Coops Clothing was established in 2021 with the idea of providing gender-neutral and sustainable organic cotton pieces that are gentle on the skin. When Kirsty Smith founded the sustainable childrenswear brand, she was a first-time mum navigating both mum life and work life.

After leaving her standard 9-5 to start a family, Smith didn’t want to go back to corporate life. Once she had given birth to her first child Cooper, the inspiration behind the brand, it was time to create flexibility and work-life balance for her and her family. And so, Coops Clothing was born.

 

 

‘‘Cooper suffers from eczema, so I wanted a sustainable brand which provides super soft and organic clothes for my little ones and yours,” says Smith. “I wanted a brand that had fresh but classic designs while also being kind to the planet. Here at Coops Clothing we will only use certified organic fabrics (GOTS) and aim to work closely with organisations to ensure we are making a positive difference.’’

Having a child with sensitive skin and allergies made Smith reconsider what touches her child’s skin. Also, how she can be the change she wanted to see in the clothing industry, moving away from toxic chemicals and unethical fabrics. Smith went on a mission to source not only sustainable and environmentally friendly organic cotton, but also materials which support fair trade.

 

 

GOTs organic cotton is hypoallergenic and softer than regular cotton due to the manufacturing process. Furthermore, growing organic cotton uses significantly less water than regular cotton, less pesticides, and with no harmful chemicals. It therefore has a much lower environmental footprint. It also gives the farmers fair working conditions and ensures workers are treated fairly.

The collection uses natural fabrics with seaside colours and patterns, from Reef Rompers to SeaGrass Trousers and the Arrecife Overall.

 

 

Kickstarting a brand-new business in the middle of a pandemic has been no small feat, as Smith goes on to explain. ‘‘Watching my idea grow and manifest into Coops Clothing has been one incredible experience. This year’s real pinch-me moment was hosting a pop-up shop in John Lewis. Coops Clothing is an online business, so to meet new and existing customers face to face and get their feedback was heartwarming.’’

When talking about how she juggles everything, Smith puts it all down to her partner Charlie for being supportive, her two boys for giving her the gift of motherhood, and her customers. Online, Coops Clothing has a budding community of parents. Coops Clothing is more than just a brand. It aims to inspire, support and nurture the journey of parenthood through conversation. Smith shares her story with her followers; from the ups and downs of running a small business to raising two boys and Cooper’s battle with eczema.

 

 

Coops Clothing is a UK business that grew from Smith’s home in Sevenoaks, Kent. Now it is ready to spread its wings, as Smith and her family make the move to New Zealand, although Coops Clothing will still be available in the UK.

For wholesale enquiries, please contact kirsty@coopsclothing.co.uk. Alternatively, click here to visit the brand’s website.