"I simply can't understand, Why swimsuits are in such demand. They're soggy and damp, Bind like a clamp, And hold about three pounds of sand!" D.R. Benson

Over the past few months several people have asked what goes into making decisions about the styles – and the brands - we choose to represent at DressMeDaddy.com. As with all decisions, there are many factors that we weigh when on buying trips. In the Chicago market I have a very sharp lady - Martha Swibes - who advises us on trends and color forecasts. She can assist with those fashion questions because she works deep inside the industry every day. That type of information is invaluable, because let’s face it having the right look in fashion is crucial. We all need - not just kids -clothing that makes us look and feel great. Important too is clothing that is comfortable, durable, easy to wear, and will continue to look good and perform for more than just one season. Especially in kids clothing, we look for breathable, soft, durable fabrics, because as you as a parent know with kids comfort is king. Itchy, stiff, too tight at the neck or armholes, hard to snap or button, all of these clothing issues will usually encourage a child to take off the item immediately, or whine and complain. Neither of these responses are fun, for either the child or the parent, especially in highly public places. Every parent I know has one or two stories they could share.

Another thing we look for when evaluating a brand or collection is the attitude behind the kids clothing. If we are going to represent it, we need to know what type of corporate citizen that company is, and what message they are sending through our children who are wearing their clothing. Desigual is a great case in point, and we carry up to size 6 in both girls and boys clothing collections. Designed in Spain, Desigual’s tag line is “It’s not the Same” and it’s just a great message for all of us. Originally born in Switzerland, Thomas Meyer envisioned a future where people dressed in a way and in clothing that generated positive feelings. He wanted to dress people, not just bodies, and actively searched for ways to incorporate positive messages in the clothing lines. Meyer started Desigual in 1984, and now has stores throughout the world. The clothing has become known throughout the world to emanate positivism, commitment, tolerance, constant improvement, innovation and fun. The clothes are comfortable, sturdily made and durably finished. This - all this - is what we demand before we represent a clothing line. To us, it's much more than just a pretty dress or comfortable outfit for a special party or event. We strive for beautiful, well made clothing with a conscience. Desigual gives us all that and more.