I’ve long been a fan of Milly, the lovely luxe label that has celebrated classic female form by rolling out utterly covetable color-rich dresses, outerwear and separates season after season. With timeless, figure flattering silohuettes, it’s no wonder Gwyneth Paltrow, Victoria Beckham and Beyoncé clad themselves in Milly. 
So when I heard designer Michelle Smith was toasting the label’s 10th anniversary this spring by debuting a playful new line for little fashionistas, I just had to chat with the designer about Milly Minis. I’m delighted share with Stylephile readers our interview below on the eve of Michelle’s New York Fashion Week Milly Fall/Winter 2011 show at Lincoln Center, which you can watch LIVE tomorrow at 3 p.m. on firstcomesfashion.com
What was your inspiration for launching Milly Minis? My four-year-old daughter, Sophia, was my true inspiration for the collection. She was even the fit model! Overall, it was a natural progression to translate Milly’s signature bold prints and feminine chic 
aesthetic to playful dresses for young Milly aspirants.
What sort of piece comprise the collection? The Spring 2011 collection is an assortment of dresses and spring coats. Moving into Fall, I decided to introduce skirts and knit tops and cardigans—the perfect little pieces that wear well with the dresses and skirts.
How does Minis complement Milly’s women’s collection? The Milly Minis collection captures the feminine chic style of Milly for young girls, in the 2 to 7 age range. The line features adorable dresses and coats in the same luxe fabrics and bold prints from 
the women’s ready-to-wear collection.
How do you describe the debut collection, and what do you see at the future of Milly Minis? The debut Spring 2011 collection is straight from the runway and adapted for aspiring young Milly girls. The silhouettes include ribbon tie-back party dresses and shift styles with button-front details and grosgrain trim. Future Minis collections will continue to align with the women’s fabrics and prints, and I plan to create 
more styles and assortments for my newest little clients!
Milly Minis range from $95-$196. Michelle is also anticipating the opening of Milly’s première flagship boutique on Madison Avenue and the debut of new handbag and jewelry collections. Keep an eye out!
Select pieces by Milly are available locally at:
Kristina Richards Studio 17 Touro Street, Newport, (401) 848-5284; 1000 Chapel View Blvd., Cranston, (401) 270-0188
Pink Pineapple, 380 Thames Street, Newport, (401) 849-8181; 106 Clock Tower Sq, Portsmouth, (401) 293-5490
Zuzu’s Petals, 165 Main Street, East Greenwich, (401) 398-1199; 288 Thayer Street, Providence, (401) 331-9846
Nordstrom, 6 Providence Place, Providence, (401) 621-3111
Image at top courtesy millyny.com
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