I have a confession: I have a huge obsession with kids clothes. It started innocently enough with a few pairs of hand-sewn leggings from some incredible small businesses, but it soon blossomed into a full-blown hobby. Now here I am, setting my alarm for the latest seasonal drops from some of my favorite brands. I genuinely love when people ask me where I purchased a particular item of clothing because it means I get to talk their ear off about my favorite shops.
I love shopping small for several reasons. First, because I love being able to put my kids in unique items that spark some fun conversations with other moms and strangers. Second, because I absolutely love supporting creative entrepreneurs who quite literally run their businesses from their kitchen tables to help support their families. It’s so inspiring. As a small business owner myself, I do everything in my power to support others and shout from the rooftops when I love something. My Instagram is basically a showcase of my favorite small businesses, particularly children’s clothing!
With that said, here are some of my favorite brands for my kids. We own pieces from every single one of them so I can vouch for their quality. A lot of these brands are also gender neutral. Side note: I have two little boys (4 and 2) that I purchase for, so many of these shops are going to lean gender neutral or boy, but I also threw in a few of my girly favorites. I do have a 13-year-old daughter, but she currently thinks oversized T-shirts paired with leggings are cute. I smile and nod, remembering my days of JNCO jeans.
First, let’s start with big box stores. We don’t buy a ton from them, but I admittedly love Zara, H&M, and Old Navy for staple skinny jeans and shorts, as well as t-shirts that they can wear to school and get dirty. I hate when jeans are too boxy, and not many boys jeans fit just right. My secret confession — I sometimes buy from the girl’s section, because a lot of stores make their boy jeans wide and unflattering. A pair of girls skinny jeans look absolutely perfect on my boys — see below.
Here is a list of my favorite small shops for your unique, hipster kids clothes:
Wee Rascals — bonus that the messages are also empowering!
Beau Hudson — their cardigans are TOO good, y’all. And the skinny jeans are our favorites. Trust me, they’re worth the splurge.
Passive Juice Motel — beware. They’re beyond adorable, but their shipping can take months. Order a size or so above and pay through PayPal so you can file a claim if you need to.
Wire + Honey — for the mini activists
Little Mister for amazing bowties!
Hudsons Mocc Shop — I know many people love Freshly Picked. They’re super well made, and we love them too — but I also LOVE these ones! Bonus that they’re also cheaper!
Starry Knight Design — another great moccasin company!
Finn + Emma — adorable pajamas!
Alley and Rae for t-shirts
Lulu and Roo — especially for babies and toddlers!
Candy Kirby Designs — perfect for new babies! Their gowns were a lifesaver during those early months!
There are many other amazing brands out there, but these are just a few of our favorites. What are your favorite small businesses?
