One scroll through social media is certain to have you feeling a bit lost – in more than one way. Aside from everyone showing off their “ideal life” while you sit on the couch in your sweatpants, it doesn’t take long to realize some parents have their kids on social media looking like fashion icons!
While there is something to be said for the “influencer lifestyle” that seems to be seeping in to social media, one thing is certain – we can all use a few simple fashion tips.
When arranging your child’s outfit, there are a few important tips to keep in mind that can help make everyday just a bit more stylish.
Ask them
While getting dolled up for a photo shoot is fun from time to time, every day should not be photo shoot day. If your child is ready to make recommendations – let them. Giving children creative freedom with their wardrobe is an amazing way to help them express themselves.
At the very least, allow them to tell you the types of fabrics or clothing styles they like. Some kids love skirts, others prefer jeans. Some don’t mind polyester, for others it makes them sweaty. That’s just the way it goes.
See the color scheme
While it is not important to match every single accessory your child has with their outfit, it can help to understand the basic color scheme you are going for.
For instance, you may discover that your child’s skin tone looks best with soft blues and off-whites. If that is the case, build around these colors, adding them to different aspects of the outfit that ties it all together.
What you want to avoid is too many strong colors in one outfit. If your child is wearing a bold red shirt with a bright orange star in the middle, purple pants, and white shoes, it’s no wonder you feel the outfit is out of place.
The best way to do it is to pick one main color, and work with complementary colors around it.
Stick to the classics…until its time to mix it up
If you are having a really rough time, stick to the basics. Having some strong classics in their drawer to pull out can make organizing an outfit that much simpler.
This is especially simple with bottoms. Examples include:
Basic tan khakisSimple blue jeansBlack leggingsNavy slacksNavy skirts
These classics match with so many different styles it is hard to count.
There is a certain elegance in cute jeans and a basic tee, and some days are perfect for that mood. And if your child wants to throw their own spice on the mix and wear a ballet tutu over that, well then hats off to originality!
Choose the right fabrics
As we have covered in previous posts, the fabric you choose can make a world of difference. In general, children’s clothes will be exposed to a lot of wear and tear in a relatively short time.
Except for clothes that will be used for special events, look for materials that can withstand the general rough play, crawling, scrambling, and other kid-like behaviors your child will go through.
Think about ease
For younger children especially, think about how easy these clothes will be to get on or off. If your little one is not potty trained yet, will you be struggling with their hooks and buttons all day to change their diapers?
Even if they are potty trained, are you going to be struggling with straps and fastens in the bathroom stall while you are out shopping?
Complicated snaps, hooks, and buttons can make even the most adorable outfit a complete headache. Sometimes sticking to simple buttons, and zippers can make the day just a little more stress free.
Put your style on it
Most importantly, have fun and put your style on each outfit coming out of the house! It can be easy to fall into the trap of recreating a popular look in the moment, but clothing is part of the ways we express our individuality! And what’s the sense of being an individual who is just like everyone else?!
Working as a team, you and your child should create outfits that are totally..well, YOU!