Green + Simple co-founders Erica Watson and Jenny Ringland share their favourite sustainable brands for children.
Sustainable fashion shouldn’t be confined to adults – if we’re going to make an impact for our future generations it makes sense that their wardrobes consist of fair fashion too. And not only should we be sourcing ethical garments for our kids, we should be teaching them about caring for their clothes, where they come from and how to make basic repairs. The good news is there are plenty of brands making inroads in the sustainable space for little ones, and they’re super cute and affordable too. Whether it’s for play time or special occasions, here’s our pick of the best sustainable kids brands:
Stella McCartney Kids
Between the organic cotton cardigans, quirky printed sweaters, dresses and jeans, Stella McCartney covers all bases when it comes to special occasion kids clothes. Sizes range from toddlers to teens and also worth noting is the sporty recycled polyester collection featuring girls camo shorts and the dot jacket.
Veja
A favourite of Duchess of Sussex, Veja don’t just make awesome ethical sneakers for grown-ups, they also have a huge offering for kids. Sustainably made in brazil, kids styles come in a huge range of plain colours and prints as well as low and high-top varieties. And the velcro straps makes it easy for little ones to put on themselves. We love the Esplar mid in terrazzo print.
Indikidual
If you find it impossible to get your kids dressed in the morning then Indikidual is about to change all of that. They’ll be bursting to get dressed in the brand’s quirky printed pieces like balloon dog onesies and bright geometric print pants and tops. Pieces are unisex and sizes range from 0 to 9, and are designed by owner, Syreeta Johnson and her daughter, Minnie. Rug up in their banana jacket or beanie and scarf.
Mabli
Mabli is the vision of women’s knitwear designer Lisa Roberts, who after two babies and a move home to Wales from London, created a vintage-inspired knitwear brand for kids aged 0-12. Their core range is handcrafted from extra fine 100 per cent Merino wool, with sustainability and slow fashion a focus. We love especially love their woollen dungarees.
Nellie Quats
If you love Liberty prints, pretty shift dresses and playsuits that are actually designed for playing in, Nellie Quats ticks all the boxes. Their anti-fast fashion ethos is to make practical, timeless girls clothes, that are designed to last and be passed down between siblings. Founder and designer Elinor Bussell also prioritises transparency , with each garment hand made by ‘happy’ seamstresses in London.
Purebaby
Purebaby isn’t the most affordable kids brand on the market but the quality is amazing. Pieces cope well with the constant washing and can easily be passed onto siblings when the time comes. Everything is made from 100 per cent organic cotton and onsies are super soft and very functional -they are our never fail baby shower gift du jour. Plus the cardigans and girl’s dresses are adorable. It also supports Australian social enterprises, St Kilda Mums and Global Sisters.
Unsure what ethical gifts to get children for Christmas? Have a look at our Sustainable Christmas Gift Guide for Kids.
See Green + Simple’s recommendations for best children’s wellies, winter coats or bobble hats and beanies.