You've spent the morning wrestling with your five year old who's refused to change out of his Spiderman costume into something more respectable.
Meanwhile, your other half is wiping yoghurt off your daughter's dress that is now stained beyond repair. Getting ready for a Saturday outing can be challenging so is style a consideration of family life or are you more inclined to grab the kids and get going as quickly as possible? And, if the latter is the case, how do you make your kids look presentable when fashion is the least of your priorities?
You'll have spotted celebrities with their kids dressed in designer gear looking immaculate - but remember, their lives are different to ours! You don't have a childcare team on hand 24/7 to get messy on your behalf so try to keep fashion simple.
For younger children choose clothes covered in fun patterns or designs that will catch their attention long enough for you to dress them. Take older kids shopping with you and allow them the freedom to choose a few things that they like - within a certain budget of course!. Department stores like Debenhams have a great range of kids wear for girls and boys at reasonable price points. They're also likely to be more spacious which helps when pushing a buggy around.
On a recent shoot I dressed an 11-year old and an eight-year-old, both with their own opinions about fashion and style. Both girls fell in love with a pair of cute animal motif jumpers and gave personalities to the characters they were wearing.
For special occasions choose clothes that are smart but also comfortable. If children are too hot or feel restricted then tantrums will be imminent. Try pretty and floaty dresses for girls that will still allow them to move around and practical colours for boys so they're able to play without stains being too much of an issue.
Comfort is really important for all the family especially when travelling. Make sure you choose relaxed chinos, jeans and knitwear for yourself if you're planning a long journey. I love a cosy striped jumper and jeans for her and a relaxed polo t-shirt teamed with chinos for him.
Now that the kids are back at school, take time to look at their wardrobes to make sure you have a good range of practical everyday wear and occasion wear and remember, there's no harm in letting your little boy wear his Spiderman costume in public, especially if it makes your morning easier!
Photography: David Stanton
Styling: Ann Russell
Hair and Make-up: Susan Lucas
Models: Jason, Lisa, Ruby and Flo @ Colours Agency
Jason and Lisa are wearing clothes from USC.co.uk
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