April 6, 2007

The Age of Innocence

It's hard to resist mini-me designer duds – even with the fear that your little hellion may turn into a devil in Prada. But better to teach her that labels aren't everything – the walking billboard look is sooo 1999.

Try Ses Petites Mains, which is more about sense and sensibility. No logos à go-go from this San Francisco line of girls' clothing (12 months to 6 years). The understated, classic apparel doesn't ignore runway fashions, but rather gives a gentle nod to style.

Petites Mains alludes to Parisian seamstresses whose little hands create the details of couture clothing. Designer Beth Miles set out to make clothes that reflected the delicate, innocent nature of little girls before they are indoctrinated in the fashion ABCs (Armani, Burberry, Chanel). Miles borrows from graceful details of vintage pieces – Swiss dots, seersucker, stitched pleats, dainty buttons – to fashion items that "celebrate the child, not the brand." The spring/summer line features easy-to-wear shifts, slip and shirt-waist dresses, skirts and Bermuda shorts, which can be worn together in various combinations.

Perfect for kids who haphazardly grab clothes from their drawers.

Perfect for moms who find the daily wardrobe battles with their little angels risky business.

For more information and store listings, go to sespetitesmains.com.

Thursday's UrbanBaby Daily: Got Fruit?

Recently Discussed on UrbanBaby Message Boards: "Would you hire a nanny who had no previous experience?"

Interested in advertising? Email info@urbanbaby.com

Subscribe to UrbanBaby Daily | Unable to read email?