15 of Our Favorite Wardrobe Staples for Kids

This cozy fleece hoodie is a good in-between layer for fall, spring, or even chilly summer nights at the beach. For older kids, check out nice options here and here. ($49.95, L.L.Bean)

As soon as those little legs start running everywhere, you’ll realize how important it is for all socks to have grips on the bottom. And while there are plenty of cute, colorful options out there, our preference is for plain old white…because you’ll never have to worry about mismatched pairs. (We wish we could say these won’t mysteriously disappear in the laundry, but we’d be lying. That’s just what socks do.) ($14.60/12-pack, Amazon)

These underwear aren’t cheap, but in our experience, they’ll far outlast the less expensive versions you might be tempted by. Go for cute designs or your kid’s favorite characters, and don’t worry about holes appearing after just a few washes. Psst…wait for a sale — there’s always one around the corner. ($24+/multi-pack, Hanna Andersson)

Jeans, but make them comfortable. We love these baby/toddler jeggings from Target because of their easy pull-on design and soft fabric that allows your kiddo to run, jump, and play without any uncomfortable buttons or waistbands. ($6.40, Target)

Style-wise, these look like regular grown-up jeans — but the stretchy fabric and adjustable waist make them perfect for toddlers and preschoolers still getting used to using the bathroom on their own. They hold up very well in the wash, which is important because, well…toddlers and preschoolers. ($31, Gap)

Baby dresses tend to come with adorable matching bloomers, but once you move beyond the infant sizes, you’re on your own. We like keeping under-shorts on hand to cover up toddler diapers. PS: They’re great for older kids, too, allowing for more active play in dresses and skirts. (While we’re here, we also can’t get enough of this adult version that helps prevent thigh chafing.) ($46.25/five-pack, Primary)

Boring, but important. If your kid’s big on leggings and tights, you’ll need them on hand. We like Cat & Jack’s tights for durability and price point, and we always have their leggings (which come in toddler and big kid sizes) in rotation, too. ($5.60/three-pack, Target)

It’s tough to top Hanna Andersson’s pajamas, which we love for their creative patterns, soft fabric, and sheer durability. Whether you go for baby sleepers, long johns, or matching sets for the whole family, you won’t be disappointed, and you can count on keeping these around for years. ($14.79+, Hanna Andersson)

Can’t get your kid to take off the costume when it’s time for school? No problem. This dress is halfway between a costume and a regular piece of clothing, so it won’t be quite as distracting as that deluxe, sparkly princess outfit from last Halloween. Best of all, it’s washable, so when it inevitably gets covered in food, paint, dirt, or all three, you can throw it in the washing machine — every night, if necessary (we know from experience). Psst…there are plenty more “twirl dress” designs, like Belle, Rapunzel, and Ariel. ($34.99, Amazon)

Year after year, we’re charmed by the kids’ sweaters from Janie & Jack. (Maybe it’s just that we wish they made them for grown-ups.) You’ll find traditional-but-trendy designs that are downright irresistible in baby and toddler sizes. It’s impossible to pick just one, so grab a few — especially if you hit a good sale. Then admire them in your family photos for years to come. ($33.99, Janie & Jack)

Sweatpants and jeans may be all right most of the time, but every once in a while, something fancier is in order. These khakis are mostly cotton with a tiny bit of stretch, and work great when you’re dealing with dress codes, special occasions, or nice dinners out. ($42.50, Janie & Jack)

Gap’s winter coats aren’t the cheapest out there, but they’re far from the most expensive — and they do the job well. Cozy, warm, and very washable, with a water-resistant shell and soft sherpa lining, they’ll even last multiple seasons if you get the right size (aim for slightly roomy when you buy). ($108, Gap)

If you’re starting to test the waters with those first few new bras, you can find good (and highly affordable) options at Target. These wireless, adjustable cotton-and-spandex training bras are light on support, but a good first step — and there are plenty of different styles to check out while you’re browsing. ($5.59/three-pack, Target)

Provided your kids don’t outgrow them first. These sneakers will stand up well to even the most enthusiastic playground hijinks. Their single velcro strap makes them relatively easy for kids still learning to put on their own shoes, and they come in tons of cute color combos. ($69.95, Zappos)

Somehow we never remember to buy rain boots until we’re in the middle of school pick-up in the pouring rain. So let this serve as your reminder to grab a pair before you’re cursing yourself for thinking those storm clouds looked fine this morning. Hatley’s boots come in classic solid colors, but some fun patterns, too. ($34.95+, Amazon)