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About The Brand

From Piano Keys to Pettiskirts: Anne-Marie van Dijk's Creative Journey

 

She dressed her baby in a delicate dress, lifted her high, and smiled: “You look just like a DOLLY!” That moment sparked a creative path few could imagine. Anne-Marie van Dijk, daughter of a pianist and a passionate artist, turned her love for fashion and family into Le Petit Tom ®, a brand known for luxury ballet-inspired clothing. Join us as we explore how a simple act of dressing a child shaped a timeless line that mothers around the world cherish. 

Anne-Marie's Early Inspirations

Anne-Marie van Dijk's journey into fashion was deeply influenced by her childhood. Growing up in a creative household, she was surrounded by the arts, which planted the seeds of her future success.

Childhood Passions and Influences

As a young girl, Anne-Marie was often found painting or sketching. Her mother, a talented artist, encouraged her artistic endeavors, while her father, a pianist, filled their home with music. This blend of visual and auditory art forms created a rich tapestry of inspiration. Anne-Marie's love for ballet blossomed during this time. She attended classes regularly, captivated by the graceful movements and elegant outfits. These experiences laid the groundwork for her future brand, DOLLY by Le Petit Tom®, which would later incorporate these elements.

From Music to Fashion Design

Music played a significant role in Anne-Marie's creative development. The rhythm and emotion in her father's piano pieces sparked her imagination. She saw parallels between composing music and designing clothes. Both required creativity and attention to detail, skills Anne-Marie honed over the years. After completing her studies in fashion and graphic design, Anne-Marie's career took off. She worked in a decorative branch, gaining experience in various facets of the fashion industry. Her keen eye for design and innovative ideas set her apart, paving the way for the creation of her own brand.

Birth of Le Petit Tom® and DOLLY®

Inspired by her childhood experiences, Anne-Marie transformed her passion into a business. Le Petit Tom® was born, offering luxurious ballet-inspired clothing for all ages.

The Role of Family and Creativity

Family played a crucial role in the brand's inception. Anne-Marie's children were her muses, inspiring many of DOLLY's whimsical designs. Each outfit she created was not just clothing; it was a piece of art, crafted with love and creativity. The brand quickly gained recognition for its unique approach. DOLLY wasn't just about fashion; it was about celebrating individuality and creativity. Mothers and daughters around the world fell in love with the brand's playful, yet elegant style.

Ballet-Inspired Fashion for All Ages

DOLLY by Le Petit Tom® became synonymous with elegance and whimsy. The brand's tutus and dresses, made from luxurious fabrics like tulle and chiffon, captured the essence of ballet. These pieces were not just for special occasions; they were designed for everyday wear, bringing a touch of magic to daily life. As the brand grew, so did its audience. Women of all ages embraced the ballet-inspired fashion, finding joy in the timeless elegance of each piece. DOLLY's designs became a staple in many wardrobes, celebrated for their quality and artistic flair.

DOLLY's Global Presence and Success

With its unique designs and high-quality materials, DOLLY quickly gained a global following. The brand's success can be seen in its presence in prestigious stores worldwide.

Iconic Collections in Prestigious Stores

DOLLY's collections have graced the shelves of iconic stores like Harrods and Saks Fifth Avenue. The brand's ability to blend luxury with wearability has made it a favorite among discerning shoppers. Each collection tells a story, drawing inspiration from ballet and retro fashion. This approach has set DOLLY apart, making it a sought-after brand in the world of luxury children's fashion. Explore more about DOLLY's journey.

The Art of Continuous Collection Creation

Anne-Marie's commitment to creativity is evident in DOLLY's ever-evolving collections. New designs are introduced each season, ensuring the brand remains fresh and exciting. This approach not only keeps customers engaged but also showcases Anne-Marie's dedication to her craft. She understands the importance of staying ahead of trends while maintaining the brand's core values. DOLLY's collections continue to captivate audiences, proving that creativity and quality are timeless. The brand's success is a testament to Anne-Marie's vision and her ability to bring art into everyday fashion.

Photos: 'In the Dordogne with my daughter' Here's where the Pettiskirt story began. Enjoying a holiday in the Dordogne in France with her whole family of 5 children. In the back of the bus a box of tutu samples in every color. During the holiday Anne-Marie spotted locations with features in same colors as her tutus. 'Stop the car' , got out, put her daughter on a pettiskirt tutu and shot beautiful photos that are familiair around the world. These photos lifted of the DOLLY brand. All photos with pettiskirt shown on this page come from that same holiday in the Dordogne.

 

Shop the Pettiskirt Tutu's that are DOLLY's icons and timeless pieces for your DOLLY girl