Continuing our story on baby trends to look out for in 2017, design-driven baby products were everywhere you looked at the 2016 ABC Kids Expo!
Today’s millennial parents are completely design-savvy, and while they want products that work really well, they also want great design. If you’re going to have to look at something every day, shouldn’t it look great?
That’s certainly the thinking behind all the great new internally developed styles and collaborations with top designers who are making huge statements in the baby industry.
Jonathan Adler’s cheeky and dramatic designs for Fisher-Price generated a lot of buzz at the show. The hugely popular home décor designer knows that if this big baby bouncer is going to be sitting in the middle of the living room, it should look great too. I mean, why not?
And when you’re taking it to the street, the bold statement of Jeremy Scott for Cybex puts his signature golden wings on everything from baby carriers to strollers. The dazzle of gold against a deep black background is definitely fashion forward and will stand out dramatically as you hit the town with your babe.
We’ve also been impressed by all the homegrown design we’ve seen. In other words, companies seem to be adding a lot of amazing talent to their internal design teams as well. And why not? As we’ve talked to buyers and attendees here at the 2016 ABC Kids Expo, we keep hearing about how important design is for today’s parents. For years, parents and families seemed to think that bulky, not-so-attractive baby gear simply came with the territory.
Well, forget that. The pops of color that are coming to the baby aisles are on everything, from the most basic bottles and brushes to the most deluxe strollers, and that means high fashion is in high demand.
We were really impressed by the design team at Cybex. It’s not enough that its infant seats are inspired by a mid-century modern design aesthetic and look absolutely gorgeous in a range of jewel and candy colors. But its also developed two themes that are completely smashing—Birds of Paradise (above) and Butterflies. Both are simply gorgeous!
Over at Maxi-Cosi the new look is called Cit Motif. It’s a black-and-white pattern that features a hand-drawn city with a design style that’s right out of the 1960s. So retro, and so on trend! The special edition collection is available for its Mico Max 30, Pria 85 (pictured), and Dana stroller.
Britax has also added brilliant colors to its convertible and booster seats, which can make that back seat seem bright and fun.
And that’s just a taste of all we’ve seen so far at the 2016 ABC Kids Expo. Stay tuned for more 2017 baby trend spotting as we walk the show for two more days!