Dot Dot Smile is a children’s clothing brand that has gained a significant following for its vibrant prints, comfortable fabrics, and signature “twirl” dresses. Founded with the goal of creating clothes that children love to wear, the brand focuses on designs that allow for movement and play. Whether you are a parent looking for durable everyday wear or a shopper curious about the brand’s unique business model, understanding the basics of Dot Dot Smile can help you make the best purchasing decisions for your family.
The History of Dot Dot Smile
Dot Dot Smile was founded in 2013 by Nicole Thompson. Thompson comes from a family with deep roots in the apparel industry, as she is the daughter of the founders of LuLaRoe. While the brands share some similarities in their use of bold patterns and soft fabrics, Dot Dot Smile is a separate entity focused exclusively on children’s fashion.
The brand started with a small line of dresses and has since expanded into a full range of apparel for boys and girls. The company’s mission is centered on building confidence in children through fun and comfortable clothing. Over the years, they have evolved from a direct-sales model to a more traditional e-commerce approach, while still supporting a network of independent merchandisers.
Signature Product Styles
The most recognizable item in the Dot Dot Smile catalog is the dress. These dresses are designed with a full-circle skirt, which allows them to fan out when a child spins. This “twirl factor” is a major selling point for younger children.
The Ballerina Dress
The Ballerina dress features a scooped back and a classic fit. It is one of the most popular styles because it is easy to put on and take off. The bodice is fitted, while the skirt provides the signature twirl that the brand is known for.
The Empire Dress
The Empire dress has a higher waistline, sitting just below the chest. This style often features different sleeve lengths, including short sleeves and long sleeves, making it a versatile option for different seasons. It offers a slightly more structured look while maintaining comfort.
The Classic Swing Dress
The Classic Swing dress is a more relaxed fit that flows from the shoulders down. It is often chosen for its ease of movement and casual style. Like other Dot Dot Smile dresses, it is available in a wide variety of prints, from floral patterns to geometric shapes.
Graphic Tees and Shorts
While dresses are the flagship product, Dot Dot Smile also offers a line of graphic tees, leggings, and shorts. These items are often categorized under the “Smile” line, which focuses on gender-neutral or traditionally masculine styles. The leggings are known for being exceptionally soft and durable for active play.
Materials and Fabric Quality
One of the reasons parents frequently choose Dot Dot Smile is the quality of the fabric. Most items are made from a blend of polyester and spandex, often referred to in the community as “milk silk” because of its smooth, buttery texture. This fabric choice offers several practical benefits for children’s clothing.
- Stretch: The spandex content allows the clothing to move with the child, making it ideal for running, jumping, and playing.
- Durability: The fabric is resistant to pilling and holds its shape well after multiple washes.
- Color Retention: The prints remain vibrant and do not fade quickly, even with regular use.
- Wrinkle Resistance: These items rarely require ironing, which is a significant time-saver for busy parents.
Understanding Dot Dot Smile Sizing
Finding the right size is crucial when shopping for children’s clothes online. Dot Dot Smile typically uses a sizing scale that ranges from 6-12 months up to size 12/14 for older children. Most parents find that the clothing runs true to size, but the stretchy nature of the fabric allows for some flexibility.
If your child is between sizes, it is generally recommended to size up. Because of the cut of the dresses, a slightly larger size will often just result in a longer skirt, meaning the child can wear the item for a longer period. Many of the dresses can also be paired with leggings as the child grows, extending the life of the garment from a dress into a tunic.
Where to Buy Dot Dot Smile Clothing
There are two primary ways to purchase Dot Dot Smile clothing: through the official website or through an independent merchandiser. Each method has its own set of advantages depending on your shopping preferences.
Official Website
Buying directly from the Dot Dot Smile website is the most straightforward method. You can browse the current collections, see the full range of sizes available, and take advantage of corporate sales. This is the best option for those who want a quick, traditional online shopping experience.
Independent Merchandisers
Dot Dot Smile utilizes a network of independent merchandisers who sell the products through social media groups or local pop-up events. Shopping through a merchandiser often provides a more personal touch. Merchandisers may have access to older prints or “unicorns” (highly sought-after patterns) that are no longer available on the main website.
The Resale Market
Because the clothing is durable, there is a robust secondary market for Dot Dot Smile. You can often find gently used items on platforms like Poshmark, Mercari, or in dedicated Facebook “Buy, Sell, Trade” (BST) groups. This is an excellent way to find specific prints or to save money on the brand’s premium pricing.
Care and Maintenance Tips
To keep Dot Dot Smile clothing looking new, proper care is essential. While the fabric is durable, following these steps will help preserve the elasticity and print quality over time:
- Wash Cold: Always use cold water to prevent the breakdown of spandex fibers.
- Turn Inside Out: Turning the garment inside out before washing protects the print from friction with other clothes.
- Avoid Bleach: Never use bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the vibrant colors.
- Hang Dry or Tumble Dry Low: While many parents tumble dry on low heat without issues, hanging the clothes to dry is the best way to ensure they never shrink or lose their shape.
Is Dot Dot Smile Worth the Price?
Dot Dot Smile clothing is generally priced higher than “big box” retail brands. However, many consumers find the value lies in the longevity of the pieces. Because the fabric is high-quality and the designs are versatile, a single dress can often be worn for two or even three years as the child grows. The high resale value also means parents can often recoup a portion of their initial investment by selling the clothes once their child outgrows them.
Furthermore, the brand’s focus on comfort means that children who are sensitive to certain textures or tight waistbands often prefer these garments. For many families, the lack of “morning wardrobe struggles” makes the price point worthwhile.
Dot Dot Smile offers a unique combination of playfulness and practicality. By choosing the right styles and following proper care instructions, you can provide your children with a wardrobe that is both fun to wear and built to last. For more tips on smart shopping and household management, explore our other guides on SearchAndHelp.com.