Because I’m editor in chief of Baby Magazine, people think I have an easy time shopping. The truth is that I look at so many children’s products day in and day out that there are few things that really catch my eye for my own children.
I like to dress my children in a certain way: free of giant logos and cartoon characters, and always in good quality fabric. Of course, there is also the question of affordability—the truth is that kids outgrow things really quickly. I recently gave away 10 crates of clothes that no longer fit my kids. After that, I told myself I would be more discerning with my shopping.
When Zippy, the largest pure play children’s specialist apparel in Portugal, opened its doors in Manila, it was truly refreshing. The clothes are styled in contemporary fashion, taking note of this summer’s Coachella festival-slash ’70s trend, without being too overpowering. No risk of turning your child into a fashion victim here!
The Juniors collection (ages 3-14) is inspired by vintage surfer looks. I particularly like their pants. For some reason, many of the pants I find in Manila are not cut to my liking. Zippy brand manager Karren Alvarez told me that the cuts and sizing are European, so it has a slimmer fit, versus the boxy pants that I normally come across.
Summer colors
Also, they carry basic summer colors—white and beige—which are staples in my son’s wardrobe. I also found a pair of denim skater shoes for P900 for my son. Two trends for the summer—check! I won’t feel bad when he outgrows them! My other favorite items for the boys at Zippy were their golf shirts with no logos. Perfect for playdates in the park, and affordable enough to get multiple colors. They also had a selection of loafers, driving shoes and topsiders, which I happen to think every little boy should have in their wardrobe.
While I was very happy that I had found good basics for my son, I had to stop myself from getting one of each item for my daughter in the girls’ section. The girls’ pieces are well-tailored and not overly shiny, just enough sparkle to be acceptably worn during the day. Delicate cotton and crochet tops, rompers and printed dresses that can be worn every day are what the collection is made of.
What I appreciate most about Zippy’s aesthetic is that it stays away from the loud colors that pain the eyes of discerning parents, and opts instead for more muted tones. The cotton is soft and light to the touch, and certainly won’t break the bank for approximately P800 a top.
The footware is also very classic, not too trendy. Gold sandals and ballerinas make up most of the collection—and again are at around P900, so buying multiple metallic shades won’t be an issue.
Zippy is a delightful brand for children, and I look forward to seeing more of their collections in the years to come.
Zippy is at G/F, Glorietta 3, Makati City (near the entrance facing Landmark).