We are about to explore different independent shops offering Scandinavian children’s fashion.
First up is Barnyardkids, a UK based online shop offering childrens clothes for 0-6 years olds by Scandinavian designer labels Mini Rodini, Smafolk, Katvig, Ej Sikke Lej, Duns, Urban Elk, Ida T, Moccis, Molo and Name It. We met up with lovely Helene from BarnyardKids last week to find out more.

Little Scandinavian: What was the background for starting up Barnyard Kids and when did it all happen?

Helene: Barnyardkids formed in June 2008 and began trading in November 2008. My son Sterling was born in September 2007 and I quickly discovered a lack of good clothes for babies and young children. After a bit of research, I decided there was a gap in the market for good quality, cool and fun clothes, so decided to launch my own business. Although I’ve lived in England for 20 years, I was born and brought up in Sweden, so was instinctively drawn to Scandinavia for the brands I wanted to offer. By the way, ‘barn’ in Swedish means ‘child’ hence the name ‘barnyardkids’.

Little Scandinavian: How do you select the brands and styles? What is important to you?

Helene: Barnyardkids only stock Scandinavian brands and have an extensive collection from popular brands like Smafolk, Katvig and Ej sikke lej, and a selection of our favourite pieces from lesser-known brands such as Urban Elk and Duns Sweden. Initially it was important to stock clothes that are organic or oeko-tex certified, but we’ve had to compromise when we got Molo Kids and Name-It onboard as they are not organic, but we love their clothes. And the fact they’re Scandinavian!

Little Scandinavian: Do you want to share your favourite picks from the Spring Summer 2011 collection with us? What made you choose these items and are there any strong trends and exciting news we should be aware of for this season?

Helene: Regarding trends for 2011, denim is making a big comeback and will be popular this year. This prompted us to get Name It onboard as they make really cool affordable denim. The Katvig SS11 collection is very strong and selling well, the quality is even better than normal. Mini Rodini are as cool as ever, and Molo Kids have produced some great new t-shirts for this season. Smafolk continue with their fun retro prints; the owl and cow prints are big sellers at the moment, and their car, digger and animal prints are always popular.

Little Scandinavian: Thank you Helene and we wish you and your family a very Happy Spring and Easter!

Helene’s favourite picks for Spring Summer 2011

Barnyardkids have free UK delivery for all orders over £20. To find out more visit www.barnyardkids.co.uk