I have three small kids, two girls and a boy. They wear a lot of clothes. We do a lot of laundry. The first few years were spent in hand-me-downs and the generous gifts we received at baby showers. Now that they are getting a little older and developing more defined personal styles I am challenged to find clothes that (1) reflect their personalities, (2) hold up in real life use and (3) look like actual outfits without being quite as matchy-matchy as Garanimals (which we do love for a myriad of nostalgic reasons).
Enter, Appaman, a line created by Norwegian Harald Husum. Although this line has gained some notoriety in the past eight years since it was founded, they still are very focused on quality, customer service and finding inspiration in the street art of New York City. This line is a perfect mix for my eclectic four year-old, simple enough for my conservative three year-old and practical enough for my very active toddler. Their Facebook page is a fun mix of Appaman knowledge and general lifestyle fun.
While the past few years has been trying on our family's budget (like so many others) we have quickly learned that saving money isn't really saving if you have to buy things twice as often. Because our kids were all born so close together we were able to really test the staying power of a number of brands. The "Scandinavian" brands have won my heart and wallet.
Another favorite is the Swedish-influenced Hanna Andersson. They are based in Portland, Oregon (hence the quotes around Scandivavian in the previous paragraph). Their comfortable, colorful, knit clothes do cost more than those you would pick up at Target or Wal-Mart but there is a good reason. They make healthier clothes using organic cotton. Here's a quote from their website:
"Organic cotton is healthy and good for so many people, from workers in the fields to kids and families who wear it next to their skin. All of our long johns, baby sleepers, unders, turtlenecks and boxy tees (plus many baby hannas) are made from 100% organic cotton that's grown without harmful chemicals! We are passionate about giving this gift to our children's future."
You can feel good about buying their clothes and your kids will feel good wearing them. If the prices are a bit steep for you check out their Very Güd Price line of everyday basics, also, follow their Facebook page and website for regular news on sales, they have some really good ones (like their Best of Summer Sale on right now).
Our other Swedish favorite, Polarn O. Pyret really is Swedish. (if you live in snow country you will want to pop onto their site in the next few days and take advantage of their amazing winter clothing clearance!) They have a signature red and white striped shirt that they make for the whole family - newborns on up to mommies. Much like Hanna Andersson these are clothes that you will pass down from one kid to another or on over to their cousins.
PO.P is a new entry to America but has been a staple in Europe for years. Check out their Facebook page regularly for contests, savings and news.
And yes, we still go to Target for layering pieces, leggings, and seasonal t-shirts but as the kids start to grow at a more manageable rate their wardrobes will include many more pieces from these great lines.
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