The Original Rugged Bear Kid

It’s not everyday you get to meet an original, and that’s exactly what our designer, Lindy McDonough is: an original Rugged Bear Kid.  Her father, Alan McDonough, started Rugged Bear before Lindy was born over 30 years ago. From a very early age, Lindy was taught that clothes should first and foremost be made for play and should be made to last.  Lindy and her siblings put the “rugged” in Rugged Bear and showed just how hard kids could work at play.  As a result, her father was committed to making kids clothes from adult quality fabrics so they could withstand limitless hours of play.  Now as the Rugged Bear designer, Lindy understands that Rugged Bear Kids get dirty, play hard, think big, follow their dreams, sometimes fall but always get back up and play some more.  Thanks to Lindy, our clothes can do all of this and then, after a quick round in the wash, can do it all again tomorrow.  Lindy knows Rugged Bear clothes cannot be high maintenance. Rugged Bear kids are throw ‘em on and go, go, go type of kids. Our goal, Lindy’s goal is: All play, All the time.

As a kid, one of her favorite Rugged Bear outfits was a legging and sweatshirt set with a matching bow.  According to Lindy, it was not just ANY legging and sweatshirt set. There was 2 pairs of leggings: one with polka dots and one with stripes. Both pairs could be worn with the sweatshirt.  It seemed almost magical to her: 2 outfits, one sweatshirt. Anything seemed possible to her in this outfit.  Inspired by this, Lindy has designed great jersey pieces for girls this Summer with mix ‘n match shirts, leggings, tunics and shorts.  For the boys, Lindy is mad for the madras.  Bring on Summer,  our designs are ready and waiting to play.

According to Lindy, once a Rugged Bear Kid, always a Rugged Bear Kid.  She still loves to draw and paint, and she finds ways to infuse color into everything she does.  Her playful and upbeat personality shines through in our bright and colorful prints. Yes, its true Lindy, the party doesn’t start until the ric rac arrives. Our adorable, colorful, easy summer dresses prove this.  Go on, play, play and then play some more. Our clothes will keep up thanks to Lindy. Live Life Rugged.