Shopping for kids' clothing is challenging and expensive. When they’re not turning up with inexplicable holes in the fabric, they seem to outgrow them the minute you buy them. The constant turnover can not only exact a high cost on your bank account, it can also have one on the planet too.
Recently, fast fashion retailer Shein have made the headlines as mum Kayleigh Shore, from Greater Manchester, was out with her daughter at a charity shop and was "horrified" that a children's swimsuit, made by them, had a "padded bust section" and has started a petition to remove this type of clothing.
As well as campaigning for more child-friendly swimwear designs, Kayleigh, who is the owner of a children's fashion store @shopdally_ uses her platform to advocate for a more sustainably minded approach to shopping for children's clothes. But that doesn't mean you have to sidestep stylishness.
Watch the video or scroll down for Kayleigh's top tips for sustainably building a kid's wardrobe that's better for your wallet and the planet.
Tip 1: Buy into the resale loop.
Clothes that are built to last hold their value. Invest three high quality pieces, instead of ten that will shrink in the wash.
When your child outgrows them, you’ll be able to resell them on any resale site for 50-60% of the initial cost. As Kayleigh says, “When you look at it like that, you’re essentially renting the best clothes you can for a few pounds.”
Tip 2: Go oversized.
Look for designs with extra-long cuffs that you can hem and then roll out when they grow.
Larger cozy sweaters can be tunics paired with leggings and later jeans once they grow into them.
With this kind of forward thinking, you can get years out of the high quality pieces you buy.
Tip 3: Visible mending.
Rather than binning a pair of trousers with holes in them, embroider on a bright patch over it. It gives the clothes character and uniqueness that your children love.
“A patched up pair of dungarees really tell a story of adventure, and it really teaches our kids to value what they have, rather than seeing clothing as disposable.”
Tip 4: Check those labels.
Avoid fast fashion’s favourite - polyester. It’s uncomfortable and sheds microplastics.
Instead, opt for clothes made with plant-based fabrics, like cotton or linen. They’ll endure stumbles and tree climbing. They’re also more breathable and easier to repair.
Tip 5: Stay in neutral
Gender neutral palettes and stripes are a lot easier to resell or hand down to siblings. By shopping not only pink and blue, you’re ensuring any child in the future can wear them! It’s a circular way of buying, which is “right at the heart of sustainability”.
