Hi, it’s Sarah, and with the approaching nippy autumn days and the too-nearly-too-soon cold of winter fast-approaching in the UK, my head (and online shopping list!) turns to one thing: kitting out the kids with the clothing they’ll need for winter.
Oh, the pleasure of getting little ones dressed up in sweet tiny rompers and clunky boots! But let’s face it, it’s also a functional minefield. Children develop at warp speed, they play enthusiastically (hello, mud!), and the weather can be, well, characteristically British – a bit of everything, usually all in one day!
So, how do I get to the annual challenge of putting together functional, warm, and not-too-expensive autumn/winter wardrobes for my two? Let me share my proven tips!
Timing is Everything: When to Strike
You might be thinking, “It’s only [current month/early autumn], why bother about winter?!” But when it comes to grabbing the best and catching the best deals in the kid’s clothing universe, timing is everything.
Autumn Collections Early: You’ll start seeing autumn/winter collections in shops and online as soon as the end of August/July. Here you’ll have your best range of sizes and styles, especially for those all-critical winter coats and boots.
Back-to-School Discounts: Most shops have “back to school” sales which can include warmer clothing essentials like jumpers, trousers, and waterproofs. Watch out between mid-August and early September.
Black Friday & Sales: Late November (Black Friday/Cyber Monday) is excellent for obtaining the higher-end items like winter coats or quality snow suits at a discount. January sales are great for next year’s size if you’re on top of it!
The Layering Principle: Your Best Friend
Don’t even consider buying one thick thing. Layering is the secret to keeping kids warm and snug on unpredictable UK weather. That way, they can regulate their temperature as they move from chilly mornings to balmy classrooms, or from a balmy afternoons outdoors to a breezy evening.
Break it down in three pieces:
Base Layer (Next to Skin):
Purpose: Wicks away the sweat! to stay dry and warm.
What to Look For: Thin fleeces or mid-weight tops made of synthetic materials such as polyester (insulating and breathable but cheap) or merino wool (temperature-regulating and anti-odour but more expensive). Cotton for this layer should be avoided if they’re going to be active since it absorbs sweat and makes them colder.
My Go-To: Inexpensive mid-weight fleece tops in supermarkets or outdoor shops.
What to Wear: Fleece tops, wool jumper, or cardigans. They are not difficult to put on and take off.
My Favorite: Some quality fleece tops and a few warm knit jumpers that may be thrown over school uniform or general wear.
Outer Layer (Elemental Protection):
Function: Shields them from wind, rain, and snow.
What to Look for: A waterproof, windproof, and breathable jacket or coat. Look for details like taped seams, good insulation (down or synthetic filling), a close-fitting hood, and adjustable cuffs. Waterproof leggings or an all-in-one snow suit for pre-toddlers on very cold or snowy days may be worthwhile.
My Go-To: A good waterproof jacket with fleece lining or space for a fleece layer to wear underneath. I always check the waterproof rating (5000mm+ is fine) and whether it actually is waterproof or only shower-proof.
Essential Items for Their Winter Wardrobe List:
Aside from layering basics, the following is what I always make sure we have:
Winter Coat: This is your most expensive purchase. Seek warmth, waterproofing, longevity, and a hood. Reflective features are a nice touch for dark mornings/evenings.
Warm Trousers: Lined trousers, joggers, or thick denim. Waterproof overtrousers for outdoor play are a great idea.
Jumpers/Cardigans: A combination of thinner knits for layering and thicker ones for colder weather.
Socks: Good quality, warm socks. Wool socks are great for warmth and breathability; thin cotton socks are not suitable for cold weather.
Hats, Gloves & Scarves:
Hats: A close-fitting, warm hat that covers ears. A balaclava is fabulous for freezing or windy days, as it doesn’t move!
Gloves/Mittens: Young children find mittens easier and warmer than gloves. Pick waterproof ones for playing in the wet stuff.
Scarves/Neck Warmers: A fleece neck warmer is usually a more convenient alternative to a regular scarf for energetic children, as it will not tangle or fall down.
Waterproof Boots/Wellington Boots: These are a must for jumping in puddles and general wet weather. Try and find good grip and thermal insulation.
PJs: Snug long-sleeved pyjamas and maybe some fleece onesies for particularly cold nights.
Smart Shopping Strategies:
Buy One Size Up (occasionally!): For outdoorwear, jumpers and coats can often be purchased one size larger and worn for two years. For everyday clothes, wear them into shape so you don’t trip up or feel cramped.
Second-Hand Clever: Children outgrow clothes so quickly that Vinted, eBay, your local charity shops, and almost new sales are mines of good quality near new items. Especially for expensive outdoor gear!
Look for Durability: Kids are tough on clothing. Strong knees, strong stitching, and robust fabrics will cost themselves out in the long term.
Recruit the Kids: Let them choose colours or designs (within reason!). If they like it, they are more likely to get dressed up.
Think About Sustainable Brands: It’s all kinds of brands nowadays who are leading the way with organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and fair manufacturing, making clothes to be worn and passed down. Frugi, Kite, Little Green Radicals, and Polarn O. Pyret are great options in the UK.
Read the Label: Always read what the fabric is and how it should be washed. Easy to clean, machine washable is the future!
Buying autumn and winter clothes, however, is something that can appear to be an overwhelming task, but with a touch of planning and a sense of practicality and layering, your children can be kept warm, dry, and ready for whatever tough adventures the British weather has in store for them.
What are your go-to tips for dressing kids up in winter? Any essentials you can’t live without? Leave your tips in the comments below!
