Curated by those in the know, discover our modern style must-haves.
Kidswear styling and curating a play-friendly wardrobe for your little ones that is comfortable, durable and hit the mark for many occasions can feel daunting. That’s why, for this installation of Style Guide, we’ve enlisted the advice of Kate Darvill – a style expert, Contributing Fashion Editor to Vogue Australia and mother of five. With the help of her children, twins Jack and Matilda, 9, and Frida, 4, Kate shares the spring pieces she can’t go past for big and little kids alike.
Invest in pieces made to last
Active kids need a play-proof kidswear styling wardrobe that moves with them. So, for spring essentials that will go the distance, it’s hard to look past mindfully-made brands like Country Road. Whether it’s quintessential springtime dresses that little girls will love or cool classics designed with stylish tweens in mind, quality fabrics and timeless neutrals make these the pieces you’ll reach for again and again.
For more quality design inspiration, look to Sportscraft’s foray into kidswear. Striking balance between sweet springtime pieces and durable basics that will last this season and beyond, each piece is crafted from ultra-soft fabrics to feel as good as they look.
Nail every occasion with multitasking essentials
Springtime is synonymous with celebrations – so take the guesswork out of dressing your brood with versatile pieces that meet the mark for every dress code. Boys will look the part in crisp white linens and classic chinos. Kate’s pick for an iconic brand that masters this brief is Polo Ralph Lauren. Even better, their styles can easily be paired with a logo tee and white sneakers for more casual occasions.
For girls, this season’s must-have party dress is all in the details. There’s plenty of fun to be had playing into big bows, playful cut-outs, and lots of ruffles. Explore brands like Bardot Junior and Review for the cutest springtime takes on this trend.
Dress for agility and adventure
Warmer weather calls for time spent outdoors so dress them for running, jumping and tree-climbing with styles designed for fun. Kate makes the most of darker neutrals from brands like Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger to prepare her children’s wardrobes for even the messiest of playtimes. Pair back with a graphic tee and a pair of Converse for comfortable everyday style.
Play into their colourful personalities
Dressing kids in styles that appeal to them makes getting ready that much easier. Inspire their imagination in vibrant hues and the sweetest silhouettes by Fox and Finch. Or, make getting dressed feel like playing dress ups in fun frills and pretty pastels by Rock Your Kid, and cute graphics by Hux Kid.
And who says big kids get to have all the fun? All three brands spread the love to the littlest members of the family, with dedicated ranges for babies.
When gifting season strikes
Classic cottons are the perfect present for parents and their new bundle of joy. For well-made pieces designed to last, Kate loves David Jones Collection and Marquise – their quality fabrics mean they can be washed again and again without a second thought! Or, for a pop of colour that will suit the summer heat, Kate turns to cute co-ords by Marlo and vibrant florals from Bebe By Minihaha.
Shop Kate’s new season of kidswear styling instore and online now.