29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Childrenswear

Toby Tiger

United Kingdom

Toby Tiger is a British childrenswear brand based in Brighton, founded in 1998 by designer and author Zoe Mellor. It makes colourful organic cotton clothing for babies and children, known for its stripes and character appliques.

Facts
Founded1998
FounderZoe Mellor
Based inBrighton, United Kingdom
MaterialsOrganic cotton
Websitetobytiger.co.uk
Segment
Mid-market
Categories
ChildrenswearAccessoriesHome
Sales channels
Own storesE-commerceWholesale

What is Toby Tiger?

Toby Tiger is an independent, family run childrenswear company from Brighton making organic, colourful clothing for babies and children. From the start it sought organic cotton suppliers and planet friendly dyes.

History

The brand was founded in 1998 by Zoe Mellor, a knitwear designer and author who grew up in the Caribbean. Its first collection, a set of slogan T-shirts, launched a few months after the birth of her son Toby, after whom the company is named.

Products and positioning

The range includes sleepsuits, dungarees, dresses, tops, bibs and knot hats, recognisable by signature stripes and character appliques. Practical details such as poppers, adjustable straps and reversible fabric run through the collections, which are complemented by toys, soft furnishings, gift wrap and cards.

Distribution

  • Flagship store in Brighton
  • Online shops for the UK and Europe
  • Wholesale to retailers worldwide, from independent boutiques to the Tate gallery shop in London

Why it matters

Toby Tiger has been selling organic childrenswear for more than 25 years, making it one of the longer standing independent British brands in the category.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Toby Tiger?

Toby Tiger was founded in 1998 by knitwear designer and author Zoe Mellor, who named it after her son.

Is Toby Tiger clothing organic?

Yes. Toby Tiger makes its baby and childrenswear from organic cotton and has used planet friendly dyes from the start.

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