Last week, Absolutely Mama Editor Carly Glendinning travelled to Florence to visit Pitti Bimbo 98. The long-established Italian childrenswear trade show is the place to discover new and exciting brands, and to see what’s new from the best in the business. Scroll down to discover everything we saw…

The theme for this year’s Pitti Bimbo show

The 98th edition of Pitti Immagine Bimbo presented the new childrenswear collections for AW24. This January’s theme was ‘PITTITIME’ and there was a strong focus on green materials, tailored clothing, and cocoon shapes. “Pitti Bimbo is an event that’s constantly transforming”, says Agnostino Poletto, General Manager of the show. “The kidswear market has been revolutionised by new lifestyles, different consumer trends and rapid social changes. We at Pitti carefully observe all these indicators in order to be able to propose a fair that is not only commercial, but also the birthplace of ideas and strategies for the business of tomorrow.” As usual, the installations at this forward-thinking show were incredible – from the giant clocks at the entrance, to the digital time-ticking display.

From the front row

After its successful launch at the last edition, the ‘Petite Parade’ showcasing brands from The Apartment and The Kid’s Lab at Pitti returned. We were lucky enough to get front row seats to this colourful kid’s fashion show, and got a taste of the new collections from: Appulu, Infantium Victoria, Kombizona Kids, Pype, RasberryPlum, Upa, Walkiddy, and Haidaendsik. The mini models were amazing, and we can’t wait for all of these collections to hit the shops in autumn.

Catching up with some our favourite brands

We love visiting Pitti Bimbo as it’s a great opportunity to catch up with some of our favourite brands all in one place. This time, we really enjoying seeing the new collections from girlswear brand The Middle Daughter, gorgeous party shoes from Sophia Webster Mini, cool kids shoes from Bobux, the cutest accessories from Mimi & Lula, innovative kidswear from Tia Ciabani, the most beautiful childrenswear, homeware and beauty from Belle Enfant, super cool eco kidswear from Play Up, beautiful minimal childrenswear at Lil’ Atelier, partywear at Petite Amalie, and pretty bohemian pieces at Louise Misha. We really only scratched the surface as there were so many amazing brands to see!

New brands to watch

New to Pitti this year was a brand speed dating event hosted by Paul & Paula. This was brilliant as we got to meet some really exciting new brands. First up was Kalumi (above left), a sustainable brand that makes basics for little ones using an innovative fabric that grows with your child. Think ribbed bodies and leggings in dusky hues with pops of colour. We loved the collection and wanted absolutely everything! We also really enjoyed meeting Hanska (above right), who make the most beautiful handmade accessories for little ones (and big ones too). In a joyful colour palette, we really loved all the little details on their bags and pouches. Another ‘brand to watch’ we met was Lilimoon. The brand makes gorgeous personalised baby blankets in beautiful hues. It was also lovely to meet the founder of UPA. The brand’s dreamy pieces are mini artistic masterpieces. Pantotti‘s super fun and mostly gender neutral pieces gave us serious retro vibes. And we loved the story behind US-based girlswear brand Retta Jane. Inspired by pieces from the founder’s grandmother and mother’s wardrobe, every piece had the most beautiful detailing.

Exploring Florence

The Pitti team looked after us so well and we also got the chance to explore Florence whilst we were there. This time, we visited the Salvatore Ferragamo museum (above left), to learn all about the famous Italian shoemaker. We also stopped by the Giunti Odeon cinema (which is incredible and a must-visit if you’re in Florence). And we caught the Blooming in Paradise exhibition at Officina Profumo Farmaceutica. Florence is such a beautiful city, and every time we return there’s something new and exciting to discover.

Until next time Pitti!

Pitti hosted a beautiful press dinner at Vineria Ristorante (above left) and we also dined at La Menagerie (above right). A big thank you to the Pitti team for looking after us so well! An amazing show and see you next time!