LamanBlu News

303 Magazine Awards

2012-02-17T08:57:00.000-07:00

Wow - thanks 303 Magazine! The awards party was so much fun - and we really appreciate the recognition!

"We are celebrating the people & places that made 2011 great to be in Denver!
The 303 Award is given to people and entities who have contributed to progressing the fashion industry in Denver.
And the winners are:Holli Gibson & Rustin Coburn - Denver Design Incubator
These two are leading the fashion pack at DDI, keeping homegrown talent in Denver and teaching those with fashion aspirations how to reach their every goal. Such openness in this do-or-die industry is a style we can all get behind!

Chris Parente - Fox 31 TV Personality
Autumn Binion - Fashion Show Producer
Denver Art Museum
Debra Mazur - Common Era" (303 Magazine)

Hyperactivity and Artificial Food Coloring in Children

2012-02-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

Let me start with a disclaimer that I am not against all medications, and some children absolutely need the appropriate medicines to maintain and improve their health. I am an advocate of limiting meds to those necessary though. Though I don't usually blog about issues related to children's health - and am no expert certainly - I read an article this weekend that got me thinking about my own children's health - one in particular.

The article was in the Highlander Magazine for this month (www.HighlanderMo.com) and it was discussing artificial food colorings in regards to children in particular. When my son was small, he was particularly susceptible to artificial food dyes. Sugar really didn't affect him adversely, but artificial dyes did. I had suspected it for quite some time. We were very careful about his food, so he didn't have things very often that had artificial dyes in them. It would be at a large family gathering, or a party, or camping or the like, so I wasn't absolutely sure if it was too much activity, too much sugar, or the dyes or some other factor, but I did suspect the dyes. One camping weekend, we had a major rainstorm and ended up in the tent all afternoon. We were reading books and playing games, he was probably 4 at the time. We had our "camping food" (which means some junk food - including Cheetos) and he wanted some. I was trying to stall, thinking how miserable it would be crammed in a tent with a hyperactive child if food coloring was indeed the root of his issue. My husband joined his side, so I gave in and decided to use this as the "test" once and for all to deduce the root of the issue.

My sweet little child, who had been moments before (and the hour before that) playing contentedly went from a calm little boy, to a totally hyperactive one, bouncing off the walls of the tent, literally unable to control himself. WOW! I, of course, became much more vigilant about eliminating any artificial dyes from his diet and we had no further problems.

I should mention, that my second child has not had the same issues with artificial dyes, and I am thankful that my older finally outgrew this extreme sensitivity. But, back to this article - it states that the "Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) found compelling evidence that ingestion of artificial dyes can contribute to hyperactivity, restlessness and attention problems in some children - particularly those with ADHD. What's more, the studies suggested that removing dyes from those children's diet was a quarter to half as effective in reducing those symptoms as giving kids Ritalin or other stimulants." According to Nancy Cordes, CBS News' Consumer Safety Correspondent. "In other words, certain kids with ADHD might not need drugs if the artificial dyes were removed from their diets." WOW!

I've had several friends (particularly in large school districts) who have felt bullied into giving their kids Ritalin by the school district. I'm not saying that artificial dyes being removed from those kids diets would have solved the entire problem, but wouldn't it be worth finding out? Even a small impact in the overall health and behavior of the child by the removal of artificial dyes could be profound, and with no adverse side effects!

Again, I'm in no way trying to preach to anyone, just sharing a provocative article I read this weekend and my own personal story. Food for thought.....and health

Pinterest Spring 2012 Design Inspiration

2012-02-03T15:49:00.002-07:00

I have a new found passion - Pinterest!

I do tons of clippings to put together my mood boards and inspiration boards. I draw inspiration from so many places and things. Now I found a way to make that process easier - and to share it with you!

The spring 2012 collection was inspired by the ocean, and easter egg hunts (believe me - those things can go together!) Here's the link so you can see the whole board - http://pinterest.com/lamanblu/lamanblu-spring-2012-design-inspiration/

what do you think?

You can follow us on Pinterest - http://pinterest.com/lamanblu/

Happy Pinning!

Fashion Color Report - Spring 2012

2012-01-26T09:12:00.001-07:00

Spring 2012 Shopping - On Trend!

2012-01-19T09:09:00.002-07:00

The Daily Thred just released their trend report for the must have items for your kids:

Sounds like fun, doesn't it? The good news is - you can do much of the shopping right from our website now! And when you do, you can select one of several charities which will receive a donation from your order. The new styles will be arriving in our webstore in February, just in time for spring shopping. What should you look forward to? Here's a peek:

Tiered ruffles and lace trimmed dresses

Bustle ruffles trimmed with lace - is there a better look for Easter?

Boys preppy-inspired buttondowns!

Little girls tutu dresses (in hot pink and aqua)

Romper Dresses for girls

Romper Shortalls for boys

And who doesn't need some amazing bright prints!

There's more - but hopefully this will tickle your fancy and get you excited about the spring shopping season!

LamanBlu Spring-Summer 2012 Collection

2012-01-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

12 Crucial Consumer Trends for 2012

2011-12-12T09:22:00.001-07:00

I can't believe 2012 is almost upon us. OK -in all honesty - I tend to skip over years and am already writing 2013 on some of my checks by accident. It's not that I am not excited about 2012, it's just that working on a wholesale schedule means I've been looking at 2012 for the past year and am already starting work on 2013.

Trendwatching.com does a great job analyzing consumer trends and they've released their report for 2012 - want to know what to be on the watch for?

1. Red Carpet
2. DIY Health
3. Dealer-Chic
4. Eco-Cycology
5. Cash-less
6. Bottom of the Urban Pyramid
7. IdleSourcing
8. Flawsome
9. Screen Culture
10. Re-commerce
11. Emerging Maturalism
12. Point & Know

Which trends are we watching and working on with interest? Well - we've always been into Eco and continue working on that effort to be more eco-friendly in the way we run our business and the way we source and produce our garments.

IdleSourcing is another trend we're paying attention to. What does that mean? Simply put, it means making it simple for consumers to contribute to something more. We're avid supports of children's charities here at LamanBlu and we want to make it simpler for you to contribute too. We're working on a website update that will allow you to contribute directly to one of our charitable partners when you make a purchase from our website! How cool is that?!

Re-commerce is something else we're working on, though in all honesty - it's slated to roll out for 2013. We'd love to roll it out sooner, but don't quite have the manpower yet. What is re-commerce? It's all about providing our LamanBlu customers the ability to re-sell or trade or donate their past purchases. We'd love to hear you weigh in on this subject though as we continue to work towards providing a platform to do this with.

Want to know more about these trends and what they mean? Visit http://trendwatching.com/trends/12trends2012/

Alexander McQueen, Spring 2012, Pink and Ruffles

2011-12-08T08:41:00.001-07:00

There are a few designers I've followed for years - Balenciaga, Dior, Herrera and McQueen among others. I just had to share a few of the photos from Spring 2012 McQueen with you that I love in particular!

(photos courtest of http://us.fashionmag.com)

Don't you just love all the ruffles and lace - even ruffles on the shoes! (I am a major shoe fanatic) And guess who sells pink ruffly shoes for little girls? Bear Feet! www.bearfeet.com They have amazing shoes for kids - great quality, the softest leather - and all made in the USA. If you recall - we partnered with them last spring for our photo shoot - and the pink ruffle sandals were a big hit with all of our models! Check out LamanBlu's pink ruffle bustle dress for little girls - not very McQueen - but perfect for a garden party!

Speaking of pink - pink has not always been one of my favorite colors. It took looking at it through my daughter's eyes to gain a true appreciation of it. I even find myself wearing it now - both in brights and in the softest makeup shades. We seem to always run some variety of pink for LamanBlu - the shade changes each season, but it's almost always present for our twirly girls. This spring - it's bright bouganvilla and baby pink - so whether it's a pool party or a day at the beach or a garden party or Easter Sunday, we've got you covered.

Holiday 2011 - Trends to be sure and include in your kids closet!

2011-12-05T10:56:00.001-07:00

Trend #1: Animal Kingdom: Cat's may be the preferred pet in fashion this season, but other animals have found a home on clothes for kids too. Look for owls, hamsters, horses, bears, moose and more!

(LamanBlu's Snow Leopard Cape)

Trend #2: A Little Bit of Lace: Last year designers dressed down sequins for everyday wear. This season, lace takes a casual turn, moving beyond dressy dresses. Lace prints on easy knits are especially popular.

(LamanBlu's chocolate lace organic cotton and recycled polyester swing T and legging)

Trend #3: Ruffled Up: Everything's coming up ruffled this season. The frill embellishment makes an encore performance on school clothes, dresses and shoes.

(LamanBlu's ruffles on the poet ruffle tunic and ruffle pants)

Trend #4: Fluff 'N' Stuff: European designers are big fans of fur, feathers and other fluffy stuff. Nearly every collection on the runway got the soft touch with fluffy embellishment or fur accessories, including collars, hats, ear muffs, scarves and boots.

(LamanBlu's faux fur muff)

(LamanBlu's faux fur cape and skirt)

(LamanBlu's faux fur collar)

Trend reporting courtesy of Kids Style Source.

2012 Trend Report

2011-11-11T09:25:00.001-07:00

Anyone who's been in the design field for a long time can talk about trends. There are, of course, the trend setters and the trend followers, but there's something interesting that seems to happen in the "common consciousness" of the design community. While there are some trends that seem to come out of no where, it is more common that trends come along a predictible progression. That's why you see many designers referencing a particular style trend or color story in any given season. Sometimes we're ahead of the game (our Fall 2011 Painterly Stripes are the purported print of "all the rage" for Fall 2012) and sometimes we miss a trend we should have picked up on. Some trends are really just applicable to children's or men's, etc. And some are more workable across the board. As a high end design house, we pay attention to the color and print trends coming out of the reporting agencies and the artistic developers, and we create our own trends as well. It's one of my favorite parts of the job.

We get a lot of questions from retailers and media about what are the hot new trends for the upcoming year. We've decided to share that with you too. It may feel a little early to be looking to what's going to be hot for 2012, but we are nearing the end of 2011 (can you believe it!) Here are some important color storys and trend items for 2012 - both spring and fall (a whole year away). Enjoy!

Open publication - Free publishing - More 2012

FGI Rising Star 2011

2011-11-03T10:21:00.001-06:00

"Paris, schmaris. Mile High style is alive and thriving in Denver. Whether chic and sleek, playful and fresh, or edgy and urban, the creative designs of area up-and-comers were showcased (where else?) on the runway at the sixth biennial Rising Star celebration hosted by Fashion Group International Denver. On Saturday, October 8, around 400 fashionistas dressed their best to mix, mingle and be dazzled by the creations of bright new talents at District 475, where Lindsay Bloom, of Bloom Jewelry, was named 2011 Rising Star." Blacktie

The event benefited the Brandon Center and The Gathering Place. Denise Plante, the Emmy Award winning host of "Colorado & Company" on KUSAA made the entire evening a blast with her great sense of humor.

The fashion show featured finalists in 13 categories, chosen from a plethora of talented applicants: Kaitlyn Thomas, KaiT Designs; Meggie Hodge, Fahrenkamp Apparel; Tracey Blake, Tracey Lynn Golf; Gabriela Martinez, Gabriela Designs; Maggie Burns, Marie-Margot Bridal; Natalee Moldenhauer, Natalee M Designs; Dana Van Daele, Grey Sunshine; A.J. Machete and Lianna K, Denver Bespoke; Kotomi Yoshida, Studio Yoshida; Dan Powell, Panache Cycle Wear; Dan Abrams and Greg Steen, FlyLow Gear; Samantha Louise Larkins, Samantha Louise Jewelry; as well as this year’s Rising Star Lindsay Bloom, of Bloom Jewelry.

After winning the Rising Star in 2009, I was honored to be on this year's judging panel and to present the next Rising Star Award to Lindsay Bloom. The talent we have here is Colorado is amazing - as we continue our journey to reaching higher levels we will be a fashion community to take notice of. I am humbled to be a partner in that journey.

Salu,
Holli

To see more photos from the event: Rising Star 2011 Photo Album

Press Release: Denver Design Incubator Holding Open House

2011-10-28T11:03:00.000-06:00

The Denver Design Incubator is holding an open house for those who are interested in furthering their fashion design skills and growing their business. Stop in and learn more about the Designer-In-Residence program, tour the space, and take in how DDI can elevate a brand into a successful business. Bring a portfolio to get feedback or use the studio space to finish up some samples. Speak to the current DIRs and experience how DDI is moving fashion forward.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?: Fashion Design Students, Designer-In-Residence Candidates, Interested Local Designers

WHO WILL YOU MEET?: DDI’s Executive Director, Holli Gibson; DDI’s Founder and Chairman of the Board, Rustin Coburn; Current Designers-In-Residence, Jeanne Connolly and Kristen Littlejohn

WHAT: DDI Open House

Speak with current DIRs and DDI personnel, get portfolio feedback, learn about upcoming workshops and interviews for the next class of Designers-In-Residence, tour DDI’s studio, try out the industrial sewing equipment.

WHERE: 500 16th St., Suite 264, Denver, Co. Inside the I Heart Denver Store

WHEN: Tuesday, November 1st, 2011. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

ABOUT THE DENVER DESIGN INCUBATOR

The Denver Design Incubator (DDI) is Colorado’s first and only fashion design incubator, focused on education and business development to assist with turning creative ideas into successful and sustainable businesses. The DDI, based centrally in Downtown Denver, carries out its mission and vision by supporting, educating and empowering designers with the appropriate skill-sets to be successful in the Fashion Industry. The DDI is a place of creativity and innovation for designers to build upon an already established fashion and design knowledge base.

DDI offers an intensive two-year program that will accept three to seven applicants committed to advancing themselves and their businesses. Designers-in-residence will be immersed in a real world setting of a design studio in an apparel manufacturing company. They will receive mentoring from established fashion professionals to help them take their ideas from a concept to a money making business. Designers-in-residence will attend classes based upon a customized curriculum to take their skills to the next level. Classes will also be offered to the public in areas ranging from design to pattern making to production to business planning to fashion law.

For More Information: Contact Holli Gibson, Executive Director 720-837-1452 or info@denverdesignincubator.com

LamanBlu in Hudson's Magazine

2011-10-19T14:03:00.001-06:00

Did you see our write-up in Hudson's ChildrensWear Review?

"Designer Holli Gibson presents her latest LamanBlu collection for Spring and Summer 2012 and introduces select styling for boys.

Continuing with feminine dresses and coordinated separates for all the little twirly girls, LamanBlu stays true to what is best about its styling, adding dressup and casual styles for little brother."

To see the collection, visit our website at www.LamanBlu.com

LamanBlu is domestically produced eco-friendly clothing for children ages 6 months to age 10.

Play, Dance, Live...because LamanBlu is made to Celebrate Childhood

http://www.hudsonscr.com/

© 2011 LamanBlu

SS 2012 Trend Report: Amazing Lace!

2011-10-10T08:34:00.001-06:00

Lace adds grace to girls dresses, tops, jackets and more! (Kidsstylesource.com)

LamanBlu is offering up lace princess dresses, complete with full twirly skirts, embroidery and real freshwater pearls.

They're also offering up lots of lacy ruffles, trimmed in ladder lace paired with washable linen and natural shell buttons.

Colorado's Rising Stars of Fashion to be Feted on Saturday

2011-10-07T09:59:00.000-06:00

Colorado's rising stars of fashion to be feted Saturday

By Suzanne S. Brown
The Denver Post
Posted: 10/06/2011 01:00:00 AM MDT

........................
"There's a huge variety of new businesses starting," says Holli Gibson, one of the judges of FGI's competition and a local children's wear designer. She won the Rising Star Award in 2009.

"I think the tough economy is forcing people to get creative in many ways," she says. "They're not relying on big business to set their futures. They're using innovative ways to launch and market products. There's no one right way anymore."

Gibson, who worked in other markets before starting LamaBlu here, says that doing business online paired with the ease of communications today allow people to set up shop just about anywhere. "Certainly there are challenges to working in areas outside of major manufacturing cities" but, she says, "it can be done."
.....................

To Read the Entire Aritcle: Colorado's rising stars of fashion to be feted Saturday - The Denver Post http://www.denverpost.com/lifestyles/ci_19049166#ixzz1a6zRZdhy

Fashion Group International of Denver has selected a baker's dozen of fashion companies to honor as "Rising Stars" for 2011. One will be named winner at FGI's gala on Saturday. The nominees are:

FlyLow Gear: Dan Abrams and Green Steen, outerwear

Bloom Jewelry: Lindsay Backman, contemporary jewelry

Tracey Lynn Golf: Tracey Blake, women's active wear

Marie-Margot Bridal Couture: Maggie Burns, bridal/couture

Fahrenkamp Apparel: Meggie Hodge, women's urban wear

Samantha Louise Jewelry: Samantha Larkins, fine jewelry

Denver Bespoke: AJ Machete, Lianna K, men's ready-to- wear

Gabriela Designs: Gabriela Martinez, women's evening wear

Natalee M. Designs: Natalee Moldenhauer, couture accessories

Panache Cycle Gear: Don Powell, men's active wear

KaiT Design: Kaitlyn Thomas, women's ready-to-wear

Grey Sunshine: Dana Van Daele, contemporary accessories

Studio Yoshida: Kotomi Yoshida, men's urban wear

Kids Style Source Spring Summer 2012 Trend Report

2011-09-29T10:02:00.000-06:00

Key Trend: Light Denim and Chambray. "Designers give denim a softer touch for spring, using light-washed and lightweight denim, along with denim-look linens." LamanBlu loves this trend, with chambray style pure linen for boys and a lighter chambray blue linen for girls. Smart tailoring combined with comfort make brother's easter set a perfect choice for special occassion or best dressed at the beach. For sister, there's lots of classic bustle ruffles combined with ladder lace and real shell buttons to make everyday special. For the beach, we add nautical rope trim and a reversible bucket hat to shade little eyes from the sun. View the entire collection on our website at http://www.lamanblu.com/

WWD Spring 2012 Trend Report

2011-09-28T08:27:00.000-06:00

"For spring, designers looked back to a demure time — the Fifties and Sixties to be exact — when the lady of the house was always polished, elegant and oh-so-chic." (not to mention her children!) Does is get more polished and chic that crisp linen, lace and pearls? I don't think so!

LamanBlu Releases its Spring Summer 2012 Collection | PRLog

2011-09-03T08:18:00.001-06:00

Continuing with feminine dresses and coordinated separates for all the little twirly girls, LamanBlu stays true to what is best about its styling. Ruffles, dresses with great twirl-ability and extensive detailing, all in a fresh and compelling color palette.

LamanBlu is a girly collection, and this season does not stray from that, but it does introduce something brand new – a few select styles for brother that are decidedly smart, classic and comfy all at the same time.

To read the entire article:

LamanBlu Releases its Spring Summer 2012 Collection | PRLog

LamanBlu Spring-Summer 2102 Video

2011-09-02T10:40:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu Spring-Summer 2012 Lookbook

2011-09-02T09:13:00.000-06:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More 2012

Spring 2012 Top Trends

2011-09-01T16:16:00.000-06:00

(courtesy of kidstylesource.com)

We have these in spades for the LamanBlu Spring 2012 Collection and we thought we'd share some of the previews with you!

Fall / Holiday 2011 RTW Trend Report Recap

2011-06-17T11:40:00.000-06:00

As we're winding up the buying season for Fall/Holiday 2011, we wanted to make sure you had seen the RTW trend reports and had covered the important trends for your store. If you've missed something, be sure and let us know. As LamanBlu is entirely domestic, we are still accepting late orders for the season.

Red Alert! "Traffic Stopping Red is hot on both sides of the Atlantic." (Marylou Luther) Michael Kors focused on red for the holidays, as did LamanBlu.

At Jason Wu, and LamanBlu, lace prints grounded in warm tones set the stage.

"Enter the fur-ioso force of fur and faux fur. From fur-sided glasses at Alexander Wang to hats at The Row to a bootie at Tod's, a bag at Michael Kors, a collar at Van Noten and a bib at Fendi, fur is as important in accessories as it is in apparel." (Marylou Luther) At LamanBlu, it's seen in capes and muffs, but also in collars, purses and skirts.

So, for the round-up of the rest of the trends slated as most likely to make it from the catwalk to the sidewalk: In addition to traffic-stopping red, "the fashion rainbow also favored teal and turquoise and glacier blues" (Marylou Luther)

(RTW Collection Trend Report courtesy of The Fashion Group Foundation).

So, did you cover the important trends for your store? Wait! There's more! LamanBlu is a fashion trend-forward collection, but we are also a collection loved by twirly girls and their mothers alike. Best selling pieces for the season? Our Essential Swing T's and Poet Ruffle Tunics and Essential Leggings, in a range of colors. We all know that children love to be dressed comfortably, and with LamanBlu's versions of the styles, they can accomplish that all while looking fabulous!

And of course, there is one of our continually best selling styles at retail, the jumper dress as seen in the top photo in red under our bustle jacket, in the fashion rainbow section of colors above in turquoise and blue over our swing t and leggings, and here over our favorite pink paisley print and tights.

And the favorite heirloom pieces for holiday? Our embroidered and freshwater pearl beaded lace in both a blouse and twirly dress. ( The blouse is shown over our jumper dress in baby pink.)

Whew! We're done! Now wasn't that fun? Be sure and let us know if you missed anything and we'll make sure and get it to you in time for the selling season.

Denver Happenings

2011-06-10T10:37:00.000-06:00

Wow - it's springtime in Denver and there is so much happening it's tough to keep up! (Ok, I know it's summer everywhere else - but in the mountains, we're still enjoying spring)

Fashion Group International (FGI) is seeking it's next Rising Star. The Rising Star award is open to 9 design categories this year and Fashion Group will select the next new designer/company most likely to be a nationally recognized brand in the next 5 years. I was the Rising Star for FGI in 2009 and I am excited to be the selection committee chairperson for this year's Rising Star which will be announced in a gala event in October. For more information, visit http://www.risingstardenver.org/

Things have been moving along quickly at the Denver Design Incubator (DDI). The first Diamond Series workshop just concluded and we have another at the end of the month. We had a great write up from the Denver Post.

"In all the other cities — New York, Chicago, Dallas, L.A. — you get out of design school and work for someone in the industry to learn how to make a living in design," says Holli Gibson, founder of the LamanBlu children's clothing and a member of the Denver Design Incubator's board of directors.

"In the past, we've lost talented Denver designers who move out of Denver, or try to start a business here with varying degrees of success. Here, people miss that work experience, so the Incubator provides a place for people here to learn those things."

To read the full article, visit http://www.denverpost.com/lifestyles/ci_18218194

I am very honored to have been named as the Executive Director for DDI and we are conducting interviews now for our Designer-In-Residence program which begins July 11th. We have a wonderful location right downtown in The Pavilions, graciously donated by The Pavilions and the I Heart Denver Store. Additionally, we are fully outfitted with state-of-the-art industrial sewing, cutting and pressing equipment from Ralph's Industrial Sewing. You can visit us online at http://www.denverdesignincubator.com/

At LamanBlu, we're usually early into the marketplace with our Spring collection. Most companies start showing their Spring collection in August and we usually show in June to give people insight into the trends that they should be on the lookout for. Well, with all of these other goings-on we are showing our Spring/Summer collection in August this year. Don't worry - we will go ahead and release our trend reports in the next few weeks so that you can stay ahead of the curve, but we are dedicated to designing and producing a truly excellent line so we want to take the extra time this season to make sure it's perfect.

I guess I'd better get back to work...be on the lookout for trend reports coming soon!
Salu,
Holli

Retailer Spotlight: Ju Ju Beane Boutique

2011-05-06T08:31:00.000-06:00

We wanted to take the opportunity to spotlight one of our favorite retailers! Ju Ju Beane Boutique is a wonderful on-line retailer with a lot to offer.

They feature playful designs and casual styles for babies and children from today's most popular labels. You'll also find unique design choices for bedrooms, nurseries, playrooms, or anywhere you want color and fun to meet modern and contemporary. They deliver great customer service and a safe, enjoyable environment to shop for the little ones in your life.

"Ju Ju Beane Boutique is a hip, fun and modern baby and children’s boutique specializing in accessories for babies, toddlers, children, along with some accessories for moms and dads as well. They carry all the most popular brand names, and are constantly adding new products to their already great line to ensure their customers that they are getting is in fashion and popular right now. [The] website is easy to navigate, each category such as baby gear, clothing, gifts, organics, toys and games have sub categories which makes finding what you are looking for easy to find." - Wee View

So - check them out at http://www.jujubeaneboutique.com/ and you can order LamanBlu directly from them online as well as whatever accessories you might need for your child.

Happy Shopping!

Baby & Children's Product News Features LamanBlu

2011-04-29T10:04:00.000-06:00

We are very excited to have been featured in Baby & Children's Product News with our Fall/Holiday 2011 Collection!

LamanBlu Launches Fall/holiday Collection

Fashion designer Holli Gibson recently launched the LamanBlu fall/ holiday collection, inspired by cozy log cabins and forests of aspen. The new collection is tinged in medieval lore with lush materials and deep saturated colors.

Luxurious sustainable fabrics range from beautifully draping bamboo to organic cottons and faux furs, all trimmed in cotton lace and soft velvet ribbons, and the occasional freshwater pearl beading.

To read the full article: http://fshn.us/hm

LamanBlu Releases its Fall and Holiday 2011 Collection

2011-03-23T11:03:00.000-06:00

Fashion Designer Holli Gibson presents her latest collection for Fall and Holiday 2011 with a tribute to Falling Whistles.

Golden, Colorado – March 21, 2011 – Gibson’s new collection is inspired by cozy log cabins and forests of aspen. The forests quickly become enchanted for children, tinged in medieval lore with lush materials and deep saturated colors. Wrap them in the luxury of sustainable fabrics – from beautifully draping bamboo to organic cottons to delightful faux furs – all trimmed in cotton lace and soft velvet ribbons, and even some freshwater pearl beading.

Fall is a time to play, to escape, to explore, to shine. Little girls will be doing that beautifully in LamanBlu for next fall. "Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all."
- Stanley Horowitz

Gibson is the most recent recipient of Fashion Group International’s Rising Star Award for Design, first capturing the award for the children’s wear category and then walking away with the ultimate prize, The Rising Star, competing with other designers from all categories of fashion. The Rising Star is awarded to the brand most likely to be a nationally recognized name in the next five years.

LamanBlu debuted to rave reviews in 2009 and has consistently been included as a brand to watch in industry publications. Gibson has been interviewed and published in various consumer magazines in regards to fashion trends and children’s apparel. Gibson is an industry veteran with much of her career spent designing women’s apparel. It wasn’t until 2007 that she turned her attention to designing for children, and the results have been magical.

LamanBlu’s color palette for the season encompasses the bright and yummy colors of boysenberry, blackberry, marshmallow, granny smith apple, chili pepper red and chocolate – accented with porcelain, mallard and chateau rose. All of which present a warm yet colorful appeal for the back to school and holiday season. Solids in varying color tonal combinations and contrasts rule the season, but there are snow leopard prints and digital antique lace prints as well. Wholesale prices for the season range from $17 to $63.

LamanBlu has dedicated this season in support of the charity Falling Whistles, a campaign for peace in Congo. “I met Sean at a fashion business symposium we were both speaking at,” says Gibson. “His story brought tears to my eyes, tears for these dear children that so touched Sean’s heart that he started this charity.” To learn more about Falling Whistles, and their mission, please visit www.fallingwhistles.com

For wholesale ordering information, please contact LamanBlu at customerservice@lamanblu.com or 720-837-1452.
http://www.lamanblu.com/
Lookbook: http://lamanblu.blogspot.com/2011/03/lamanblus-fall-holiday-2011-lookbook.html
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZ5mS6dyd4s

LamanBlu™ is designer clothing with classically beautiful silhouettes and a modern edge. It’s dresses and coordinated separates for Girls sizes 6 mos–6x. LamanBlu offers domestically produced eco-friendly apparel with no minimums to buy.

To find out more about more about LamanBlu or to schedule an appointment to see the collection, please contact us at:
http://www.lamanblu.com/
info@LamanBlu.com
Atelier: 720-837-1452
Fax: 801-659-8599
http://twitter.com/LamanBlu
http://lamanblu.blogspot.com/

LamanBlu's Fall Holiday 2011 Lookbook - with a Tribute to Falling Whistles

2011-03-23T10:03:00.000-06:00

Pantone reveals Autumn 2011 colour chart

2011-03-17T10:02:00.000-06:00

The worldwide specialist in colour charts for professionals has just published its Fashion Colour Report for Autumn/Winter 2011.

Pantone's Fashion Colour Report for Autumn/Winter 2011

You can see this same color palette in the LamanBlu Fall/Holiday 2011 Collection (tweaked to be more child-friendly of course). But you can see the same Blackberry, Mallard, Chocolate, Granny Apple and Chateau Rose. We've added Porcelain, Marshmellow and Boysenberry to lighten the pallette to delight children. Our Pewter gray is also tweaked especially for a child's complexion, tinged with lilac to brighten their smile. And of course, for all those Christmas occasions, we've added a Chili Pepper red.

Whistle Blowing for Peace Art and Music Festival

2011-03-11T07:26:00.002-07:00

LamanBlu supports Falling Whistles and wants to invite all of you to this amazing event, presented by DVLP!

Falling Whistles Music Festival

Summit Music Hall
1902 Blake Street, Denver, CO 80202

Doors Open at 8:30pm
MC: Mikey Goldenberg

LINEUP:
9:00-9:30 PLACES
9:30-9:45 Fashion Show
9:45-10:30 The Royal Heist
HEADLINER- 11-midnight Take to the Oars

Tickets: $15; Purchase Below
(Tax Deductible...Falling Whistles Tax Id # 26-3069105.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Whistle Blowing For Peace

A traveler with a need for Adventure turned into a story of hope for child soldiers in the Congo. Sent to the front lines armed with only a whistle, their only choice was to feign death or face it. People asked, "What can we do?" so the traveler met with politicians, officials, journalists, diplomats, fathers, mothers, and children all living within our worlds deadliest war.

A whistle hanging just over the heart kept the story of falling whistles alive and caused conversation... Keep the conversation going and support the cause. Learn more about Falling Whistles by watching the video.

Bear Feet Report: Fashionable Friday Featuring LamanBlu

2011-03-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful report from Bear Feet about LamanBlu! We've included an excerpt below, but you can see all the photos and read the entire article at: http://blog.bearfeet.com/2011/03/laman-blu-is-extremely-high-quality.html

We have to say - we're big fans of Bear Feet Shoes. They are the most adorable styles and they use the softest leather - and they're entirely made in the US!

"We hear "high quality" thrown around all the time and most people just equate it with a high price tag. People who make products for a living and see the whole process know exactly what it means to forgo shortcuts in order to give better quality.

The fabric in these clothes is just beautiful. It is strong and dense, the dye is all the way through. The peacocks are embroidered richly with many colors. The gold edge trim is perfectly applied and on the inside, everything is finished with facings and re-reinforced stitching; these clothes are made to last through generations. I had seen the clothing in photos many times before but to feel the fabric in person and see the small detail is different!

I was a little worried at first about how to wash such beautiful delicate-seeming clothes but it turns out everything is machine washable and dryable."

Fall/Holiday 2011 Trends Cheat Sheet

2011-03-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

Kid Style Source has just released their Trend Cheat Sheet for Fall/Holiday 2011 for buyers.

We're helping you round up the season with exciting new merchandise and colors to create excitement in your store and keeping you on trend!

Key Motifs: New plaids, stripe, lace, paisley, dots, faux fur

Key Fabrics: knits, velvets, sheer netting, cashmere, eco-friendly fabrics - bamboo and organic. You will find all of these in LamanBlu's Fall/Holiday collection.

Key Details: lace accents, ruffles return, elaborate and subtle embroidery, sparkle, ribbon trim. LamanBlu always has ruffles for a twirly girl. Also see our cotton lace trim and velvet ribbons. Matching and contrasting embroidery and embroidered scalloped edges. And for sparkle, we have real freshwater pearl beading.

Key Silhouettes: Jumpers, Shrugs and Jackets, Tunics, Capes.....

Key Colors: Navy, Red, Purple, Chocolate Brown, Winter White, Turquoise, Apple Green, Rosy Pink, Shades of Grey, Autumn Hues

Hudson's Childrenswear Review Magazine - February 2011

2011-02-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Denver Design Incubator (DDI) Offers Portfolio Workshop

2011-02-02T15:44:00.000-07:00

Denver Design Incubator (DDI) Offers Portfolio Workshop for Fashion Designers and Students Looking to Create a Professional Showcase of Their Work.

The Denver Design Incubator holds their second in an ongoing series of workshops open to the public. This latest offering, a portfolio workshop, will be held Saturday, February 26th from 2:00-4:00pm at the Colorado Nonprofit Development Center (CNDC), 4130 Tejon Street, Suite A, Denver, CO 80211.

Attendees will be working one on one with industry professionals including local fashion designers, college fashion professors, art directors, and graphic artists. This is a hands-on workshop to provide constructive feedback on current portfolios, build a better understanding of the different types and purposes of portfolios, and gain hands-on education in compiling a fashion portfolio in a manner that will ultimately create future opportunities.

As colleagues, designers will be able to collaborate on ideas with the intent of showcasing not only a professional view of their best work, but creatively making it appealing and marketable. Both emerging and established designers, as well as students and interns will work to build professional portfolios, increasing their reputation as artists and savvy marketers of their work.

This workshop will be open to the public with a total of twenty spots available. Cash, check or credit card payment of $45.00. Reservations are suggested and can be made online through DDI’s website, www.denverdesignincubator.com or by contacting Holli Gibson, the Director of Design & Education for DDI at 720-837-1452 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 720-837-1452 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or holli.gibson@lamanblu.com. Walk-ins will also be accepted at the time of the workshop, space allowing. Attendees should bring their current portfolios, pictures, and drawings.

The mission of the Denver Design Incubator is to help emerging fashion designers into business, thus stimulating entrepreneurial activity and encouraging small business growth to the benefit of the Colorado economy. The DDI will provide comprehensive facilities and services, to help students through the myriad of issues and challenges that can beset new ventures, and in so doing, enhance their chances of business success, with the end goal being for designers to leave the Incubator with successful, viable fashion businesses. DDI will create and support Denver’s position as a center of the Apparel Industry in the US, which will enhance employment and tax revenues for Colorado through the growth of business.

# # #

Denver Design Incubator is a non-profit organization modeled after successful design incubators in Toronto, Chicago, and New York. The recently formed Board of Directors includes designers of Colorado apparel manufacturers, fashion lawyers and finance experts, design educators, and retail specialists. DDI is a 501c3 project of the CNDC.

Denver Design Incubator - Moving Fashion Forward

Interview with Eden Lane on In Focus about the Denver Design Incubator

2011-02-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

LamanBlu Launches New Website, www.LamanBlu.com

2011-01-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

New Site Provides Improved Navigation, Access to Rich Content and Wholesale Only Area for Buyers.

LamanBlu, eco-friendly designer children’s apparel, has launched a brand-new Flash website this month. The site, www.LamanBlu.com is designed in direct response to LamanBlu’s research into what the customer really wants.

LamanBlu CEO Holli Gibson says: “We have had many requests from our boutiques wanting easier on-line access to wholesale ordering information. This is in response to the changing wholesale environment in this country. Buyers are looking to do more work from their stores, without doing as much travel to view and purchase lines. In addition, we receive many direct requests from consumers now for information. This site is designed to provide businesses and consumers with easily navigated access to linesheets, lookbooks, trend reports, and more. Our second phase of the site will also provide consumers direct links to where they can purchase LamanBlu online.”

The dramatically redesigned site embodies the company’s forward-thinking vision and commitment to the growing needs of its fans. It offers:

• Rich content provided through direct connection to LamanBlu’s Blog and Twitter feed
• More intuitive navigation
• Interactive display using multimedia including on-line catalogs, video feeds and slide shows
• Private login area for boutiques to see wholesale pricing and place orders

The site’s homepage welcomes visitors with clean, uncluttered design and moving images from LamanBlu’s latest collections. The website features new types of digital content, inspired by LamanBlu’s photo shoots and fashion shows.

LamanBlu™ is eco-friendly designer clothing with classically beautiful silhouettes and a modern edge. It’s dresses and coordinated separates for girls sizes 6 mos – 6x.

LamanBlu is known for it’s designer quality fabrics and extensive detailing. The collection is uniquely merchandised to give boutiques options to customize the look for their store, control normally only given to the largest department stores.

LamanBlu™ debuted to rave reviews in 2009. Holli Gibson, the designer for LamanBlu™, is an industry veteran with much of her time spent designing women’s apparel for both boutiques and major high end retailers including Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom’s. She is also the recipient of The Rising Star Award for Design from Fashion Group International.

LamanBlu™ is trend forward in terms of colors and styling. It is a pretty, girly collection where the twirl of the skirt is very important. Lovely embellishments, vibrant color schemes, and whimsical silhouettes are an homage to/a celebration of the creative and playful nature of childhood. Everything in the collection is extensively tested for quality and durability. The entire line is also machine wash and machine dry, ironing optional. All of the colors, prints and screen prints in the collection are custom designed and exclusive to LamanBlu™.

Early Fall 2011 Trend Reports Starting to Flow In

2011-01-24T11:06:00.000-07:00

The Early Fall 2011 Shows are underway and the trendspotters have gone to work. We're please that they're picking up on the trends we reported as most important.

Here's some of this morning's headlines: (from Bobbi Queen for WWD)

Forget Black - Because this is the season of reds, purples, blues and even grays!

Flower Delivery!

Time & Again - Designers glance back and move forward for fall

LamanBlu Releases its Fall I 2011 Lookbook

2011-01-03T20:29:00.001-07:00

Cozy log cabins and forests of aspen convey the key feeling for the season. The forests quickly become enchanted for children, tinged in medieval lore with lush materials and deep saturated colors. Wrap them in the luxury of sustainable fabrics – from beautifully draping bamboo to organic cottons to delightful faux furs – all trimmed in cotton lace and soft velvet ribbons.

Fall is a time to play, to escape, to explore, to shine. Little girls will be doing that beautifully in LamanBlu for next fall. "Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all."
- Stanley Horowitz

LamanBlu has divided their collection for fall along classic women’s wear seasons, introducing Fall I for an early fall delivery, with Fall II/Holiday to be released by March for a late fall delivery. “This is giving us an opportunity to appeal to the early adopters for the season, with a collection focused for back to school and then introducing fresh merchandise focused on the winter and holiday season,” says Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu.

LamanBlu’s color palette for the season encompasses the bright and yummy colors of boysenberry, blackberry, marshmallow, granny smith apple and chocolate – accented with porcelain, mallard and chateau rose. All of which present a warm yet colorful appeal for the back to school season. Solids in varying color tonal combinations and contrasts rule the season, but there are also snow leopard prints and digital antique lace prints as well.

LamanBlu continues with their classic and wearable silhouettes, all made special by their extensive detailing and attention to those details. In addition to cotton lace and velvet ribbons, embroideries provide surface interest in both matching and contrast colors. Sweetheart dresses and tops reminisce of a bygone era of prettiness along with scalloped bottom skirts. Swing T’s and leggings with lettuce hemming provide numerous layering options. The ballet jumper dress and top can be either elegant or funky depending on coloration and layering choices and are accented with either leather or taffeta roses. The layered full circular skirt twirls like none other. Top them all with a beautiful bustle jacket for style and warmth. Accessory pieces include hats and fur capes and skirts.

LamanBlu Reports on the Top Trends for Fall/Holiday 2011

2010-12-15T09:51:00.002-07:00

Pantone’s theme for the season is “Wonder” and focuses on artistic drama, sustainability and life balance. Pink continues as a whimsical, fun, spirited and romantic color which blends into a dramatic and bold red by holiday. Whites continue for winter bringing a peaceful innocence. Blues are prevalent as they promote feelings which are trustworthy, calming, dependable, eternal, hopeful.

LamanBlu’s color palette for the season reflects these trends and others – encompassing warm yet bright and yummy colors of boysenberry, blackberry, marshmallow, granny smith apple and chocolate – accented with porcelain, mallard, chateau rose and pewter.

Trend Bible talks of the Polar Explorer fueling the adventure of imagination. Warm handle and felted fabrics reference a new aesthetic for kids’ products. What better way to stay warm in a snowy climate than in wool hats and fingerless gloves and over the knee socks? Find them in solids, slubs and stripes in furry fibers from wool to alpaca to cashmere.

Holiday brings a mood of fantasy inspired by a glamorous haute couture style focused on luxurious and sophisticated fabrics. Soft bamboo contrasted by crisp sparkle organza. Custom printed bamboo fleece in iridescent mica printed snowflakes. Embroidered lace and natural pearl beading bring luxury to any setting.

Spin Expo talks of the Passages of Time: “It is a time to move away from playing it safe with the classic and plain. Now is a time to take a stand for being special, unique and therefore creating the desire to own.” It is a time to play, to escape, to explore, to shine!

In terms of print trends, Mudpie is reporting concealed lace print designs and digital photo prints still reign. Simple color contrasts remain important as well as the continuing leopard trend. Hand painted and hand printed stripes and snowflakes are dramatic and artistic and play to the do-it-yourself aesthetic.

In terms of jewelry – natural beauty of semi precious stones reign. Trendcapsule reports the importance of smoky quartz, colorful agate, garnet, amethyst, jade and misshapen natural pearls.

Kids Contemporary Key Item Trend Report - SS 2011

2010-11-29T14:12:00.000-07:00

MPDClick released their Kids' Contemporary Trend Report for Spring / Summer 2011 - straight from the major runway shows. We thought we would share it with you......

Key Items -
Children's: S/S 2011, white dresses play with frothy textures and volume. Appliqued bow tops and traditional macs mix things up. . . Prints are vibrant and loud with kitsch lightweight knits and tie-dyed effects.

Applique Tops

Key words: Far left: Yellow satin bows; swing T; bright palette. Second left: Fluid fabrics; loose fit t-shirt; feminine tones; varying pink satin bows. Centre: Oversized applique bow; salmon pink & rose; floral corsage detail. Second right: Mix & match aesthetic; expressive illustration; monochrome palette; floral corsage detail. Far right: Small satin bows and flowers; subtle sheen; tie dye.

White Dresses

Key words: Far left: Ethereal tulle layers; jersey top; modern lace; tiered. Second left: Decorative floral corsage; coordinating print ruffle. Centre: Feather-light bamboo knit; flutter sleeves; soft volume. Second right: Soft jersey; lettuce hemming; whitened tones; floral screen print. Far right: Vintage slip inspired shape; subverted handkerchief hem; cotton; tie-up straps.

Tie Dye

Key words: Far left: tie-dyed jersey; contrasting hues; floral applique trim; ombre overdye. Second left: Button front jacket; tie-dye effect; frosted pink; violet; subtle sheen. Centre: Solid top; bright hues; tie dye trim; ruffle maxi skirt; contrast color. Second left: Shirr front top; bow applique trim; contrast ombre dye; tie-dyed effect. Far right: Purple tie-dye spiral; psychedelic; 70's inspiration; white jersey.

Join us for The Little Black Dress Affair!

2010-11-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

US Trendy Interview

2010-11-19T09:39:00.001-07:00

About LamanBlu:
Cute fashionable kidswear by Holli Gibson! Each piece, bold in color and design, are perfect for children! Dresses, tops, pants, and backpacks- there's something for every free-spirited kid out there!

What is your inspiration for the season?

My inspiration for Fall 2010 began with "Reflection". I spent a lot of time reflecting on what some of the important messages in our world are that we should be paying attention to. As I reflected on our world, I firmly believe that God has given us such a wonderful place to live that we should be caretakers of it and live our lives as eco-friendly as possible. Many of the pieces in the fall collection are in an eco-friendly bamboo knit. I also spent time reflecting on our past. The cotton waffle knits in the collection are a result of that reflection and are vintage inspired with beautiful silhouettes and velvet and lace trim. The other major area of reflection is our world as a whole. A trip to India inspired the fact that we are one world and the cotton print peacock pieces are a result of that. India offers such a deep culture that affects us no matter where we live on the planet. I was also drawn to light inspired colors, as seen reflected in water or ice. The resulting color palette, which works across all the pieces in the collection is Prussian Blu, Lotus, Hyacinth, Sky Blu and Ombre Purple.

Education/Experience:
I graduated in 1990 from college with a Bachelor of Science in Apparel Design. I worked in Dallas as a designer in women's dresses and sportswear for about 15 years. After taking a time to start a family (and relocating to the Rocky Mountains) I went back to work in the industry, this time with my focus on children.

What drove you to choose fashion design and specifically starting your own design?
I've always been interested in fashion - my mother was a very fashionable lady - I always loved dressing fashionably and always wanted to put my own twist on things. I was drawn to starting my own fashion business because I saw an emerging niche of eco-friendly designer clothing for children, which I wanted to fill. Children are so much fun to work with, they embody not taking anything too seriously. They are unencumbered and free spirited... A perfect descriptive of the spirit of fashion.

What has prepared you to enter the world as a fashion designer?
Beyond my educational experience, I spent a number of years working in the industry for both small startup companies and large established manufacturers. I've done both domestic and international production and sourcing and have worked with many types of stores from small boutiques to large retailers including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Victoria's Secret. My father was a business entrepreneur as well, though not in the fashion industry. Growing up in an entrepreneurial environment is definitely a catalyst in my desire to launch my own business.

What has been your biggest struggle breaking into the world as an independent fashion designer? There are so many struggles in breaking into this business from supply chain to the challenges of doing small scale production to sales channels. I've been fortunate to have known about some of the hurdles from the get go and so have been at least somewhat prepared to tackle them. I'm also very lucky to have a great support team to help me tackle these challenges and overcome them.

Describe your style:
My personal style is very eclectic. I have a lot of different moods, so my closet represents that. I go from very casual - jeans and a t shirt to very modern - sequin dress and ruffle jacket with over the knee patent leather boots.

Your 3 wardrobe staples:
Well, I live in the mountains of Colorado so I guess my 3 staples would be jeans, snow boots and a fleece jacket. Doesn't sound very fashionable does it? Of course, we have snow on the ground from October through May so practicality rules for 8 months of the year. I am known to wear my snow boots with everything and carry my dress shoes around with me to change into at the last moment!

Favorite fashion decade:
That's a tough question! Can I list 3? The 80's has to be one of my favorite fashion decades because that's when I came into my own in terms of style, so it holds fond memories for me. Then I remember discovering the 60's - which is another favorite fashion decade. Such individualism! My other favorite fashion decade is the 40's - beautifully cut garments which were very body conscious but not revealing - very sexy while being totally elegant!

What are you most excited to wear this season?
I think I'm most excited to wear capes this season. A great way to layer in some warmth and you can dress them up or down. I've added a few to my wardrobe - a couple of cashmere ones in black and red and a fabulous faux fur one for drama.

One thing you couldn’t live without:
My family!

Favorite Celebrity Fashion Icon:
I think Gwen Stefani has to be my favorite. She's really a beautiful girl and I love her eclectic style - she can go from classic beauty to rock and roll to absolute glamour - and does it all well.

Perfect night on the town outfit:
My perfect night on the town is a night out with my husband, so the outfit would be a flirty dress that he likes and some sassy high heel shoes!

What are other activities you enjoy doing besides designing (art, music, etc)?
I'm very into the outdoors. We live in the mountains so we spend a lot of time horseback riding and hiking and snow skiing. I'm also a water baby so we head to the beach as often as possible to scuba dive, snorkel and sail.

What do you wish people understood about being in the fashion industry?
The fashion industry is a creative industry, but it's also a business. Fashion (as a business) is not about art. It's about delivering an exciting, high quality product which is saleable.

What is some advice that you would give to aspiring independent designers?
Be prepared to work harder than you think possible to succeed. This is a tough business, so prepare yourself. Listen to all the criticism you will get, decide what you can learn from and keep that....discard the rest. Stay positive, and stay true to yourself. You need to find a way to stay centered. Being too confident or not confident enough are both killers!

What is favorite Part about being a Fashion Designer?
It's the creative outlet really. My favorite part of being a children's fashion designer is working with the little girls. We did a large fashion show recently and there were a couple of things that really stood out to me and reinforced how much I love what I do. Afterwards, all the little girls ran up and hugged me and wanted their pictures taken with me - it was so much fun. Then one of the mom's called me later and told me how special it all made her daughter feel. It was the best feeling in the world!

2010-11-11T12:03:00.000-07:00

“Cupcakes and Couture” First Fundraiser for Denver Design Incubator

(Denver, CO) -- DVLP Clothing will host Cupcakes and Couture as a kick-off fundraiser and fashion event for the newly established Denver Design Incubator (DDI). DDI will be an in-residence program for new emerging apparel and accessory designers to develop successful lines of clothing, reach profitable markets, and launch as established apparel and accessory manufacturers.

Cupcakes and Couture will feature Colorado fashion designers showing couture garments in a Parisian style fashion show paired with delicious cupcake bakeries. The after-hours gathering will be held Friday, December 10th at the Jet Hotel, 1812 Wazee in LoDo from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The ticket price of $20.00 includes cocktail, cupcakes and entertainment with 100% of the proceeds going to the incubator. A silent auction of fashion items will also be held to raise funds.
Denver Design Incubator is a non-profit organization modeled after successful design incubators in Toronto, Chicago, and New York. The recently formed Board of Directors includes designers of Colorado apparel manufacturers, fashion lawyers and finance experts, design educators, and retail specialists. Cupcakes and Couture is the first of many events and workshops to be held in Denver leading up to the first designers-in-residence June, 2011 with the goal of “Moving Fashion Forward” in Colorado.

To purchase tickets contact Kathy Bacon, Kathy.dfs@comcast.net or Rustin Coburn, rustin@developclothing.com. Tickets will also be available at the event.

LamanBlu Launches Distribution into European Markets

2010-11-05T08:49:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu is hopping across the pond to launch its eco-friendly brand into the United Kingdom.

Along with continuing to grow its presence in the United States, LamanBlu is expanding its brand of high end children’s wear into the UK. Key boutique retailers will be viewing the collection in private appointments this month with shipping to begin early next year.

The Spring/Summer 2011 Collection, “A New Floral Still Life” will be introduced into Europe starting with the London market. This collection is inspired by flowers plucked from their natural surroundings and positioned in a new way to bring the flowers of an English garden into a child’s wardrobe. This collection is designed to be lived in, laughed in and played in. Its clean silhouettes and extensive floral detailing are flattering, fun and girly.

Combining classically beautiful silhouettes with custom prints and extensive detailing, all in designer quality eco-friendly fabrics is what LamanBlu is best known for. It’s a pretty, girly collection created for parents and children to celebrate childhood. LamanBlu believes that children should be dressed beautifully, because to them, every day is an occasion.

The collection is available in bamboo or cotton is sizes from 6 months to 6 years. Bamboo is an eco-friendly, sustainable crop that grows wild without the aid of fertilizers or pesticides. Bamboo fabric is naturally antibacterial, antifungal and antistatic, making it ideal for children’s wear. LamanBlu’s bamboo is a designer weight fabric with enough lycra to give it great performance for both wear and washability. The cotton option provides a sharper price point. Cotton growers have greatly improved the environmentally friendly status of cotton over the past few decades, reducing the need for pesticides by 50% and producing substantially higher yields on the same acreage. Additionally, LamanBlu’s custom prints are produced using the latest water based ink and printing technologies which are not only vibrant in color, but also environmentally friendly. As always, the LamanBlu line is machine washable and dryable, and ironing is optional.

You can preview photographs from the Spring/Summer 2011 Collection on their website, at http://www.lamanblu.com/ or view the runway show at LamanBlu TV

To schedule an appointment to see the collection, contact LamanBlu at:

Contact:
\LamanBlu
info@lamanblu.com
720-837-1452

WDA - FGI "Fashion Passion" Charity Fashion Show

2010-11-02T15:25:00.000-06:00

Fashion Group International of Denver (FGI of Denver) hosted Fashion Passion which consisted of a Runway Show, Boutique, and Luncheon this past November 2nd. This event was created to benefit the Women’s Development Association’s (WDA) education and training program in the ghettoes of Lahore, Pakistan.

“WDA is a non-governmental 501c3 organization based in Greenwood Village, Colorado. The mission of WDA is to help educate, train and support women and children in third world nations through literacy, basic mathematics and health education, vocational training and economic development opportunities. WDA began working in Pakistan in 2000 and has educated over 3,000 women and children to date. This program is on-going and produces marked improvement in approximately 400 women and 150 children per year.”

The runway featured apparel, accessories and jewelry for the Holidays from LamanBlu and 14 other Colorado talented Designers. The apparel featured was also placed in the boutique for anyone to purchase along with Pakistani dresses and accessories and a portion of the sales went to WDA’s mission.

WDA Promise: One Woman, One Year, On Hundred Dollars, which is the amount needed to sponsor one person for a year.

Image Source: Simply-Good-Photography

2011 Fashion Trend Report

2010-10-26T20:19:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite things about the design process is trend reporting. With 2010 drawing near to the close (can you believe it!?) we've had a lot of conversations lately with journalists and others about trends for the upcoming year. Spring 2011 is starting to draw to a close for us here in the studio and Fall 2011 is getting the finishing touches, so it seemed fitting to share a preview of next year with you....I think it's going to be a great one!

Open publication - Free publishing

Finding a Better Tomorrow - With DVLP and The Denver Rescue Mission

2010-10-25T11:10:00.000-06:00

CREATE. INSPIRE. EVOLVE.

One of my dear friends, Rustin Coburn, is heading up this great effort for the benefit of the Denver Rescue Mission (which is another organization doing such wonderful work here in Denver). Please support their efforts to help the homeless!

Finding A Better Tomorrow

DVLP and BC Surf and Sport team up to help keep the homeless of Denver warm If you live, work, or spend any time in downtown Denver you have driven through the cross streets of Lawrence, Park Ave, and Broadway where the triangle of Eddie Maestas Park sits. Many people will tell you that this is where homelessness in Denver begins….and hopefully will end. Five years ago, Major Hickenlooper started the “Road Home” campaign, with the goal of providing every homeless person in Denver a home, health care and a job. With a tough economy, we are not quite here yet.

However, it is encouraging to see local businesses coming together to help give back. This November local clothing brand DVLP, with the help of BC Surf and Sport (which currently has five Colorado retail locations) will be having a clothing run for the homeless people of Denver Colorado. The two local companies are asking that people drop off a bag of clothing at any of the Boulder or Denver BC Surf and Sport locations. They can also drop them off directly at the DVLP Headquarters in downtown Denver. In exchange for donating a bag of clothing, you will receive a special limited edition shirt designed by DVLP Co-founder Rustin Coburn, and 15% off your next purchase from BC Surf and Sport (only applicable for clothing or shoes purchased at the time of drop-off. The 15% is also not combinable with other discounts).

So get out there, and don’t be shy. The clothing will be dropped off at the Denver Rescue Mission
on November 22nd. Between their four locations Denver Rescue can house 1,000 people per night,
and last year they served 770,000 meals. They have specifically requested that the most needed
items are new socks and under garments, but your used pants, hats, shirts, and jackets are also
welcome.

DVLP Clothing is also giving people the opportunity to participate in this meaningful cause even if they do not have the time or extra clothes. The company will be selling the limited edition t-shirt online at http://www.dvlpclothing.com/, and $5.00 of each shirt purchased will go directly to the Denver

Rescue Mission and helping to get the homeless of Denver off the streets. Go online, to their EXCLUSIVLE SOLD section, and the shirt is titled “A Better Tomorrow”.

CREATE. INSPIRE. EVOLVE.

DETAILS:

Drop of Deadline:
November 20th. 2010

Locations:

DVLP Clothing
360 Walnut st.
Denver, CO. 80205
Phone:: 303.296.3336

BC Surf (Littleton)
303-972-1300
8501 W. BOWLES AVENUE
LITTLETON, CO 80123

BC Surf (Boulder)
303-440-6030
1600 28TH STREET
BOULDER, CO 80301

BC Surf (Broomfield)
720-887-2444
1 WEST FLATIRONS CIRCLE #408
BROOMFIELD, CO 80021

BC Surf (Park Meadows)
303-768-8908
8678 PARK MEADOWS CENTER DR
LONETREE, CO 80124

To Participate Further:
($5.00 of each shirt goes to Denver Rescue Mission)
http://www.dvlpclothing.com/
EXCLUSIVELY SOLD section
Look for the “A Better Tomorrow” t-shirt

Extras:
Denver Rescue Mission has requested new socks and underwear.
Old/used Jackets, hats, shirts, and pants are also welcome

Introducing BelaBlu, a new moderate price offering from LamanBlu

2010-10-18T12:40:00.000-06:00

BelaBlu is the newest collection from the LamanBlu™ company. It is a fun collection of everyday basics offered at a moderate price point.

Spring 2011 brings more than just flowers for the LamanBlu™ company, it brings a new offering in BelaBlu. The new lower priced label from LamanBlu™ brings a moderate offering to the LamanBlu™ family. BelaBlu has the same fit and quality as the LamanBlu collection, but is simpler with fewer embellishments and scaled back detailing from their signature line. BelaBlu brings fun and bright mix and match prints in a soft matte jersey capsule collection of dresses and separates.

“We’re excited to bring BelaBlu to our customers,” says Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu. “Our goal with this capsule collection is to offer our styling at a more accessible price point so that we really can dress a child for most anything they need in a day – from a playdate at the park to a day out with mom to a special event.”

BelaBlu is offered in infant, toddler and child sizes from 6 months to child size 7. Dresses are $17 and $19 wholesale. Tops are $14 and $15 wholesale and Bottoms are $12 and $13 wholesale. The bright prints are merchandised to mix and match for an eye-catching presentation on the sales floor and include many photographic florals for this Spring/Summer 2011 season, an important trend first presented in the LamanBlu collection. They include photographic rose prints in both lime green and bright pink, a carnation tie dye print in blue as well as a blue/green circle dot, a photo realistic butterfly print and a Pucci inspired electric floral in multiple colors anchored by tangerine. As always from LamanBlu, everything in the collection is machine wash and dry for easy care.

LamanBlu to Participate in “Fashion Passion”, a Benefit for the Women and Children of Pakistan

2010-10-12T20:22:00.000-06:00

This November 2nd charity event at Pinehurst Country Club is produced by FGI of Denver and the Women’s Development Association (WDA).

Fashion Group International of Denver (FGI of Denver) is honored to announce Fashion Passion, a Luncheon, Runway Show and Boutique on November 2, 2010, to benefit the Women’s Development Association’s (WDA) education and training program in the ghettoes of Lahore, Pakistan. The magnitude of the impact of educating one indigent woman in her country is best said by Josna Azim of the WDA project in Pakistan, "to educate a man is to educate a person, but to educate a woman is to educate a family, and, ultimately, a nation." WDA’s Aroona Shahrukh, from Lahore, Pakistan, will be our guest speaker and Colorado’s favorite, Molly Hughes, is the Honorary Chair.

Join FGI, WDA, LamanBlu and other local designers in eradicating illiteracy among the poorest of poor and support the WDA Promise: One Woman, One Year, On Hundred Dollars, which is the amount needed to sponsor one person for a year.

Holiday apparel, accessories and jewelry from 15 Colorado designers will be featured on the runway and available for guests shopping pleasure in the Boutique before and after the luncheon. Runway models will be showcasing stunning Holiday Designs created specifically for this event. Pakistani dresses and accessories will be displayed for viewing enjoyment and purchase. Show your Fashion Passion and get a head start on your holiday shopping. A portion of your shopping spree will be given to WDA’s mission!

“We are honored to be participating in this event,” says Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu. “We have a passion for supporting women and children everywhere and FGI and WDA are planning such a special day for everyone involved.”

This charity event is open to the public and will begin at 11:00 AM at the beautiful Pinehurst Country Club. Tickets include the Luncheon, Runway Show and Fashion Boutique. Prices are $40 per person, or $75 for VIP Runway Seating. Advanced registration is required through www.BlackTie-Colorado.com , keyword:fgiwda. A portion of the ticket is tax-deductible. In addition, donation envelopes will be available at the tables to support the WDA Promise. Can’t attend but want to contribute? Blacktie-Colorado.com has a link just for you! Thank you from the grateful women and children of Lahore.

WDA is a non-governmental 501c3 organization based in Greenwood Village, Colorado. The mission of WDA is to help educate, train and support women and children in third world nations through literacy, basic mathematics and health education, vocational training and economic development opportunities. WDA began working in Pakistan in 2000 and has educated over 3,000 women and children to date. This program is on-going and produces marked improvement in approximately 400 women and 150 children per year.

FGI of Denver, winner of the coveted Special Event Award for RISING STAR2009 FASHION BY DESIGN Runway Gala, in which LamanBlu won the Rising Star Award, is the premiere authority on Fashion in Colorado. The FGI members who will be featured on the Runway are:

Holli Gibson / LamanBlu, Brooks, Ltd, Maggie Burns, Eulanda Sanders, Andrea Li, Carol Engel-Enright, Melissa May, Natalee Moldenhauer, Samantha Larkins, Gino Velardi, Rustin Coburn / DVLP, Susan Ware, Stephanie Ohnmacht, Lisa Ramfjord Elstun and Wendy Weil.

Additional members on display in the boutique are Enuma Duhu and Gabriela Martinez.

Wow - What a great day for fashion, building connections and helping others!

2010-10-10T13:35:00.000-06:00

For any of you industry folks who missed the FACE event at the Denver Art Museum yesterday, you missed a lot! Carol Engel-Enright was responsible for putting on the most wonderful event for Fashion Group of Denver. The audience consisted of fashion students, professionals and those inspired to be designers with no formal training. The day consisted of expert panel discussions on various aspects of the fashion business from samples to production to marketing. There was also a keynote speech by Lady Soule, who designs the Frock line of dresses for Tracy Reese and a talk on social media by Sean Carasso from Falling Whistles. The day ended with a juried fashion show by both local students and professionals.

The judging for the show took place last Wednesday, and I was honored to be a judge. The submissions from both the students and professionals were great and Cynthia Petrus produced an amazing show with all the garments inspired by "FACE" and in the color story of red, black and white.

I can't say enough good things about Lady Soule, who brought some of her Fall 2010 Frock collection to present to the crowd and held a live interview led by Suzanne Brown of The Denver Post. Lady talked about her inspiration, her design process and her work with Tracy Reese as well as answered questions from the audience. She was a delight and stayed long after the event to talk with guests. I was fortunate enough to be one of those who got to spend time with her after the event and am happy to now call her a friend.

Another inspiring talk was by Sean Carasso from Falling Whistles. You have to check out the story - http://www.fallingwhistles.com/splash/index.php Sean has to be one of the nicest guys and most inspiring speakers I've heard. His cause is compelling and heartwrenching - but uplifiting as well, because you can so easily get involved and particiapte for change, for the children of Congo.

Perhaps the most unique thing about the day was both seasoned veterans and novices in the industry coming together, to learn from each other, to help each other, to connect with each other. This is a truly unique setting in the fashion industry - it's a great story of community - of coming together to better the industry as a whole - to raise up a new generation of fashion experts - to build the business of fashion in Colorado. If the first FACE event was any indication of what's to come in this town - we'll be one to watch for sure!

FACE to expand fashion industry in Colorado

2010-10-04T15:51:00.000-06:00

FACE to expand fashion industry in Colorado

Fashion Group International’s FACE (Fashion and Creative Enterprises) Business Symposium provides Colorado designers, entrepreneurs, product developers, and artists in apparel, accessories and creative products an opportunity to connect and grow businesses locally.

(DENVER, Co.)- For one-day fashion, design and style will be combined to showcase creative talent and business opportunity throughout Colorado. In the world of fashion, there are numerous designers and aspiring artists that need a kick-start to get recognition for their designs. As part of the Denver based Fashion Group International, FACE (Fashion And Creative Enterprises) Business Symposium connects Colorado businesses and local talent. Fashion Group International is a global, non-profit, professional organization with over 5000 members in the fashion industry including apparel, accessories, beauty and home.

FACE provides a format for creative businesses to share resources, ideas, and networks to expand entrepreneurial opportunities in Colorado. Fashion Group International of Denver presents this premier event to offer valuable and innovative business insight into emerging trends in product development, merchandising, and marketing. Panels of fashion industry experts from Colorado will discuss sample development, materials and supplies, local manufacturing, marketing, media, and retail.

The keynote speaker for FACE is Lady Soule, head designer of Frock by Tracy Reese from New York City. Lady studied fashion design at Colorado State University and Fashion Institute of Technology. She has designed for Tracy Reese for the last 8 years and has been instrumental in helping the business grow to a $13 million leading fashion company.

Speaking on the power of social media and networking is Sean Carasso, founder of Falling Whistles. Sean was a grassroots organizer against violence in his youth. He then traveled the world as a personal assistant experiencing the life of luxury. Determined to connect luxury with helping others, Sean traveled to South Africa with TOMS Shoes. While in the Congo, he wrote Falling Whistles and developed a marketing campaign recently featured at the PROJECT Trade Show in Las Vegas.

A juried design competition will provide an exciting finale to the day with a professional runway show. The “Create It with Altitude” design competition will feature designs inspired by red, black and white colors and FACE. This competition is open for day or street wear, evening or special event, jewelry or clothing accessories, or creative product in professional and student categories.

FACE will be held on October 9, 2010 at the Denver Art Museum from 10A.M. to 4P.M. Register for this event

at www.blacktie-colorado.com, event code: FGIface. Costs for the event, including lunch and finale runway fashion show, is $60 for guests, $40 for F.G.I. members, and $30 for students. Fashion Group International of Denver hopes to expand fashion and creative enterprises and grow business locally in Colorado.

For Event or Design Competition Information Contact:

Carol Enright, FACE Chair, 303-517-2583, carol.engel-enright@colostate.edu

LamanBlu Releases the Runway Video for its Spring/Summer 2011 Collection

2010-10-03T12:16:00.000-06:00

Finding inspiration in a world of flowers… LamanBlu releases its Spring/Summer 2011 Runway Show Video, inspired by the joy of summer and the flowers of spring.

Graphic 3D floral prints and bright colors are the trademark look for the SS2011 collection which consisted of twirly spring dresses and smart separates.

Exhibiting a fun and elegant collection, Gibson’s attention to details caught the eye of the audience, which included buyers, parents and other high profile guests.

Holli Gibson first created the LamanBlu label in 2008. Her original premise was to create eco-friendly classically beautiful clothing for little girls. She has stayed true to the vision creating beautiful, wearable dresses and sportswear inspired by nature and leading trends in both the children’s and women’s industry.

Gibson feels that children should be dressed beautifully, no matter what their activity and that dressing beautifully shouldn’t hamper their play and exploration of their world. Such is the reason a significant part of the collection is in lycra infused knits. “Because every little girl is really a princess inside,” says Gibson, “and princesses climb trees and run fast and hang upside down on the jungle gym!”

A versatile designer, Gibson likes to experiment with color and is her flair for it never more evident than in this collection. She incorporates a coordinated range of custom prints and color combinations and plays with pretty, girly silhouettes. Dresses all have great twirl quality. Layering dresses, skirts, twirly skorts and hip length tops with leggings and flowy capris allow for plenty of playability and occasion options.

LamanBlu continues its offering of designer quality bamboo knits and has added a new designer weight cotton/lycra knit to its collection as a sharper price point option. Sizes are 6mos – 6x. As always, the LamanBlu collection is easy care for the busy family, with the entire line being machine wash and dry, and ironing is optional. Gibson’s extensive merchandising experience is evident in the collection as buyers have options of selecting the color stories to fit their customer base, from vibrant punchy contrasting colors to more delicate classic color stories all anchored in the color of the season, a bright white.

To view the video, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUc3MpOEa7c
To schedule an appointment to view the collection, contact LamanBlu at 720-837-1452 or info@lamanblu.com

Tom Ford Disses Fashion World's Cult of Immediacy - Fashion and Design News and Trends - WWD.com

2010-09-19T08:13:00.000-06:00

Tom Ford Disses Fashion World's Cult of Immediacy - Fashion and Design News and Trends - WWD.com

I happen to love Tom Ford - very chic, very beautiful clothing - no matter what category he's designing in. I also love that he can be a little schizophrenic - he goes from women's clothing - to film - to men's clothing - back to women's (not to mention other creative stops in between). And I also find it funny (though not surprising) that this is the "story of the week" - the fact that he so highly controlled his recent launch and everyone is in a twitter about it. I applaud him for his boldness and presenting things the way he wants. He's in a position in his life where he doesn't have to bow down to the "standard" approach of the fashion elite and kudos to him for it. He's having fun with it - and isn't that what fashion should be at its core anyways - fun?

LamanBlu in the News

2010-09-09T06:19:00.000-06:00

Wow, what a busy month we've had! And we've been all over the news.....Fashion Fest garnered no fewer than five writeups in varying local publications (we have links to them on our website, www.LamanBlu.com/Press.htm ). Thanks to the Denver Examiner, Your Hub, the Arvada Examiner, Fibre2Fashion and The Villager for their coverage of the event and our show!

We also were in both Earnshaw's Hudson's Childrenswear Review Magazines, the two most respected magazines in the industry. (You can also find links to those on our site.)

Already just 10 days into September, we've been blogged about in "She Got Style" and "Tiny Green Mom" with more coming from "She Knows" and "Lady & the Blog"! (Check back with our site, we will have links posted to those soon.)

Whew! We're genuinely thrilled with all the buzz and very excited about things to come.

We're also working on updating our facebook page - become a fan and tell us what kinds of information you'd like to see! (www.facebook.com/pages/LamanBlu-eco-conscious-designer-clothing-for-children/14765076577 )

Oh, and on another note - did you watch the next to last episode of top chef? - Padma's violetto and chartreuse tie dye dress is a killer match for a mom/daughter look with our violetto and chartreuse tie dye little girls dress! Gotta Have It!

LamanBlu Spring 2011 Runway Show

2010-09-01T07:53:00.000-06:00

What Should be in your Closet for Fall?

2010-08-26T22:02:00.000-06:00

I guess it's that time of year. The kids are finally heading back to school and everyone wants to know what are the must have items for their wardrobe. We do a lot of trend forecasting (and trend watching) here at the studio. It's a holdover from my days working with many of the major retailers. We released our Fall/Holiday 2010 Trend report about 9 months ago to our retail customers. As we've watched the trends develop on the major runways of the world, we've been gratified that we got it right - picked the right trends to pursue and add our own LamanBlu twist to. Since we've been getting so many requests lately from various consumer magazines and blogs to contribute our trend reports, we've decided to do just that and republish our original trend report for the season. Enjoy! Holli

Fall 2011 Trend Report #2

2010-08-19T09:25:00.000-06:00

Trend 2. Cloud Atlas
The end of summer is signalled with a change in weather. Autumn showers, migrating birds, umbrellas, raindrops and clouds all work as print icons in this playful graphic trend.

The First Video Clip from Fashion Fest!

2010-08-17T08:48:00.000-06:00

Fall 2011 Trend Report #1

2010-08-11T08:50:00.000-06:00

Trend 1. Correspondant
Travel and the art of correspondance inspire this trend as we see a return to creative activities and hand-rendered imagery. Stamps, scribbles, doodles, collage and travel jourals bring the joy of a traditional craft to a digitally literate generation.

Earnshaws Style Incubator Showcase

2010-08-10T16:42:00.001-06:00

LamanBlu Offers its Fall/Holiday and Cruise/Resort Collections Direct to the Public in Conjunction with Fashion Fest

2010-07-30T10:12:00.000-06:00

We're doing something we've never done before! We're selling direct to the public. We normally only sell to retail boutiques, and we will return to that very soon. But we are celebrating Fashion Fest 2010, the biggest fashion event in Denver, and we will be accepting direct orders at that event. So we wanted to open it up beyond that event and offer it to all our other fans out there as well!

We will be accepting orders on current stock merchandise, as well as made to order from our current production line for one week only. Orders will be accepted from Friday, July 30th through Friday, August 6th. Stock merchandise will ship within 2 weeks, made to order will ship in approximately 6 weeks. Flip through the catalogs below, select what you want at the special Fashion Fest price and email us at info@lamanblu.com. Ordering sizes are 2T-6x. If you have any questions about the garments or how to order, just email or call at 720-837-1452. We will invoice you via PayPal and when payment is received, we will put your order into work.

{Sorry time to order has expired and we've removed the catalogs - if you're seeking merchandise, contact us and we will direct you to your nearest LamanBlu retailer}

Thanks for a great Fashion Fest rehearsal!

2010-07-28T11:31:00.001-06:00

We had our final fittings and rehearsal for Fashion Fest 2010 on Monday evening. All of our beautiful models got to try on their outfits for the show and we practiced our walking, twirling and just a touch of actual choreography.

It was a toasty day and the girls were so patient trying on some fall/holiday items in the heat for the show. We even have a new model who followed our tweet to the rehearsal and we are so excited to have her participate!

Our thanks goes out to our models, their parents and the Fashion Fest organizers for all of their help and hard work. We're looking forward to a great show!

This event is free to the public, or you can purchase VIP tickets and will be Saturday, July 31st from 4:00 to 9:00 in Olde Town Arvada. LamanBlu's Fashion Show will be at 7:00pm. For more information - http://denver.metromix.com/events/fair_festival/fashion-fest-2010-arvada/1900213/content

Fashion Fest 2010 is Almost Here!

2010-07-21T15:36:00.000-06:00

As we're getting the final touches on our show for Fashion Fest (coming up in a week and a half), we wanted to share some of the photos from our model casting call.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/51075247@N08/

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1486039321129&ref=mf

We're putting together an exciting show - we're going to share our Fall/Holiday 2010 collection, which is arriving in stores now. We're also going to give a sneak peak of our Spring/Summer 2011 collection - which retailers are buying now and consumers will see in stores come next spring.

Fashion Fest is the buzz of the town, with the local newspapers talking us up as well as 303 Magazine and Westword. Stay tuned for more, or contact us for information on how to attend. info@lamanblu.com

Spring 2011 Preview Showings

2010-07-11T21:34:00.000-06:00

AND WE'RE OFF!

It's been a fast a furious couple of weeks on the road previewing our Spring/Summer 2011 Collection with retailers and we're so excited we just had to share it with you.

Let's face it, spring and summer are all about picnics, gardens, afternoons by the lake (or river or seaside) and all about fun! It's the spirit of what we're bringing in our collection to honor the season and it's certainly generating a buzz.

Early out of the gate favorites are our sumer dresses in colors ranging from Bright White to Gossamer Pink to Violetto to Bright Chartreuse. Our custom florals ranging from roses to orchids to crayon stripes are being fabulously received and are renewing our determination to have our own atelier garden next year - we are just arguing about how much should be devoted to flowers and how much to veggies!

Our new infant sets are creating a buzz paired with toddler and/or little girl outfits for sister looks in a variety of styles.

Our bamboo knits, always a best seller - BTW - did you know that bamboo absorbs water 3 to 4 times better than cotton, making it cooler in the summer? It is also naturally antibacterial, antifungal and antistatic. What more could you want in a summer cloth? Our bamboo knits continue to be the core hit of the season, but we've also introduced extremely high quality cotton/lycra knits to provide sharper price points. Cotton has gotten a bad rap over the years as not being very environmentally friendly. However in recent years, cotton growers have reduced their use of pesticides by 50% and cut back on irrigated water by 45%, all while producing substantially higher yields on the same acreage. We've locked down a supply you will find very attractive (not just in price point but also in hand). And it's proving to be a good choice for all the research and testing time we've spent to develop the supply!

The Jasmine pant has also created a stir paired with all types of tanks as well as modest hip length swing t's.

The photo shoots are complete and we're working on the lookbook now. We will share it when it's complete but we were so excited by both the collection and the prelim responses from the road that we couldn't wait!

LamanBlu Reveals Spring/Summer 2011 Trends

2010-07-07T13:35:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu reveals its Spring/Summer 2011 trend presentation to the public. LamanBlu melds the grace and beauty of both women’s and children’s trend forecasting in its spring/summer 2011 line, which for this season, is all about a floral still life.

Golden, Colorado – July 7, 2010 - Pantone expresses the importance of family fun and outdoor play for the upcoming summer. This is directly reflected in to the anticipated trends for LamanBlu. Fun wear for children that is practical enough to wear to the park or enjoy a day in the sun, yet stylish enough to wear for an evening out. Enjoying life and its small pleasures are what summer is all about and none of this is lost in the vision of LamanBlu’s spring/summer collection.

Bright saturated colors, floral motifs, balance and symmetry are all prevalent themes for the upcoming spring/summer season and LamanBlu has created beautiful inspirations for the spring/summer 2011 line with these elements in mind. Handcrafted orchid prints, blazing violet and vibrant pink solids as well as artfully produced ombre tye dyes mark the beginning of the spring/summer ensembles for young girls.

As always from LamanBlu, the line will present bold and classic designs with the complex detailing put into every piece. Small roses and delicate ribbon will adorn the garments to emphasize the beauty created by Mother Nature and as a compliment to the innocence of childhood. Custom floral prints and oversized botanical flower screen prints enhance the feel of the season.

To see the Trend Book, visit www.LamanBlu.com/Press.htm and scroll down to the “Publications” section.

What a Great Casting Call!

2010-06-28T09:57:00.000-06:00

We had such a great time yesterday at the LamanBlu casting call for Fashion Fest 2010. dNote proved to be such a great place to hold our event and the Baby Boogie started toward the end of our model tryouts so many of the kids stayed and played instruments and danced on the stage! (dNote also serves some of the best pizza I've had in a long time!)

Downtown Toys & Games graciously provided coloring and other activities for the kids so there was plenty to do during the entire event.

I'd like to thank our models and their parents most of all. All of the girls were so beautiful and we had so much fun trying on clothes and learning how to walk on stage (and of course, doing lots and lots of twirling). Some of the girls had previous modeling experience, for some, this was their first time doing anything like this. The pros took the newbies under their wing and showed them what to do. And since we had so many ages, the older girls spent time helping the little ones and making sure they were safe up on the stage. It was very heartwarming to see kids helping kids.

We even had a few local stars of the stage turn out - here's a clip from one of these talented girls:

Stay tuned for more information about the upcoming Fashion Fest!

Fashion Fest 2010 Casting Call

2010-06-21T15:20:00.000-06:00

We're having a Kids Casting Call for Fashion Fest 2010 this upcoming weekend, June 27th from 1:00pm - 4:00pm at DNote in Olde Town Arvada, CO. We are inviting little girls ages 2-7 (sizes 2T-6x) to come for fun! We will be trying on clothing for the upcoming Fashion Fest Runway show and practicing our runway walking.

DNote is located at 7519 Grandview Ave., Arvada, CO 80010 (http://www.dnote.us/). We will be having our casting call during their "Baby Boogie" where kids come to enjoy music, both by listening to it, playing with it and danceing to it (and modeling to it in this case). Come make some new friends and see old ones.

The fashion show will be during Fashion Fest 2010, July 31st, 2010. It is a family event with shopping, food and entertainment during the afternoon, culminating in a Runway Fashion Show in the evening. The day starts 4:00pm on the square in Olde Town Arvada.

Downtown Toys and Games (www.downtowntoysandgames.com) is sponsoring our casting call and there will be giveaways as part of the event!

Come and bring your friends for a fun filled day of music, toys and of course, fashion!

LamanBlu Launches Cruise/Resort – Just in time for a Beach Vacation!

2010-05-25T18:52:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu has just released its first collection for the cruise/resort season. The collection is entitled “Beachcomber” and is an inspired find for a beach holiday to wash away the winter blues.

“Seaside family holidays provide inspiration for this nautical story, as old, over-exposed photographs remind us of happier care-free times. Recycled nautical elements add authenticity…Natural fabrics with slubby irregularities such as linen and linen blends are important and add a lived-in feel.” (Trend Bible Kids)

Varying colors of blue and white, along with a custom watercolor seahorse print form the basis of LamanBlu’s first Cruise/Resort collection. “I love family holidays at the shore and am always inspired by the sense of wonder they promote, my kids and my own. The beach and the ocean are full of awe-inspiring wonder.” Says Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu.

White and pink sand, Caribbean waters so blue they make your soul ache to explore beneath them. And the eternal hunt for seahorses, those elusive gentle creatures hidden in the reef that hold you spellbound. What better beachwear than washed linen in Dutch and sun faded colors. “We’re using inspired finds from the beach, including natural shell buttons and rope trim.”, says Gibson. The colors are translucent and a reminder of being castaway on a desert island. Fabrics are crinkled and cool to the touch. The garments have a feeling of linear aesthetics to strike the right balance. Details and finishings are perfect reminders of a demure and prim gentility. Harking back to Victorian vintage, with haute couture precision and radiant elegance. Nothing is left to chance, nothing is vague, everything is pretty, harmonious and graceful. A revival of the finest which is enchanting and precious.

Why linen for kids? The finest 100% linen is one of the purest cloths there is. It is light and comfortable, and has a coolness and absorbency that make it ideal for sunny days. It is an ideal fabric for children's sensitive skins and especially good for those with skin conditions, such as allergies and eczema, because it has a natural pH balance. Linen is very environmentally friendly. It comes from flax and every part of the plant is used. The finest fibers are used to make linen fabrics and the by-products are used to make everything from oil to cattle feed to bank notes and fiber board. Waste is minimal and any chemicals used are always fully treated before disposal. And as always, fabrics in the LamanBlu line are machine washable and dryable, and ironing is optional, including linen.

LamanBlu Spring/Summer 2011 Preview

2010-05-25T01:51:00.000-06:00

Spring / Summer 2011 Preview

2010-05-25T00:47:00.000-06:00

We thought you'd like to see some preview shots from the Spring/Summer 2011 Collection. Don't the girls look fresh and lovely?! They're proving out our mantra - for a child, every day is an occasion.

Spring 2011 Sneak Peek

2010-05-24T08:50:00.000-06:00

We did our first photo shoot yesterday for Spring/Summer 2011. We found a beautiful park and the girls ran an played and had a tea party and chased butterflies and blew bubbles. They were wonderful and we all had such a good time!

Flowers and flowing hair ruled the day. Little girls all have such natural beauty and they sure showed it off. Beautifully dressed and playing, running, with a giant game of ring-around-the-rosie thrown in. Shoes and hair barettes were graciously provided by Bear Feet, based in Texas.

FGI Denver Captures Major Award at International New York Conference - LamanBlu is the Rising Star

2010-05-19T07:17:00.000-06:00

SHINING STAR IN THE FASHION UNIVERSE

Susanne Taylor, FGI District 4 Director and winner of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award; Scottie Taylor Iverson, FGI of Denver Regional Director and chair of RISING STAR; Nathalia Fairbault, FGI of Denver program chair and NY conference attendee; Jan Top, FGI of Denver program chair and NY conference attendee; Carol Engel-Enright, business development chair, Career Day chair and NY conference attendee with Margaret Hayes, president of Fashion Group International, NY headquarters

Fashion Group International of Denver won the coveted Special Event Award for RISING STAR 2009, Fashion By Design Runway Gala at the recent international conference in New York. The awards banquet was held at the famed Cosmopolitan Club and was a particularly sweet culmination for the Denver contingent after the first full day of meetings and presentations held at Conde Naste. This was a wonderful surprise to be shared with a large, talented and passionate committee,” said Iverson. “ I am so proud of the individuals I chose. We all poured our hearts into RISING STAR and it showed! Since the judges weren’t at the event, the package compiled for competition had to be comprehensive as though they had attended.

My background in marketing and winning some national advertising awards helped with the daunting task. It’s all about relationships and we were told that one of the factors that put us on top was the number of sponsors and partners we garnered for the fundraiser for which we are so grateful. Denver is often overlooked in the world of fashion. We have proven that we have lifestyle and style.”

About RISING STAR: Signature event of Fashion Group International of Denver held every other year to salute new and emerging designers throughout Colorado in order to raise funds for fashion scholarships and educational outreach programs,

Venue: The exquisite showroom at Mercedes-Benz of Westminster with a 55’ runway in the west wing

Components: Kickoff party with 150 attendees and a wait list; red carpet entry, Starlight Lounge with live entertainment and special cuisine for sponsors, VIPs, category winners and media; silent auction; Academy Awards -style presentation of trophies on stage for category winners whose designs would be on the runway and sponsor gifts; fashion show with professional models, awarding of The Rising Star of the Year to Holli Gibson, LamanBlu, children’s clothing

Re-branding: naming the event, logo for the event, consistent use of images including an illustration of the last Rising Star’s evening gown (Gino Velardi – designer) by artist Jim Howard and three models in a Mercedes-Benz of Westminster convertible reaching for the stars

Innovations (all about stars): Save The Date cards attached to “star” shaped chocolate brownie lollipops, special fashion show at Outlets of Colorado Shopping Extravaganza highlighting fashions from category winners; professionally designed invitations, ads, souvenir program and collateral materials; awarding the first ever Lifetime Achievement Award to “Star Legend” David Jacobs, founder of Spyder Active Sports based in Boulder and including Spyder fashions on the runway; signature drink – “sparkling star” created by Occasions By Sandy; proclamations from two mayors; Saks Fifth Avenue display window on the valet circle at Cherry Creek Shopping Center; Star Spangled Banner sung by Nancy Fitzgerald to open the show; multi media presentation throughout created by Tommy Collier; progressive food stations and runway seating rather than tables; stage a presentation of a $2,500 scholarship to CSU by Kenneth King Foundation

Judging: Project Runway meets Academy Awards - Two layers of competition patterned after the New York format with a distinguished panel completing the final judging. Top three companies (BornFit, DVLP Clothing and LamanBlu) on stage for announcing of the winner for 2009. The 11 category winners were selected by criteria to evaluate their portfolios of current and past designs in addition to publicity and industry experience. Before a panel of distinguished judges, those winners continued with interviews and samples of product. Samples were assessed with regard to fashion trends, cohesive collections, construction and marketability. Further assessments were scored as to marketing strategies, distribution channels and business viability. Some companies already enjoy international distribution. Judges were charged with finding the designer who would have a nationally recognized brand within five years.

Of Interest: One of the most well known designers chosen as New York’s Rising Star in recent years is Tory Burch.

Category Winners: Women’s Sportswear -Julie Hill and Lisa Welch of BornFit, Women’s Dress – Stephanie Ohnmacht of Smooch, Art Wearables – Susan Kiely of Women With A Cause, Custom Design – Maureen deHaan of Denver Couture, Active Wear/ Outdoor Wear – Phoebe Stapleton of Sierra Designs, Urban/Street Wear – Rustin Coburn and Noah Price of DVLP Clothing, Children’s Wear – Holli Gibson of LamanBlu, Accessories- Eulanda Saunders of Yo-San Studio, Jewelry – Andrea Li of Andrea Li Designs, Retail – Mona Lucero of Mona Lucero and Interior Design – Jeanne Connolly of Vintage Renewal

Committee (All Star Cast): Jan Top, Debra Pain, Peggy Ziglin, Gino Velardi, Cynthia Petrus, Carol Engel-Enright Lisa Elstun, Nathalia Faribault, Evelyn Stephens, Jim Howard, Susan Ware, Stephen Replin, Vicky Nolan, Lenora Chavez, Lauren Vitalie, Cindy Mackin, Patty Spivack, Melissa Oster, Lisa Wax, Donna Kelly, Keri Christiansen, Janet Wagner and Jo Frank

Sponsors: Platinum Star – Mercedes-Benz of Westminster

Gold Star – Outlets of Colorado

Partners: Occasions By Sandy, Newberry Bothers Greenhouse & Florist, Saks Fifth Avenue, Moet & Chandon, Applejack Wine & Spirits, Beverage Distributors Pinnacle Division, The Villager Newspaper, Donna Kelly Beauty, Posh Salon, Balistreri Winery, Breckenridge Brewery, Starbucks, oogave, Chocolate Discoveries, Tommy Collier, Live Entertainment by David Christie

Caterer/Sponsor/ Partner: Occasions By Sandy

Graphic Designer: Stu Wyatt Productions

Printers: MIDO, Print Pointe

Support by: Blacktie-Colorado.com, The Denver Post-Suzanne Brown, The Villager Newspaper, Denver a la Mode, Mile High Sports Radio – Live with Lisa, Denver Magazine, Denver Woman Magazine, 9News- Colorado & Company, 303 Magazine, Denver Daily News, KKHI Radio, FGI Student Chapter at CSU

“The Fashion Group International of Denver’s Rising Star Awards bi-annual fashion gala is a phenomenal arena in which to compete for our city’s emerging design talent! It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase their businesses, share their vision and to contribute to the creative essence of Denver and Colorado. It was my sincere pleasure to be part of the steering committee for RISING STAR 2009.” --Cynthia Petrus

Saks Fifth Avenue, PR/Fashion Director; RISING STAR Show Producer; former Regional Director FGI Denver and FGI Cleveland

Fashion Group International is a global nonprofit organization with 5,000 members sharing worldwide expertise – professionals who move the fashion industries…apparel, accessories, beauty and the home. The FGI mission is to be the pre-eminent authority on the business of fashion and design and to help the members become more effective in their professional lives. Districts include: Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Kansas City, North Florida, St. Louis, South Florida (includes Miami), Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Columbia, Toronto, London, Paris, Mexico City, Sydney, Tokyo, Seoul and of course – New York. Denver is in District 4 Southwest that also includes Arizona, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.

Read Our Latest Interview

2010-05-13T09:40:00.001-06:00

I was excited to be contacted by Madison Buyer for an interview, and they've posted it on their website. We've reprinted it here, but check out the Madison Buyer website - it' s a great new source for buyers and designers to connect! http://www.madisonbuyer.com/

Madison Buyer (MB): What inspired you to jump into fashion?
Holli Gibson (HG): I've been interested in fashion as long as I can remember. My mother was a very fashionable lady - I still have one of her Balenciaga suits from the 40's that truly amazing! I graduated from college with a bachelor of science in apparel design and I have been working as a designer in the industry since then, in 1990.

MB: What makes LamanBlu different than other collections?

HG: LamanBlu is classically beautiful designer clothing with a modern edge. It is styled for the parent and child who want something uniquely beautiful, fashionable and comfortable. The LamanBlu customer embraces the American lifestyle of easy-to-care, easy-to-wear clothing while having the European sensibility for the finer things in life and attention to detail. Only the highest quality of fabrics are chosen for the line, with the Eco-impact those choices have. The LamanBlu collection gives customers the ability to pick and choose the pieces that will enhance their own unique look. Sizing runs 2T-6x and select styles are also available in mother/daughter looks.

LamanBlu is domestically produced and has no minimums to buy. The line is designed to give enven small boutiques the opportunity to customize the collection for their store, there are many choices in terms of colors and trims, and prints and the way to combine them in the garments - this is a unique opportunity for the small specialty store buyer to become involved in custom merchandising the line for their customers.

MB: As a designer, what are your most difficult challenges?

HG: As a designer, editing is my most difficult challenge. There are so many great ideas and so many inspirations, so many directions to go in. I've been fortunate and had the opporutnity to work with many very experienced buyers and merchandisers over the years so I have learned how to edit and merchandise a line properly, but that's always my biggest challenge.

MB: Who is your primary target audience?

HG: My primary target audience is the specialty boutique store - both in the US and abroad.

MB: What's in store for LamanBlu customers in the near future?
HG: We've just hired a sales rep firm in Canada, so we will be available internationally, we're also starting to see some interest in Australia. We're introducing our first venture into the cruise/resort season and that collection will be available to retailers very soon. And starting with the Spring 2011 collection, we are introducing infant sizing.

Holiday 2010 Fashion Show in Atlanta

2010-05-12T07:10:00.000-06:00

It's snowing (AGAIN) in the mountains. While the blanket of white outside is truly beautiful, we're kind of DONE with winter and ready for spring (for real, not the teasing promise of spring). Ahh well, sometimes this IS spring in the mountains. At any rate, seems like a good time to bring you a snapshot of our recent holiday fashion show in Atlanta. The AmericasMart put on a nice show and the models were adorable. Our fabulous faux fur (in the color Snowflake - what else?) was the hit of the show!

From our Avani group (meaning "Earth" in Sanskrit), we present our victimless fur - it feels as fabulous as the real thing and is a delight to any little girl in the winter. "It's all about faux, it's all about furry, and it's all about fabulous! Being conscious of fashion is the new trend." - Style with Anna

We're offering several faux fur pieces for holiday, including our capelet, which is fully lined in snuggle fleece for extra warmth and has a single button closure at the neck. It's paired here with our fur skirt, which boasts an elastic waistband and is fully lined in our bamboo knit. Other pieces include a matching muff, hat with fabric roses and a fur purse!

Special Event Award

2010-05-10T12:18:00.000-06:00

Fashion Group International just held its annual conference in New York and guess what? The Rising Star Fashion By Design Runway Gala, in which LamanBlu was honored with the Rising Star Award, won the Special Event Award from FGI!

We thought you might like to see a slide show of the event - video of the fashion show will follow soon (oh, and by the way - you're seeing styles from our Cruise/Resort 2011 Collection in this show).

Introducing Infant Sizing in Select Styles!

2010-04-30T09:56:00.000-06:00

We're very excited to be introducing infant sizing in select styles with our current Fall/Holiday 2010 Collection. This is a preview of expanded infant sizing to be offered with our Spring/Summer 2011 Collection.

Our rose ballet dress (pictured here) as well as our legging and hip length swing t are now available for babies! Sizes run 6-12mos, 12-18mos and

18-24mos. Our bamboo knits are the softest and perfect for active babies - now they can dress to match older sis or even match mom since our rose ballet dress is available in mom's sizing. Perfect for a holiday family event. (Keep baby warm by layering dress over our swing t and legging or a t and legging of your own.)

LamanBlu Adds Representation in New York and Canada

2010-04-28T15:49:00.000-06:00

Press Release:
Colorado based designer/bridge clothing company LamanBlu is now partnering with Belmar Trading Company to expand the line internationally. According to LamanBlu's designer, Holli Gibson, "We've had quite a few inquiries about selling the collection in Canada and we feel very fortunate to be working with Belmar Trading Company. They are very experienced in working with eco-friendly lines."

Belmar has sales reps based out of both Ontario and Quebec, as well as in New York City covering New York and New Jersey. The Fall/Holiday 2010 line as well as the newly introduced Cruise-Resort 2011 collection are currently being sold by Belmar out of their various offices and on the road. The Fall/Holiday collection consists of eco-friendly bamboo knit dresses and separates as well as bright cotton prints and textured cotton knits which wholesale from $19 to $50. The Cruise-Resort Collection, titled Beachcomber, consists of washable linen and custom printed cotton dresses and separates which wholesale from $18 to $49.

Belmar Trading Company may be contacted through their regional area representatives:
Ontario: Leonissa Belmar, 905-943-9632, belmartrading@gmail.com
Quebec: Jean Paul Fournier, 514-817-9596, jeanpaul.belmartradingco@gmail.com
New York: Donna Robin, 647-988-2754, donnarobin.belmartradingco@gmail.com

LamanBlu is also sold through the Lace and Denim Showroom in the AmericasMart covering the South and East Coast (941-321-4921, vickey_renz@msn.com) as well as the Forever Young Clothing Company covering the US west of the Mississippi, with showrooms in both Dallas and Los Angeles (213-614-8663, info@foreveryoungkids.com)

Spring / Summer 2011 Color Palette

2010-04-27T09:46:00.000-06:00

It's a beautiful spring day in the mountains! The snow is melting quickly (though I hear we're supposed to get another round later this week).

A trip to town yesterday brought a bloom of the most beautiful green lawns and and a profusion of colorful pink and yellow tulips! Even though it's spring 2010, we're working on spring 2011 in the studio and we wanted to share our color palette for the season. We're inspired by the beauty of flowers, both their colors and architectural shapes, and how better to celebrate spring than with flowers!

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas....even though it's almost May.....

2010-04-23T08:34:00.000-06:00

No - this picture is not from the past winter months - it was taken this morning! At any rate - the spring snow has us in the holiday mood, and we're thinking about the Holiday 2010 Season. We've decided to add a couple of new colors to our knit collection for Holiday: Black and Royal Purple.

Our bamboo knits are perfect for holiday, buttery soft and warm with ruffles and fabric roses. We even did a mother/daughter look for a special occasion dress. It's great in matching or coordinating colors and topped with our bustle jacket or fabulous faux fur cape (we even have a matching faux fur purse to carry her - or your - treasures). For added warmth on a cold day or night, add matching leggings and a long sleeve top with a ruffle cuff under the dress......which also make it a perfect school or church outfit!

Retailer Spotlight: Mountain Moppets

2010-04-01T20:09:00.000-06:00

Mountain Moppets is a Children’s Clothing & Gift Boutique, carrying gourmet clothing for the cute little ones in your heart! They carry a vast selection of stylish kids’ clothing and accessories by designer names, now including LamanBlu.

Mountain Moppets was founded in 1988 with the goal of selling the most adorable and unique products available for both infants and children. They also wanted to make their children’s boutique fun to shop in, whimsical, and most importantly….just down-right cute!

After 20 years in business, Mountain Moppets has grown significantly and now you can shop online at http://www.mountainmoppets.com/ , as well as in their brick and mortar location in Colorado Springs, CO (719-633-3473).

LamanBlu in the FGI Showroom at the Denver Mart

2010-03-31T21:08:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu is being featured in The Fashion Group International's Showroom at the Denver Merchandise Mart.

Come by and see the display, including several garments and photos from the Fall/Holiday 2010 line. There are also photos from the Rising Star fashion show. Showroom M2490 on the 2nd Floor.

Fashion Group International is an association of professionals who move the fashion industry...apparel, accessories, beauty & home.

Tulsa World Article - Eco and Mom-Friendly Duds

2010-03-24T09:58:00.001-06:00

We're honored to be written up in the Tulsa World (which is my home-stompin grounds). Jason Ashley Wright, the World Scene Editor for the paper, gave us a wonderful interview and article. Tulsa was the greatest city to grow up in. Large enough to care about the arts and small enough to still have a close knit community. My folks still live there, as well as my in-laws and quite a few of my friends. You can read the article on line at http://www.tulsaworld.com/twpdfs/2010/FINAL/W_032310_D_3.PDF

LamanBlu Taps LA Based Sales Company Forever Young to Cover Territory West of the Mississippi

2010-03-19T08:50:00.000-06:00

Colorado based designer clothing company LamanBlu is now partnering with LA based sales rep Tracy Ross of Forever Young. According to LamanBlu’s designer, Holli Gibson, “We’re very excited to be working with Tracy. She understands how to help build a brand based upon quality, customer service and enthusiasm. And she has such great presence, working out of showrooms in both LA and the Dallas market centers.”

The Fall/Winter 2010 line will be available in the LA Showroom of Forever Young March 19-22 and the Dallas Showroom of Forever Young on March 25-27. The collection consists of eco-friendly bamboo knit dresses and separates as well as bright cotton prints and textured cotton knits which wholesale from $19 to $50. Contact Forever Young at 213-614-8663 or info@foreveryoungkids.com.

LamanBlu is also sold through the Lace and Denim Showroom covering the South and East Coast (941-321-4921 or Vickey_renz@msn.com) For more details, visit LamanBlu on the web at www.LamanBlu.com.

LamanBlu's Fall/Winter 2010 Collection Video

2010-03-12T11:22:00.000-07:00

Have you checked out our newly released video of the Fall/Winter 2010 collection? Take a look at the video bar and click on the two little girls walking down the street hand in hand.

We're channeling a vintage feel from the heart of New Orleans and the birthplace of jazz. Travel, whether to exotic locales or to places in our own heartland are always full of inspiration and this season we've taken a look at where we are, by reflecting on our place in life. We've taken a look in the mirror and looked back to vintage times and well as through the looking glass across the globe to India.

Enjoy!

LamanBlu Publishes its Fall / Winter 2010 Lookbook

2010-03-05T09:38:00.000-07:00

Eco-friendly children’s wear company LamanBlu has released its Fall/Winter 2010 Lookbook. The Lookbook reveals the new and enticing silhouettes, patterns, colors and fabrics for the up coming season. It previews the designer detailing and elaborate workmanship that LamanBlu is known for in an online magazine.

The book starts the viewer with the anchor collection of the season, Reflection. Reflection is a representation, in garment form, of elegance, grace and individuality. The calm and subtle tones from the collection inspire one to relax but still get creative. The pieces pictured in the Lookbook model the collections ability to be mixed and matched to style according to each child’s personality.

Next the book delves into the Avani collection focusing on Earth and inspired by vintage. The Lookbook creates a beautiful picture as to what the line is all about, an elegant approach to sophisticated, fun clothing for little girls. Photos also show the ability to mix the different stories for the season together, to provide an unlimited array of choices.

Lastly, the Lookbook visits the other side of the world - to Exotic India. Pieces from this collection jump off the page with the combination of vibrant colors, fun prints and brilliant embroideries. Color is especially important in this collection as it is a representation of the culture of India. LamanBlu takes this into account by publishing the look book with the full color photos of the garments to really capture the value color has for that country, and this one as well.

Visit http://www.lamanblu.com/Press.htm to view the lookbook.

LamanBlu introduces the Fall 2010 collection for wholesale

2010-02-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

January 30, 2010

LamanBlu, eco-friendly designer children’s apparel, has announced the release of its Fall/Winter 2010 line for wholesale. The collection is a fun and elegant combination of three groups by designer Holli Gibson.

Reflection:

Reflection is the anchor group of the season, which captures elegance, grace and individuality and reflects the need for a sustainable future. With the use of subtle, calm tones and clean silhouettes the line captures the essence of tranquility and peace felt as one contemplates what reflection means. Seeing one’s self as one is, and as one wants to be. The fabric of this group is an eco-friendly bamboo/lycra knit both in solid colors of Prussian Blu, Lotus, Hyacinth and Sky Blu as well as custom Ombre dyed pieces in Violet Ice. The collection was designed with mixing and matching in mind to maximize the creativity and individuality of a little girl’s wardrobe. Soft ruffles accentuate the classic silhouettes, and the mother/daughter look is sure to be a favorite of holiday family affairs.

Avani:

Avani, meaning “earth” in Sanskrit. Vintage, but not. Colour washed tones of the sky at dusk and the pale pink of dawn. An homage to our home, earth. The Avani group takes an elegant approach to sophisticated, fun clothing for little girls. Lace detailing and velvet ribbon hearken back to remembering beauty from the past. Updated silhouettes with vintage trimmings form a beautiful connection between past and future. Cotton mini waffle knit is garment dyed to add a beauty of tonal colors to the pieces in this group, as well as offer extreme softness. Dress up any piece from the collection with victimless fur muffs, hats, collars or capes.

Exotic India:

A burst of bright colors and bold prints with detailed embroidery make up the final group in LamanBlu’s fall/winter 2010 collection. Indian style is eclectic, weaving together influences from many regions and cultures. Exotic India is the inspiration for both silhouettes and detailing, as well as color palettes. Brilliant color schemes are symbolic in Indian folklore and often correlate to the basic elements, including water (Klein Blu) and Fire (Deep Pink). While softer tones of Sky Blu and Lotus blend connect this group across the season’s collection. Adorning many of the pieces is an elaborately crafted peacock embroidery which adds to the unique detailing LamanBlu is known for. Compliments to the garments in the Exotic India group include scarves and backpacks with the same chic prints, colors and embroideries.

To preview the line, visit

http://www.LamanBlu.com/Gallery.htm

www.LamanBlu.com/Gallery.htm

Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu was recently awarded “The Rising Star” award for design from The Fashion Group International. LamanBlu is designer clothing for children. It is created for parents and children who want something uniquely beautiful, fashionable and comfortable. The quality and timeless style is such that these clothes are meant to be passed down to siblings and heirloom pieces are meant to be passed down to future generations. These are mix and match clothing pieces that have been designed to take kids all the way from play to special events. The LamanBlu customer loves the American lifestyle of easy to care, easy to wear clothing, yet appreciates the European sensibility for the finer things in life and attention to detail. LamanBlu is available in boutiques across the US. Visit them on the web at

http://www.LamanBlu.com

www.LamanBlu.com

LamanBlu Releases its Fall / Winter 2010 Trend Lookbook

2009-12-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

Wondering what’s going to be in style for Fall and Winter 2010? Here’s LamanBlu’s take on the trends for the season. Visit their website at www.LamanBlu.com/Gallery.htm to see their Fall/Winter 2010 Trend Lookbook.

According to Pantone, they key theme for Fall 2010 is Mosaic. “Our world is a rich mosaic, born from varying elements that create a whole. Mosaics can reflect cultural, geographical and political differences, yet still coordinate all these disparate themes. Mosaics are a practical and eco-efficient way of integrating previously used elements or materials to create something new and unique.” (Pantone) While mosaics are a record of the past, we continue to re-invent them for the future. LamanBlu has old world charm, but yet is not vintage. They provide timeless “vintage alternative” styling with an eco-chic sentiment.

What does this mean for you? Wondering what’s going to be in style for Fall and Winter 2010? Here’s LamanBlu’s take on the trends for the season. Visit their website at www.LamanBlu.com/Gallery.htm to see their Fall / Winter 2010 Trend Lookbook. Now, for a peek at the trends:

Reflection
Reflecting Surfaces – water reflection and reflecting pools – seeing ourselves as we are and as we want to be. The ice, snow and the beauty of lights reflecting off the new fallen snow. Ice crystals – they sparkle as brightly as any jewel. The beauty of the experience of being. Liquid Modernity. Eco-Fashion – from concept through execution. Warmth, comfort, caring and thoughtfulness are brought to mind. We are reflecting not only on our choices, and the eco-impact they have, but how we rethink fashion. Vintage inspiration combined with totally new ideas is the core of the season. Nouveau Niche!

Exotic India
The theme of Connection and Exotic Beauty is what brings us to India for this season. Connection – “India is a land of diversities and among all these diversities we see unity. Unity which binds us together. Which makes us feel as one. Which encourages us.” (Thinkquest) Indian style is eclectic, weaving together influences from many regions and cultures. The range of traditional and modern designs found in India is astounding. Brilliant color schemes are symbolic and often correlate to the basic elements of air (white or silver), water (blue), and fire (red, pink, orange, yellow). It’s glamorously artistic! From the Indian inspired prints and embroideries to Indian inspired styling, both traditional and new. We embrace humble luxury.

Avani
The Mosaic of Connections – the trend of the season. We are on a journey in connection. Emotive, inventive, useful. The beauty of nature and natural fabrications. Hand printed for a sustainable ethos. Luxury is about experience. Vintage redone – Nouveau Niche. Avani means “earth” in Sanskrit. Elemental colors which are innovations of the future while remembering the past. Vintage, but not. Colour washed tones of the sky at dusk and the pale pink of dawn. An homage to our home, earth.

Holli Gibson, Designer of LamanBlu, Awarded THE Rising Star 2009 by Fashion Group International

2009-10-28T16:11:00.000-06:00

Holli Gibson, designer of LamanBlu, walked away with the ultimate prize, THE Rising Star Award from the Fashion Group International at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion by Design Runway Gala.

Denver, Colorado – October 24, 2009 – It was the Fashion by Design Runway Gala, at the exquisite showroom of Mercedes-Benz. Former Colorado First Lady, Frances Owens and Monica Owens were the Shining Star Honorary Chairs. The evening started with a Red Carpet Reception and a Silent Auction benefiting the Fashion Group’s scholarship and educational outreach programs. Gourmet hors d-oeuvres were offered up from Occasions By Sandy, caterer to the stars. Jacquie Palisi served as Mistress of Ceremonies.

The star studded evening on the runway began with honoring David Jacobs of Spyder with the Star Legend Award. Nancy Fitzgerald sang a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner and then the runway show began. Cynthia Petrus of Saks Fifth Avenue coordinated a Fashion Week worthy runway event, showcasing the category winners.

The 11 finalists were initially selected by criteria to evaluate their portfolios of current and past designs in addition to publicity and industry experience. They then presented to a panel of respected judges from the community. The distinguished panel of judges included Colorado Clothing Designer Brooks; Suzanne Brown of The Denver Post; Lisa Elstun of LRE Couture and Design; Cynthia Petrus of Saks Fifth Avenue; Elaine Mariner, Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade and Executive Director of the Colorado Council on the Arts; Jim Stevens, The Garment District; Faye Tate, CH2M Hill and Ebony Fashion Fair co-chair. The challenge presented to the judges was to select the Rising Star as the next Colorado company, whom they thought would become a nationally recognized brand in the next 5 years. Designers were required to show samples of their current creations that were assessed in regard to fashion trends, cohesive collections, construction and marketability. Their samples and portfolios accounted for one half of the scoring. The other half was based on marketing strategies, distribution channels, business viability and personal interviews.

Finally it was time to unveil the winner of THE Rising Star award. The finalists were announced and made their way to the stage. Rustin Coburn and Noah Price of DVLP Clothing, Holli Gibson of LamanBlu and Julie Hill and Lisa Welch of BornFit. The award was presented by Gino Velardi, of Gino Velardi Couture, The Rising Star of 2007. And the winner is….Holli Gibson of LamanBlu, THE Rising Star of 2009.

LamanBlu at Saks Fifth Avenue, Cherry Creek

2009-10-21T15:38:00.000-06:00

We were in the front window of Saks! (Well, my photo anyways.) They did a wonderful display for the FGI Rising Star and they also displayed gowns from the last Rising Star, Gino Velardi. Cynthia Petrus from Saks coordinated the runway show on Friday at Mercedes Benz and did such a fabulous job. I hope we'll have more opportunities to work with her in the future. Perhaps the next time they hold the Rising Star design competition (in 2011) Cynthia will do another window and show LamanBlu fashions.

Castle Rock Shopping Extravaganza Fashion Show

2009-09-27T13:56:00.000-06:00

We had such a wonderful time at this show! Peggy Ziglin, Colorado Regional Public Relations Tourism Director and President of the Rocky Mountain Shopping Center Association, put on such a great show featuring Fall 2009 fashions. The shopping extravaganza was a big hit and the excitement and traffic boosted everyone's spirits. It's evident that the economy is starting to get back on track! The fashion show/luncheon presented children and adult fashions from retailers at the Castle Rock Outlets. It also featured several category winners from Fashion Group International, including us! We were so fortunate to have Denise Plante and Tawyna Rush, the stars of the Colorado & Company tv show on Channel 9, serve as our "mom" models for the mother/daughter looks presented in the show.

It's Feeling Like Fall

2009-09-24T15:05:00.000-06:00

Well, it's certainly feeling like fall around the studio. A crisp breeze is in the air, the aspens are just starting to show their fall colors, and the ground squirrels are getting really fat! The debut line of LamanBlu for Fall 2009, "Being the Fabulous" is in retail stores and selling nicely.

Take two - I actually started this blog post a week ago - that's what happens here in Colorado - weather changes quickly! It no longer feels like fall - it's been snowing for three days!

It's funny this time of year, Fall 2009 is selling in the stores, Spring 2010 is selling at market, and we're starting to design Fall 2010 in the atelier. No wonder I have to think before I get dressed in the morning (what season is it?) and I never know what year to write on my checks!

Speaking of Fall 2010 (are you ready for that?) - we're traveling to India for Fall 2010. Exotic India, with its hustle and bustle, beautiful bright colors, layered dressing, elaborate embroideries, exotic prints.......

We're also reflecting on our eco-friendly commitment, and happy that more and more companies across industries are also coming to realize that our decisions are important to our planet. Our signature bamboo knits will have a new romantic feel for fall, in reflection pool cool colors of blues and pinks.

We're introducing new eco-conscious fabrics for fall as well, hemps and organic cottons, in our dedication to Avani ("Earth" in Sanskrit). Be on the lookout for environmentally friendly garment dyed items.....

LamanBlu Models at the Shopping Extravaganza at Outlets at Castle Rock

2009-09-11T15:08:00.000-06:00

Meet the stars and see their amazing creations with informal modeling at this year’s Shopping Extravaganza at Outlets at Castle Rock on September 26, 2009. LamanBlu will be presenting designs from their Fall 2009 collection, now available in retail boutiques. “We are showing our eco-conscious bamboo knits from the “Being the Fabulous” collection,” says Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu. Models will be wearing mother/daughter looks in Pewter and Kiss Pink, two of the key colors of the season.

LamanBlu by Holli Gibson is the winner of the Children’s Wear category for the Rising Star 2009 Award. The Rising Star is awarded to an outstanding designer by The Fashion Group International, Inc. The field was narrowed from 27 finalists to 10 category winners. Category winners will also participate in the prestigious Rising Star Fashion by Design runway gala, the biannual signature event orchestrated by Fashion Group International of Denver, on October 23, 2009 at Mercedes-Benz of Westminster, the presenting sponsor. “I’m excited to be participating in these events, and delighted that the Shopping Extravaganza is another way to support some of my favorite charities,” says Holli Gibson.

This is the 4th Annual Shopping Extravaganza to take place at Outlets at Castle Rock. It’s a day of shopping, saving and fun on Saturday, September 26, 2009 from 10am – 8pm. The Outlets at Castle Rock is located on I-25 in Castle Rock, Colorado, Exit 184. Tickets are $20 and include shopping discounts, jazz, art and desserts in the hospitality suite, a goodie bag and lunch. There will also be over $30,000 in prizes.

This event benefits the Special Olympics of Colorado, The Women’s Crisis Family Outreach Center, The American Cancer Society, The Denver Post Community, Autism Speaks and The Dumb Friends League. To buy your ticket, please contact a participating charity, call (303) 688-2800 or visit http://www.outletsatcastlerock.com/.

For more information about the October 23rd Runway Gala, visit http://www.denver.fgi.org/ or http://www.blacktie-colorado.com/ , or call (303) 809-3595.

To purchase LamanBlu locally, visit Three Blind Mice at 6882 S. University Blvd. in Centennial or call (720) 283-6423.

LamanBlu Announces Dallas and Atlanta Sales Representatives

2009-08-10T20:18:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu is pleased to announce its partnership with two new sales representatives. After rave reviews to its debut line, including features in both Earnshaw’s Magazine and Hudson’s Children’s Wear Review, as well as designer Holli Gibson’s accomplishment of being named the Rising Star Award winner in the Children’s Wear Category by The Fashion Group International, LamanBlu has hired outstanding sales reps in two new territories to expand its presence in the South and Southwest.

Button Up! Will introduce LamanBlu’s Spring /Summer 2010 collection at the Dallas Market on August 13-16. Beth Button began her career in children’s wear by running the corporate showroom for Earthlings, the first organic clothing for children in the market. She opened her own showroom in 2001 and has been representing truly unique lines ever since. Button Up! has just moved into its new showroom in a prime location of the World Trade Center on the children’s floor. Button Up!’s permanent showroom is located at the World Trade Center, Showroom 8072, 2050 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75207.

Lace and Denim will introduce LamanBlu’s collection at the Atlanta Market on August 20-24. Their permanent showroom is located in the heart of the Southeastern buying district in AmericasMart on the Children’s World Floor. Terrie Phillips has over 22 years sales experience, formerly in the Gift industry, before finding her home in children’s apparel and accessories. The AmericasMart is located at 250 Spring Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30303. The Lace and Denim showroom is #13S-344B.

“We are so excited to be working with both Terrie and Beth,” says Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu. “They are so vivacious, have wonderful reputations in the industry and we feel that there is such a great synergy with our line and their showrooms. I know our customers will appreciate their professionalism and extremely high level of customer service.”

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LamanBlu, by Holli Gibson, is designer clothing for children. It is created for parents and children who want something uniquely beautiful, fashionable and comfortable. The quality and timeless style is such that these clothes are meant to be passed down to siblings and heirloom pieces are meant to be passed down to future generations. These are mix and match clothing pieces that have been designed to take kids all the way from play to special events. The LamanBlu customer loves the American lifestyle of easy to care, easy to wear clothing, yet appreciates the European sensibility for the finer things in life and attention to detail. LamanBlu is available in boutiques across the US. Visit them on the web at www.LamanBlu.com

To contact Terrie Phillips with Lace and Denim, call (434) 258-7650, or visit their website at www.laceanddenimllc.com.

To contact Beth Button with Button Up!, call (214) 749-0440, or visit their website at www.buttonupdallas.com.

LamanBlu Releases its Spring / Summer 2010 Photo Album

2009-07-22T08:55:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu today released its Spring / Summer 2010 Collection. There are three stories for the season, Aruba, Eco-Couture, and Viva la Couleur. LamanBlu continued with its mix and match philosophy, even across stories, enabling the stores to customize their sales floor presentations and enabling the customer to pull together their own unique look for their child. Their signature attention to detail makes each piece in the collection a stand alone “must-have item” for the season.

The Aruba story focuses on tonal color washable linens with ladder lace detailing, natural shell buttons and freshwater pearl beading. An environmentally friendly custom seahorse print rounds out the story. It provides nice crossover options with the Eco-Couture story, which focuses on tropical brights and white in LamanBlu’s signature bamboo/lycra knit. This story also features their signature embroidery on many of the pieces. A yarn dye stripe in bright colors provides accent. Eco-Couture also works closely with the Viva la Couleur story, which features cotton stretch sateens in bright citrus and other tropical colors. A cotton voile couture print rounds out this story as well as contrast color piping and topstitching. Organic cotton t’s with embroidery work across the entire spring/summer collection.

“I’m always inspired by the ocean and wanted to bring finds from the beach for our Aruba story. The seahorse print was actually designed from a photo I took of a seahorse on one adventure.” says Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu. Cotton rope ties on sundresses and waistbands continue the beachy feel. Styles include sundresses, suntops and skirts with high “twirl” quality, as well as cuffed clamdiggers and shorts. A reversible bucket hat tops everything.

The Eco-Couture story in bamboo knit shows a ruffled ballerina dress, a short sleeve poet jacket and a ruffled bustle skirt on the dressier side, as well as embroidered tank tops, swing T’s, clamdiggers, ¾ leggings and a full circle skort on the sportier side of the spectrum. Lettuce hemming is a major detail in the story. “We’ve selected a heavier weight bamboo with a touch of lycra which is a true designer quality fabric and is unique in the children’s wear market. It really has a luxurious hand and wears fabulously,” says Gibson.

“Isla Mujeres inspired the citrus brights of the Viva la Couleur story,” says Gibson. “The spirit of Mexico, the bright color combinations, even a bit of the flamenco played into the design.” The backs are as important as the fronts in this story. The short sleeve jacket is beautiful for spring, from its low yoke and flared back to its shell buttons and portrait collar to its Juliette sleeve and front pockets. Also in this story are a voile skort, cuffed clamdigger and fishtail skirt. Tops include a button back tank which is made special by the front topstitching and back detailing as well as a peter pan blouse with piping. On the casual side, organic embroidered t’s top flared shorts with piping and a board short made just for girls. A reversible bucket hat tops it all.

To see the Spring / Summer 2010 Collection photo album, visit www.LamanBlu.com/Gallery.htm

Holli Gibson, Designer of LamanBlu, Wins Children’s Wear Category for the Rising Star Award

2009-07-09T13:39:00.001-06:00

LamanBlu by Holli Gibson is the winner of the Children’s Wear category for the Rising Star 2009 Award. The Rising Star is awarded to an outstanding designer by The Fashion Group International, Inc. The field was narrowed from 27 finalists to 10 category winners. Category winners will participate in the prestigious Rising Star Fashion by Design runway gala, the biannual signature event orchestrated by Fashion Group International of Denver, on October 23, 2009. “I am honored to be chosen as the category winner for Children’s Wear. Fashion Group International has such a wonderful reputation and history in the industry,” says Holli Gibson.

Designers will present their collections in this runway gala at Mercedes-Benz of Westminster, the presenting sponsor. The event, which will include silent and live auctions, benefits FGI’s scholarship and educational outreach programs. Tickets are $50-$250. Find more information at denver.fgi.org or blacktie-colorado.com; 303-809-3595.

FGI is a global non-profit where fashion industry professionals connect, create and move the fashion industries – apparel, accessories, beauty and the home. The first non-profit fashion organization that now boasts 6,000 members worldwide originally became a force in New York City, the organization’s headquarters. Helena Rubenstein, Eleanor Roosevelt, Edith Head and others with early New York fashion careers are responsible for FGI’s founding.

The concept of Fashion Group International began originally in New York in 1928 when 17 women, gathered by Edna Woolman Chase, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue, met for lunch in a modest midtown New York restaurant. They had three things in common: Each held a job of consequence in the business of fashion, each held all the others in high regard and together they held a belief that fashion needed a forum, a stage, or a force to express and enhance a widening awareness of the American fashion business and of women’s roles in that business. The Fashion Group®, conceived at an informal luncheon in 1928 became an organization in 1930, with a place, a purpose, by-laws, officers and women eager to be members. The Denver chapter of Fashion Group International was founded March 1958 by Gretchen Weber.

LamanBlu Featured in Earnshaw’s June 2009 Coast to Coast – “True Blue”

2009-06-09T22:17:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu is featured in the Nationwide Fashion Spotlight of the latest edition of Earnshaw’s Magazine, THE Infants’, Girls’ & Boys’ Wear Review for the Children’s Wear Industry. “We’re very excited to be recognized by Earnshaw’s. They’re an important voice in the industry.” says Holli Gibson, Designer for LamanBlu.

Melissa Knific, Features Editor for Earnshaw’s Magazine interviewed Gibson about LamanBlu for the Coast to Coast section which spotlights fashions nationwide. They discussed where the name LamanBlu hails from, as well as the eco-bent of the line and a roundup of the Fall 2009 styles as well as Gibson’s extensive industry experience.

Says Gibson, “With LamanBlu, I wanted to merge the American lifestyle of easy to care, easy to wear clothing with the European sensibility for the finer things in life and attention to detail. I also wanted to be true to something near and dear to my heart, the eco-impact our choices have. My mother was eco when I was a kid, before we even had a term for such things. God has given us this beautiful world, and we all have a responsibility to care for it.”

LamanBlu is designer clothing for girls’, offered in sizes 2T through 6x. It is sold exclusively through high-end boutiques across the US. For more information or to view photos of the Fall 2009 line, please visit their website at www.LamanBlu.com. To preview the Spring/Summer 2010 line, please contact LamanBlu at info@LamanBlu.com. To view the online edition of Earnshaw’s and read LamanBlu’s feature, visit http://earnshaws.epubxpress.com/link/EARN/2009/jun/22?s=0

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LamanBlu, by Holli Gibson, is designer clothing for children. It is created for parents and children who want something uniquely beautiful, fashionable and comfortable. The quality and timeless style is such that these clothes are meant to be passed down to siblings and heirloom pieces are meant to be passed down to future generations. These are mix and match clothing pieces that have been designed to take kids all the way from play to special events. The LamanBlu customer loves the American lifestyle of easy to care, easy to wear clothing, yet appreciates the European sensibility for the finer things in life and attention to detail. LamanBlu is available in boutiques across the US. Visit them on the web at www.LamanBlu.com

Earnshaw’s is the premier media resource serving the children’s market, including apparel, juvenile products and gifts. With more than 90 years of experience, the magazine is the established voice of the industry. More than 13,000 decision makers rely on Earnshaw’s print vehicle, online communications, fashion events and seminars to hone their retail strategies and merchandising techniques, stay informed on the latest trends, and keep their assortments fresh. Visit them on the web at www.earnshaws.com.

LamanBlu Releases its Spring / Summer 2010 Trend Lookbook

2009-05-27T20:36:00.001-06:00

According to Stahl’s Forecasting Service, there are two key themes for Spring 2010 “Bringing the Unexpected to Everyday!” and “Creating a Sense of Individuality!” These are phrases that describe the focus of the LamanBlu line every season. Pantone’s theme for Spring / Summer 2010 is Magic. “Magic gives us the ability to imagine and to change. It opens up a world of infinite possibilities, connecting us again with the child we once were and still lives within each and every one of us.” Interfiliere declares wide-ranging agreement at the latest biannual color meeting: “stylists and industrialists agree that the market demands color.”

What does this mean for you? Wondering what’s going to be in style for Spring and Summer 2010? Here’s LamanBlu’s take on the trends for the season. Visit their website at http://www.LamanBlu.com/Press.htmto see their Spring / Summer 2010 Trend Lookbook.

Aruba
White and pink sand, Caribbean waters so blue they make your soul ache to explore beneath them. And the eternal hunt for seahorses, those elusive gentle creatures hidden in the reef that hold you spellbound. What better beachwear than washed linen in Dutch and sun faded colors. “We’re using inspired finds from the beach, including natural shell buttons and freshwater pearls.”, says Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu. The colors are translucent and a reminder of being castaway on a desert island. Fabrics are crinkled and cool to the touch. The garments have a feeling of linear aesthetics to strike the right balance. Details and finishings are perfect reminders of a demure and prim gentility. Harking back to Victorian vintage, with haute couture precision and radiant elegance. Nothing is left to chance, nothing is vague, everything is pretty, harmonious and graceful. A revival of the finest which is enchanting and precious.

Viva la Couleur
Color Amplified. Inspired by the colors of Isla Mujeres, bright bold fiesta colors. Citrus brights offer a therapy of color in a surprise explosion. Cool stretch cotton sateens are the rage of the day, or night. Vibrant, brilliant colors across the spectrum are combined in a wild imagination of playfulness, humor, energy and optimism. Structured details and playing with construction give a vision of exciting and surprising flamboyance. A world immersed in fashion, effervescent colors with sheen personify total perfection, a realm of hope in a global playground. “I love the energy of Mexico, particularly the way they use bright colors, which just radiate in the luminously warm sun. This theme mingles beautifully with our Eco Couture trend.”, says Gibson.

Eco Couture
“Of course, we’re continuing with our highly successful bamboo knits, with a tropical twist.”, says Gibson. Ecological, innate couture. Vibrant aqua, cool white and tangerine remind us of lush terrain and cool breezes against a backdrop of ethereal views. Subtle stitching and precise edges exist naturally, yet overtly and without pretense. Shades of the piñata mingle festively. Intricate embroidery exudes bountiful joy and lightheartedness. The fiesta girl is reminiscent of youthful days gone by.

LamanBlu, by Holli Gibson, is designer clothing for children. It is created for parents and children who want something uniquely beautiful, fashionable and comfortable. The quality and timeless style is such that these clothes are meant to be passed down to siblings and heirloom pieces are meant to be passed down to future generations. These are mix and match clothing pieces that have been designed to take kids all the way from play to special events. The LamanBlu customer loves the American lifestyle of easy to care, easy to wear clothing, yet appreciates the European sensibility for the finer things in life and attention to detail. LamanBlu is available in boutiques across the US. Visit them on the web at http://www.lamanblu.com/

Open publication - Free publishing - More lamanblu

Looking to Spring 2010

2009-04-20T09:54:00.000-06:00

Is it spring already? Well, that's questionable around our studio, we just got snowed in with 4 feet of heavy spring snow! Even having to venture to work in our snowpants, we're feeling like spring, and thinking of the beach.

An upcoming trip to Aruba has us inspired in a "castaway" theme and what better beachwear than washed linen in Dutch and sun faded colors. We're using inspired finds from the beach, including natural shell buttons and freshwater pearls.

A past trip to Isla Mujeres has us longing for the other end of the color spectrum, with citrus brights and fab color combinations. We're working in stretch cotton sateens for fun, cool and comfort.

Of course, we're continuing with our highly successful bamboo knits, in an Eco-Couture collection, with our signature embroidery accents, in bright colors for spring.

Fall 2009 Collection Reactions - Stellar!

2009-04-08T10:17:00.000-06:00

I'm just back from Dallas, where we showed the debut Fall 2009 line of LamanBlu to specialty boutiques in Dallas and Fort Worth. We opened to rave reviews! We were delighted to be received as well in Dallas as we were in our local hometown of Denver/Boulder. The specialty store boutique buyers are always such a delight to work with. They're very excited about our designer quality fabrics - both the 11 oz. bamboo/lycra knit and the custom mica printed bamboo fleece. Our designer details garnered lots of attention as well. The custom embroidery was a big hit, as well as the hand embroidery and beading on our heirloom lace pieces. We had fun working with the buyers to customize their floor presentations and they had fun getting to have a hand in the process as well, choosing trim and sparkle organza color combinations to suit their customer's personal taste. We also enjoyed talking about spring 2010, which is soon to come (more on that later). It was a great trip, and we made many new friends (as well as visited old ones). But it's good to be back to the studio, enjoy the spring snowfall, and get to work for spring 2010!

Colorado Designer, Holli Gibson, Launches new Eco-Conscious Designer Children’s Wear Line

2009-03-17T21:24:00.000-06:00

LamanBlu leads the field in designer level children’s wear with an eco-bent. The company is using bamboo fabric in a most fashionable way for beautiful and comfortable children’s wear.

As our society becomes more conscious and concerned with the environment, a large amount of companies and designers, including Holli Gibson, designer for LamanBlu are branching off into creating products that are eco-trendy and eco-friendly. LamanBlu has embraced this trend, while taking eco –fashion to a new level of style, comfort and sophistication, all aimed at children. The debut collection, titled “Being the Fabulous” focuses on bamboo fabrics, both an 11 ounce bamboo knit with a touch of lycra and a 14 ounce bamboo fleece. “These are beautiful, sumptuous fabrics that offer a great hand, beautiful rich colors, move with the body and have bacterial resistant qualities – what more could you want for children’s wear?”, says Holli Gibson, designer of LamanBlu.

Drawing inspiration from the winter landscape, Gibson says, “This collection was inspired by the frozen surfaces of winter, from the smooth, soft snow blanketing the hillsides, to the positively brilliant snow crystals which sparkle in the moonlight, as brilliantly as any diamond.” Colors for this season play against a backdrop of winter white, primary colors focusing on a silvery pewter and a baby kiss pink, with aubergine and barberry as accents. Frosty, shiny elements of sparkle organza, embroidery and beading offer exciting accents, while hand printed mica pigments and natural shell buttons continue the comment on the eco-focus of the line.

The new collection can be viewed at www.LamanBlu.com and will be available in specialty stores for Fall 2009.
For retailers interested in viewing the line or hosting a trunk show, please contact Holli Gibson at holli.gibson@lamanblu.com

LamanBlu Announces Debut of Fall 2009 Collection for Retailers

2009-02-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Whimsical designer, Holli Gibson, is launching her new, highly anticipated line of couture clothing for children, available only through retail stores.

Golden, Colorado – February 17, 2009 – Holli Gibson is preparing for the upcoming launch of LamanBlu, a wholesale clothing line which includes couture children’s sportswear and mother/daughter dresses, along with select accessories. The debut collection will be sold in upscale specialty boutiques across the US for Fall 2009.

Gibson created LamanBlu to celebrate the harmony of childhood and parenthood. Her collection is styled for the parent and child who want something uniquely beautiful, fashionable and comfortable. Keeping with her philosophy, only the highest quality of fabrics are chosen, with attention to the eco-impact those choices have. Her sportswear based collection gives customers the ability to pick and choose the pieces that will enhance their own unique look. Select styles are also available in adult sizing. “Mother-daughter dressing has always been in vogue, though stylelistically it has been focused on the adult wearing a larger version of a child’s dress. I wanted to take the beautiful concept of mother-daughter dressing and update it with a modern, grown up aesthetic. These are dresses that are designed to make a statement on their own, and when you bring them together, the result is enchanting,” says Gibson.

From her design studio in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Gibson has called LamanBlu’s debut collection “Being the Fabulous”. It is a sportswear based collection in a sumptuous and silky eco-friendly bamboo knit fabric. “The color palette of this collection has deep expansiveness and muted tones with a subtle richness,” says Gibson. “In many ways, this collection was inspired by the frozen surfaces of winter, from the smooth, soft snow blanketing the hillsides, to the positively brilliant snow crystals which sparkle in the moonlight, as brilliantly as any diamond. I always crave fabrics with a soft, sumptuous hand to curl up with in the winter, and the bamboo knit of this collection fills the bill perfectly, along with the cashmere tam to top everything off.” To accent against the soft knit, there is a sparkle organza and an embroidered and beaded lace. According to Stahl’s Color Forecasting service, “Unexpected Poetry moves into the mysterious realm of hypnotic dark colors, colors that are strongly reminiscent of the long dark evenings to come as winter progresses. However, other aspects of winter, snow, ice and frost lead to a panorama of colors that are timeless and even seasonless.” This is an apt description of LamanBlu’s debut line.

Gibson brings breadth and depth of apparel manufacturing experience, working with boutiques and major chains alike. Gibson’s understanding of retail floor sales presentation and seasonal transitions are an advantage for retailers seeking growth. LamanBlu’s debut collection encourages creativity of layering, with pieces designed not only to enhance the customer’s personal style but also to provide retailers with the much needed add-on sales during these difficult economic times. LamanBlu is currently seeking brick and mortar partners for launch celebrations in major US cities.

For more information visit http://www.lamanblu.com/. To participate in launch celebrations, contact Gibson at holli.gibson@LamanBlu.com.