These days, children seem to have more impressive wardrobes than their parents. And for good reason: everything looks cuter and more covetable when its pint sized. Were always searching for new kidswear brands and this week, weve fallen in love with charming childrenswear label June. Featuring classic gingham and sweet floral prints, its no surprise that the founder is French. Verane Bonal is based in Sydney and created the brand after the arrival of her now two-year-old daughter Nîne Vu Hong. “I’m inspired by my daughter. I create clothes thinking of what I would love to see on her,” she says. “My clothes are nothing extraordinary. They are simple and easy to wear, but with this little je ne sais quoi of French sophistication. I just try to find the right balance between classicism and modernity, sophistication and simplicity. I also pay a lot of attention to quality and fabrics.” We caught up with Bonal to find out more
What has motherhood taught you so far?
Motherhood taught me so much! Above all it taught me to focus on essential things and not to bring too much importance to the rest. To consider everything with distance and humour.
Whats the best advice youve ever been given about motherhood?
Funnily the best advice I have been given is to not pay attention to others peoples advice too much (and avoid reading too many parenting books), as motherhood will come naturally. I really think that mothers should follow their instinct and not be scared of making mistakes.
Can you tell us about your background and how you came to launch June?
I am French and I studied at the Ecole du Louvre in Paris, an art history university educating museum curators. In 2007, I was offered a position as a marketing manager for a fashion and luxury magazine and this role gave another spin to my career. When we arrived in Australia five years ago, I fell in love with the country and decided that I would create my own fashion business here. When my daughter was born, I realised that doing kids clothes was the thing I really wanted to do in life. I didnt know anything about this industry, I had to learn everything!
What do you love most about what you do?
Creativity! My head is always full of new ideas for collections.
What inspires your work?
My daughter. I am also inspired by talented fashion designers, photographers, stylists and existing kid brands such as Bonpoint, Bonton and Caramel Baby and Child.
What are your tips for achieving balance?
I think its the most challenging part of parenting. Its so difficult and to be honest I am not sure that I found the right balance yet. I try not to do everything at the same time: kid time is not work time, couple time is not kid time etc. Above all, I try to avoid sticking to my phone, or any kind of screen, definitely the worst enemy of quality time with your loved ones!
Whats the most challenging part of running your own business?
I would say facing doubts all the time! You have to be very strong to go through the ups and downs every day.
What are your tips on how to run a successful business?
First to be very humble, there is so much to learn every day and you will make mistakes along the way. Be honest in what you do, be passionate and have fun! I think that really counts for the success of a business. And of course, work very hard.
What makes a great Instagram image?
I just discovered Instagram and I think it is a fabulous way to communicate. I use it in a way to illustrate the universe/spirit I want to create with my collections. Also to give ideas on how to wear the clothes and style them in your daily life.
Whats the hardest and best part of being a mother?
For me the hardest part is definitely the physical fatigue. The best part is everything else: happiness, laughter and love.
What is your daily uniform?
I used to be super feminine and wore a lot of high heels and dresses, but working from home and motherhood have changed my habits a lot. I had to reinvent the way I dress. I wear flat shoes and comfy clothes, mostly jeans paired with blouses. I also love Isabel Marant dresses!
What are your desk essentials?
Photos of my loved ones, photos of everything that inspires me, my computer and a big, big mess around (including chocolate)!
What handbag do you use day-to-day?
A Chanel bag, I am desperately French! Along with a cotton bag to carry all my mess (as the Chanel one is a bit too small).
Whats your favourite part of the day?
When I arrive at daycare at the end of the day and my daughter runs and smiles at me.
For more information, go to www.june-baby.com
