Today on The Mag we have Birgit DeVae, founder of Johnny Banana Co, a modern clothing brand based in Chicago, IL. Learn more about Birgit and what inspired her to start her business, the importance of manufacturing locally, her favorite family-friendly activities in Chicago and more!

We're so happy to talk with you! Can you start by telling us a little about yourself and how you started Johnny Banana Co?

Absolutely! I have always been entwined with the arts and fashion, starting with acting in my first production at 3. I began modeling and my true obsession with fashion when I was 12 and I lived in LA in middle and high school pursuing acting and modeling. I have always been interested in fashion and using clothing to express myself and my creativity. Entering the high fashion and modeling world only expanded that.

When my oldest son, Johnny, was born I searched for unique clothing for him and was unable to find what I wanted. Everything seemed to be covered in cheesy sayings or googly eyes. So, I decided to make what I was unable to find. My focus is on unique pieces that are durable and made of the highest quality. My clothes are modern and versatile enough for dress up or everyday wear but with attention to construction and materials that make them long-lasting. The clothes aim to empower kids to look and feel hip but not be hindered from exploring the world and doing things like rolling around in the dirt if they so choose.

How many kids do you have? What ages?

I have two little fellas who are complete balls of energy. Johnny is 4 and Vinny just turned 3.

Your website talks about how you started by sewing clothes for your son. How did you go from making your son's clothes to launching Johnny Banana Co? Was it always your goal to launch the brand or was it based on the response from the clothes you were making for your family?

My mom taught me how to sew when I was a kid but I never had much interest in it. After Johnny was born I decided to dive in and try to make him some clothes, and instantly became obsessed. I initially opened on Etsy with the goal of just selling enough to fund this new hobby that I had fallen completely in love it. The shop quickly started to take off and I closed my Etsy business and officially opened Johnny Banana co and www.johnnybananaco.com in Sept of 2017. What started as a passion has continually grown yet I still have my heart in the same place and truly every item comes right from my soul.

You design everything yourself and manufacture in your hometown of Chicago. Why was it important for you to manufacture locally?

I design every piece myself and due to the pandemic am currently also sewing every piece myself. I have a team of amazing women who help with other facets of the business and who are instrumental in the growth of the brand. It is very important to me to create a family atmosphere within the company and to support my local community as much as possible.

What is next for Johnny Banana Co?

We have many new things coming out this fall and winter including some brand new styles and new prints for some of our signature pieces. We have a release every Friday night at 5pm CST!

What are your three favorite small businesses?

I have made so many friends in the small shop world since starting this journey and am continually inspired by the supportive and creative friends I have made. I try to shop small as much as possibleI I have partnered with my good friend Brittany Walker with LJKids Co on many custom and printed pieces and we have been able to both support each other and grow our respective businesses together. Some other favorites include: Akid Brand Shoes, Ballerinas and Boys, and Beau Hudson.

What are your three favorite family-friendly activities in Chicago?

We love exploring by the lake, Brookfield Zoo, and there are amazing Pumpkin Patches all over the area in the fall!

Anything else you’d like to add?

We recently released a text message program (sign up here) where you can be notified of releases and sales! You will also receive $10 off your purchase when you sign up.

And finally, where can we find you?