Kids are unique in their own ways, quirks and all, and fashion is a great way to nurture this. So, how can you help your little ones develop a style of their own?
1. Let them choose
The simple act of letting your children choose what to wear will work wonders on their confidence. Giving them the freedom to make their own styling choices can allow a kiddo to feel much more in control of their life. It boosts self-esteem and encourages self-expression.
Try offering them choices, “would you like to wear the blue spotty sweater or the red stripy sweater?” In addition, try taking a step back. If they want to wear their favourite superhero costume to brunch, why not! Supporting their choices will have a huge effect on their confidence. Don’t agree? You just watch their little face beam with pride.
2. Master the basics
There is an art in learning how to get dressed and practice makes perfect. Helping your child figure out how to put trousers on the right way, button up a shirt, or how to tie a shoelace not only encourages independence, it strengthens motor skills and fills your child with a sense of achievement. It also frees up time in your busy morning schedge.
3. Take them on
a fashion treasure hunt
One sure way to help your kids develop their own unique style is by taking them on a fashion treasure hunt. Look through fashion magazines, people watch in the local mall, head to the stores to view the latest styles. Even better – hit the charity stores and browse kidswear resale sites to expose your children to clothes not readily available. Hunting through pre-owned, secondhand, and vintage fashion will encourage them to choose pieces that match their personality and not just passing trends. At the same time, you’ll be inspiring them to develop environmentally and socially conscious shopping habits.
4. Experiment
There is no faux pas when it comes to developing your own personal style. It’s all about experimenting, playing dress-up, finding colours, patterns, shapes that you love. Be inventive with what you’ve got. Add some fun patches to a jacket, turn a pair of trousers into shorts, let them wear odd socks. Instead of buying accessories, make your own. Most of all, relax, have a sense of humor, and don’t forget – whatever they choose to wear, give them a compliment. Your appreciation for their choices will go a long way.
By Lyndsey, Mama-in-Chief @ WunderDuds.com
