Leah + Rae Is the Baby Brand We Want for Ourselves
As a mom to a one-year old, baby clothes are a whole new world. But, thankfully, in a sea of t-shirts with sparkling rainbows and fussy pinafores, there are a few select, beautiful brands to discover. Enter: Leah + Rae. The collection, which launched in February, was founded by Brittany Peltz Buerstedde as an answer to the dream of beautiful children's-wear that doesn't inhibit a little one's ability to move and play freely-with approachable prices ranging from $44-$150.
I knew I was in love when I came across the baby basket bag in the brand's initial offering. The collection is pretty but unfussy, simple, but with thoughtful details like hand-embroidery on a white blouse and pearl buttons on a varsity jacket. And each piece is super soft, meant for every day life, not to be stored for special occasions only.
BAZAAR.com spoke with the designer and Manhattan-based mom to daughters (and brand models) Eva and Lila Rae, to see why she wanted to enter of the realm of children's fashion and which famous baby she'd love to see wear Leah + Rae.
Why did you want to launch your line?
After giving birth to my second daughter I had a hard time finding clothes that resonated with my aesthetic. I wanted to create styles that were beautiful, unique and also wearable. I also believe that children are so beautiful on their own and clothes should speak to that instead of distract from it.
What did you think was missing in the children’s market that you thought it could fill?
I felt that most brands were full of extremes-super classic to the point of feeling outdated and buttoned up, full on bohemian without a sophisticated flair, or completely modern with loud colors and statement pieces.
As a mom of two girls who are equal part princess and tom boy I wanted to created a collection that incorporated the graceful beauty of little girls who make believe they are queen for a day while also speaking to their spunky side that drives them to race down slides and chase clouds on swing-sets.
I wanted to create the best quality product which was always a priority and frankly a responsibility without having to compromise on price. Affordability was always key.
Does the collection reflect your own personal style?
In many ways, yes, especially in the sense that I dress in simple styles and color palettes that incorporate key pieces or accessories to elevate the look. The line also incorporates both ends of my style spectrum that include romantic dresses and blouses that are balanced out by my sportier days of jeans and a white tee.
I have also incorporated my belief that clothes should not only be beautiful but should also inspire movement and play which comes from my background as a figure skater.
Who is it named for?
The brightest lights of my life, my two daughters whose middle names are Leah and Rae.
Is it more difficult to design for boys?
I definitely have more immediate female inspiration with my two daughters but am lucky that many of my best friends have boys who inspire me in many ways.
At this point the collection has more styles for girls but includes quite a few unisex styles as well. Even though I always try to design a full or complete collection I have to fall fully in love with each piece before I go into production, which means I will never just add more styles for numbers sake but instead because I really feel they are a must.
What is your design process like?
All of my collections up to date have been designed during my time in the country. This was not intentional on my part but somehow happened this way. I’m definitely very connected to nature and I find that I can best tune into what is inspiring me during those quite, undisturbed hours even if they happen to be while my husband and girls are sleeping.
I do not design like most artists with a broad idea or theme that dictates the overall direction. I start with one silhouette, style or swatch which seamlessly melts into another until the majority of the collection is sketched out. Once I have overlooked it I then see if there are any pieces that I feel are missing and add those in as needed to make sure the collection flows. I always want my pieces to be versatile within the collection and be able to easily mix and match seamlessly. Interestingly enough, I don’t often recognize what inspired me until the editing phase where I overlook the larger picture-only then does my initial spark, or inspiration become clear.
What, who or where inspires you when designing?
I am very inspired by my travels and most notably by my childhood summers spent in the Cote d’Azure. I was very drawn to and inspired by their effortless sense of beauty and muted color palette...
What has been most helpful for you in spreading the word about your brand?
Moms! One of the best parts about being a Mother is the other Mothers you meet and connect with-the bond and support system is like no other and there truly isn’t a better way to get honest advice and feedback. There is an amazing, underlying trust that comes from all of us wanting the very best for our children.
What famous baby would you love to see in the Collection?
It’s a very good question, since they often have access to so many amazing brands. I would definitely be honored to see a well-known mom chose Leah + Rae for their child but I have to say how truly grateful and inspired I am by the incredible, “everyday“ moms who have really fallen in love with the brand. The amazing working moms and stay-at-home Moms who have really gravitated to our aesthetic and what we stand for, moms who have amazing values and careers. That is what really excites me! But without escaping your question, I would have to say it would be pretty amazing to see Princess Charlotte in Leah + Rae, because who isn’t in love with a modern fairytale.
Leah + Rae is available at saks.com. maisonette.com and leahandrae.com.
('You Might Also Like',)
