Kidswear Autumn/Winter 2007/08

Premier Kids was a smallish affair for a tradeshow but there was enough to inspire with a range of baby wear brands, children’s, tweens and teens and even some maternity.

Trend presentations, fashion shows and business seminars helped build a clear picture of what we can expect for the coming season whist the show was sectioned into clear areas - classic, contemporary, designer, accessories, street, fast fashion, sports, jeans and casual…something for everyone!

What are the key stories?

The key themes selected and prepared by Jacqueline Cook in association with Promostyl; include ‘Bold and Bright’ involving vivid teals, fuchsia, orange and olive for knitted dresses, a-line coats and capes. ‘Urban Warriors’ comprises traditional tailoring with a twist- military decoration and medieval style layering. ‘Natural Evolution’ is your traditional winter story with chunky sweaters, fur lining and parkers. Finally, ‘Eastern Spirit’ offers a clean look with Oriental influences such as elongated lines, pleating and asymmetry.

What are the key looks?

After being treated to an energetic (if a little adorable) fashion show a few trends and style tips were apparent…

·        Muted pastels mixed with chocolate and coffee browns

·        Layers of pink for girls!

·        Stripes in all forms! (wool jumpers, jumper dressed, shirts, cardigans, scarves, tights)

·        Long line cardigans and jackets for girls make for cosy winter layering

·        White tights with everything!

·        Occasion wear for girls was rich with burgundy and purple satin fabrics embellished with silk embroidery and subtle sparkle

·        Girls fabrics are tangible with knits, net skirts and velvet dresses

·        The luxury sportswear look follows through from mainstream womenswear with utility fabrics and brash colours in athletic cuts

·        ‘Boy Bonds’ appeared in mini-me pinstriped suits, stripped shirts and waistcoats

·        The country dandy look still prevails for the boys with well-cut tweed jackets and yet more striped shirts

·        I think I saw legwarmers for boys. I think.

Who are the names to watch?

1. Kiko Kids - This was a charming brand featuring beautiful decorative detail. Loose, bubble-hem sweaters were topped with frothy tulle layers whilst cute vintage button details add a quirky edge. And the good news is they do a grown-up version too!

2. Religion - For parents who love the Religion brand, they can kit their kids out in it too. The signature deconstructed gothic rock ‘n’ roll style provides a hip urban uniform for uber-cool kids.

3. Amplified Kids - I couldn’t resist these funky music-inspired printed tees. The likes of the Rolling Stones, The Who and The Ramones logos get plastered on tops for rock’n’roll kidz-style.

4. English Roses - Inspired by Madonna’s children’s book ‘The English Roses’, images from the book come to life in a 75 piece girlswear collection featuring feminine paisley print dresses and tartan jackets.

5. Phister and Philna - The Danish brand adds a little quirkiness opting for a muted palette of dusky pinks and greys coupled with strong prints and layered shapes.

So there’s your one-stop guide to brands, trends and styling tips to look out for the forthcoming season. Watch out for more kidswear coverage on Fashion Capital coming your way soon.

The next edition of Premier Kids will once again be held at the NEC Birmingham on the 8th, 9th and 10th of July 2007. www.premierkids.co.uk

By Becky Lyon

Images courtesy of Premier Kids PR Department