How to Dress Your Toddler for the Summer

Once you have children, dreams of curating the perfect summer wardrobe for yourself are swiftly replaced with dreams of styling the perfect sunny look-book for your mini me. After all, how many times have you looked at children’s clothing and thought ‘I wish they had that in my size!’. It seems like all kid’s clothing is a raucous celebration. Of colour. Of freedom. Of eccentricity.

You see, clothing for little ones needs to serve two purposes. It needs to set them on the path of radical self-expression as they strive to show their budding personality to the world. And, it needs to be practical. The kind of outfit that can endure grass stains and seaside tumbles, woodland foraging and chocolate snacking. The kind of outfit that can be truly lived in.

When it comes to summer, there are some added considerations. Your child needs clothing that will protect them against the sun, keep them cool in the warmth – and of course, offer them some posing sass for all those holiday snaps. Here are our top tips for dressing your child for summer.

1. Pick cotton fabrics

Cotton is incredibly soft and far more breathable than any synthetic material – making it ideal for delicate little skin. Stock up on fun, brightly-hued cotton tees emblazoned with logos or their favourite Disney character.

2. Throw some shade

You wouldn’t go on holidays without your sunglasses, would you? Shades are just as important – if not more so – for little eyes. Look for a tag that says the glasses offer 100% protection against UVA and UVB rays.

3. Invest in really good footwear

It’s important that your child’s feet are properly supported while they’re still growing. Make sure that the sandals or shoes you choose don’t squeeze the toes and have enough sweat-wicking material in the soles to prevent any blisters or discomfort.

4. Involve your child in the process

If your child wants to incorporate some superhero element into their beach attire, then encourage them! It’s positive to support their creativity and self-expression. And no doubt they’ll be the coolest coast-side toddler.

5. Top it all off with a hat

Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. A wide-brimmed hat not only protects your child’s complexion from the sun, it also adds the finishing touch to any outfit.