Here’s a sneak peek at the new Maddison bamboo zip-up top. Actually, it’s the return of an old favourite. The Maddison was my very first design, back when I knew nothing about the garment manufacturing industry.

It’s been 8 years since I took a crude sketch and a few well-worn tops to Laura and Tonia at Twiss & Weber. They very patiently and skillfully turned my idea into my first sample top.

My very first sample top made by Twiss & Weber.

Btw, the Maddison is named after my daughter, Maddi, who inspires me every day with her spirit, energy, determination, hard work, and enterprising nature. She has taught me a lot over the last 18 years.

So with that first sample in hand, I then researched, cold called, and visited several Canadian clothing manufacturers. The one I settled on was a women-owned production house in Scarborough, Ontario called CRW Design. Nikki and Sherri opened up their sewing facility in 2014. It turned out that Nikki’s mother was also a breast cancer survivor. I took that as a sign and put down a deposit for the production of my first COKANNA design.

I still remember that ‘wow’ feeling of excitement when I tried on the pre-production sample of the Maddison. It was exactly like I had envisioned it in my head.

Heidi in the original charcoal grey Maddison with 3/4 sleeves.

Over the years, I’ve used several different manufacturers all in Ontario and all women-owned. I’ve learned so much from each and every one of them.

Now I think it’s apropos to be bringing back my first design for my final production run. And to be using my first manufacturer to produce it. It seems things have come full circle.

I have not made any changes to the original style. It has stood the test of time. That’s always been one of my design principles: clean, simple lines that will last for years to come. Looking back, I guess I had good design instincts from the beginning despite my naivety and inexperience.

The new Maddison will be in a medium-weight bamboo French terry, which was knit at a mill right here in Ontario, and it will have full-length sleeves. This will make it a worthy addition to your year-round capsule wardrobe.

The new Maddison bamboo zip-up top in fiery fuchsia.

I anticipate it to be on the shelf by September 2023. That means there’ll be a pre-order opportunity in early August so you can guarantee your size and colour. Oh, did I mention the size range and colours? The Maddison will come in Size 1(S), 2(M), 3(L), and 4(XL); and in colours: Fiery Fuchsia, Silky Blue, and Midnight Black.

Of course, all my loyal customers, Keeping Abreast newsletter subscribers, and COKANNA Coffee Shop members will get front of the line access to the pre-order opp. Plus, you’ll receive a 15% discount. It’s my way of saying a big THANK YOU for your support over the last 8 years. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to bring a little comfort and style into your life.

I’ll give you plenty of notice for the drop of the pre-opp. Just keep an eye out here in my blog, in your email, and in the Coffee Shop group on Facebook.

Until next time,

~ Colleen

I’m a recovering Chartered Accountant and Breast Cancer Champion turned Fashion Designer. My COKANNA Canadian-made bamboo clothing is all about comfort and style. Giving back to the community is important to me so I support local breast cancer organizations who treat the whole person and not just the disease.