The Simply Chickie Creator
When Gwen was pregnant with her daughter, she decided to put the designs on clothes. So, the Simply Chickie wear line began. The clothing is printed on 100% organic cotton.
Gwendolyn is the owner of the company and a single mom, and creativity runs in her background; she comes from a long line of artists and writers. In fact, she is a direct descendent of Nathaniel Hawthorne, the author of the 1850 novel, The Scarlet Letter.
One of her earliest memories is Sundays growing up—when her father would gather crayons, paints, and paper from the kitchen cabinet for her to use while he and her mother slept in until almost noon. During college, she studied art history as well as abstract art with Karen Peterson from Hartford College for Women. Later, she studied the art of watercolor with Laura Eden.
In 1988, she lived in Tokyo, Japan where she became fascinated with the fine detail, elegance, and attention to nature that Japanese art highlights. Japanese paper and paint are the mediums she uses to create the art that gets printed on cards and textiles.
Testimonials
Gwen, I wanted to write to tell you how many compliments we get on our adorable & witty t-shirt. The funny thing is, before your clothes, I was not much into organic but I've always been into great quality. So, it's always a pleasure when I get praised on going green with my child. Little do they know, it's your savvy style for children that had me become more environmentally conscious. - Alex Doolin
The material is so soft compared to run of the mill clothing that one finds at big chain stores; I feel good getting the girls dressed. - Naomi Neville
Gwen, Thank you very much for dropping the onesies off. They are adorable! We have many new babies arriving in the next few months, so I am sure I will contact you again soon. - Michelle
How are the materials produced?
Organic farming is a farming system that relies on natural inputs only. No synthetically produced pesticides or fertilizers are used. Beneficial insects are allowed to flourish to keep pest insects in check. Crop rotations with legumes help maintain fertility and soil microbiology. Weeds are controlled with precision tillage and the old fashioned hoe. The successful organic farm requires much more intensive and innovative management.
Product Inspiration
I craft all of my designs based on inspiration that is sparked from interacting with my daughter, and sometimes her friends. My first design “Inside Me I’ve Got” occurred when my daughter and I were taking a nap together. Her soft breath on my face made me smile and filled me with wonder, so I wrote a poem about the experience. I printed it on clothing, and “Inside Me I’ve Got” became my best seller. To create much of the original artwork, I initially cut pieces of beautiful paper found on my travels around the world to form the outline. I then paint in the details as necessary. The design is transposed and enhanced on the computer and ultimately printed on baby rompers, t-shirts, and hats. This entire process is done piece-by-piece–in an authentic fashion–truly handmade.
