With two months in the UK and France under our belts, it was time to wrap up business before embarking on the long haul back to Thailand. First we had to meet with Shona, our new rep in London, to find out what the response has been so far to the HOPE children’s spring/summer ’09 clothing collection.





So far everyone has been excited by the fact that the clothing is fair trade. The English like that. They also like to be helping the refugee situation in Burma. So they are with us on the cause.

However regarding style, there were three things that I was surprised to learn: 1. Immediately people asked if the line was American. Is it that obvious that I’m American? The Americans don’t seem to think it’s so American. Apparently it’s the combination of fabrics that’s giving me away!
2. They don’t want anything too dark. Even navy which is traditionally a very summery color is not acceptable. And
3. They want some sort of tiny sleeve on dresses because of the weather yet if a halter dress is lined with the thinnest of cottons, they think it is too heavy for summer. Odd.

So in response to the feedback, I intend to get on down to the fabric market once back in Thailand and find some Blaringly British prints. I will then have them whipped up and sent over as it is HOPE’s full intention to enter the European market next spring!

Cheers & Ciao for now,

Gina