A Trend That’s Sweeping the Nation, From Polka Dots to Faux-Fur Accessories

In recent seasons, a peculiar trend has emerged in women’s fashion: the resurgence of childlike styles, affectionately dubbed “kidcore.” Polka dots, oversized sailor collars, and sparkly jelly sandals, once the domain of kids, are now being sported by fashionistas and women looking to recapture a sense of playfulness and nostalgia.

For some, this trend is a welcome respite from the stresses of adult life. At 48, Sarah, a busy working mom, found herself drawn to the whimsical styles after a colleague introduced her to the trend. “I’ve got a hectic job, a sweet 13-year-old, and a hardworking husband,” she says. “What I don’t have is a lot of fun. So when I saw these playful styles, I thought, ‘Bring it on.’”

Sarah’s experiment with kidcore fashion began with a poplin polka-dot maxi skirt from Katie Kime and a cherry-red Coach purse shaped like a cartoon star. Her husband’s verdict? “It feels a little like I’m dating Minnie Mouse.” But Sarah was undeterred, accessorizing her outfit with a candy-bracelet Swatch and jelly sandals, and even donning a faux-fur Hare Bag from Simone Rocha to a cocktail party.

Fashion historians attribute the rise of kidcore to a desire to recapture a sense of innocence and playfulness. “For most of history, kids’ clothes were either a miniature version of adult styles or something completely different,” says Ruby Redstone, a fashion historian. “This is a really interesting reversal of the usual trend pathway.”

Others see kidcore as a reaction to the world in turmoil. “I think we’ve all become a little obsessed with nostalgia and that feeling of lost childhood,” Redstone adds. “We’re looking for ways to escape the stresses of everyday life, and fashion is one way to do that.”

The trend is not limited to clothing; accessories are also getting in on the action. Brands like Loeffler Randall and Damson Madder are offering up their own versions of kidcore chic, from stuffed-animal purses to oversized ribbon bun-wraps. Even jewelry is getting in on the fun, with designers like Bea Bongiasca and Sofia Elias creating pieces that resemble gumball machines and other childhood treats.

As the trend continues to gain momentum, designers are taking note. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in kidcore right now,” says Jessie Randall, co-founder and chief creative officer of Loeffler Randall. “Women are looking for ways to express themselves and have fun with fashion, and we’re happy to oblige.”

But not everyone is convinced that kidcore is a good idea. Some critics argue that the trend is a form of “adulting” gone wrong, with women dressing up like children to avoid taking responsibility for their adult lives. Others see it as a form of nostalgia that’s gone too far, with women clinging to childhood memories rather than embracing adulthood.

Sarah, however, is not one of them. For her, kidcore is a way to recapture a sense of playfulness and joy that’s been missing from her life. “I’m not saying I’m going to start wearing diapers and playing with dolls,” she says. “But I am saying that I’m willing to take a chance and try something new. And if that means wearing a pair of sparkly jelly sandals, then so be it.”

In the end, it’s up to each individual to decide whether kidcore is a trend that’s here to stay or just a fleeting fad. But one thing is certain: it’s a trend that’s got people talking, and that’s not going away anytime soon.