Living in Italy: Fashion for kids it’s about more than style

You may not think that fashion for kids is important, but in fact, it is an integral part of society and social intelligence. Not just here in Italy, but everywhere. Whether we consciously teach them about fashion or not, kids learn at an early age key social cues such as what is appropriate to wear to a play date or to a special occasion like a birthday party or a wedding.

In English, we often say “Wear your Sunday best” meaning dress up for a special occasion, but if you are new to living in Italy, it may seem like Italians are always wearing their Sunday best! Italians, in general, are very stylish, and it is only natural that social behaviors regarding fashion are passed on to their children.

Many of the top fashion brands have children’s collections and great options for stylish kids. Read on for a few of our fashion tips and favorite Italian brands for kids.

What is fashion for kids?

Children’s fashion by Nucleo @ScaloMilano

Just like men’s and women’s fashion, fashion for kids is all about comfort, style, and functionality. Clothing is designed to be comfortable and easy to wear while still looking fashionable. Italian brands are known for their high quality and attention to detail. You can find a wide variety of clothing for kids of all ages, from baby clothes to outfits for teenagers.

How to teach your child about fashion

Boys’ fashion by Zero+ @ScaloMilano

If you’re looking to dress your child in fashionable Italian style, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First, Italian fashion is all about classic pieces, but for children, creating a capsule wardrobe of timeless pieces is impossible as they will soon grow out of them. Instead, focus on the classic items they would like to replace as they grow taller and stronger, like a quality pair of jeans, comfortable shoes for play and a nice shirt or blouse to wear on special occasions. They will learn that some items are always essential and useful.

Second, comfort is key. Quality clothing is designed to be comfortable and easy to wear, so your child can play and move around easily. Teach your child about fabrics and how to choose items according to the activities planned or the weather forecasted. This will guide them to becoming more independent and learn how to make informed choices.

Third, quality is important. Kids love jumping, running, and crawling under stuff. Look for well-made clothing that will withstand lots of wear and tear. Although they may not fit them next year, quality clothing can be saved for a little brother or sister or donated to children in need.

Should we teach kids about fashion trends?

Fashion by Brums @ScaloMilano

Raise your hand if you wore a checked flannel shirt and ripped jeans in the 90s!
Studies show that fashion trends, especially for adolescents, are an important factor in developing their personality and identity. Fashion is a representation of aesthetics, symbolism, and cultural identity. For teens, wanting to belong and be accepted by a group sometimes seems to be the entire meaning of life.

Kids today learn about fashion trends from social media channels like Instagram and Tiktok. Follow what they are following and discuss what’s going on. Talk about the crazy trends you used to think were cool. As adults in their lives, we can encourage them to recognize the difference between fitting in, being practical and expressing who they are. Trends are transitory, while personality, character and personal values are far more meaningful.

Fashion styles and brands for kids

Just like adults, there are many different styles of fashion for kids. Kids can learn about what to wear and when to wear it.

Casual Style

Casual fashion by Harmont Blaine Junior @Scalo Milano

Casual style is perfect for everyday wear. It is comfortable and stylish and great for school, after-school play dates and weekends. Italian brand Harmont & Blaine Junior has a great casual line for kids. Recognized by its signature Dachshund logo, Harmont & Blaine is a Made in Italy brand from Naples with an international elegance.

Formal

Formal fashion for kids by Brums @ScaloMilano

If your child is attending a special event or needs to dress up for a party, then a formal outfit is a great option. Italian formal wear is elegant and timeless, and your child will look their best in one of these outfits. Started as a small textile factory, the Brums brand was established as a family run company in 1951 by Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Prevosti. Today the company is run by third-generation descendants and focuses on a style and concept of warmth, sophistication and reassurance for toddlers to teens.

Sporty

Sportswear for kids by Puma @ScaloMilano

If your child loves to play sports or be active, then a sporty outfit is the way to go. Sportswear is stylish and functional and will help your child stay comfortable while they’re active. International brand Puma has made its mark on the athletic and sports market and has also recognized that kids deserve to be stylish and sporty too. Other sports brands that offer kids’ gear are Nike, Adidas, and Converse.

Where to find Italian style and fashion for kids

Scalo Milano Outlet & More

If you’re looking for stylish Italian fashion for kids, there are literally thousands of stores in Milan. Milan has a wide variety of independent shops, department stores and designer boutiques offering Italian flair for kids. But when you live in Milan and have a busy family life, you probably don’t have a lot of time for leisurely shopping. A family shopping day at Scalo Milano Outlet & More could be the answer.

Whether you are shopping for back-to-school, holiday preparations or a special event, finding the right outfit at the right price is key.

Scalo Milano Outlet & More is situated only 15 minutes from the heart of Milan and is the perfect place to find what you need. Like the open-air shopping malls in the United States and the United Kingdom, Scalo Milano is not only an outlet but rather a compact village. More than 150 designer stores with everything from clothing to furniture. There’s a food court and Scalo Marino, a supervised children’s play area for kids 3- 12, so parents can shop while the kids play.

With so many great designers and brands to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect outfit for your little one.

How to get there

Getting to Scalo Milano Outlet is easy. There’s a free shuttle bus from P.zza Della Repubblica or the S13 train which stops in front of the outlet at the Locate di Triulzi station, or going by car, it’s just a 15-20 minute drive from the center of Milan. There is ample parking and a recharging station for electric cars.

Scalo Milano
Via Milano 5,
Locate Triulzi (MI)

Scalomilano.it

Opening hours

Monday – Sunday

Fashion & Design: 10 am -9 pm

Food: 10 am – 11 pm

Images courtesy Scalo Milano Outlet & More
Article by Celia Abernethy, EasyMilano.com