Where adult fashion leads, children’s fashion follows. For summer 2026 kids will be rocking bright and playful styles based on trends we have already seen come through strongly on the high street, such as crochet and knit shirts influenced by retro menswear and co-ords in stripes and polka dots for easy beachy outfits.
Stripes are perennially a nautical favourite for beachwear, but this year bold stripes are a must; blues are always a favourite but yellow is chic, reminiscent of the umbrellas and towels at upscale Italian beach hotels.
Comfort is always key, and oversized is not just what your mum bought you ‘to grow into’ – now it’s cool for kids. Think a mini-Billie Eilish in comfy co-ord shorts sets that are easy to pull on and will see them through days of fun in playgrounds and beaches.
Look for breathable fabrics that will keep cool in the heat – organic cottons are best, soft and sensory-friendly, and good for sustainability too. Veer away from man-made materials if you can.
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Kids grow so fast, lots of clothes go unworn or barely used, especially summer pieces we don’t often get the weather for. Check out local Facebook groups, charity shops and sites like Vinted for bargain second-hand pieces that are kind on your pocket and the environment. And of course, hand-me-downs are very sustainable – just remind them that oversized is cool!
