Mandarin Gallery Blog

Good childrenwear can be hard to come by. There is a general perception that children grow up much too fast so it hardly makes sense to invest in quality designer clothes for them when they will be outgrown in a jiffy. This is definitely not the philosophy behind Liho, a label from London whose children’s line features the immaculate tailoring and fine materials that you will expect from a high-end brand for adults. Liho’s kids are dressed like the discerning individuals that they are, in pieces infused with a mix of childlike simplicity and creative sophistication. The resulting looks are sweet, wearable and undoubtedly stylish.

Made for children aged 2 to 10, these clothes are practical but fun. For its A/W 2010 collection, the brand has interpreted vintage patterns and details with modern cuts. As with convention in the colder months, the collection is decked out in dark, timeless shades like grey, camel, navy and neutrals, which are tastefully accented with brighter pops of mauve pinks, rich reds and blues. Other than trendy knitwear and classic dresses, there are also party perfect bow satin frocks, bohemian ruffle skirts and pretty organza tops for the year-end festivities and other special occasions throughout the season.

The collection lookbook is styled to portray precocious mini grown-ups with a sartorial mind of their own. Must-buys for girls include a smocking dress in bright teal, a linen blouse with an adorable ruffle collar and a sheer white day dress. A long tiered skirt that comes in black and pale gold is also one of the collection’s star designs. Top everything off with dark navy, white and grey ribbed leggings and sensible mary janes or oxfords.

Little boys are going to look very smart in the collection’s check shirts, hooded military jackets, khaki casual trousers and chunky knit scarves. Layer a blue plaid shirt under a buttoned-up cardigan for that cute British schoolboy look. Prices start from SGD140 for a dress shirt to above SGD200 for dresses and outerwear.

Liho is stocked at Undress (#02-28A), Mandarin Gallery