Shopping·9 min read

15 of Our Favorite Wardrobe Staples for Kids

Kids fall wardrobe staples
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Hanna Andersson
October 10, 2023

Just when you think you’ve stocked all the wardrobe essentials for your little ones…suddenly those sneakers don’t fit, the PJ pants are looking too short, and it’s time to start the whole process over again. From socks and undies to sweaters, jackets, and rain boots, here are some of the go-to basics we buy again and again.

Fleece Jacket
L.L.Bean

The perfect light jacket for fall…

This cozy fleece hoodie is a good in-between layer for fall, spring, or even chilly summer nights at the beach. For older kids, check out nice options here and here. ($49.95, L.L.Bean)

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Grippy Socks
Amazon

Grippy socks you’ll want to buy in bulk…

As soon as those little legs start running everywhere, you’ll realize how important it is for all socks to have grips on the bottom. And while there are plenty of cute, colorful options out there, our preference is for plain old white…because you’ll never have to worry about mismatched pairs. (We wish we could say these won’t mysteriously disappear in the laundry, but we’d be lying. That’s just what socks do.) ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

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Underwear
Hanna Andersson

Underwear that’s really worth the higher price…

These underwear aren’t cheap, but in our experience, they’ll far outlast the less expensive versions you might be tempted by. Go for cute designs or your kid’s favorite characters, and don’t worry about holes appearing after just a few washes. Psst…wait for a sale — there’s always one around the corner. ($24+/multi-pack, Hanna Andersson)

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Jeggings
Target

Toddler jeggings to stock up on…

Jeans, but make them comfortable. We love these baby/toddler jeggings from Target because of their easy pull-on design and soft fabric that allows your kiddo to run, jump, and play without any uncomfortable buttons or waistbands. ($6.40, Target)

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Jeans
Gap

“Real” jeans you’ll reach for every day…

Style-wise, these look like regular grown-up jeans — but the stretchy fabric and adjustable waist make them perfect for toddlers and preschoolers still getting used to using the bathroom on their own. They hold up very well in the wash, which is important because, well…toddlers and preschoolers. ($31, Gap)

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Under-shorts
Primary

Under-shorts to pair with every dress…

Baby dresses tend to come with adorable matching bloomers, but once you move beyond the infant sizes, you’re on your own. We like keeping under-shorts on hand to cover up toddler diapers. PS: They’re great for older kids, too, allowing for more active play in dresses and skirts. (While we’re here, we also can’t get enough of this adult version that helps prevent thigh chafing.) ($46.25/five-pack, Primary)

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Leggings
Target

Tights and leggings to complete any outfit…

Boring, but important. If your kid’s big on leggings and tights, you’ll need them on hand. We like Cat & Jack’s tights for durability and price point, and we always have their leggings (which come in toddler and big kid sizes) in rotation, too. ($5.60/three-pack, Target)

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Pajamas
Hanna Andersson

Pajamas that make great hand-me-downs…

It’s tough to top Hanna Andersson’s pajamas, which we love for their creative patterns, soft fabric, and sheer durability. Whether you go for baby sleepers, long johns, or matching sets for the whole family, you won’t be disappointed, and you can count on keeping these around for years. ($14.79+, Hanna Andersson)

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Kids costume
Amazon

A costume you won’t mind seeing every day…

Can’t get your kid to take off the costume when it’s time for school? No problem. This dress is halfway between a costume and a regular piece of clothing, so it won’t be quite as distracting as that deluxe, sparkly princess outfit from last Halloween. Best of all, it’s washable, so when it inevitably gets covered in food, paint, dirt, or all three, you can throw it in the washing machine — every night, if necessary (we know from experience). Psst…there are plenty more “twirl dress” designs, like Belle, Rapunzel, and Ariel. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

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Sweater
Janie & Jack

Tiny sweaters bound to get compliments…

Year after year, we’re charmed by the kids’ sweaters from Janie & Jack. (Maybe it’s just that we wish they made them for grown-ups.) You’ll find traditional-but-trendy designs that are downright irresistible in baby and toddler sizes. It’s impossible to pick just one, so grab a few — especially if you hit a good sale. Then admire them in your family photos for years to come. ($33.99, Janie & Jack)

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Khaki Pants
Janie & Jack

Khakis for when it’s time to get a little more dressed up…

Sweatpants and jeans may be all right most of the time, but every once in a while, something fancier is in order. These khakis are mostly cotton with a tiny bit of stretch, and work great when you’re dealing with dress codes, special occasions, or nice dinners out. ($42.50, Janie & Jack)

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Winter Jacket
Gap

A jacket to see you through the snow days…

Gap’s winter coats aren’t the cheapest out there, but they’re far from the most expensive — and they do the job well. Cozy, warm, and very washable, with a water-resistant shell and soft sherpa lining, they’ll even last multiple seasons if you get the right size (aim for slightly roomy when you buy). ($108, Gap)

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Starter bras
Target

Starter bras that keep it simple…

If you’re starting to test the waters with those first few new bras, you can find good (and highly affordable) options at Target. These wireless, adjustable cotton-and-spandex training bras are light on support, but a good first step — and there are plenty of different styles to check out while you’re browsing. ($5.59/three-pack, Target)

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Sneakers
Zappos

Sneakers that’ll last beyond one season…

Provided your kids don’t outgrow them first. These sneakers will stand up well to even the most enthusiastic playground hijinks. Their single velcro strap makes them relatively easy for kids still learning to put on their own shoes, and they come in tons of cute color combos. ($69.95, Zappos)

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boots
Amazon

Boots to keep your kids’ feet dry…

Somehow we never remember to buy rain boots until we’re in the middle of school pick-up in the pouring rain. So let this serve as your reminder to grab a pair before you’re cursing yourself for thinking those storm clouds looked fine this morning. Hatley’s boots come in classic solid colors, but some fun patterns, too. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

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