At Cress, we’re not just about preloved treasures; we’re also opening our doors to fantastic sustainable businesses. One such gem is Bay & Fay, an enchanting haven for sustainable children’s clothing, founded by the visionary fashion designer Isabel Protopapa in 2020, after the arrival of her first son. Take a read of our Spotlight on Bay and Fay’s Sustainable Children’s Clothes.
Isabel’s journey into children’s fashion was a natural evolution. With a background as a Womenswear Designer across the UK high street, Isabel felt a calling to translate her style and love for embroidery into garments for little ones.
โWe aim to produce beautiful, hand-crafted garments that become heirlooms to treasure and pass down.โ
Drawing inspiration from vintage details and armed with a commitment to sustainability, Isabel began weaving Bay & Fay’s story. Collaborating with Fairtrade producer groups in Nepal and Bangladesh, she meticulously crafted a collection that marries style with ethics.
“Every piece we design has a story to tell, from the historic inspiration to the cotton farmer, the dyer, the weaver, the embroiderer, the machinist โ all the way to the little boy or girl who ends up wearing it. A lot of skill, time, and love have gone into every item, and we hope you treasure it.”
At Bay & Fay, each garment is a testament to a rich tapestry of craftsmanship, from the hands of artisans to the hearts of the little ones who wear them. Every piece tells a story of dedication, sustainability, and love.
shop the Loxwood Cardigan here
Q&A with Isabel the owner of Bay & Fay
Q: Why have you decided to join Cress?
A: I had begun to start thinking about selling Bay & Fay on different platforms; however, none seemed to be right or have the same brand ethos. When I discovered Cress, I realized we were perfectly aligned in our values and aim to provide sustainable clothing for children.
Q: What inspired your business?
A: Having worked as a womenswear designer for many years, gaining valuable experience from various brands, I always knew I wanted to start my own business. The turning point came after the birth of my first son (I now have 2!). During the start of Covid, I reassessed my life and career and recalled the happiness I experienced working for the pioneering Fair Trade fashion brand, People Tree. Inspired by the skills of artisans and the creativity involved in designing not only garments but fabric, print, and embroidery, I took the leap into childrenswear. During lockdown, I observed a shift โ while people were buying fewer clothes for themselves, they were investing in beautiful outfits for their babies and children.
Q: What is your favorite product of yours?
A: My favorite product from the first range was the ‘Isabel Dress,’ now updated to become the ‘Christmas Dress’! The fabric is handwoven with GOTS certified organic cotton, featuring a hand-embroidered bib with voluminous sleeves and smocked cuffs โ truly a piece of heaven!
Q: Any great feedback or memories of children using your products?
A: I have loved seeing my boys wearing my designs as they grow up, and I also receive heartwarming pictures of customers’ children donning items they’ve bought. It always brings a smile to my face, and I make sure to share these moments on social media too!
Bay & Fay is more than a clothing brand; it’s a narrative of sustainability, craftsmanship, and the joy of childhood. Join us in welcoming Isabel and Bay & Fay to the Cress community โ where sustainable stories are beautifully woven for the little ones we adore! ๐ฟโจ
Join the movement of supporting creativity and sustainability with Bay & Fay ๐ Explore the collection on Cress and be part of a community that values eco-friendly crafts and creative expression.
Check out Bay & Fay’s website here
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