Kristin Gonzalez has a gift. She makes extraordinarily beautiful clothing for girls that is reminiscent of years past. Skirts, pants with ruffles and sundresses just like grandma used to make, but with a modern flair.

Originally from Canton, Mich., Gonzalez grew up in the country with a love of the outdoors. She now resides in Orland Park with her husband and two children, son Jurgen, 6 1/2 years old, and daughter Anais, 5.

Gonzalez has always appreciated the simple things. 

"I have a love of things made by hand whether it be a nice dress or a gourmet apple tart," she said. "I just believe that quality not quantity counts."

The dresses are made of fabrics with feminine patterns and cuts that exude a level of girliness not seen in many of today's styles. Walking past her stand at the market without stopping is difficult, as the sheer beauty of her designs often draw people in for a closer look.

Her daughter inspired her to start making clothing. When Anais was a year old, Gonzalez found it difficult to find clothing that fit her daughter properly. While out shopping she would frequently find herself saying "oh, I could make that." So she borrowed her mother's sewing machine and got to work. Her daughter's wardrobe grew, and people soon took notice, requesting her designs for their own daughters.

"The clothing I create has a level of sophistication that is unexpected for children's clothing," Gonzalez said. "I like the pieces to be feminine and ruffled with some exaggerated elements. I line the bodices of the dresses, top stitch for decoration and durability, hand gather all the ruffles, professionally serge the seams and do a thorough quality check of each garment before putting in my label. I put a lot of love into every piece that I create and I think my customers respond to that."

She loves to see girls try on her designs and "twirl to their heart's content." At the market this year, many customers have come by in their Double Dot Designs creations to show her how much they love their purchases.

“I have gotten great feedback from my customers and have many repeat clients,” said Gonzalez.  

Double Dot Designs officially opened in 2009.

Other than the Orland Park Farmers Market, you can find Double Dot Design items on Etsy. Gonzalez also does a few other shows throughout the year where her dresses are on display and available for purchase.

She suggests that people who would like to stay informed about where she will be next become fans of her Facebook page where all current and future shows are announced.