The lazy days of summer start early this year when it comes to fashion. Comfort is key when shopping for stylish warm-weather outfits for your kids.
“Loose, oversized, cropped tees in all colors and fabrics top the list,” says Pam Katz of spring trends. Katz is owner of Down 2 Earth Kids, a children’s and teens’ clothing boutique in Lafayette Hill, PA.
She also notes the resurgence of “jeggings” (skinny jean leggings) and says that reliable classics such as Soffee athletic shorts and tank tops are extremely popular and hip. Sugar Lips’ tanks ($15), which have been “worn underneath everything all winter, now become the main event.” Katz says look for these shorts and tanks in “feel-good color palettes,” like neon or tye-dye. Sweats channel the hippie era with peace signs and smiley faces.
When completing a relaxed look, stiff, inflexible footwear won’t cut it. Consider FitFlops, sandals for kids that are built to resemble walking barefoot. The rugged Hyker style is perfect for boys on the go, while the sassy, sequined Electra sandal will please the youngest fashionistas. $39.99-$44.99. For Delaware Valley store locations, visit www.fitflop.com.
Sometimes comfort isn’t just a benefit, it’s a necessity. If your child has special needs such as autism or Asperger syndrome, check out Soft Clothing, carefully designed for kids with sensory sensitivity.
The Basics 2010 line includes “the perfect soft tee” for everyday ($10) or the pretty “party dress” for special occasions ($22). Both are tagless and feature flat seams. Made from cotton jersey, the items have been bio-washed, a process that smoothes out the surface of the cotton for added softness. Look for the spring/summer collection coming April 15. Shop online at www.softclothing.net.
Stephanie Halinski is calendar editor of MetroKids.
