WELCOME TO KIDS À LA MODE #15!

Dear Readers,

In today’s fast-paced, highly technical modern world, it’s heartening to meet companies working with
amazing artisans from around the world to produce their collections by hand. The artistry of their creations is impressive, and the skill and effort it takes to achieve them is greatly appreciated. In this issue we are delighted to highlight three such companies who do this superbly: Mélange Collection, Wild Wawa, and Oilily. You will also find an ample array of handmade touches from other fashion and décor brands throughout the magazine.

A perplexing question for both parents and kids’ wear companies is: “what do teenagers want?” Our
informal survey of several New York retailers gave us insight as to the answer—it’s comfort, comfort,
and COMFORT! Big, roomy silhouettes and the softest of fabrics have been bestsellers for this Spring/Summer and are more popular than ever in the new collections for Fall/Winter ’25-26. We present a feature on Pype, an exciting new brand from Italy that is sophisticated, oversized, and ultra-
comfortable. We think boys and girls will love Pype’s “always unconventional” style as much as we do.

Home décor and decorative objects for kids is a steadily growing category, and seasonal fashion trends reflect this emerging area of design. This issue includes two décor color trend collages, “Playful Brights” and “Soft Spot,” in addition to our fashion color trend pages. Certainly falling into to the “Playful Brights” color story is Kitsch Kitchen, a super-fun collection of décor and accessories from the Netherlands. Their products’ dazzling patterns, Mexicana influence, and touches of humor have enormous appeal to kids, teenagers, and adults alike.

I hope you will find Kids à la Mode #15 chock-full of design information, visual enjoyment, and cheer.

Warm wishes,

Janet A. Jacobs Editor-in-Chief