind companies I've featured here on Design Mom. It's like hanging out with a bunch of your most creative friends. Cherie from Poloppo. The girls from Seven Smooches. The people behind Small Magazine. I even had a wonderful conversation with the remarkable Ida Pearle.

For those of you wondering how trade shows are fairing in this changing economy, here's what I heard from the vendors. Big companies were shopping less, but indie shops — mom and pops — were out like crazy. Is it a new trend? Small businesses stronger than big businesses? It reminds me of the brilliant talk I heard Robert Kalin of Etsy give about micro economies...

Anyway. I'm going to write 2 wrap ups of the Bubble Show for you. This one will feature 8 new or new-to-me companies. And I'll write a second post about expansions at some of my already-favorite lines. Then. Throughout the next few weeks, I'll be showcasing in more detail some of my favorite finds from the show.


-Patouche. Their site shop is on its way. In the meantime, you can buy bits and pieces from their etsy shop. Their peasant apron skirt, riding hood cape, and pirate hat are all fully functional and well-made, but feel like dressups. Amazing stuff.
-Ismodern. A well established, but new-to-me line. Fantastic colors.
-Clover. This is a newly launched line with an online shop in development. You can also find their clothes in several stores. Gorgeous Indian block-printed fabrics. And a jumpsuit for little boys that I'm dying to get my hands on.
-Dagmar Daley. Really lovely clothes. Can't say enough good about this line.



-Short Hat Company. If you (like me) think it's hard to find kids hats, turns out we were wrong. They were right here all along.
-Faubourg Saint Denis. Everything you want in a line of French children's clothing.
-Essentiel. From Belgium. Currently mostly in stores in Belgium. But expect this line to show up in the best boutiques here in the states as well.
-Hartford. You can't buy directly from them, but you can see their spring kids line. Very cool stuff. And in older kid sizes too. Which is nice.