Six-year-old Lily Adeleye made history after signing a deal with Walmart to sell her children’s clothing and accessory brand Lily Frilly. She becomes the youngest Black-owned business to be sold at the retailer.
The deal means that the Orlando, Florida native will design new and exclusive hair bows and accessories for Walmart and will be sold at more than 1,000 Walmart stores and online. Lily, and her mom Courtney Adeleye who founded The Mane Choice, signed a deal with Target earlier. The new launch is helping the brand achieve its mission of empowering young girls.
“Lily Frilly started out as a brand my daughter Lily and myself created, as I always believe it’s important to let your children follow their passions, whether that be art, sports, or in this case, growing a business. Now, Lily Frilly has become so much more than just that – it’s a brand children love, as well as a symbol of inspiration and confidence for young girls as well as for the Black community”, Courtney said.
“It’s amazing to see what kids can do, and we’re so glad Walmart is providing this platform to give Lily Frilly the room and attention it warrants.”
Jennifer Aguirre, Walmart’s executive reportedly stated that Walmart is excited to get Lily Frilly on their shelves. She added, “We are excited to bring Lily Frilly to Walmart and honored to work with Lily Adeleye, as she represents the youngest founder among our Black-owned business initiative.
“We have been enchanted by Lily’s ingenuity and designs. We are certain that the assortment will captivate our young customers and inspire them to express their beauty and confidence with their hair.”
Don’t let her pint size fool ya! She has just as much interest in dolls as she does business and learning,” the Lily Frilly website says of its little leader. “Although Lily loves to watch Saturday morning cartoons with her older brother and sister, she also loves to learn about investments with her parents. Because of her love for all things girly and frilly, with the help of her mom, Lily Frilly was born.”
Lily Frilly brand offers backpacks, apparel, slime, lunch boxes and stationeries in addition to hair bows. The brand even hosts kid-friendly networking and empowering events for girls across the country.
According to WWD, Lily Frilly is expected to bring it nearly $2 million this year, “with hair bows and accessories accounting for 70 percent of the volume and apparel comprising the remaining 30 percent.”
