Lately, the best place to find the most fashion-forward trends is on the littlest tots of celebrities—many of whom are quite comfortable in the spotlight, sitting front row at Fashion Week and walking red carpets with their adoring famous parents. The toddler set has never been so chic! That being said, it’s refreshing to know many stars are letting their kids be, well, kids and choosing brands primarily known for comfort and quality. As much as we want them to be stylish, hip and cute, they need to be able to play, run and tumble, too. Tons of brands offer that perfect balance—here are a few of our favorites.
Paul Frank x Rachel Zoe
We might be partial, but these are some of the cutest kids designs around. What's more, they're designed by a mother—our EIC Rachel Zoe—to be as practical as they are stylish. If you've got a boho babe, this collab with Paul Frank, which you can buy on Gilt.com now, is a no-brainer.
Akid
These are not your average sneaks, especially because they have Beyoncé's and Angelina Jolie's stamp of approval. Providing a full line of sneakers, lace-up boots, moccasins and slip-ons all with just the right amount of edge, Akid is revolutionizing the tiny footwear game. Patent leather, pony hair and glitter finishes with bold, colorful graphics and faux fur embellishments are practical enough for you and fun enough for the playground set.
Akid Liv (Pale Pink Pony), $70
Akid Knight (Black Leather Weave), $70
Alice + Ames
Alice + Ames is known for using the softest materials and for creating the twirliest skirts. These dresses, rompers and leotards aren't just for dance class, though they are adorable when paired with ballet slippers. Incredibly versatile, the modern geometric patterns make it easy for these to be stand-alone pieces. Or take some inspiration from Blake Lively and layer one with a skirt and bomber jacket for more of a dance studio-meets-street vibe.
Alice + Ames The Skirted Leo in Painted Blue Dot, $40
Alice + Ames The Short Sleeved Ballet Dress in Henri, $40
Kira Kids
Everything at Kira Kids is super comfortable and covered in the cutest doodles—think tacos with feet, pigeons on skateboards, kitties with party hats and computers with glasses. Jessica Alba chose the unicorn print for little Haven, paired to perfection with patterned leggings. Kira Kids offers a wide range of pants, tops, sweatshirts, onesies and even matching blankets in a range of sizes from 0 to 8.
Kira Kids Tacolicious Graphic Raglan Sweatshirt, $49
Kira Kids Computer Print Sweatshirt Romper, $57
Tutu Du Monde
Let's face it: It’s really hard not to love a little lady in some serious tulle and sparkle. Tutu Du Monde is a bit of a splurge, but 100% swoon-worthy with its light, airy fairy-like creations. From dresses to capes to tutus to bedazzled tap pants, the options are endlessly magical. We love that Sarah Jessica Parker's twins can dress it up for events and then dress it down for daytime by throwing on a denim jacket.
Tutu Du Monde Tinsel Cape, $130
Tutu Du Monde Golden Suncup, $141
Appaman
Appaman offers a wide range of clothes (tops, bottoms, coats, hats and swimwear), but what we really love is their fine tailoring options for kids. The Appaman Mod Suit comes in a variety of colors and patterns and is just that—totally modern in its fit and style, meaning it's perfect for weddings, birthdays, school picture days or a fancy occasion, paired with sneaks. Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves dressed all three of their kids, including daughter Vida, in Mod Suits and they definitely stole the show.
Appaman Mod Suit Dusty Blue, $161
Monrow
On the days when you just want to throw on sweats, your kids probably do, too. Kourtney Kardashian-favorite Monrow is known for comfortable but luxurious and flattering cuts for adults, and now the brand has a matching line for little ones. With camo, tropical palms and even iconic Mickeys, these are the perfect complement to Mom and Dad's Sunday style.
Monrow Kids Blue Hawaiian Zip Hoody, $100
Monrow Kids White Hawaiian Vintage Sweatpants, $80
Whistle & Flute
Black and white and kawaii all over, Whistle & Flute is the minimalist parents' dream. The color palette is black, white and gray, with the cutest kawaii-inspired icons that give everything a pop of personality. Everything is unisex, so there's lots of opportunities for mixing and matching and saving for future babies, regardless of gender. Busy Phillips opted for the Rain Cloud Romper for her mini-me—a perfect transitional piece for spring!
Whistle & Flute Raindrop Leggings, $25
Whistle & Flute Kawaii Cloud Baseball T-Shirt, $23
Mini Rodini
Mini Rodini is known for its playfully illustrated graphics for both girls and boys, but what might hit a home run with most parents is the brand's commitment to producing ethical and sustainable products made from certified organic cottons and recycled materials. Mini Rodini fan Gwen Stefani agrees, and opted for the bright and bold tiger-print jacket for Kingston. The collection includes tops, bottoms, outerwear, swimwear and accessories, all covered in colorful graphics that will have you and your tot smiling.
Mini Rodini Flowers Summer Jacket, $104
Mini Rodini Fleece Onesie, $85
Rockets Of Awesome
The future of fashion for your kids: Rockets of Awesome is a subscription service that curates a box of eight to 12 items hand-picked for your kiddo. Simply answer some style-related questions and a box is sent seasonally—your only obligation is to pay for what you keep (free shipping and returns!). This zero-hassle business model is perfect for busy parents, and with items ranging from $15 to $34, it keeps your wallet happy, too. We love that they offer their own line of clothes that can best be described as quality, durable basics with some seriously on-point flair. They have something for everyone: super-soft solids, fun and modern graphics, hints of metallic and tulle, and silver bomber jackets for those needing a little extra shimmer. The best part is that it is all designed to be mixed and matched, leaving you with endless options as well as the freedom to let your kids do the styling. Self-expression at its best!