Yes, the days will get shorter and colder, but as we head into fall and winter, it's hard not to get excited as the leaves begin to change and the crisp autumn air settles in. Summer clothes and Halloween costumes may be kids' choice, but as the activities, events, and holidays of the fall and winter seasons start popping up, it's our time to dress up the little ones in the darling outfits we want to see them in!
Whether it's for tobogganing, ice skating, tree lightings, or holiday dinners, Kol Kid has the most adorable fall and winter outerwear to keep your kids warm, comfortable, and in share-worthy chic. In this post, we walk you through the essentials of dressing your child for the cooler months, ensuring they're ready for whatever the weather brings while looking absolutely precious.
Layering: The Key to Comfort
There's a reason we've heard about the importance of dressing in layers for cold weather all of our lives. From a style perspective, however, not only does it allow for easy adjustment to changing temperatures throughout the day, but it also provides opportunities for fun mix-and-matching.
A simple layering strategy to keep in mind starts with a soft, breathable underlayer like a long-sleeved t-shirt or thermal top. Next, add warmth with a cozy sweater, fleece, or knit baby clothes for infants and newborns.
Finally, finish with a weather-appropriate coat or jacket to protect against wind, rain, or snow.
Remember, the goal is to keep your child warm without overheating. Breathable fabrics like cotton, wool, and certain synthetic blends are excellent choices for maintaining comfort.
Essential & Adorable Fall and Winter Wardrobe Pieces
A good jacket or coat is the cornerstone of any fall/winter wardrobe. Look for options that are both functional and fashionable, i.e., hooded, waterproof rain jackets perfect for those drizzly fall days in the Greater Toronto Area, puffer jackets that are lightweight yet warm for chilly autumn mornings, and the essential parka for harsh winter weather, that feature patterns that both you and your kids love. When choosing jackets, opt for those with room to grow and adjustable cuffs to extend their wearability.
Sweaters and hoodies are essential cool/cold weather pieces that are versatile enough to be dressed up or down. Consider cable-knit sweaters for a classic and warm look, great for family photos and holiday events. Graphic hoodies and long sleeves offer a fun and expressive option for casual outings, while cardigans are easy to layer and remove as needed.
As the temperature drops, jumpers remain a timeless choice that pairs well with almost anything. Also, fleece sweatpants offer durability and warmth with a touch of casual charm. For girls, leggings are great, especially when paired with long sweaters or dresses. On particularly cold days, snowsuits provide extra warmth and protection for outdoor play.
Don't forget about those dresses and skirts just yet! Layer them over leggings or thick tights for a cute and cozy look that transitions well from fall to winter.
The right accessories can elevate an outfit while providing crucial warmth. Hats like toques, trapper hats, or cute animal-ear designs keep little heads warm and are just too fun. When choosing scarves, opt for softer materials to prevent skin irritation. The same goes for gloves and mittens, but you should also consider options with stylish clips to attach to jacket sleeves.
And don't forget about warm socks and winter boots for kids – look for moisture-wicking and water-repellant materials, respectively, to keep feet dry and cozy.
Footwear for Every Adventure
Speaking of footwear, the right shoes can make or break a fall/winter outfit. Waterproof boots like our super-popular Hunter rainboots are essential for rainy days and early snow, while insulated snow boots become critical when the real winter weather hits, keeping toes their little toes toasty.
For milder days or indoor activities, sneakers are still good for fall and winter months, and we've got plenty of trendy kicks, perfect for the junior business casual look. And, of course, no wardrobe is complete without a pair of spiffy dress shoes for those special holiday occasions!
Dressing for Different Activities
For school days, the general rule of thumb is to focus on comfort and practicality with layered outfits that can be removed or added for varying classroom temperatures. Choose easy-to-manage closures like zip-up hoodies and elastic waistbands, especially on those outer layers.
Weekend adventures, whether it's sledding down the hills at Bickford Park or exploring the Distillery District's Winter Village, call for outfits ready for anything. Opt for durable, stain-resistant fabrics for worry-free play, and consider bright colours or reflective details for safety in low light. The importance of comfortable footwear can't be understated for avoiding cranky complaints while walking and exploring – those about feet hurting, at least.
Layering dresses with cardigans and tights gives your little fashion models a polished look. For boys, dress pants and a button-up shirt, perhaps with a cute bowtie or suspenders, is a timelessly adorable look. The key, again, is choosing breathable materials and looser fits that allow your kids to be kids and not feel constrained or get overheated.
Style Tips for the Fashion-Forward Child
Encourage mixing patterns and textures – a floral dress with a chunky knit cardigan, for example, can create a fun, stylish look. Add pops of colour with bright accessories to liven up neutral outerwear. Let your child express their personality by letting them choose their favourite winter hats and by letting them personalize their jackets or backpacks with patches or pins.
When dressing siblings, aim to coordinate rather than match exactly – choose complementary colours or themes instead of identical outfits. And don't be afraid to embrace vintage pieces to mix in unique pieces for a one-of-a-kind style.
Caring for Fall and Winter Clothes
To ensure your child's wardrobe lasts through the season (and perhaps long enough for their younger siblings), proper care is essential. Always read care labels; different materials require different washing, drying, and storage methods.
It's also best to treat stains immediately and to invest in good hangers to prevent misshaping knitwear and coats during storage. For jackets and boots, reapply waterproofing regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
Embracing Toronto's Fall and Winter
Remember, the best outfits are those that allow your child to play, explore, and express their budding personalities and tastes. At Kol Kid, we feature local, hand-crafted clothing alongside highly-coveted, established kids' apparel brands for the perfect balance of preciousness and protectiveness that'll melt your heart.
Visit us in-store at 674 Queen St. West, Toronto, to explore our latest fall and winter collections, where you'll find everything you need to keep your child warm, comfortable, and stylish throughout the cooler seasons. We also ship Canada-wide for those looking to buy kid's clothes online. Either way, our kids' fashion experts are always ready to help you put together the perfect outfits for your child's next big adventure.
Happy styling, and here's to a season full of cozy, fashionable memories!