Leafing through the racks of Spiderman tops, and sugar-pink scratchy, sparkly dresses and you’d be forgiven for thinking there’s something quite strange going on with children’s clothing. The main options seem to be acting as a walking billboard for the latest animated film franchise or looking like a tiny version of a desperately attention seeking z-list celebrity. Isn’t it time to start letting them dress and play like children again?
Here’s our pick of the best clothes and toys for little ones, all with a natural or green slant…
Powell Craft have been making charming retro-inspired clothes for children for decades, but until now, the nearest place you could buy them was in Perthshire. They’ve just launched a consumer website at
www.powellcraft.com, so snap up these delight woodland creature pyjamas.
Talking of gorgeous creatures, we’re smitten by this warthog from www.borngifted.co.uk which is handmade by Barefoot Toy’s female artisans in Sri Lanka form organic cotton, woven and dyed on the island.
JoJo Maman Bébé have found a brilliant use for old plastic bottles, which are recycled to produce the washable polyester fabric for this striped all in one
fleece romper. Find it at Union Square or online at
www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk
We loved these natural latex bath boats from
www.thekidwho.eu. They’re simple, well designed and don’t get unspeakably gunged up because there’s no holes to harbour mould.
These organic muslin swaddles from
www.adenandanais.com will keep baby contented and can be used for everything from mopping up messes, acting as a screen for feeding time, or making
a rug for an impromptu picnic or doll’s tea party.
This wooden carpenter’s kit is really well made and finished. The case comes with hammer, saw, spanner and lots of tools and accessories. Start them early on acquiring DIY skills. From www.educationaltoys.co.uk, who have tons of traditional learning toys for little ones.
Lastly, how about a train to play with? This blue beauty comes with ten passengers and crew and is tremendous fun. Perfectly sized chunky and colourful pieces are great for pre-schoolers. It’s over half a metre long and is available from www.traidcraftshop.co.uk. It may seem expensive, but it has been handcrafted by skilled artisans in Sri Lanka and will be treasured for generations to come.