WORDS BY SOPHIE HENDERSON
It’s an age-old tale. Your little one gets a brand new pair of shoes, and before you know it they’re far too small. You don’t know what to do with that worn-in (but not quite worn-in enough) pair. You promise to do things properly next time ― to make sure that they’re the perfect fit, with the ideal amount of room to grow.
But while you can’t predict your child’s pattern of growth, you can take advice from those who’ve gone through the trials and tribulations of measuring and choosing shoes for their own kids. Babies crawl and cruise before they walk, and correctly fitted shoes help their feet to develop naturally. Choosing the right size and fit is just as important when it comes to toddlers and older children alike. While every child is completely different, baby’s feet grow on average three sizes in their first year, then two sizes until they start school, and one size until they’re in their late teens.
From the adorable baby, to the confident toddler, to the mini hypebeast, we’ve rounded up the best tried-and-tested tips from some of our favourite style-savvy parents (with added help from their mini-mes). Matching sizes to measurements, we’ve got a range of kids shoe size charts to keep things simple.
We delve into the all important questions ― when should your baby start wearing shoes? How often should you replace your child’s shoes? How quickly do kids’ feet grow? Whether you’re looking to cross the key milestone that is your baby’s first steps, or elevate your adventurous little one with a box-fresh pair of trainers, now you can browse our range of designer shoes for kids with no sizing worries in sight.
Shoe Sizing for Babies
with Rajni Lucienne Jacques and Lucienne (@rajni_jacques)
‘Baby’s first shoes’ is one big step. If they’re crawling and shuffling unaided, a pair of lightweight and flexible shoes is needed to assist walking development. Choosing socks made from natural fibres will help keep their little feet cool, and even newborns need that soft support. Whether it's wool crib shoes, pre-walkers or soft moccasin slippers, take a gentle approach and let time take its natural course.
We spoke to Rajni Jacques, Allure & Teen Vogue’s Fashion Director at Condé Nast. Based in New York, we caught up on her latest experiences with daughter Lucienne, who is one year and five months old.
At what age did you buy Lucienne’s first pair of shoes?
She had her first pair of shoes before she was even born! She had all of her brother’s hand-me-down shoes (some that were never worn) and I received a lot of great baby gifts that were shoes as well! The first time I bought her a pair of shoes I was in love with was when she was one month old.
What did you look for in a pair of baby pre-walker shoes?
I looked for something that would not weigh her down. Something that felt light and easy... and ballerina shoes did just the trick!
Do you have any fit check tips for pre-walkers based on your experiences with Lucienne?
Babies are always holding onto things and moving around ― you can always see how they will begin to walk once they get comfortable moving from place to place. With my daughter, I realised that she liked to walk on the balls of her feet. For her first real shoes, I tended to choose padding, or I would pad them myself.
Do the shoes you own run true to size for Lucienne’s feet? Any advice on two different size feet?
I've found that baby sneakers run true to size ― formal shoe styles that can be trickier. I tend to go a size up so that they last longer. A thick sock can aid in making sure the shoe stays on.
Are there any notable differences in ballerinas from other types of baby footwear to consider?
Yes. Ballerina shoes use elastic or some form of cupping to hold on the foot, so I tend to buy a lot of those for her. They also make it easier for her to attempt to walk in (inside the house). Why? Because they are not heavy or bulky. They slip on and are easy. But if they don't have a ‘real’ sole, they are not great on concrete. Lighter shoes are better for in the house or if she's in the pram.
Which materials do you look for?
Anything with a little bit of stretch. So soft leathers, mesh, neoprene, etc. Those materials have ‘give’ for a wider foot, as well as a growing foot. I learned that trick the first go-around with my son, Diego. Nothing too restricting because at this age, they grow out of things so quickly.
How do you style Lucienne’s baby shoes?
Lucienne is in a stage of moving around constantly. She can not sit still. I try my best to dress her in clothing that has movement and won't restrict her in any way. So the blouson shorts and the breathable ruffled shirt are the perfect mix of ‘give’ and cuteness. She's able to move freely and just be herself. The ballet shoes are a perfect match for the look, but they're also so easy for her to run around in.
Shoe Sizing for Toddlers
with Kerry Pieri and Lila Sky (@kerrypieri)
As soon as your little one takes his/her first steps they’re a toddler. We’ve got trainers for toddlers and designer sandals to help aid their transition into the walking world.
While Kerry Pieri oversees all things fashion at Harper’s Bazaar US, we spoke with her all about Lila Sky ― her adorable mini-me who happens to hop onto her aesthetic Insta profile now and then (matching outfits included). So what about choosing shoes for toddlers?
What would your advice be to anyone looking to buy shoes for toddlers?
The ruler is your friend. Make sure you measure their feet before you order anything, because they grow so quickly. Going by inches instead of size also assures that you can't confuse the difference between US and European sizes. Also, comfort is so key. Shoes with grippy bottoms are best because toddlers love to run around, and anything they can take on and off themselves is nice for their sense of independence.
Are there any notable differences in sandals from other types of toddler footwear to consider?
I would be careful with flip flops, as toddlers feet can slip out of them. Toddlers love to run and jump and shoes should help with that, never get in the way!
Do you have any fit check tips for toddler shoes/ sandals based on your experiences with Lila Sky?
I'd say anytime I'm ordering new shoes I measure her feet. If she's between sizes I always go up. I have a couple of pairs of trainers that fit best with socks now, but will probably be great by summer with no socks. If I'd sized down she'd have grown out of them in a few months.
Which materials do you look for? Why?
In all clothing and accessories I try to get the most sustainable options ― I choose sustainable wool or cotton over synthetics. It's more difficult with shoes, but if I can do it, I do.
What do you do to take care of Lila Sky’s shoes?
I'm big on spot cleaning (my husband and Lila actually tease me about it) but if she gets mud or a little spot I like to clean them with simple soap and water in the sink right away so it doesn't stain for good. I also ask her not to run through mud, but that one is a losing battle!
How do you style Lila’s sandals?
Personally, I like a sock and sandal combo for myself, so Lila is following in my footsteps. Sandals, socks, and a little dress is so cute... if only she still let me pick all her outfits.
Shoe Sizing for Kids
Ben Anderson and Arlo (@thediaryofadad)
Especially important when your child begins to grow, the right shoes are crucial to walking development. We’ve got a range of designer shoes for kids, from trainers to adventure-proof sandals ― but be sure to check out our size chart first. How often you should replace your child’s shoes does depend on things like wear and tear, but most importantly it’s about fit.
We spoke to Ben Anderson, also known as The Diary of a Dad on Instagram. Super dad of three, his eldest son Arlo is five years old.
What would your advice be to anyone looking to buy shoes for a young child?
If you can, have your child's feet professionally measured first. Children's feet grow very quickly in the early stages.
Are there any notable differences in sneaker fit compared to other types of footwear to consider?
Trainer fits tend to be a lot more relaxed compared to more formal shoes. Trainers with a touch strap tend to hug the foot more than sneakers with laces that will often come undone quite easily in our experience.
How often do you measure Arlo’s feet? Any tips?
We get Arlo's feet professionally measured once a year, usually, just before he goes back to school in September. We then buy him his new formal shoes and trainers.
Do you have any key fit tips to consider for young children based on your personal experience with Arlo?
Be patient with young children when getting their feet measured. I remember the first time we did it with Arlo when he was coming up to three years old he hated the whole experience and was screaming the shop down. We don't even really know why, but when we tried again a few days later he loved it and he now looks forward to it.
Which materials do you look for? Why?
Arlo has a real variety in terms of materials on his shoes. Good quality leather is always going to be the preference for a shoe that we are expecting to last a long time. For more casual footwear we don't mind so much. He does own a pair of suede shoes but they aren't the most practical for a five year old boy who will always somehow manage to find a stone, dirt or a ball to kick!
How well do Arlo’s shoes fit in general?
Everyday shoes are true to size. If we buy him a designer pair of shoes we will usually go up half a size meaning that there is a bit of room to grow and they will last longer.
What do you do to take care of Arlo’s sneakers?
We used 'Crep Protect' spray and wipes on all of Arlos sneakers to help keep them in good condition. Arlo gets involved himself with the cleaning too.
How do you style Arlo’s sneakers?
We don't follow a particular style as he has a real range of sneakers. With high-tops they are usually paired with shorts or slim fitting jeans that can tuck in behind the tongue. For low rise trainers these will usually be paired with jeans or tracksuit bottoms.
Please note size charts should only be used as guides and may vary by brand