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designer q+a | wendy mullin | built by wendy kids
words_dena rochelle
This is certainly not the first time that I’ve featured Built by Wendy. But this time it’s in the Baby Luxe section and we have designer Wendy Mullin’s two-year-old to thank for that. Here’s what the designer has to say about her soon-to-be launched children’s line:
Dena ~ How has motherhood changed you?
Wendy ~ “It has made me re-prioritize my time. Running a tiny indie clothing business all myself is just not feasible anymore.”
Dena ~ The kids collex looks like shrunken down versions of your iconic styles but in kid-friendly patterns that moms will also love. Are there any styles that are miniature versions from your women’s line?
Wendy ~ “Yes plenty. I had 20 years of archives to go through. In fact, I have about 4 years of collections already designed! The marbella floral print is from BBW women’s last spring, the nautical stripe is from 2006, the fishing net sweater is from 2008. Also, my eagle print is scaled down for kids. This line also allowed to really express more of the cutesier ideas. But there are not just mini BBW pieces, many items were created from things I thought were lacking out there.”
Dena ~ Any thoughts of expanding the kids line to include a boys collection too?
Wendy ~ “I think some of my pieces are very unisex and I do plan on making some boy special pieces but I feel like there are good basic boy things out there plus having a daughter kind of sways me in that direction. BUT it’s not out of the picture, I’m working on Fall 2013 so there will be boys in there for sure.”
Dena ~ “How refreshing was it to take a season off of the mens/womens RTW and focus on kids?
Wendy ~ “It’s very refreshing. The fashion cycle is not the most conducive to caring for an infant. Plus, I am just one woman and I can’t do it ALL all the time.”
Dena ~ What made you decide to exit the retail spaces?
Wendy ~ “Various things. Retail hasn’t really bounced back for me since the recession, people expect to pay for things only on sale which is difficult for a small biz, and considerable rent increases have made it a very matter of fact decision to be strictly online.”
Dena ~ When will you get back to designing for grown ups?
Wendy ~ “I’m going to take it easy and just create pieces as I feel inspired, keep it small and special. I should have a few holiday items. People can keep up with what I’m doing through my mailing list.”
