Kids’ Fashion

It’s time to wake up and celebrate homegrown talent and the very best in kidswear design, writes Aoife Reilly

The best of Irish design

COTTON HILL LANE

Like many small independent brands, Cotton Hill Lane started from a personal passion. When founder Paula Gillen’s sister was expecting, she wanted to give a more personal present and something unique that you wouldn’t find on the high street. She created a blanket with a little mouse on it which led her to learn new design skills and creating her own line of apparel. Cotton Hill Lane’s star buy is the harem romper which is cut by hand and sewn in her studio in rural Sligo. Made from 100pc cotton, each romper is screen printed with eco-friendly inks in a mix of genderneutral prints and designs. The pieces are timeless, simple and are sure to put a smile on you and your little one’s faces. cottonhilllane@bigcartel.com

Lollipops and Daydreams

Designed, cut, sewn and created in the tranquil setting of Tullow, Co. Carlow, Lollipops and Daydreams’ creations are all about celebrating the magic of childhood. Founded by Maria Ryan in 2012, Lollipops and Daydreams combines retro prints with simple silhouettes and comfortable fabrics. Maria incorporates a sense of childhood nostalgia into her designs, something that’s not attainable from the high street. Her most recent collection for autumn/winter was inspired by colour and the rural country landscape around her studio in Co. Carlow – think warm rustic tones, forest-inspired prints and practical cuts. lollipopsdaydreams.com

RAIN AND CONKER

While social media can be seen as an encouraging outlet for fast fashion, it also gives a voice to small independent brands, which is how I came across (and fell in love with) Rain and Conker. Founded by mum-of-two Amanda, the brand designs practical wear-anywhere pieces in simple prints and designs. From super absorbent bandanna bibs to leather boot moccasins, the brand focuses on practical babywear with expert designs and high quality organic materials. While it may go back to basics in babywear with a focus on practicality and comfort, it also celebrates style with bright illustrations and cheerful prints. rainandconker.com