Last week I wrote about the joys of dressing girls, this time for boys.
The basic principle remains the same: If Kate Middleton didn’t pick it for George, it’s probably not the best choice. That said, you don’t have to spend a fortune; it’s easy to find dresses in classic silhouettes at budget stores like Children’s Place or second-hand shops like Once Upon a Child.
I think one of the reasons why Katherine’s decisions are so deliberate is because she’s always been thinking about the future. These kids will one day lead the Western world.
I wonder how my own decisions regarding my children (in all areas) would be improved if I were to more consciously remember the equally true promises that were written on their hearts the day they were baptized. ofThese children will be part of God’s future kingdom.
They should be beautifully and tastefully dressed. Matching their socks is not the most important thing in the world, and it is certainly not a moral issue, but it is something I like, and maybe you do too.
Helen Roy
J’onn J’onzz/Smocking
This is the male version of the smocked bishop dress I introduced for girls: it is very similar to overalls, but is usually made of a light cotton fabric, with a smocked and embroidered chest.
I have had so much fun picking out John Johns (and bishop dresses) in my kids’ favorite motifs – for example, the girls have ballerina ones and my George has a truck one.
There’s one other great thing about this product that I forgot to mention: it’s made of cotton, so it washes great. Dawn dish detergent is my favorite degreaser and stain remover. Just rub in a little and leave it. No matter how rowdy your boys are, they’ll be good as new.
look: Pleats and stitching, Feltman Brothers
Socks: navy, white or printed
I like to dress my boys in calf or knee-length socks. For boat shoes or boy’s Mary Janes, it’s not necessarily necessary, especially in the summer, but I would never dress them without socks, for example, to church.
If you choose patterned socks, make sure the color and motif match the rest of his clothing and aren’t too loud.
look: Jefferies Socks
shoes
For boys’ shoes, consider loafers, boat shoes, oxford boots, or mary janes. Oxfords are the most formal and tricky option, but they pair very well with john johns, khakis, and other shoes. I avoid suede, as it’s not durable enough for kids. Always match shoes and belts; you can’t go wrong with brown.
shirt
As I’m writing this, I realize that this is basically a guide for mini guys. I love nothing more than seeing my husband in a classic button-down shirt. White, light blue, stripes are all great. Maybe buttons are too intrusive for a baby. In that case, you can find a Peter Pan collar shirt at the link below.
Choose cotton fabrics in different weights depending on the season. Oxford shirts are made from a thicker cotton fabric than formal dress shirts, but still have a streamlined look. They work great in cooler weather.
look: Old Navy, Children’s Place, A little English
blazer
It’s a Southern staple. I remember getting my little brother his first blazer when he was 8 years old. Deep navy with brass buttons is all the rage. I’ve seen 3-year-olds show up to church in blazers and khakis. It’s so cool.
Unless you have an odd body type, there’s little need to tailor a blazer for a 3-year-old. Try Poshmark to buy high-end brands at discount prices.
look: J.Crew, Izod, Grapes in a vineyard
Pants: Chino pants
Another classic, no introduction needed. Spring and summer love bright colors. A navy blue blazer goes with everything, but khaki is a classic.
look: Grapes in a vineyard, Ralph Lauren, Children’s Place
sweater
A winter essential that will make your Christmas cards catalog-worthy, seeing a baby boy in a sweater just warms the heart.
look: Ralph Lauren, Trotter, Kiel James Patrick
Ties
Is there anything more adorable than a baby in a bow tie? This is another area where I like to incorporate family symbols and motifs that fit the child’s personality. These are things that will be packed away in keepsake boxes and passed down to grandchildren, so I recommend buying something nice. Clip-on or pre-tied ones are fine too.
I know minimalism is in fashion right now, but things can mean more than we imagine. When our children grow up and become adults, it’s nice to have tangible memories. Legacy lives in these little things. And passing it on to future generations is even better.
look: Land’s End, Izod
