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. 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!
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. There’s something beautiful about the idea of creating lasting memories through clothing.
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.
Top French Clothing Brands for Children
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.
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, colorful boats or a seagull wearing rain boots – which is essential by the French sea. The brand also often creates collections around different French cities or events: Paris, Tennis, Normandy.
Cyrillus
Cyrillus is another favorite of mine, offering classic French style with a modern twist. Their collections are versatile, featuring pieces that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Cyrillus is a reference for many French parents and brides-to-be as they release an extensive ceremony collection each spring with adorable dresses for the girls and suits for the boys. My boys especially love their shorts for their confort and fun colors.
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 truly unparalleled and the pieces can easily be passed down to siblings, cousins and future generations.
Sergent Major
Sergent Major is a brand that 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, their collections are designed with comfort and durability in mind. I’ve always been impressed by their attention to detail, from the quality of the fabrics to the thoughtful design elements that make dressing kids a breeze. Their commitment to quality and affordability makes them a go-to choice for many French parents, including myself!
Shopping Tips for French Children’s Clothing
Navigating French sizes can be a bit tricky at first, so it’s always helpful to consult a sizing guide before making a purchase. I’d say as a rule of thumb, always go up one or two sizes with French brands, as they definitely have smaller sizing than American brands. I’ve found that it’s also worth keeping an eye out for sales, especially during the end-of-season clearances. You can often find beautiful pieces at a fraction of the price!
Whether you prefer shopping online or browsing in-store, each option has its pros and cons. While online shopping offers convenience and a wider selection, visiting a boutique allows you to experience the brand’s aesthetic firsthand and receive personalized recommendations.
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. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless designs of Petit Bateau or the luxury of Bonpoint, there’s something for everyone in the world of French children’s fashion. So, why not add a touch of French 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
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
Happy shopping, and à bientôt!
