For the collections of the fall/winter season 2024/25, children’s fashion enters a world of the senses in which perception is seen, heard, smelled, touched, tasted and felt. As general awareness of neurodiversity expands, children’s clothing designers are exploring the future of inclusive and adaptive design. Knowing everything from how materials feel on children’s skin to the psychology of colors is now an essential part of the design process.
As society develops an increased and more complex awareness of children’s mental and physical well-being, the industry will look at how children’s clothing can be designed mindfully and purposefully. The goal of creating optimal conditions for all children through design connects the main themes of the fall/winter collections for the 2024/25 season. Nicole Yee, Director of Kidswear at trend research institute Fashion Snoops, provides insights into children’s fashion trends for the coming shopping period.
‘Cocoon’: Neurodiverse Design
At the heart of the ‘Cocoon’ trend is a ‘zen-sational’ design that takes into account all aspects of children’s clothing, accessories and home textiles. This ranges from the feel of the material on the skin to the sensations a color palette can evoke. The aim is to promote mindfulness, self-care and healthy ways for children to express their feelings. Soft materials like cozy fleece and padded down combined with a relaxed fit also provide ultimate comfort for neurodivergent children. As consumer expectations for multifunctional clothing grow, ‘Cocoon’ showcases a neutral color palette with easy-to-mix pieces for a seasonless collection that caters to all genders. In addition to the clothing, ‘Cocoon’ footwear also offers pleasant materials and flexible shapes that enable a high level of comfort. ‘Zen-sational’ accessories that children can easily wear for therapeutic relaxation are following the trend.
‘Erupt’: Extreme Dressing
‘Erupt’ presents the continuous improvement of adaptable clothing that protects using fabrics that have a sun protection factor or a rainproof coating. Used in uncertain weather conditions and challenging terrain, the garments are designed for performance with a focus on adaptable design: special color variations, patterns and graphics create a new camouflage. Detachable sleeves and hoods, layers that can be removed or a one-handed drawstring make dressing a breeze for little ones. Soft fleece and shearling lining provide comfort and warmth. Fiery colors contrast with black and gray tones alongside sporty and outdoor-inspired silhouettes. Accessories and shoes offer optimal functionality and practicality, while vibrant tones are reminiscent of nature’s extensive color palette.
‘Vignette’: Pink dreaminess
‘Vignette’ captures a perfect moment in time. A nostalgic encounter with a blurred reality that awakens emotions and stimulates the senses. This reinterpretation of the past leads to a parody of traditions. Classic silhouettes are enhanced with fun details that add a humorous touch to the timeless pieces. Unusual proportions and cuts of classic models combine cheeky details based on previous models with unconventional colors. The reinterpretation of old and new finds its practical and inspiring expression in upcycling. Leftover denim and patchwork create a material mix that is reminiscent of the past. By comparing different times, one also discovers a coexistence of cultures that creates new meanings and contexts for the young generation.
This article originally appeared on FashionUnited.uk. Translated and edited by Heide Halama.