How long have you been in the children’s industry?A little over 5 years ago I fell into the children’s industry. At that time I was working on mens and womens design direction. A good friend was having a baby boy and I was having trouble finding just the right gift for him. And I realized there was a need for more inspiring clothing for boys. So I began Sir Hayesin 2005 a fashion collection for boys only. I enjoyed 3 years of designing Sir Hayes before I got the great opportunity to work as the childrens trend editor at Stylesight, where I am now.

What would you say about the general current climate? Its an exciting time in kids’ wear right now, you can almost compare it to the innovation of the 60s era of fashion. So many fresh and groundbreaking ideas in children’s wear to talk about – like unisex clothing, photo-print diapers, premium denim and high-heel shoes. I think we can thank the recent economic times for this new burst of creativity.

Which shows did you visit this season? I visited FIMI, Bubble London, Pitti Bimbo and White for Kids myself. But Stylesight sent trend correspondents to Playtime Paris, Klein Fabriek and Bread & Butter Kids Camp as well.

What did catch your attention, what was really new and interesting? You can see that the larger trade shows are taking note from the newer niche childrens’ fairs. Creating a pleasant small boutique feel and incorporating well curated sections. It’s more enjoyable.

Can you name 3 to 5 brands that really piqued your attention? Calvin Klein Runway – Some of the girl’s looks reminded me of Anna Karina in Pierot le Fou;  Daniele Fiesoli – Beautifully made t-shirts with faux sweater fronts; Dominique Ver Eecke – An eclectic collection of Golden Books style prints and trippy colors; Minti – a sporty 80s collection with just the right amount of neon

What are your favorite cities? Copenhagen for CPH Kids, Florence for Pitti Bimbo and London for Bubble. I’m also looking forward to Playtime New York in my hometown this month.

What are the new and interesting stores that you like? www.reformschoolrules.com, www.shoploveyoubaby.com, Gomina in Paris, Gap 1969 Kids pop-up shop in LA. The new collection is wonderful.

Web destinations that inspire you? www.them-thangs.com, www.storkbitesman.blogspot.com, www.zigouis.blogspot.com,www.ablogcuratedby.com

An advice for young entrepreneurs in the children’s industry? Know the power of presentation and always wrap your ideas in a bow.

An advice for retailers? Become friends with your customer.

The hot places in your home town? Some cool places moms and dads can take kids in New York and won’t feel too much like parents : Moomah – a cool creative play space for kids and parents,  sweet treats, art projects, parties and fun activites; Popbar – (West Village) new ice cream shop that serves gelato on  a stick in fun flavors with yummy toppings; The Woods – This Williamsburg bar is a singles spot at night, but in the early afternoon on a Sunday it’s a nice place to enjoy the outdoor patio and taco truck with the kids; The High Line – A park space built on an old railroad track is great for relaxing and people watching. And Target hosts free art events for kids on the weekend; Baked by Melissa – Colorful mini cupcakes sold out of a small window on Spring Street in Soho. Peanut Butter Cup, Rainbow Tie-Dye and Peanut Butter & Jelly are some of the craziest flavors; Governors Island – Enjoy an entire day of free art exhibitions, miniature golf, bike riding, picnicking and play in acres of open green space for families.

How would you dress if you were a 8 years old girl? My style hasn’t changed much since 8. I still dress with the same tomboy and girlish charm and I love shiny things. Popupshop, Monsieur Cucu,Munster kids and Idols would be top brands in my closet. I especially loved Popushop’s high-waisted Khaki short, Idol’s Devendra Barnhart Tee this season. And to keep it fun I would mix in big bow headbands from Le Tour De Force everyday of the week.

Photos : Clavin Klein, Minti, Idols, Simple Kids, Monsieur Cucu