Celebrating Diversity in Children’s Clothing: Bridging the Cultural Gap

Children’s clothing is often a reflection of the world we want them to grow up in. Yet, walk into any major retailer, and you might notice a glaring gap—designs that celebrate the rich tapestry of Asian, Middle Eastern, and African cultures are conspicuously absent. This lack of representation isn’t just a missed opportunity for diversity; it’s a disservice to children of all backgrounds.

The Power of Representation

Clothing is more than just fabric; it tells stories and shapes identity. When children see their heritage celebrated in everyday items like clothes, it reinforces pride in their cultural background. For those who don’t share that heritage, exposure to diverse designs can foster curiosity, respect, and empathy.

Yet, the children’s fashion industry seems stuck in a loop of familiar motifs—dinosaurs, unicorns, and generic patterns dominate racks. While these designs are fun and timeless, they leave little room for celebrating the intricate beauty of cultural art forms like:

• Asian textiles such as Chinese silk patterns, Japanese cherry blossoms, or Indian paisleys.

• Middle Eastern designs like Arabic calligraphy, geometric tiling, or motifs inspired by Persian art

• African prints such as Ankara, Kente, and bold tribal patterns with rich historical significance

To put it simply...this is our long term VISION at En Route Designs. Our first collection is a nod to my South Asian heritage but as we grow, we promise to showcase and bring to the limelight timeless designs that celebrates cultures all around the world. 

-Abhishek Bhaumik