I am loving this month’s guest post and as the owner of a dress agency I truly believe that quality is worth paying for even with children’s clothes, especially if they get passed down through the generations.

John Lewis guest blogger and mum of two Rachel Hunter offers tips on clothes shopping for the family.

“You’ve done it again,” says my husband wearily as we sit down to breakfast. A quick glance shows that he’s right. I have indeed dressed my four-year-old son in exactly the same outfit his dad is wearing – a blue Gant cardi over a checked shirt with slouchy jeans and trainers. Only in my son’s case, the trainers have a monster face on the back.

I challenge anyone not to let their own fashion choices dictate what their kids wear – it’s just impossible not to. If you open your wardrobe and think ‘today’s a stripy T-shirt and jeans day’, it’s likely you’ll pick out something similar for your child too. It’s also hard to resist buying the clothes you like when you see them in their super-cute miniature versions.

But while we’re all guilty of it, having tiny versions of our own outfits can have its downsides. Apart from the ‘Von Trapp factor’, there are the times I’ve pulled my son’s Polo Ralph Lauren jumper out of the washing machine in horror, thinking it’s one of my husband’s that’s shrunk.

So which brands do great clothes for all the family? Diesel and Fred Perry are firm favourites in our house and Hunter wellies come in a wide variety of styles and sizes. But whether it’s designer brands or functional essentials, when it comes to buying kids clothes there are a few things I’ve learned along the way. Here are my top tips for shopping for your mini fashionistas to ensure they look good while you don’t break the bank.

Buy quality clothes in gender-neutral colours

Buying the best quality clothing I can afford has stood me in good stead. Well-made clothes in decent fabrics just don’t show as much wear and tear as their bargain basement alternatives. My younger son looks great in some of his older brother’s clothes. And if you have children of both sexes, investing in clothes in gender-neutral colours could serve you well.

Some things can be bought on the cheap, though!

I’m talking socks, pants, vests and plain T-shirts. The kids don’t care, and neither do I as chances are these will get ruined anyway. I save my money for things that really get noticed, like decent jackets, trousers and shoes.

Sign up for email alerts from your favourite companies

That way you’ll know immediately when there’s a sale on of your favourite brands and your loyalty may even be rewarded with special discount codes.

Shop for next season

You’ll get great discounts if you buy your winter coats in summer or swimming costumes in January. Just remember to allow for growing room!

Hand down your own children’s clothes

It encourages friends and families to do the same for you!

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