Petit Parisian Style – Photoshoot outfits for children

There’s no doubt about it, Parisians are chic. They always seem to be wearing the exact right outfit, with the perfect accessories. Parisian style is a way of life, it is part of the culture – even for the littlest of Parisians! If you’ve booked a photoshoot with us and need advice on how to create an elegant Parisian look for your children, we’ve got you covered! Nestled just behind the Jardin de Luxembourg in the 6th arrondissement is L’île Aux Fées, a boutique that specializes in beautiful handmade smocked and embroidered classic dresses for girls up to 12 as well as traditional outfits for young boys. It’s one of our favorite shops in Paris to grab gifts for all of the lovely little ones in our lives to make them feel like princesses and little princes.

We sat down to chat with Charlotte sy Dimby, one of the women behind the brand sold at L’île Aux Fées, to get the story of the line, the clothing and the boutique.

Tell us where you are from and what inspired you to open this beautiful store for little girls?

I am 100% Parisian, born and raised on the Left Bank and still living here today. Paris truly holds the key to my heart.

I had the immense privilege of living 3 years as a child in London which is how I learnt English, the best gift my parents ever gave me.

The boutique and whole concept is that of our founder, Monique Ramahay, whom we fondly nickname the queen of smocks! It’s a long and beautiful story! In a nutshell, she has been designing smocked and embroidered dresses for decades. She initially worked with some of the greatest French children’s brands before having her own boutique. I began as an intern and never stopped. Our encounter was truly written in the stars. The two of us get along so well and delight in celebrating the magic of childhood daily. It’s a real passion!

Tell us more about the designs and how the dresses are made?

Monique, who is 76 years old, is the one selecting each and every single fabric and deciding on each thread color. It’s then a true team work, the dress goes under the hands of each member of our talented team. We are almost like a big family, making one of each size per design to make children feel truly special and unique. We imagine each piece as an heirloom to cherish and pass down and we weave love into every stitch.

Each month we have new arrivals. Having our own atelier allows great creativity, sky is the limit.

It’s also important to note that our dresses are all machine washable.

Do you make custom dresses and how long does it take to make one?

We love nothing more than making dreams come true! Yes, we can custom make dresses but please contact us minimum 2 months ahead. We can happily create coordinated bubbles and boys’ set for siblings.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes! We ship worldwide through our e-shop Charlotte sy Dimby

Our shop dresses babies and girls up to 12 years old. For boys we currently go up to 4 years old but can custom make for bigger sizes.

Recommendations for families in Paris to enjoy? Restaurants? Parks? Tours?

The Jardin du Luxembourg, located five minutes away from the boutique is by far our favourite. The mini sailing boats, gorgeous flower beds, numerous statues and playground will be sure to delight all the family. You’ll even spot one of the Parisian Statue of Liberty within the park.

For tours, we highly recommend the Louvre Scavenger Hunt by Paris and Beyond Tours as well as the amazing guide Zoë Petit.

A trip to Paris would not be complete without macarons! Tea time at Ladurée is a must!

We also love Bread and Roses for brunch or lunch.

Your favorite place in Paris?

Paris’s rooftops. I could admire for hours on end the view of the city from above, especially at sunset. There is something so soothing and poetic about it. I have seen it millions of time but the magic never fades. Be it from the balcony of an Haussmanien appartment or from the top of the Eiffel Tower, be sure to climb up one way or another to see the capital from up high.

Get in touch with the boutique here:

Boutique website: L’île Aux Fées

Charlotte sy Dimby worldwide e-shop

Instagram: @charlotte_sy_dimby

Email: info@charlottesydimby.com

Now that you’ve found the perfect photoshoot outfit for children, you need to figure out what you adults will wear! Check out some of our ideas here!