Tiny Trends: Uggs or Upcycled?

By Shannon Bussnick, LSW

It’s just another day at the local watering hole, *playground — toddlers in a dizzying array of outfits, some in play-worn jeans and cartoon tees, others in tiny Uggs and fashionable coats.

It’s a runway of the most adorable, if not slightly comical, fashion choices. This is the world of toddler fashion, where practicality meets individuality, and parents often find themselves wondering: should we embrace the mini-me trend or stick to the basics?

Through my adventures in motherhood, I’ve noticed something interesting about both expensive and budget-friendly kids’ clothes. Yes, it stings a bit more when those pricier pieces get worn out (aka pasta sauce), but what really stays with us are the memories attached to them. Whether it’s a special button-up they wore on their first day of Preschool or during their family-filled Thanksgiving break, it’s these moments, not the fabric or the price, that cling to our hearts.

From tots in designer boots to those in hand-me-downs, or both, each choice tells a story of family, values, and love. It’s not about whether one shops at high-end stores or finds treasures in the clearance aisle; it’s about the laughter, the sauce spills, and the joy that these little people bring into our lives, no matter what they wear.

The great toddler fashion debate often boils down to “letting kids be kids” versus dressing them in trendy attire. But I think there’s a middle ground. A place where Uggs can coexist with mud-stained jeans, and fashion is both a form of expression and a nod to the practicalities of childhood. And honestly, who determined how a child should or shouldn’t dress to fit the part? After all, kids are notorious for their ability to transform any outfit into a spontaneous canvas as we awkwardly cringe with admiration, right?

There’s also something to be said for teaching our children about self-care and personal responsibility through their clothing. Whether it’s a pair of brand-named boots or more budget-friendly footwear, teaching them to take care of their belongings is a valuable life lesson.

Similarly, understanding that their worth isn’t tied to what they wear (or have) is equally important. It’s about finding joy in the simple things and learning that the most precious aspects of life are often not things at all.

But let’s not forget the fun in all of this.

Sometimes, we’re too focused on the serious side of parenting (cue: I don’t want to mess this up…) and forget about the fun. Dressing up, whether in party dresses, sweats, or year-round Halloween costumes, is a part of childhood magic. Savor it. Let them wear the wings outside. Want to be a bat for dinner tonight? Sure. It’s a way for our little ones to express themselves, utilize their imagination, even before they can articulate their preferences in words.

To me, clothing is a form of self-expression – there are hints about who you are in what you wear.”

– Marc Jacobs

And as parents, there’s a magnificence in seeing the world through their eyes, even if it means embracing fashion choices we wouldn’t necessarily make for ourselves. Or maybe, they pull out a freakishly good replica of our weekend athleisure wear like it’s no big deal. Dare we ask who wore it best?

I’ve got to say, kids have a knack for creating unique outfits. It’s amazing how they can look so unbelievably precious in anything. A pajama top, Mary Janes, and leopard-print sweats are one of my daughters’ staples. Though, if Mama wore that outside, I’d be more than tempted to tally the head turns through my loyal peripheral.

But again, this brings me back to the magic of childhood. The unapologetic existence to which these tiny trendsetters exude, and rightfully so. I have to wonder, what if we grown-ups roaming the local watering hole alongside our minions exhibited the same freedom, and creative expression when delivering our outfit of the day?

We really can learn so much from our kids.

So, as the holiday season approaches and you find yourself eyeing those adorable olive suede Uggs for your toddler, remember this: parenting is about choices, and these choices are as diverse as our children themselves.

Some will opt for practicality, others for style, and many will find a sweet spot somewhere in between. There will always be opinions, but at the end of the day, what matters is the love and care we pour into our families.

And if you’re worried about the price tag or practicality of your tiny trendsetters’ latest requests, there are always alternatives. Versatile combat boots, light-up sneakers, durable stride rites, or their favorite character slip-ons can offer the same sense of style and fun at a fraction of the cost. The world of toddler fashion is vast and varied, and there’s something for every family, every child, and every budget.

Whether it’s Uggs, Docs, Converse, or a whimsical unicorn find from Amazon hugging your child’s feet, go with it. As parents, our choices in their clothing could very well mirror our approach to parenting some days, but they don’t define it. What truly matters is the love, guidance, and values we share with them.

So, let’s enjoy the chaos and the spontaneous runway walks, remembering that in this journey, every choice, no matter how stylish, has a special role in their growth as people, as unique individuals.

But don’t hand over the credit card just yet!