Paris Calling

We got off the plane in the French capital with suitcases chock-full of spring’s best for our October fashion story, “Dream.” Photographer Dani Brubaker captured twins Callie and Dylan, some of our favorite models state-side, as well as top European talent Thylane, in timeless tween separates, understated and classic with checks, stripes, swings, poufs, delicate embroidery and ruffled detailing. Starting in a petite pied-à-terre, the shoot moved from cafés, courtyards and the cobblestone streets of the Marais to the grand steps of Basilique du Sacré-Coeur. At one point in the day, a Capoeira troupe joined us, drumming a beat and showing off their Brazilian martial arts moves. Callie quickly joined the group, and thanks to her New York City Ballet pedigree, matched and raised them with each graceful high kick. (Download our app for videos capturing these behind-the-scenes moments.)

Back home, we got the skinny on perennial fashion favorite, Flowers by Zoe, in our Q&A, “Flower Child,” and learned about how owner Krisana Silverstein built her business in Bali. We also spoke with the charismatic Project Runway winner Jeffrey Sebelia, who heads boys’ brand La Miniatura, and Hollie Watman at Cejon, design coordinator for clothes and accessories brand Peace of Cake.

Watman, along with a clique of seasoned tween retailers, also offered advice for figuring out the fickle pre-teen fashion arena in our feature, “Tween Scene 101.” Tackling the tween market can be a tough assignment, but a little preparation can pay off—and go a long way toward getting the pulse of this coveted demographic.

Planning ahead is also key to surviving and thriving during the holiday season, which is right around the corner. In “‘Tis (Almost) the Season,” we walk retailers through the finer points of seasonal preparation, from inspired window dressing and sorting out gift card policies, to stocking the shelves with ample gift options and goods.

Lastly, we are thrilled to begin this month at ENK, where we will host the 2011 Earnie Awards ceremony and honor manufacturers that were voted “best” by you—the retailers. We will also raise a glass to our Hall of Fame inductees, including Macy’s Infant Buyer Ruth Walnick and Group Vice President and Divisional Marketing Manager Joyce Henry, K.I.D.S. President Janice Weinman and Manufacturer’s Representative Roseanne Yarusi of The Rose Garden. À bientôt!