Why I Said No More to Beige: The Story Behind Chunky Munky Co.

Hi there, this is Susi—founder of Chunky Munky Co., mum of two, nap negotiator, snack-fetcher, and self-declared president of the “no more beige babywear” club.

I started this brand for one very chunky, very colourful reason: my first born. My baby girl.

When she arrived—bold, squishy, more rolls than a bakery and full of attitude—I found myself searching high and low for clothes that matched her energy. And honestly? Everything I came across felt the EXACT same. Beige. Minimal. Dull. Flat. Every neutral or pastel tone you can think of. For goodness sakes, how many shades of beige and grey can you have? Look, it wasn’t bad (lies, it was), it just wasn’t her. It wasn’t us. 

So, I did what any sleep-deprived, slightly unhinged, creative mum might do—I started designing my own.

At first, it was just for fun. A few bold sketches. A few late-night ideas. But the more I leaned into it, the clearer it became: I wasn’t the only parent looking for baby clothes that felt fun again. Clothes that looked like childhood. Clothes with personality, playfulness and practicality too. 

And that’s how Chunky Munky Co. was born—somewhere between a blowout and a bottle, with a whole lot of love (and laundry).

What Makes Us Different

I didn’t start Chunky Munky Co. to be just another baby brand. I started it to bring a lot more joy back into getting dressed. For kids and their parents.

🧵 I’m Fussy About Fabrics (In the Best Way)

I’ve tested a lot of materials—on my own bub, during snack time, nap time, day care fiascos and full-scale tantrum time. I only choose premium-quality fabrics that are soft on skin, breathable for warm days, and tough enough to survive everything childhood throws your way. Every fabric has to pass the "Susi Test".

✏️ Designed for Actual Childhood (and Actual Parenthood)

Every snap, seam, and waistband is there for a reason. Our rompers can handle blowouts. Our tights don’t ride up little bums or shift their nappies to one side. Our bloomers actually fully cover nappies (yes, even the chunky cloth ones). I design with real kids in mind—and the parents trying to dress them during a 3-minute change room meltdown.

🌈 Made for Life, Not Just for Photos

I don’t use filters on our images because I want you to see the real colours, the real fit, and real kids wearing them. Chunky Munky Co. is all about celebrating the bold, the quirky, the playful moments—clothes that look just as good in real life as they do in a photo.

🧡 Small-Batch, Big Heart

Everything I release is made slowly and in small batches—on purpose. It means better quality, less waste, and more love stitched into every piece. It also means your little one gets to wear something truly special—not the same thing every second kid on the playground has.

I know it might not be the trendiest business model (because everyone loves new new newwww), but I design with intention, not impulse. If it doesn’t serve a purpose, solve a problem, or spark joy—I won’t release it.

👶 Built by a Mum, Not a Marketing Team

I’ve lived the blowouts, the wardrobe malfunctions, the desperate mid-shop nappy changes. And I’ve also cried at how fast my baby is growing. These clothes are for those in-between moments—the ones you’ll remember years from now. And if I can make those memories a little more colourful, comfy, and joy-filled? Mission accomplished.

I know how personal it is to dress your little one. You’re not just picking out outfits. You’re choosing memories, moments, and milestones. That’s why every piece I make is full of heart, laughter, and a whole lot of lived experience.

Thanks for Being Here

If your idea of a successful morning is one outfit and minimal poo contact… if you believe babywear should survive both tantrums and bolognese… and if you’ve ever muttered “who designs these?!” while battling an outfit—you’re in very good company.

Chunky Munky Co. isn’t just a brand. It’s a entire world that celebrates the bright, bold, cheeky chaos of parenting.

Stick around, explore, say hi. Let’s keep it colourful—together.

With love (and probably a sultana squished in my pocket),
Susi x
Founder & Mum behind Chunky Munky co.

PS: Since starting Chunky Munky Co., my little family has grown—I now have a gorgeous, pudgy little man too. And let me tell you, the chaos (and inspiration) has doubled. Two wildly different little personalities, one mission: to keep creating clothes that celebrate childhood in all its vibrant, messy, magical glory. They’re the reason I do this. And the reason I’ll keep going. So, thanks for being part of the ride and believing in my mission to keep childhood colorful.