There was a lot to take in at Playtime Paris this season, many more exhibitors from Scandinavia than I had expected to see though I will cover them separately in Copenhagen, and some new names to watch too.
For me though what stood out strongly was how pattern, texture and print has taken hold and is now the hottest trend in kids fashion. There is also a lot less fur here than I saw last week in Italy.
It just looks more modern and closer to many of the adult styles we now see on the catwalks, use of lurex thread, textured or patterned knits, printed retro or quirky animal theme cottons and bi or tricolour pieces look very much of the moment.
The Belgium designers have always been good at colour and now their prints have a depth and interest that pulls them away from the mass once again.

Simple Kids for winter 2012, mixing lurex, stripes, animals and patterns, all the key themes for kidswear winter 2012

Max and Lola had an inspired collection, love this unusual print bicoloured dress with the detachable sequin collar

Pattern mixes from one of the exhibition installations at Playtime Paris 2012

New label for kids fashion Quenotte with a retro inspired horses print, contrast white collar and cuffs

Pale Cloud's incredible gold shoulder decoration for winter 2012 childrenswear

Incredible mixes of pattern and print from Domininque ver Eecke at Playtime Paris for kids fashion winter 2012

A buyers selection at Domininque ver Eecke by the boutique Brussel from Antwerp

Nice touches by new label Annie Heynard for kidswear winter 2012, rose print collar, ribbon ties and lurex banded waists on tweed skirts

Le Petit Lucas du Tertre pattern mash up for kids fashon winter 2012

Just stunning, Rita co Rita textured knit and gold pleated skirt

Superb colours in a new range of children's hats by Nathalie Verlinden
All photos by Smudgetikka – all rights reserved
All posts copyright Smudgetikka – permission must be asked for reproduction 2009 – 2012