I was sitting at my computer looking at my items, thinking about the pics I'm awaiting to post and the designs still in my head. I began to ask myself a variety of different questions. Some were fueled by excitement over the projects that I have been working on. Some were mixed with fear and doubt (pardon my honesty). However, one emerged that I really began to ponder....."Does stylish attire for little people make sense?" I know....now is a fine time to ask this question....lol! As a mom/consumer it does in my opinion. YES, I felt this way prior to Pink & Pigtails:). Actually, it's why I started Pink & Pigtails. However, being practical is a MUST for me as a parent too. In addition, I too like adjectives such as "adorable" and "so cute" when I'm selecting for my kids....especially my daughter.
I realize the definition of terms such as adorable, style, practicality and quality varies among many. For me, the four terms CAN....SHOULD....work together in my designs and/or purchases. She (my daughter) should be able to get some wear out of an item when purchased (or created by mommy). Now, a practical purchase doesn't not mean she can wear it everyday. Nor does it mean it's an appropriate item for school, church, the playground, her annual physical AND the upcoming birthday party. "I" define the term "practical" simply as my daughter's ability to wear the item with other items in her closet!! This is my rule of thumb for EVERY purchase. We will take one dress and coordinate it many ways. It will be worn one way for church and entirely different for Chuck E. Cheese (that darn place drives me crazy!). As for adorable, she should be dressed child appropriate. When she puts it on, she should not loose her innocence, and YOUNG femininity. Like most moms, I too want to get all warm and fuzzy when she's fully dressed and says "look at me mommy!". She should always look like the little lady that I'm raising her to be!
Why am I going sharing all this??? Well, I often hear other parents speak of style as if it can't or should not be considered when it comes to child fashion. Moreover, many speak as if young style is almost a taboo term. It is possible! Take these two new items for example:
This is Item 9-12 and it's new to the Pink & Pigtails' 2012 line. This is a simple organza bloom with french netting. OK, this may NOT be ideal for her school uniform and etc. However, it works with denim. It works with her Easter attire. It works for hanging out with her friends (of course I'm referring to my older fans). This works for the family pictures. It fits my above mentioned definition of a practical purchase. Likewise, this model looks her age. Also, the darn item is simply cute and oh-so-stylish (I will work on my modesty...or the lack thereof )!
This is Item 10-12 and it too is part of the the Spring 2012 line. It's a simple frayed fabric sash headband that can be worn in a variety of ways. It's machine washable, cotton and bound to coordinate with so much. Again....practical, comfy, stylish and age appropriate (tween - up).
As I type this, I realize that I have answered my lingering question. Likewise, I feel more motivated than ever. I'm going to go look at a movie with my kiddos (I'm sure it's something I have only seen 15+ times), put them to bed, grab my sewing machine and turn my ideas into designs. One thing is for SURE...I'm NOT changing my tag line....style CAN begin YOUNG!!!
Talk to you soon!
Chandra
Credits:
Model - Libby W
Moda Munchkin Models
Photographer - Jeff White
