WELCOME TO KIDS À LA MODE #16!

Dear Readers,

At Kids à la Mode, we are always on the lookout for art that inspires and intersects with our world of kid’s fashion, décor and lifestyle. In this “Art Issue,” we are focused on all aspects of creativity and self-expression, from museum exhibits and textile studios, to artistic playthings and apparel that lets every child be seen for their true selves.

Discover the super fun, gender-fluid designs of Princess Awesome & Boy Wonder, a brand that smashes stereotypes with fantastic, rough-and-tumble clothing without boundaries—twirly dresses with trucks and dinosaurs, boy’s wear featuring cats in space saucers, and much more.

One of the season’s most colorful trends is “In the Spirit of Niki de Saint Phalle,” which highlights bold, abstract graphics in the mood of this iconic artist. An in-depth look at textile prints includes interviews with the founders of two very different types of studios: a treasure trove of antique and vintage designs at Patricia Nugent Textiles; and playful, modern prints for kid’s wear by Aysha Zreik of Jelly Bean Studio in Spain.

It’s easy for kids to be drawn to great art during playtime too. The Chinese tile game Mahjong is taking off with both children and adults, and Oh My Mahjong offers the most wildly decorated, eye-popping game sets and accessories around.

The artistry of finely crafted products is the hallmark of Anzy, a unique collection of home décor for babies and children, all handmade by women in Ukraine. And Stones and Bones share the story of their multi-generational family business producing high quality shoes, beginning long ago with the production of leather riding boots and horse saddles!

Best wishes for a beautiful new design season.

Janet A. Jacobs Editor-in-Chief 

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” —Pablo Picasso