It seems that kids are getting more and more stylish as the years go on. It’s not uncommon these days to see babies and toddlers in brand name and designer clothes. But for many, styling your tot in the latest fashions can seem a bit futile.
Kids grow quickly. This we know. They grow at an alarming rate and it seems we’re constantly buying them clothes and they’re constantly growing out of them. So, spending a chunk of money on something they’re going to grow out of in a flash can be hard to justify.
Local mum of two, Vanessa Stilwell, realised there had to be a way to dress children in nice clothing, say for a special event, without having to fork out a fortune. And so Haute Kids Clothing Hire was born.
The idea came to Vanessa as she was researching designs to start her own children’s clothing brand and realised how many of the world’s top designers actually have a kid’s range but how unattainable it is to most.
“I fell in love with the kids range of designer clothes available, and decided I had to bring this fashion to everyone” she said.
The purpose of Haute Kids is simple. Vanessa purchases, brand new and authentic designer items from across Europe and the US and hires them out for a fraction of the price.
Clothing hire has hit the fashion world in a big way over the past few years, with more and more people opting to rent an outfit for a single event rather than pay full price for something they only intend to wear once. Previously reserved for adults, Vanessa has brought the same concept to kid’s wear.
“Fast fashion has a role to play given how quickly kids grow out of clothing, and also given they can engage in messy play on a regular basis,” she said.
“However, for special events, photo opportunities or those times parents are just ‘wanting something different, the top designers have an amazing range of gorgeous kid’s garments that are the envy of many adults and I love how gorgeous boys and girls look when they rock it.”
But it’s not just about saving money, there’s a lesson to be learnt here as well. The world of fast fashion is one of the biggest contributors to climate change and with more and more people buying an item for a one-time-wear before throwing it out, the accumulation of clothing in landfill is growing at an exponential rate.
Renting an outfit helps to combat this vicious cycle and can also serve as a great introductory lesson for young kids about sustainability.
“I’m also hoping to do my bit to help with sustainable fashion, as a garment rented is one less garment purchased to end up in landfill,” says Vanessa.
“The concept of renting also opens up the opportunity for discussion with our little ones about sustainable ways to consume fashion, as planet-friendly choices should never go out of fashion!”
Vanessa is due to launch her website next week with a significant level of 100% authentic stock with items from brands such as Gucci, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi and Balmain.
The SA-based business will be available across the country with special, last-minute delivery options available for Adelaide customers.
Keep up to date with what’s on offer by following along on Facebook.
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