Who doesn’t love cashmere? The answer would be no one or at least no friend of mine. 🙂 For me there is nothing as soft and warm – cashmere is the epitome of cozy chic. Now imagine adorable kids clothing made partially with this divine material in an uber stylish way and that is exactly what Melissa Wang, mommy and owner/designer of eden & zoe has done. Today she was kind enough to share her momprenuer words of wisdom, PLUS 20% of this gorgeous line until next Monday. Just enter the code ‘mommychic’ at checkout. Thank you, Melissa! xxÂ
MCbJ: When did you start eden & zoe and what was your inspiration behind the line?
MW: I launched eden & zoe with a ballet inspired first collection in 2013. Eden and Zoe are the names of my two daughters. My girls inspired me to start my brand of cashmere knitwear because they decided that regular wool knitwear was too “itchy”. Cashmere is a material that I love and I wanted to share that experience with them.
MCbJ: What were the first items (or item) that you created? How has that influenced future designs?
MW: My first design was the Margot wrap cardigan. It remains one of my favorite designs and is a classic style that we carry year round. Eden and Zoe both love wearing this cardigan and have it in multiple colors! Having first design an item, which my girls loved to wear, gave me the confidence to trust my instincts and carry on designing. My designs are influenced by the different places that I’ve lived in and visited. I grew up between Hong Kong and London, lived in New York, Tokyo, Beijing and Shanghai before moving to San Francisco. eden & zoe is aimed at an international audience, so I hope the designs speak out to consumers wherever they may be.
MCbJ: You have three young children. Has it been difficult juggling your business and being an available mom?
MW: For me, I think the hardest part is finding the right balance between family and work. There are only so many hours in a day, so I try to make maximum use of it. I think it’s important to be flexible with the balancing act. Every day brings new challenges and it’s not possible to plan for every eventuality. In the long run, what matters is how you spent the time and that you enjoyed it.
MCbJ: What advice do you have for new moms with dreams of having their own business?
MW: It took me some time before I decided to take the plunge but I’m glad I did! It’s great being able to combine fashion with my daughters on a daily basis. For me, every day is different and I love the variety and freedom that my lifestyle brings. My advice would be to go for it: it’s only through trying that you find out whether it’s really for you.
MCbJ: Anything new in the works we should know about?
MW: I am excited about our upcoming FW15 collection, it is playful and stylish with color as the main theme. Look out for color blocking and geometric patterns. Plus I’m thrilled to announce that we’ll be launching a baby collection as well.
MCbJ: How would you describe your own personal style?
MW: Classic and understated. The details and craftsmanship of what I wear are important to me – be it clothes, shoes or accessories. I also love intricate patterns and textiles. Having said that, most of the time I’m dressed in a black or gray top with a pair of dark blue skinny jeans and flats!
jasmine wrap cardigan // zinnia tutu skirt // azalea dress // striped cotton baby blanket // aster hoodie // poppy dress
Founded in 2013, the San Francisco based company creates luxurious and comfortable knits for boys and girls in classic yet modern designs. Eden and Zoe are the names of founder and designer Melissa Wang’s two daughters and the inspiration behind the brand. eden & zoe knitwear is made to be worn, enjoyed and shared.
The current SS15 collection is nature inspired and comprises intricate knit patterns combined with beautiful floral and geometric prints. This charming collection of dresses, skirts, tops, outerwear and more is available for purchase on www.edenandzoe.com with worldwide shipping available.
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