I'm a Dad to a 3-Year-Old—These Are the 9 Children's Brands I Dress My Kid In

As a dad, I’m always on the lookout for brands that blend comfort, creativity, and personality because, let’s be honest, our little ones deserve to feel as good as they look. Whether it’s playful patterns, thoughtful fabrics, or designs that can handle a full day of adventure (emphasis on the adventure), these brands have completely stolen my heart (and taken over Ducky’s closet).

Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of questions about where I shop for him and what brands I’m loving right now. Over the years, I’ve realized that kids’ style isn’t just about looking cute—it’s about comfort, practicality, and letting our little ones express themselves while still feeling confident in what they wear.

That said, I wanted to share nine brands that I’m currently obsessed with, a mix of playful, elevated, and timeless pieces that make getting dressed each day a little easier, and a lot more fun.

Bobben Dept.

Brand aesthetic: Effortlessly cool, clean, and functional.

There’s something effortlessly cool about Bobben Dept. that caught my eye right away. The brand merges minimal design with quiet personality, clean lines, neutral tones, and pieces that move as easily as kids do. Every item feels wearable without trying too hard, which I appreciate as a parent constantly chasing comfort and practicality. I love pairing the brand’s simple tops with bold bottoms for Ducky; it’s an easy way to create a stylish outfit without overthinking it.

Ziggy Zaza

Brand aesthetic: Bold, free-spirited, and full of imagination.

Ziggy Zaza feels like what childhood should look like. Its pieces are playful but never chaotic, striking a beautiful balance between fun and intentional design. Beyond the creativity, the brand is rooted in sustainability, using organic fabrics and ethical production methods that align with how I try to shop for Ducky. I love letting him pick his favorite prints for the week, as it gives him a little voice in what he wears and keeps him excited about his clothes.

Milk Teeth

Brand aesthetic: Cozy minimalism with intentional design.

Milk Teeth has mastered the art of cozy minimalism. Its fabrics are soft, its color stories calm and inviting, and its silhouettes make it easy to mix and match. I especially love layering its pieces for chilly mornings, as they keep Ducky warm and comfortable without ever looking bulky. The brand’s designs also make it easy to coordinate outfits when we’re running late (which, let’s be honest, is most mornings).

Zara Kids

Brand aesthetic: Accessible, stylish, and dependable.

Zara Kids is one of those brands I consistently come back to. Its pieces feel on-trend but never overdone. Oversize knits, soft cottons, and seasonal collections are great for building a versatile wardrobe. I love dressing Ducky in Zara for weekends around the city, as it always feels polished enough for brunch or a quick outing but comfy enough for a long stroll in the park.

Claude & Co

Brand aesthetic: Comfort with a message.

Claude & Co is all heart. Its “milking it” slogan captures both the humor and tenderness of parenthood. Beyond the tagline, its collection stands out for organic fabrics, sustainable production, and a timeless aesthetic. I love pairing the brand’s muted basics with colorful accessories; it makes getting dressed fun without being overwhelming. The brand makes me pause and appreciate thoughtful design, which is rare in kids’ fashion.

Façade

Brand aesthetic: Minimalist, elevated, and effortlessly chic.

Façade speaks directly to my minimalist side. Its designs feature simple silhouettes and neutral tones that feel effortlessly elevated. I love styling Ducky in Façade for photo moments or casual family outings. The pieces photograph beautifully without feeling fussy. Seeing him in the brand’s sets feels like a nod to my own personal style (just scaled down for him), and it’s a reminder that kids’ clothing can be just as intentional as ours.

Gap Kids

Brand aesthetic: Classic comfort that lasts.

Gap Kids has been around forever, and there’s a reason it continues to hold a place in parents’ closets. Denim, sweatshirts, and soft tees are everyday staples for us. I love that Ducky’s Gap hoodie can survive playground adventures, messy lunches, and still look good for school drop-offs. It’s the kind of reliable brand that makes life easier, and it’s comforting to know certain pieces can be counted on day after day.

H&M Kids

Brand aesthetic: Everyday essentials that don’t compromise style.

H&M Kids is my go-to for basics that can handle spills, playground runs, and spontaneous adventures. Its collections balance playful patterns with clean essentials, so I can grab a few pieces and create multiple looks. I love layering H&M’s tees under hoodies or pairing them with jeans for school days; it’s effortless and keeps him comfortable all day. Its sustainability efforts also make me feel good about what I’m bringing into our home.

All Small Co.

Brand aesthetic: Thoughtful design with soul.

All Small Co. has a beautiful sense of storytelling behind every design. Pieces feel handcrafted and intentional—from fabric choice to the small stitching details. I love letting Ducky wear its pieces on special outings; it makes him feel like his outfit is meaningful, and it sparks conversations about thoughtful design and sustainability. Its slow-fashion approach resonates with me as a parent who values longevity over trends, and it’s reassuring to know these pieces can become keepsakes.

These brands each have their own rhythm, but together they represent how I approach Ducky’s style. If you’re a parent looking to refresh your little one’s wardrobe, consider checking out a few of these brands, and if you already have a few favorites of your own, I’d love to hear them. Feel free to send me a message—I’m always on the lookout for new finds that make childhood a little more stylish and a lot more fun.