Evolution of children's fashion: from 1920 to today

Did you know that Kids Fashion Week made its debut in 2019? While we now eagerly await children's collections as much as those for adults, it hasn't always been this way. Let's take a look at the evolution of children's fashion from 1920 to today.

1920 to 1960: The beginnings of children's fashion

The beginning of the 20th century marks a turning point in the evolution of children's fashion. While babies had been swaddled in pieces of fabric for centuries, the 1920s saw the birth of knitted baby clothing. Delicate outfits, as we know them today, began to appear, with simple colors such as off-white, pale blue, and of course, pink.

The short trousers became more common, worn by both adults and children, allowing for greater freedom of movement. The dress, which had been a unisex garment worn by young children for practical reasons, gradually became a specifically feminine piece. Smocked details, ribbons, and embroidery: the short dress became more intricate and began to resemble adult models. It was also during this period that colors lost their neutrality: pink was "assigned" to girls, while blue, which was used for soldiers' uniforms, became associated with boys.

The changes that occurred after World War II also influenced children's wardrobes. Girls began to wear pants more willingly, and items previously meant for adults were adapted for younger children, such as shorts, skirts, and shirts. Fabrics became more comfortable, and some clothing workshops started creating collections for children.

1960 to 1970: Couture spirit enters children's collections

The cultural revolution of the 1960s would disrupt the codes of children's fashion. The wardrobe of the youngest evolved as the women's wardrobe did. There was more freedom in cuts, more comfort, and above all, more color: the range of shades in children's clothing expanded, with more space given to yellow and other bright hues. Practicality was also emphasized, with snap buttons and stretch fabrics.

This period notably marked the beginning of haute couture houses' interest in children's fashion. While Grace Kelly asked top designers to create pieces for her daughters, designers began drawing models for their own children. This would inspire the launch of the first junior collections from some major brands. Clothes and colors traditionally reserved for adults made their way into children's fashion: from denim overalls to multicolored turtleneck sweaters, originality was no longer a flaw.

This decade also saw the opening of the first luxury children's clothing store on Paris’s Avenue Montaigne.

1970 to 1990: The democratization of children's fashion

The boom of the 1960s paved the way for the democratization of children's fashion. Starting in the 1970s, prêt-à-porter brands specializing in children's clothing emerged. Unique, original collections were created, not necessarily inspired by adult fashion. Younger children became little models and had much more influence than before in choosing their outfits. More and more high-end fashion houses launched their "baby" lines, and children's fashion often set the trends.

The 1980s saw the rise of sports brands, which took over the world of fashion. Platform sneakers or high-top trainers, baseball caps, or those in the colors of their favorite basketball team: sportswear style also made its way into children's clothing. For the first time, vintage also found its place in little ones' wardrobes: gingham and Peter Pan collars adorned the clothes of the youngest, alongside fringes and fluorescent colors.

1990 to present: Children first!

Since the 1990s, children's fashion has taken on more importance than ever before. Major brands have fully embraced the adventure, and couture pieces are no longer reserved for adults: Kids around is a perfect example! Parents and children can now wear matching clothes from collections designed for all ages: KARL LAGERFELD KIDS jacket like dad or Zadig & Voltaire screen-printed sweatshirt like mom, the "twinning" trend (where mother and daughter dress alike) is in full swing. Parents are delighted, and the little ones are thrilled!

The concerns of adults are also reflected in children's collections: natural materials, organic design, eco-friendly clothing, ethical fashion is more relevant than ever.

Thanks to social media, you can now choose the same clothes for your children as those worn by the adorable Prince George of the United Kingdom. Teens, on the other hand, can easily find the Marc Jacobs piece worn by their idol. Children's collections are modern, fresh, and original, with a touch of mischief and boldness.

Parents fulfill their dreams in their child's wardrobe: princess dresses, dandy looks, stylish accessories, nothing is too good for little ones. This is proven by the status of children's fashion worldwide, which continues to grow and evolve over the years.