How I Built LAAD in Every Touch: A Journey Into Sustainable Kidswear

Why I Chose Kidswear

Choosing kidswear wasn’t random—it was deeply personal. It fulfilled my own desire for motherhood while giving me a chance to create something meaningful for children.

At home, I often saw little ones become uncomfortable because of harsh fabrics. That inspired me to bring back the comfort our parents trusted—soft cotton clothing that becomes gentler after every wash.

Old Cotton Clothes Passed Through Generations

In many Indian households, old cotton garments were carefully passed down through generations. Years of washing made them softer, safer, and more comfortable for babies.

Those memories inspired my mission: creating breathable cotton kidswear that feels gentle on delicate skin while staying free from harmful chemicals and harsh finishes.

Learning Fabrics Beyond the Classroom

Like many aspiring entrepreneurs, I thought entering the kidswear industry would be straightforward. I quickly learned otherwise.

It took nearly four months to understand fabrics properly—from thread counts and GSM to fabric finishes and quality standards. I travelled across India, visiting mills and speaking with manufacturers.

The practical knowledge I gained during those months taught me more than any classroom ever could.

Why Pre-Washing Cotton Is Essential

One of the most important lessons I learned was that cotton must be pre-washed before being stitched into baby garments.

Cotton naturally shrinks after the first wash. Pre-washing helps stabilize the fabric while removing excess dyes, chemical residues, and impurities.

For newborns and young children, this process makes clothing softer, safer, and more comfortable for sensitive skin.

Designing My First Collection

As a NIFT graduate, design has always been my favourite part of the process. I started with a capsule collection of seven to eight styles that would become the foundation of LAAD.

In 2022, I completed my first collection of handmade kidswear, combining playful design with premium-quality cotton fabrics.

Over-Loving Like a First-Time Parent

Like many first-time parents, I became overly excited. I wanted to create everything at once.

Spending time with my niece inspired several ideas. Her love for her grandmother’s stories reminded me that childhood is often shaped by grandparents, traditions, and memories.

That inspiration guided my design direction—creating clothing that feels nostalgic and meaningful to families across generations.

The Design Process

I began with mood boards, colour palettes, and playful sketches. Every concept felt exciting, and every design seemed perfect on paper.

Jumpsuits became the highlight of the collection because they offered both style and comfort. Combined with carefully selected premium fabrics, I believed I was ready for launch.

The next challenge was branding and production. I planned to outsource manufacturing while focusing on brand building. That was when I realised the real journey was only beginning.