By: Natasha Archary
Have you ever walked into the kiddies section of a clothing store and felt such uninspired frustration at the stark generalisation that boys don’t really care much for trends? I can’t be the only mom who struggles to dress her kid with an edgy difference.
A huge portion of clothing stores have dedicated aisles to accommodate the fluffy tutus and frilly pinks that cater perfectly for parents with little girls. Leaving monotone tracks, novelty T-shirts and the bare essentials for parents of little boys to maneavour within.
I hate this disparity and I’m pleased there’s a store that is changing this stereotype. Ackermans has a range of high quality, affordable and durable kiddies clothing with a crisp, cool style. The kiddies range for both boys and girls will keep you in-store browsing for hours.
With so many options at Ackermans, finding a look of expressive style to suit your little one’s individuality is a breeze. It’s no easy task dressing highly opinionated toddlers, so when you find a store that has everything they love, it makes for a fun shopping experience.
Spring looks for your trendsetting dude
Why little boys love sand, rolling around in the grass and dirt we’ll never know. One thing I do know from experience is that my son’s clothing has to be as tough as he is. If I can save some time skipping the ironing with his daycare outfits, it’s a bonus.
That’s why I love the Ackermans clothing range for two to eight year olds. Most of the items are versatile and don’t require ironing. Some of the shorts, T-shirts and slacks can be worn straight from the dryer with minimal creasing. Colour me impressed.
The mornings and evenings are still a bit nippy at the moment, so you want a layered look with items that can be peeled off as the day warms up. Keeping him comfortable and free to move about and be active is a major factor in what I choose for him.
Look 1
Denims are a classic look no matter the season. They’re cool, relaxed and easy to dress up or down. These denim shorts are everything and give little boys an edgy, effortless look. I pair them with a camo sleevless vest and a demin style short sleeve shirt. The look is complete with these stylish double strapped velcro sneakers.
Look 2
To offer my tough guy a little more coverage, I love the camo print style trouser. It’s lightweight but allows him the flexibility to explore the outdoors and still protect his knees from getting scuffed. This statement “Legend in the making” vest goes under a light knit shirt which I leave unbuttoned. To tie the look together, this rugged black mesh gusset trainer works well.
Put a spring in your fashionista’s step
I admit I don’t know where to begin with fashion for little girls. If I did have a daughter, her style would be a bit more quirky than the average little girl, that much I do know. I’m not big on the princessy vibe for little girls and would opt for a stronger feel, like dressing a tutu up with say a military style boot. Pink would not feature much in her wardrobe.
I’m all for girly expression but I would want her to break stereotypes and come into her own without being sucked into the “sugar, spice and all things nice” box.
I for one do not see the practicality of glass slippers and fairytale dresses, especially not for daycare. Kids should be stimulated with sensory play and be as active as possible throughout the day and my picks are all about that.
Look 1
The sailor shorts is adorable without being over the top. The distressed denim feel makes for a relaxed look. Paired with a black anglaise ruffle top and these red canvas sneakers rounds off the chic sporty finish.
Look 2
The ‘90s girl in me squeals about these bell-bottomed denims. The stretchy waist gives your little girl a bit more flexibity and comfort throughout the day. Before I get a bad rep for disliking pink frills, I chose this two-pack printed shirt combo for two reasons: 1) Value for money and 2) It’s insanely gorgeous for Spring. The ensemble is complete with tan tribal wedges because every girl needs to have a pair of gladiator sandals in her arsenal.
Over the next few months we’ll be bringing you more kiddies fashion picks with Ackermans. Which are your favourite looks? Share with us by tweeting @KayaFM95dot9 and using the hashtag #KayaOnline
