The Junior Style Awards stand out as a singular celebration of excellence, dedicated to honoring the brightest talents in the kids’ fashion industry. This prestigious event goes beyond mere recognition; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the individuals and brands that infuse this community with vibrancy and inspiration. Central to the awards are the esteemed panel of judges, a group of industry leaders and tastemakers whose expertise and discernment ensure that the most deserving are celebrated. These judges bring a wealth of experience and a keen eye for innovation, setting the standard for creativity and excellence in children’s fashion.
Introducing our judging panel.
1. Aleksandra Ataca is the editor-in-chief and owner of the Junior Style platform and the founder of the Junior Style Awards. She is a multi-talented entrepreneur, also founding Alexandra Concept Corp, a marketing agency specializing in kids’ fashion and lifestyle. In addition to her roles as a creative director, visionary, image maker, photographer, and brand development specialist, Aleksandra has amassed over 15 years of extensive professional experience. She has built a vast international network of connections and worked with prominent individuals and businesses in the industry.
2. Megan Hess is an international fashion illustrator who works with some of the most prestigious fashion designers and luxury brands around the world, such as Chanel, Dior, Cartier, Chopard, Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Tiffany & Co, and many more. Her original pieces of art have varied in scale from the size of a postage stamp to the expanse of an entire building and have appeared on the walls of some of the most coveted fashion houses worldwide. She has published over 80 books. Megan is the author of the “Claris the Mouse” series, which tells the story of a brave little mouse who follows her dream and is undoubtedly the most fashionable and chic mouse in the world.
3.Virginia Zingone is the founder and director of Children’s Show, an international trade show held twice a year in New York. The show features elevated kids’ fashion and lifestyle brands across various categories. Virginia comes from a distinguished lineage of entrepreneurs in the children’s fashion realm, representing the fourth generation of a family legacy that began in Naples and flourished in Rome, with multi-brand stores spanning Italy and the globe since 1896. Italian at heart, Virginia finds her inspiration in New York, where she lives today.
4. Shoshana Kazab is a seasoned expert in PR and marketing, boasting over 20 years of experience in the luxury kids’ fashion industry. As the co-founder and CEO of Kidswear Collective, she leads the award-winning luxury resale platform for baby and kids’ fashion. Shosh is also the visionary behind Fuse Communications, the leading PR agency for luxury baby and kids’ brands. Her influence extends further as she serves on the council at the NCWA (National Childrenswear Association), funded by UKFT.
5. Chantal Danguillaume began her professional career in various roles within the textile industry, working for companies of all sizes. She has held positions as a buying assistant, product manager, buyer, and collection director, and even collaborated in the creation of a brand. With a specialization in women’s and children’s clothing, swimwear, lingerie, and fashion, Chantal boasts 30 years of experience in the international fashion industry. Currently, she is the Event Director at Playtime.
6. Erin Rechner is the Head of Kids’ Content at WGSN, the world’s leading consumer trend forecaster. Her accurate forecasts provide global trend insights, expertly curated data, and industry expertise, helping clients in the kids’ fashion sector understand consumer behavior and lifestyles. This enables them to create products with confidence and trade at the right time.
7. Brandis Debrandt, the owner and scout for the State Management children’s board and the owner of Model Mother project. With a background in modeling and a passion for the industry, she has navigated her way through various roles before finding her niche in casting and talent management.
See more information about JUNIOR STYLE AWARDS here
