Bonjour from Paris! I’m an American mom who’s been lucky enough to call this beautiful city home for several years. One of the joys of living here has been discovering the world of French children’s fashion. From chic Parisian boutiques to timeless brands, the French certainly know how to dress their little ones with style and comfort – or, as some would say, as mini-adults. So, if you’re a parent with children aged 0-12 years old looking to add a touch of French flair to your child’s wardrobe, you’re in the right place! This guide will help you discover the best French clothing brands for kids to elevate their style.
The French Approach to Children’s Fashion
The French have a unique approach to children’s fashion that I’ve come to admire. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about quality, comfort, and timeless elegance. I’ve noticed that French parents value pieces that can be passed down from one sibling to another, and even from one generation to the next. In my opinion, there’s something beautiful about the idea of creating lasting memories through clothing. Discovering the best French clothing brands for kids brings this timeless tradition to life.
Parisian children’s style is classic, effortless, and refined. It blends neutral tones, high-quality materials, and structured silhouettes with a touch of playful elegance. The essence of Parisian kid street style lies in mixing timeless essentials with practical yet stylish layering—and this is reflected in many of the brands below.
French kids don’t typically dress in black, favoring neutrals like navy, brown, and blue denim, which are softer and more versatile.
Why Choose French Brands?
Quality and Durability: One thing I’ve learned from my years in Paris is that French brands prioritize quality. Whether it’s the softness of a cotton tee or the durability of a winter coat, you can trust that these pieces are made to last.
Unique Designs: French children’s fashion strikes the perfect balance between classic and contemporary. You’ll find pieces that are both stylish and practical, making them perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
Sustainability: Another trend I’ve noticed is the growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices. Many French brands are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact, whether it’s through sustainable materials, ethical production methods or creating second hand programs for their customers.
Wardrobe Essentials for a Parisian Kid Look
To create a chic yet practical wardrobe for kids, focus on these essentials:
- A crisp white shirt – pairs well with jeans, skirts, or layered under sweaters. Classic or with a mandarin collar for the boys, with a chic ruffled neckline for girls.
- A versatile dress – In a neutral color – think navy blue, ecru or brown – timeless and effortless, perfect for any occasion paired with wool tights in the wintertime or cute leather sandals in the summer. Bonus points if it’s sleeveless and you add a feminine, frilly blouse peaking underneath – très chic! Add a cardigan for chilly days.
- Breton striped tops – classic French touch, works with jeans, shorts, skirts for girls.
- Denim staples – a good pair of medium-wash jeans or a structured denim dress or skirt.
- Structured coats – instantly elevate a look while keeping it practical in the wintertime. Boys can wear a blazer for more formal events taking place in the wintertime like weddings and baptisms.
- Chunky knit sweaters & cardigans – great for layering, essential for unpredictable Parisian weather.
- Leather loafers, ballet flats, Mary Janes or Salomés – preferably in leather, styled with wool tights or cute sparkly socks for the warmer months.
- Leather boots, leather sandals – Boys usually wear neutral-colored leather boots in the wintertime—navy or brown are the most common—and leather sandals in the summertime—again, in neutral colors.
- Bensimon sneakers – The ultimate French sneakers for kids and adults alike. These lightweight canvas slip-ons, worn without socks, come in a variety of colors and prints. They’re machine washable, effortlessly stylish, and perfect for pairing with summer dresses, shorts, or casual trousers.
Top Picks: Best French Clothing Brands for Kids
1. Petit Bateau
Ah, Petit Bateau! This brand holds a special place in the heart of French people. Created in 1893 as an underwear brand, Petit Bateau is now a French favorite. Known for its timeless designs and impeccable quality, Petit Bateau has been dressing French children for generations. From their iconic yellow raincoat to their soft onesies, every piece feels like a little slice of Parisian charm. I loved the quality of their onesies when my boys were babies and I’ve renewed their collection of yellow raincoats from baby to size 6 years-old – and have no plans of stopping anytime soon. Fun fact, we got asked about the raincoats multiple times on our last trip to San Francisco.
2. Jacadi
If you’re looking for timeless elegance, look no further than Jacadi, created in 1976. From delicate newborn outfits to stylish attire for older children, Jacadi offers a curated collection that exudes sophistication. Jacadi is my go-to for adorable pyjamas and sweaters with cute intarsia motifs that my boys love, like a dog on a bike or colorful boats.
3. Cyrillus
Cyrillus offers classic French style with a modern twist. Their collections are versatile, featuring pieces that can be dressed up or down. French parents love their ceremony collection each spring, featuring adorable dresses for girls and suits for boys. My boys especially love their comfortable and colorful shorts.
4. Bonpoint
For those seeking luxury and sophistication, Bonpoint is the epitome of French children’s fashion. Their exclusive collections are a blend of elegance and whimsy, featuring delicate fabrics and intricate embellishments. While Bonpoint may be on the pricier side, the quality and craftsmanship are unparalleled, and their pieces are perfect for passing down to siblings.
5. Sergent Major
Sergent Major perfectly captures the essence of childhood with its playful and colorful designs. Created in 1987, this children-only brand offers a wide range of clothing that is both practical and stylish. From adorable rompers for babies to trendy outfits for older kids, Sergent Major is a go-to for many French parents.
6. Tartine et Chocolat
Tartine et Chocolat has been a staple in French children’s fashion since 1977. Known for their timeless elegance, this brand specializes in luxurious babywear, adorable plush toys, and beautifully crafted outerwear. Their soft pastels and delicate details make their pieces stand out. From chic coats to charming knitwear, Tartine et Chocolat adds a touch of refinement to every wardrobe. Truly one of the best French clothing brands for kids if you’re looking for both style and sophistication.
7. Loir Paris
Loir Paris is an emerging brand that embodies modern French children’s fashion with a playful twist. Their minimalist yet quirky designs, crafted with sustainable materials, are perfect for parents seeking something fresh and fun. From lightweight knits to bold graphic tees, Loir Paris delivers unisex styles that are ideal for mixing and matching. A newcomer, but already a contender among the best French clothing brands for kids.
8. Petit Sézane
A delightful extension of the beloved Sézane brand, Petit Sézane offers stylish, high-quality children’s clothing inspired by classic French fashion. Beyond their timeless designs, Sézane is deeply committed to sustainability, using organic fabrics, ethical manufacturing, and second-hand resale initiatives to reduce fashion waste.
9. American Vintage Kids
American Vintage, one of my Must-know French Fashion Brands Parisians Love known for its ultra-soft basics and minimalist style, now offers a kids’ collection with comfortable, easy-to-wear pieces in high-quality cotton and wool blends. Their genderless designs, vibrant colors, and relaxed fits make them perfect for both boys and girls, ensuring stylish and cozy outfits for all children. Whether it’s a soft hoodie, a classic tee, or a cozy sweater, their pieces are effortlessly cool and made for everyday wear.
10. Bonton
Bonton is a household name in French kids’ fashion, offering playful, bohemian-inspired clothing with a focus on premium fabrics and fun colors. If you’re in Paris, don’t miss their Le Marais boutique, a dreamy shopping experience filled with chic essentials for little Parisians.
11. Emile et Ida
For a touch of vintage charm, Emile et Ida creates effortlessly cool and relaxed kids’ fashion with a nostalgic feel. Their soft fabrics and delicate prints make their collections perfect for children who love comfort with style. This younger brand has quickly gained recognition for its casual yet stylish aesthetic.
Additional Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re looking for more affordable ways to add French flair to your child’s wardrobe, consider these options:
- Vinted (EU only): This popular resale platform in France and in Europe is perfect for finding pre-loved pieces from the best French clothing brands for kids. It’s sustainable, budget-friendly, and a treasure trove for savvy shoppers.
- Monoprix: A staple in French families’ lives, Monoprix offers chic and affordable kids’ clothing with a touch of Parisian style. Their collections often include adorable seasonal items that are both practical and stylish.
Shopping Tips for the Best French Clothing Brands for Kids
- Navigating Sizes: French sizes tend to run small compared to American sizes. Always go up one or two sizes.
- Sales: Watch for end-of-season sales for beautiful pieces at discounted prices.
- Boutiques vs. Online: Visit boutiques for personalized recommendations or shop online for convenience.
Conclusion
Exploring French children’s fashion has been a delightful journey for me, and I hope this guide has inspired you to discover these wonderful brands for yourself. From timeless classics like Petit Bateau to emerging gems like Loir Paris, there’s something for every parent seeking the best French clothing brands for kids. So, why not add a touch of Parisian flair to your child’s wardrobe? After all, Paris is always a good idea!
Additional Resources
For those eager to start shopping, here are some links to online stores and official brand websites:
- Petit Bateau: www.petit-bateau.us
- Jacadi: www.jacadi.us
- Cyrillus: cyrillus.com
- Bonpoint: us.bonpoint.com
- Sergent Major: en.sergent-major.com
- Tartine et Chocolat: www.tartine-et-chocolat.com/en
- Loir Paris: loirparis.fr
- Petit Sézane: www.sezane.com/us/petit-sezane
- American Vintage Kids: www.americanvintage-store.com/us/en/kids-collection/
- Bonton: www.bonton.fr/en?country=US
- Emile et Ida: www.emileetida.com/en
Multi-brand retailers are also a great way to shop from the US:
- Smallable is a Paris based multi-brand retailer with a great selection of French brands
- Mytheresa is another great ressource for shopping children’s clothing internationally
And if you find yourself in Paris, be sure to visit these Parisian boutiques specializing in children’s clothing:
- Petit Bateau Flagship Store: 116 Avenue Des Champs Elysées, 75008 Paris
- Jacadi Boutique: 17, rue Tronchet, 75008 Paris
- Cyrillus Paris: 16, rue de Sèvres, 75006 Paris
- Bonpoint: 6, rue de Tournon, 75006 Paris
- Sergent Major: 82 Pass. du Havre, 75009 Paris
- Tartine et Chocolat: 266 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75007 Paris
- Loir Paris: now available at les Galeries Lafayette Hausmann, check their website for updates!
- Petit Sézane: Available at the Sézane Appartement – 63 Boulevard des Batignolles, 75008 Paris
- American Vintage Kids: Available at select American Vintage boutiques and Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche —check their website for the latest locations.
- Bonton: The must-visit flagship store in Le Marais—5 Boulevard des Filles du Calvaire, 75003 Paris
- Emile et Ida: Available at Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche and 3 boutiques in Paris – the most central: 32 rue de Richelieu, 75001 Paris
If you’re visiting Paris with your family, check out my Expert Guide to the Best Family-Friendly Playgrounds in Paris for more tips on enjoying the city with kids.
Happy shopping, and à bientôt!