Winter style for kids isn't just about keeping warm — it's a chance for them to express themselves through fashion. Little daydreamers are experts at being true to who they are and have their own ideas about what they wear.
Though the days are getting colder, you don't have to choose between style and bundling up with children's winter clothes. Kids can still have structured silhouettes and a cool aesthetic without compromising comfort.
Fashion Opportunities in the Cold Season
Cold-season fashion is more than just snuggly sweaters and thick coats. Winter style offers creative layering, cozy textures, and statement outerwear – like jackets and vests. The season encourages experimentation with materials like wool, French terry, corduroy, and more. Kids can embrace monochromatic looks, play with layered textiles, or find comfort in oversized pieces.
To keep little explorers warm in the snow, they can add to their look with accessories. Beanies, scarves, and gloves aren't just practical but essential for kids' winter outfits.
How to Layer Kids Winter Clothing
Layering is an art, especially in the winter. Children's winter clothes perform even better when you layer them appropriately. Layers trap warmth and allow kids to adjust their clothing as temperatures fluctuate. Helping your kiddo learn about layering ensures they create outfits true to their style and keep them toasty when they heed the call to adventure.
In general, there are three layers for winter fashion:
- Base Layer
Choose shirts and pants that wick away moisture, keeping little daydreamers dry and comfortable no matter their activity.
- Middle Layer
Also known as the insulating layer, these clothes trap the most heat, such as fleece or a down jacket.
- Outer Layer
Look for an insulated, waterproof, or windproof kid's winter coat to protect against the cold and snow.
Remember accessories. Hats, gloves, scarves, waterproof boots, and warm socks help lock in heat during frosty weather, and they're the exclamation point for your little one's winter style. (Read more about layering kids' clothes.)
The Layers You Need Depend on the Day's Adventure
The three primary winter clothing layers mentioned in the previous section are a baseline, and kids can add or remove layers so they're comfortable in the outdoor temperature and their activity.
The key to staying cozy is when kids choose stylish winter outfits for the day's specific conditions. The right outfit depends on the temperature, weather, wind chill, and what the day holds for movement, exploration, and fun.
Here are some general guidelines on the winter layers kids need based on the forecast:
Mild Cold: 4 to 10°C (40 to 50°F)
- Base: Light long-sleeve shirt or sweater
- Middle: A medium-weight jacket or fleece
- Outer: A light, water-resistant jacket
Cool: -1 to 4°C (30 to 40°F)
- Base: Long-sleeve thermal or lightweight fleece
- Middle: A heavier fleece or insulated jacket
- Outer: Waterproof and windproof outer shell
Cold: -6 to -1°C (20 to 30°F)
- Base: Thermal shirt or fleece
- Middle: Insulated jacket or down-filled coat
- Outer: Waterproof and windproof outer shell
Very Cold: -12 to -6°C (10 to 20°F)
- Base: Heavyweight thermal shirt or base layer
- Middle: Insulated down or synthetic-fill jacket
- Outer: Waterproof and windproof outer shell
How to Get the Most from Your Kids Winter Clothing
Beyond kid and toddler style and warmth, there are a couple of other worthwhile considerations when you and your little adventurer pick their winter wear.
- Kiddos grow quickly, so choose sizes that allow a little room for growth throughout the season. You want children's winter clothes to fit comfortably. Too tight and it restricts their movement; too loose, and they can lose some of their warmth.
- Look for kids' winter clothing that's easy to put on and take off. Zippers and easy closures make it easier for independent mini style icons to dress themselves.
Trendy Winter Essentials
What do kiddos need to wear in the winter? Kids' winter fashion starts with practicality, but their winter essentials are just a starting point. Your child can elevate their winter style in many ways with weather-appropriate layers and fashionable accessories.
Little explorers must have suitable staples for cold weather. As long as children have these items, they can be as creative as they like with how they style themselves:
- Insulated Jacket: A warm, waterproof jacket protects against cold and wet conditions.
- Layered Clothing: Various colours, patterns, and layers can be mixed and matched for a kiddo's signature look.
- Accessories: Hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal socks to protect extremities.
- Insulated Boots: Waterproof and insulated boots to keep little feet warm and dry.
- Snow Pants: Essential for activities like sledding or playing in the snow.
How to Choose Kids' Winter Coats
Depending on your child's interests, style, and unique rhythms, they may only need one winter coat or a few. When choosing the right winter jacket for your little one, there are some features to consider:
- Insulation: You want a winter coat to keep your child warm without adding bulk or restricting movement.
- Waterproof and Windproof: A kids' winter jacket needs an outer layer to protect against rain, snow, and chilly winds.
- Adjustable Features: Hoods, cuffs, and hems allow your child to modify the fit and aesthetic of a winter outfit.
- Reflective Elements: For safety, especially during darker winter days, opt for jackets with reflective elements for visibility.
- Aesthetic: Kids know what they like, and if they choose a winter coat that speaks to them, they'll be more inclined to wear it.
Outfit Inspo for Winter Activities
Of course, style needs to align with an activity. With so many winter events going on, here are some ideas for adventure-appropriate attire:
Building a Snowman or a Snowball Fight
These winter activities involve a lot of movement, so layers need to be warm but not restrictive.
An outfit we recommend:
Mock Neck Bamboo Long Sleeve Shirt
Playing at the Park
Snow and ice on playgrounds and sports fields can lead to wetness, and the right winter outfit keeps your kiddo warm and dry for hours in the fresh air.
An outfit we recommend:
Quick Dry Cotton Long Sleeve Tee
French Terry Raglan Sweatshirt
Winter Markets or Parades
Outdoor markets and events are excellent places for fashion, so have your kiddo layer up in fun prints and accessories.
An outfit we recommend:
Recycled Fleece & Corduroy Reversible Jacket
Sleeveless Recycled Nylon Coat
Outdoor Family Holiday Photos
Capturing winter scenes requires staying warm (it's hard to get a frame-worthy image when everyone’s teeth are chattering). These outfits don't necessarily have to be waterproof, but they do have to be warm.
An outfit we recommend:
Elevate Your Kiddo's Winter Style
The perfect cozy ensembles effortlessly blend warmth and fashion for a unique outfit that shows off your kiddo's spirit. When they're warm and comfortable, winter adventures need no intermission.