Many stylin’ moms-to-be are faced with a lengthy fashion challenge. They want to rock their bump in style instead of resorting to nearly a year of billowy baby-doll tops and tentlike tees.
So what’s a hot mama to do? One option is the subtly sexy, comfortable and body-conscious clothing by Jessica Scott Ltd. The line includes key mix-and-match basics (A-line skirts, scoop-neck tees, cute cargos) that can be dressed up and down and worn year round. As an added bonus, the entire line is made from certified organic fabrics colored with safe, environmentally low-impact dyes.
The back story: Husband- and-wife team Jessica Franz- Christensen and Scott Christensen, both 28, began dating in high school and married after graduating from the University of Wisconsin in 2001. They both pursued graduate degrees at CU-Boulder; Jessica went on to work in marketing, and Scott works with laser technology. But when Jessica was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2001, their lifestyle changed. Both switched to an organic diet and tried to find organic clothing to minimize their exposure to environmental toxins.
The company: The couple’s search for organic-clothing options was frustrating, so they decided to start a business of their own. “I have a marketing background, and I saw an obvious niche for quality organic-maternity clothing that didn’t look frumpy,” she says. The couple spent years preparing for the 2005 launch of the line. Now Jessica works full time handling design and the day-to-day business, while Scott, who also works full time as a scientist, put his background to work finding solutions for the complicated organic production process. Jessica Scott’s fabrics and clothing designs are now manufactured according to their specifications by organic farms in India.
The inspiration: The couple welcomed their first child in April 2005, and Jessica used her experience during pregnancy for inspiration. “Most of the organic clothing I found was very burlap sack,” she says. “And I didn’t want to sacrifice style. Women want to feel beautiful and look beautiful during pregnancy.” Details like feminine empire waists, asymmetrical hemlines, soft fabrics, hidden side stretch panels, and classic skirts are designed to flatter, rather than hide, an expanding figure.
The customer: Smart, eco-conscious moms who want to show their bellies in style are finding Jessica Scott. The best-selling item for fall was a long V-neck nightie with a knee-high slit in the skirt. Made of silky organic lyocell, it’s also appropriate for the daytime, when worn as a sundress with sandals, or as an evening dress with heels.
What it costs: Tee for Two long-sleeve scoop tee, $70; Feudal Attraction empire peasant top, $90; A Street Cargo Named Desire cargo pant, $130; Touched by an Angle asymmetrical A-line skirt, $95; Bohemian Wrapsody dress, $165; A Nightie to Remember nightgown/dress; $120.
Where to find it: Becoming Mothers, 2525 Arapahoe Ave. E4, Boulder, 303-546-6262; jessicascottltd.com.
