African-Inspired Kalulu Kids Clothing Made, Sold Locally

Kalulu Kids, an African-inspired kids clothing line that is made of Kikoy fabric, is now sold in two Brooklyn locations. The high quality kids’ clothing is made in NYC, and the company is partnered with a nonprofit that builds schools in Zambia.
Kalulu Kids clothing
A boy’s shirt from the
spring/summer 2013 line

Kalulu Kids, a clothing line inspired by vibrant African patterns and colors, is now offered at Picnic and Acorn two local stores. The clothing brings style and comfort together with the use of Kikoy fabric—known for being both breathable and durable.

“I grew up with Kikoy fabric,” says brand owner Milbert Kiggundu-Bentham. “The fabric is high quality, and—although [the clothing] may be a bit more expensive—when you buy from Kalulu Kids you are giving back and supporting the local economy.”

The clothing line features colors and borders that represent the different climates and looks of African culture. The look of Kalulu Kids is sophisticated and distinct, and most of the pieces can be worn in a casual or formal setting. The line also offers a unique selection of sarongs.

Kalulu Kids sources its materials from East African factories and partners with Scale Africa, a nonprofit organization that builds schools in the villages of Zambia in the sub-Saharan. Kiggundu-Bentham chose to have the garments produced in New York City factories in the Garment district that meet ethical standards and makes a point to visit the factories herself.

Kalulu Kids clothing line is sold in two stores in Brooklyn: Picnic located at 192 Amity St. in Carroll Gardens and Acorn located at 323 Atlantic Ave. in Boerum Hill.