I love getting to expose my kids to so many cool jobs that exist out there. Whether it’s through my community of entrepreneurial friends that I surround myself with or the people I get to meet through my job, I always enjoying showing how anyone can create a job for themselves from scratch.

Inspired by that notion, I want to start sharing with you some of the people that I’m lucky enough to come across. People that have cool jobs—jobs that aren’t typical, and jobs that come from a true love of what they do. It’s like career day at school but with a twist! 

Today, I’m sharing a peek into the world of a kid’s fashion designer, Michelle Chaplin of Ultra Violet Kids. I came across Michelle’s clothing last month and instantly wished the clothes she made came in my size. They’re edgy yet comfortable and combine bite-sized pieces with great prints (I mean, that mini crop top?!? I can’t even…). Here’s a look at her Los Angeles studio and a few fun facts…

What did you think you wanted to be when you grew up? I have always known I wanted to be a fashion designer.

What’s your background and when/why did you start Ultra Violet? For the past 15 years, I have been working as a women’s contemporary designer. I have worked for other companies making their visions come to life as well as having my brand, Smoke & Mirrors, with Emily Harteau of Our Open Road.

When my daughter, Violet, was born I was happily unemployed and started a little Etsy store selling vintage kids clothing. For Violet’s birthday, I made her a crop top and harem pants out of African fabric. All of my friends loved it, so that’s when the light bulb in my head went on. I secured my domain, started branding, picked up my first account, and that was the beginning of Ultra Violet Kids.

When did you know you had something good? I knew I had something special when customers started buying the clothing, giving me positive feedback, and when press and stores started contacting me. Instagram has been so crucial in the growth and awareness of Ultra Violet Kids. I get to see all the pictures of kids wearing their clothing, and it makes me extremely proud. My mom jokes that I always said I wanted to clothe the world but I didn’t say what size.

Best part about your job? The best part of my job is designing and creating fashion.

Worst part about your job? The hardest part of my job is managing production.

Style muse? My daughter Violet is my muse and inspiration.

What do you hope the brand will become someday? I dream of being able to grow the company, giving back, and expanding into women’s again. But right now I’m happy with growing it organically. I hope that Ultra Violet Kids becomes a recognized brand that you can always count on for fashion forward, quality clothing that’s made in the USA. 

Favorite ice cream? I love ice cream! Gold Medal Ribbon and Almond Fig Gelato are my favorites.

Thanks so much Michelle for this look into your world!

{Photos by Casey Brodley for Oh Joy except the two photos of the kids by Lauren Moore for Ultra Violet Kids}