Caramel for Zara Chapter Two: A Little British Magic

text Enrico Fragale Esposito

Getting dressed is one of childhood’s first creative adventures. A favourite jumper, trousers in a slightly unexpected print, a coat borrowed from the grown-up world: every choice says a little something about the person wearing it. Caramel has understood this from the very beginning, bringing a distinctive London sensibility to childrenswear through beautiful fabrics, thoughtful proportions and a healthy disregard for the obvious.

Now, the London-born label founded by Eva Karayiannis returns for a second collaboration with Zara, bringing its unmistakable point of view to an autumn-winter wardrobe full of character. Think cosy British countryside, vintage treasures and just the right amount of eccentricity. Because great kidswear should leave plenty of room for personality, spontaneous adventures and the occasional muddy knee.

Autumn Called. It Wants Its Corduroy Back.
If autumn had a dress code, this collection would be right at the top of the guest list. Cinnamon corduroy, mustard florals, deep aubergine and chocolate-brown chunky knits set the scene, while a flash of vivid red keeps things from getting too serious. Add navy blues, natural tones and little pops of turquoise, and suddenly the season’s usual grey-day wardrobe looks a whole lot more interesting.

Checks meet stripes, traditional patterns play alongside floral prints, and nothing feels too polished or precious. The secret? A palette designed to work together without making everything look as though it came straight off the same hanger. As Karayiannis explains, the colours share a certain harmony, with a touch of eccentricity thrown into the mix. In other words, they get along beautifully, but they’re not afraid to be a little weird. And we’re absolutely here for it.

Layer Up, Mix It Up, Make It Yours
At the heart of Chapter Two is a wardrobe made for real childhood: the running around, the exploring, the getting-ready-in-a-hurry mornings and the occasional insistence on wearing that one jumper again.
Outerwear and knitwear take centre stage, while soft thermal sets make layering a practical affair. Striped and floral-print turtlenecks add a playful twist, because even the chilliest days deserve a bit of personality.

Then come the accessories: oval sunglasses with rosy-tinted lenses and embroidered slippers that look ready for a very stylish afternoon at home. Every piece feels like part of a bigger story, made to be mixed, matched and worn in unexpected ways.

Mini Me, But Make It Caramel
Great style has never really respected age limits, and Chapter Two proves the point with a small womenswear capsule made from the same fabrics as the children’s collection.
For Karayiannis, the connection between womenswear and childrenswear comes naturally. The result is a collection for parents who want to share the same design language with their children, while keeping enough individuality for everyone to do their own thing.
Because matching can be fun, but having your own style is even better.

Caramel for Zara Chapter Two launches on 27 October at zara.com and in selected stores.
Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’re off to borrow some pieces.