According to the latest studies, kids can identify genders by the time they are two and form their own gender identities by the time they are three years old.
Despite this, we continue to inundate kids from the time they are newborns with clothing, images, and language that are very clearly gendered. From the moment they’re born, kids are told what is “female” and what is “male” and that it’s not ok to cross those lines.
But what about kids who fall somewhere in between? Kids who are gender fluid or gender non-conforming? What are we signaling to those kids?
When we don’t allow children to fully express themselves, we are telling them to hide who they really are. We’ve given clear roadmaps about “how to be a girl” and “how to be a boy” but we’ve neglected everyone else.
But now, fashion is finally getting a clue. A ton of gender-neutral kids’ clothing brands have come on the scene and are showing parents they can allow their kids to be themselves.
Below are some of the coolest brands that are making gender-neutral clothing accessible to everyone.
1. Orbasics
(In partnership with Orbasics)
If you’re looking for sustainable, quality basics, Orbasics organic kids clothes should definitely be your go-to. The Berlin-based brand uses 100% certified organic cotton and steers clear of harmful dyes, which means their clothes are about as soft as it gets.
All of their pieces come in a ton of great colors — perfect for mixing and matching. Sizes range from 1 yrs- 9 yrs and prices start at around $20 for tops and $25 for bottoms.
Oh, and did we mention they also have loungewear pieces for adults too? Great for twinning with your little one in style!
2. Fiera Wild World
(In partnership with Fiera Wild World)
Fiera Wild World is all about letting kids be, well, kids! The baby/kids clothing brand was created to let your child truly express themself with fun colors, patterns, and more. It’s perfect for the creative kid who loves to pick out their own clothes and dances to their own beat. Every piece was built to mix and match so your kiddo can have fun getting dressed in the morning.
The baby bodysuits come in sizes 6-12 mos and the kids clothing comes in sizes 2 years to 10 years.
Every item is designed and manufactured in Spain and Portugal in small batches to ensure their clothing is top quality.
3. Free to Be Kids
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Free to Be Kids is the perfect brand for anyone who loves taking their kiddies to protests and rallies. They’ve got all the adorable activist tees you could want, plus some great tiny feminist merch.
They also have tons of shirts where the proceeds go to charity, which should make you feel good about your purchase.
4. Miles Baby & Miles Child
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Miles Baby and Miles Child offer clothing options from 3mo to (little kid) size 7.
The brand has an assortment of options that include unisex, girls, and boys, but honestly, most of the clothes that are categorized as “boys” or “girls” can be worn no matter the child’s gender identity. Prices range from about $25 to around $65. And with it being a small company, everything is made from quality materials.
5. Mini Rodini
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Mini Rodini is pretty much the most Instagramable kids clothing brand ever. So if you want your mini-me to be a style icon, then you’ve come to the right place.
They’re also all about sustainability and fair pay. In 2014, they started rolling out the “Living Wage Project” country by country and plan to pay all of their workers a living wage by 2021.
6. RAGS
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RAGS has a bunch of adorable rompers (short sleeves, tanks, and long sleeves) for babies, toddlers, and little kids. The rompers retail for around $50 each, which is a great value when you consider that they are a complete outfit.
Bonus: the company is run by a woman who started it from her parents’ basement.
7. Burt’s Bees
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If you want some cozy PJs, Burt’s Bees Baby has your back. They carry pajamas from NB to kid’s size 7 in boys, girls, and unisex options. Pricing is super reasonable, ranging from $14 to $17. Baby sizes are mostly footie/zip pajamas, while the toddler and big kid sizes are separates (sold together as a pair).
Burt’s Bees has patterns for everyday wear as well as for a handful of holidays. Plus, everything is made from 100% organic cotton.
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