by Myles Fish
Abigail Terrien claims that children develop their own fashion tastes from a young age. And she ought to know, as her own son—only four-and-a-half—has already taken to choosing his own outfits on a daily basis.
That is one of the reasons Terrien decided to open her online store, Abi Loves…, specializing in unique clothing and accessories for kids. While pleased with the increase in options for children’s clothing outlets in Tokyo, Terrien says her store fills a gap in the market.
“There is still a lack of choice. It’s either mass production or expensive designer labels, and most of them stop at size six years. This is where Abi Loves… comes in with a cheaper but classy selection and bigger sizes. They sell like hot cakes!”
Abi Loves…, which is exclusively online and accessible in both English and Japanese, offers attire for babies under two, and for girls and boys up to age eight. Also available is a variety of educational toys and books, skin products, and hip clothing for ‘mums and dads.’
Terrien says, “The style of the products has to be original, cool, modern, interesting in a way. So the selection became a mix of rock ‘n’ roll and ethnic tastes.”
The shop stocks brands from designers around the world, some designed by celebrities, and others made from organic cotton or biodegradable products. Also featured is Terrien’s own label, which includes comfy and lightweight Thai summer pants for kids and adults. A portion of the sales of the pants goes towards Child’s Dream, a Thai charity which helps less fortunate children attend school.
As someone who maintains eco-consciousness in her personal life and style, Terrien strives to carry brands which are ‘green’ and support charities in the countries where they are produced.
“It’s time to realize that we are all on one Earth, and we really should look out for each other and be less selfish,” says Terrien.
