The festive season is beginning and that means it’s time for celebrations. When it comes to children dressing up in ethnic clothes – comfort trumps style. You’d want to steer clear of stiff, itchy, or heavily embroidered outfits, and choose breathable fabrics that ensure your little ones stay comfortable throughout the festivities.
I learned this the hard way when my son was just one year old. I dressed him in a beautifully embroidered Nehru jacket, but he wore it for no more than five minutes before it became meltdown central. It was a lesson in the importance of comfort over aesthetics.
Another tip: Don’t fret about finding the perfect fit. Whether you’re buying off-the-rack or getting it custom-made, consider sizing up to account for growth spurts and ensure the outfit can be used again. Children don’t need to be in form-fitting outfits — looser fits allow for freedom of movement and rest assured, they’ll look adorable anyway.
So keeping all of this in mind, I’ve compiled a list of brands that prioritise comfort while using the right fabric for kids, ensuring they can enjoy the festivities as much as you do!
Sher Bache (for ages 0-14)
A pandemic-born, female-led label, ‘Sher Bache’ is impervious to trends and mindful to the planet. This brand’s expertise lies in combining artisanal prints with handmade embroideries inspired by the wild. The result is a work of wearable art that redefines comfort for children up to the age of 14. An ardent fan, my son has enjoyed many festivals in Sher Bache kurtas. The soft fabrics and unique prints with minimal embroidery make Sher Bache a go-to for both of us.
P&S Co. (for ages 0-16)
Sisters Pooja Kanoria and Salauni Bihani started P&S Co. in 2017, and you would have seen most celebrity children looking adorable in their festive collections. Anarkalis, lehengas, kurtas or bandhgalas, they have it all. The label also makes twinning outfits on request. They make sure that their pieces are versatile and the outfits can be reworn since children outgrow everything so quickly. Pastel hues, beautiful prints and stunning embroideries make this label a no-brainer for weddings and festive occasions.
Knotty Buttons (for ages 0-12)
Based in Kolkata, Neha Bagaria and Aditi Jumrani started Knotty Buttons in 2020, and it has quickly become a go-to brand for premium kidswear. Delivering high-quality festive wear, Knotty Buttons strikes a balance between affordability and luxury. The brand understands children’s needs for comfort and offers customisation to elevate the experience. They have a ready-to-wear collection for children aged 0-12, and the option to make bespoke outfits on request.
Mi Dulce An’ya (for ages 0-10)
Mi Dulce An’ya offers a collection of luxurious, vintage-inspired, contemporary separates for boys and girls aged 0-10. Using soft, certified organic cotton and adorned with dreamy, delicate colours and handcrafted detailing, their pieces are a fail-safe choice for children’s festive wear. Not only are their products gentle on your baby’s skin, but they’re also kind to the earth. Win-win.
Chhoti Chopad (for newborn - 14 years)
Based in the pink city of Jaipur, Chhoti Chopad was started by Pooja Jain when she started making clothes for her own children. The homegrown brand creates some gorgeous ethnic wear for children, and their work is focused on traditional Rajasthani prints, leheriya, gotta patti lehengas and bandhgalas.
White Water Kids (for newborn - 6 years)
The beauty of the seeming imperfection of ajrakh printing using herbal dyes on hand-processed textiles is unmatched. White Water Kids, founded by Shweta and Ankita Dhariwal, have mastered the art of ethical and traditional clothes for children. Specialising in small-batch collections of stunning printed festive wear, their angrakhas and kurtas are perfect for those extra sticky, humid days.
There is something adorable about children dressed in ethnic wear, and all of these labels ensure comfort and style. If you are looking to add a touch of celebratory cheer to your children’s wardrobes, these women-led brands have you covered.
The author is an economist and full-time millennial mother, struggling to cope with daily chores