Easter outfits are one of those things that tend to sneak up on families. One minute you're putting up the Christmas decorations, and the next thing you know, it's Saint Patrick's Day with Easter RIGHT around the corner! The thought of even THINKING about childrens Easter clothing has literally not crossed your mind. At all!
If you're reading this in late January or early February, you're actually right on schedule. And, if it's later than that, we've still got you! Easter falls on April 5th, giving you plenty of time to find the perfect outfits for your little ones.
Whether your family does church and then family brunch, or you're more of a casual backyard egg hunt group, having something nice for the kids to wear makes the day feel a bit more special. And if you're hoping to get at least one decent family photo out of the day, matching sibling outfits are an adorable option.
Our guide covers everything you need to know about choosing children's Easter clothing that looks good and actually works for real kids. We'll talk about outfit options for girls, boys, and babies of all ages, how to coordinate family looks without losing your mind, and practical tips that'll help you find cute Easter outfits your kids won't complain about wearing.
What you'll learn in this guide:
- Why Easter clothing traditions still matter to families today
- Current Easter style favorites that work for any celebration
- Specific outfit ideas for girls, boys, and babies
- How to coordinate family Easter outfits without everyone matching exactly
- Practical shopping tips, including sizing and timing
- Ways to style and accessorize Easter outfits for different occasions
Why Children's Easter Clothing Still Matters
Families all over the world still love dressing up for Easter. We love this tradition and don't see it going anywhere. Tradition creates connection. And connection creates some of the most beautiful memories.
For many families, Easter is the first real celebration of spring. After months of heavy jackets and boots, there's nothing like pulling out your spring clothes - lightweight and pretty pastel colors. That's the signal that warmer days and sunshine are ahead!
Getting dressed up for Easter isn't just about the outfit itself. It's about marking the season, celebrating together, and creating those special moments and memories with your entire family.
Southern families have always made a big deal out of Easter dressing. Smocked clothing originated in England hundreds of years ago. Artisans would create these decorative, stretchy panels for kids clothes through detailed embroidery. The technique really took off in the American South and became a staple for special occasions. Today, smocked Easter dresses and bubbles (those adorable one piece outfits with gathered legs) are still popular because they connect tradition with celebration.
But Easter dressing isn't just for traditionalists. Many families today still do it, but they do it their way. Some go all out with formal church attire. Others go the casual, comfortable route and choose children's Easter clothing that lets kids play freely at egg hunts. Both are great, and honestly, the best Easter outfit is the one that fits your family's style and the day's activities.
The real significance of children's Easter clothing isn't about being fancy. It's about the ritual of getting ready together, the photos you'll look back on, and the memories attached to that outfit. Years from now, your kids might not remember every Sunday, but they'll probably remember that Easter dress or those shorts they wore for the big family photo.
Classic Children's Easter Clothing Styles That Always Work
Easter fashion doesn't usually change that much year to year. Kids Easter outfits tend to lean toward timeless styles that have worked for generations. That's good news if you're shopping for this year and want things that'll still look in style when they're passed down to younger siblings.
Easter Colors That Never Go Out Of Style
Soft pastels dominate Easter palettes and have pretty much always done so. Baby pink, sky blue, mint green, lavender, light yellow, and classic white all give off those spring vibes we all love! And those colors photograph beautifully, work for both formal and casual settings, and, honestly, just make kids look adorable.
Popular Easter Patterns and Prints
Florals are everywhere during the Easter season, from small daisy prints to bold botanical designs. Gingham checks in pastel colors give that sweet, vintage charm. Seersucker stripes bring a preppy, southern vibe. And of course, bunny motifs and Easter themed embroidery add the right amount of charm without being too over the top. There's literally something for everyone's taste.
Investment Pieces vs. One Time Easter Buys
When you're shopping for children's Easter clothes, it helps to think about how much they'll actually wear them. An adorable smocked Easter dress in a classic style can be worn to multiple spring and summer events, making it worth spending a bit more. Same goes for quality boys shorts, a good button down oxford, or a nice polo shirt. These things work for Easter, family portraits, birthday parties, and any other special occasion.
On the flip side, super trendy stuff (like that very specific Easter graphic tee) might only get worn once. There's nothing wrong with that if it brings your kid joy, but know what you're buying.
Our philosophy at Shrimp and Grits Kids has always been about creating classic children's clothing that celebrates childhood while remaining super practical for real families. The smocking, traditional silhouettes, and quality fabrics mean our clothes can handle active kids while still looking special. Many styles work just as well for a casual Sunday as they do for Easter morning, which is exactly how kids clothes should be.
Easter Outfits for Girls
Let's start with what everyone pictures when they think of kids Easter outfits - girls dresses. But there are so many options beyond dresses, and knowing all the possibilities helps you find something your daughter will genuinely be excited to wear.
Smocked dresses
There's a reason smocked Easter dresses show up in so many family photos. The hand smocked detail across the chest is timeless and precious on any little girl. Smocked styles typically use soft cotton or cotton-blend fabrics that actually breathe and move with active kids.
For Easter specifically, look for smocked dresses with spring details. Floral prints work beautifully, and so do pastels. And if you want something that nods to the holiday without being overly themed, dresses with subtle bunny embroidery or Easter basket smocking hit that sweet spot.
You can't go wrong with our pink-striped bunny dress. They're classic Easter for a reason. Soft pink stripes with cute bunny details and traditional smocking are exactly what comes to mind when you think of Easter dresses for girls. These styles work from newborn up to elementary age and are absolutely adorable!
The pink Easter dress remains a perennial favorite, whether in solid pastels or sweet prints. Look for options with quality construction and comfortable fabrics that keep your daughter comfy all day long.
Girls Bubbles and Rompers
If your daughter is at that super active stage where dresses equal frustration, Easter bubble rompers are a great alternative. These one-piece outfits have a puffed-out top and gathered legs with elastic at the bottom. They're adorable, let kids move around however they want, and they're perfect for toddlers who are crawling, climbing, and getting into everything.
Bubbles come in dressy and casual styles. You can't really go wrong with any bubble for Easter - smocked details, floral prints, or cute embroidery. The smocked styles in soft florals or pastels let kids run around and play and look precious for pictures.
Girls Sets - The Perfect Easter Outfit Option
Girls two piece sets have become increasingly popular for girls Easter outfits, and for good reason. A pretty top paired with coordinating shorts or a skirt gives you more mileage from your purchase. Your daughter can wear them together for Easter, then mix them with other items in her wardrobe later.
Look for sets that share the same print or color. For example, a floral print dress top paired with solid pink shorts is a cute look that doesn't feel too matchy matchy. Our white bow top paired with one of our adorable skirts or skorts adds preppy charm that works from Easter through summer.
Choosing Girls Easter Outfits by Age
For babies and toddlers, pick soft fabrics and clothing that make diaper changes easy. Look for infant Easter outfits with snaps or buttons that allow for quick changes and not anything that requires you to undress your little one completely. Comfort truly matters at this age because an uncomfortable baby won't give you those sweet photos you're hoping for.
Preschool and elementary aged girls often have strong opinions about what they want to wear. Involve them in the Easter clothing selection process whenever possible. If she's in love with a particular color or pattern, you're much more likely to have a happy kid on Easter morning. And that's a win in our book!
Girls Athletic Wear Options
Sometimes the best Easter outfit isn't a dress at all. Our girls athletic wear, like those cute pocket dresses in knit fabrics or coordinating athletic inspired sets, can work beautifully for families with more casual celebrations. Golf athletic wear dresses and coordinating polo shorts show how sporty stuff can still look put together and spring appropriate for Easter egg hunts and outdoor activities.
Boys Easter Outfits and Clothing
Boys Easter outfits don't get nearly enough attention in most style guides, which is a shame because there are so many charming options for our little dudes beyond the standard polo and khakis. Let's fix that.
Boys Bubbles and Jon Jons
If you're from the South, you already know about jon jons (also called rompers or shortalls). For everyone else, imagine a one piece outfit that combines a button down or polo style top with attached shorts, usually with pleats, smocking, or embroidery. They're impossibly cute, surprisingly practical, and one of our favorite things for little boys.
Jon jons work for boys from infancy through about age 5 or 6, depending on the child. They're perfect for Easter because they solve the "outfit staying together" problem. No shirt coming untucked, no fussing with separate items. Plus, the construction means they're actually comfortable for boys who'd otherwise spend all of Easter morning complaining about their clothes.
You can't go wrong with any color, but we do love a light blue, mint green, or even soft yellow for Easter. Seersucker fabric screams spring and adds texture. Embroidered details like Easter bunnies can be really charming on boys clothing without being over the top.
Easter bubbles for boys follow the same concept as girls versions but typically have a more structured top and boy friendly prints or embroidery. Our boys light blue bunny bubble romper strikes the perfect balance between dressy and playful. The smocked styles show how these can look dressy enough for church while being practical for busy little toddlers.
A toddler boy Easter outfit in bubble or jon jon style is the perfect combination of cute and comfortable for your little guy.
Button Down Shirts, Oxfords and Polo Shirts
Can't go wrong with a boys classic shirt, and for Easter, that usually means something in a spring color or pattern. Light blue, lavender or mint green polo shirts look fresh for the season. Boys Easter shirts in button down styles with seersucker stripes, gingham checks, or even fun prints give you slightly more dressy options.
The key with boys Easter shirts is making sure they're comfortable. Check that collars aren't too stiff and that the fabric lets him actually move in it. Boys are way more likely to tolerate "fancy" clothes if those clothes don't feel restrictive.
Pair Easter shirts with a pair of matching or coordinating boys shorts for a complete look. Khaki shorts are classic, but don't be afraid to try colored shorts in soft pastels or even fun patterns that coordinate with the shirt.
Boys Athletic Wear Options
Just like with girls, boys athletic wear can be an excellent choice for boy Easter outfits. Golf style polos in spring colors with comfortable shorts are a great balance of looking nice and being functional. These are especially great for families whose Easter celebrations include lots of outdoor activities.
A pink golf polo shirt with khaki or green shorts show how our athletic wear can absolutely work for Easter. The colors are perfectly spring appropriate, the style is put together, and the functionality means your son can actually participate in egg hunts without worrying about his outfit.
Boys Matching Sets That Do the Work for You
Our boys sets take the guesswork out of coordinating boys Easter clothes. Look for sets that include a top and bottom that already work together, so you don't have to stress about matching.
Blue pique sets with matching tops and shorts are one of our faves for little dudes. They totally work together while giving you flexibility to mix and match with other stuff later.
Choosing Boys Easter Outfits by Age
For babies and young toddlers, bubbles and jon jons are usually your best bet. They're cute, they photograph well, and they're super practical for the diaper changing stage. Infant Easter outfits in his style make dressing baby boys simple and sweet.
As boys get older (around ages 4-7), they become more aware of comfort and style. Investing in quality basics like nice polos and shorts can really pay off. These can be worn repeatedly to different events, which makes these a solid wardrobe staple.
Older elementary and middle school boys may want to dress more like Dad. Think about coordinating (not matching) their outfits with adult men's clothing for a pulled together family look.
Baby's First Easter
Your baby's first Easter deserves special attention. This milestone holiday calls for an outfit that's adorable, camera ready, and above all, comfortable for your littlest addition.
Baby Easter Outfits
First holidays carry extra emotional weight for parents. You're creating memories, taking photos that'll be cherished forever, and often sharing the celebration with extended family who are just as excited about baby's first Easter as you are. The outfit becomes part of that story.
But, all the cuteness in the world doesn't matter if your baby is uncomfortable. Scratchy fabrics, tight elastic, and complicated closures will result in a fussy baby and stressed out parents. The best first Easter outfits should blend special with practical.
Infant Easter Clothing
Babies need soft, breathable fabrics. At this stage, you're likely dealing with frequent outfit changes because of spit-up, diaper blowouts, and the general messiness of infant life. Pick fabrics that wash well and feel gentle against their delicate skin.
Temperature matters more than you might think. Early April can bring unpredictable weather, and babies can't regulate their body temperature like older kids. Have a plan for layering. A little sweater over a dress or onesie, or a bubble with a long sleep shirt underneath, gives you some different options if the temperature drops.
Easy diaper access is a non-negotiable. Look for newborn Easter outfits with snaps along the bottom or legs so you can change diapers without completely undressing your baby. Those carefully styled photos will go out the window if your baby needs a change and you have to wrestle them out of a complicated outfit.
Baby Girl Easter Outfit Ideas
Smocked dresses and bubbles made for baby girls are almost impossibly sweet. Anything soft and in pastel colors works beautifully for first Easter photos. Infant Easter dresses in floral patterns give that sweet little dressy look and keep your little ones comfy. Babies can't walk yet, but they're definitely all about some wiggling, and bubbles accommodate all that squirming while still looking precious.
Look for outfits that fit loosely enough to layer a onesie underneath in case it gets cold. You want your baby comfortable during both the service and the celebration afterward.
An Easter outfit for a baby girl should focus on comfort without losing that special occasion sweetness.
Baby Boy Easter Outfit Ideas
Boys first Easter outfits are usually bubbles, jon jons, or coordinated two-piece sets. Light blue bubbles with white collars and bunny embroidery capture that classic Easter aesthetic while also being practical for infant boys.
Soft cotton jon jons or shortalls in spring colors give a more dressed up look if that's your style. Look for them with easy snaps and comfortable, non binding leg openings.
A newborn Easter outfit boy style should focus on easy changes and maximum comfort for your little guy.
First Easter Outfit Tips
Dress your baby right before leaving or right before photo time. Keeping them in comfortable clothes until the last minute totally increases the likelihood of happy baby photos.
Bring backup outfits. Baby's first Easter usually involves a lot of family time and photo opportunities, which means more chances for wardrobe malfunctions.
Don't stress about perfection. Your baby's first Easter is special regardless of whether they're wearing the "perfect" outfit. Comfortable, happy babies make for better photos than beautifully dressed but miserable ones.
Matching Family Easter Outfits
Family Easter photos have become a cherished tradition, and getting everyone's outfits to work together without looking like a themed costume party requires some strategy.
Creating Matching Family Looks
Start with a color palette. Choose 2-3 colors that work well together and that everyone can incorporate into their Easter outfit. For example, a palette of pink, light green, and white gives you flexibility and ties everything together.
One parent might wear a pink dress or shirt, the other could wear light green, and the kids could mix and match these colors. The result looks coordinated and not overly staged.
Another approach, choose a pattern that comes in both kids and adults sizes. Gingham, florals, or even simple stripes work well for this. Not everyone has to wear the pattern. Maybe just the kids share it while parents wear complementary solid colors.
Family Easter outfits work best when everyone feels comfortable and confident in what they're wearing.
Matching Sibling Easter Outfits
Coordinating siblings is often easier (and cuter) than coordinating the entire family. Look for collections or prints that come in multiple clothing types. Matching floral print smocked dresses and bubble sets for sisters, or coordinating items in the same print but different styles for brothers and sisters create beautiful photos.
Items in similar prints but different styles work great for siblings. They can wear the same color scheme or pattern but each in a style that fits their personality. Scalloped floral shorts and tops give you that same flexibility. Sisters can rock the same print in different cuts, so they look connected without being carbon copies.
For brothers, sibling Easter outfits might be the same print in different styles, or the same colors in different patterns. Pink and blue sets hit that sweet spot where they clearly go together without looking too matchy-matchy.
Matching sibling Easter outfits make for great photos while letting each kid keep their own vibe.
Matching Parent and Child Easter Outfits
Parent-child matching has gotten really popular, and it's easy to see why. The photos turn out adorable. Moms and daughters in similar clothing styles, or dads and sons in coordinating outfits, make for photos you'll want to frame.
The trick is picking things that look like you meant to coordinate without going full costume mode. A mom and daughter in similar floral patterns but different styles (like Mom in a flowing dress and daughter in a smocked dress) look great in photos together. Same with a dad and son in matching polos and shorts. They coordinate without looking like they tried too hard.
When Coordination Doesn't Work
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, coordinated outfits just don't happen. Maybe someone hates the outfit you picked, or an item doesn't arrive in time, or your teenager absolutely refuses to participate in family matching.
And, that's totally fine. Your photos will still turn out great. Some of the best family photos happen when everyone just wears something nice that they actually feel good in, coordinated or not.
The love in your family comes through in pictures, no matter what colors everyone's wearing. The whole point of Easter outfits is celebrating together, not getting some perfect magazine style coordination.
Practical Shopping Considerations for Childrens Easter Clothing
Let's talk about the nitty-gritty of actually shopping for children's Easter clothing in a way that makes sense for your family's needs and budget.
Getting the Right Size for Easter Outfits
Kids grow fast, and Easter shopping in late January or early February means you're buying for clothing that'll be worn in early April. Factor in growth, especially for younger kids who might jump a size in a couple of months.
Check sizing charts carefully. Children's clothing sizes are notoriously inconsistent across brands. What runs "true to size" for one company might run small or large for another. Shrimp & Grits Kids provides detailed sizing information on each product page, and it's worth taking measurements and comparing them to the charts rather than just ordering based on your child's usual size.
When in doubt, size up slightly. Better to have an outfit that's a bit roomy (and that can be worn again later in the season) than one that's uncomfortably tight on Easter morning.
Dressing for Unpredictable Easter April Weather
Early April weather varies dramatically depending on where you live. Southern families might be dealing with warmth and humidity, while northern states could still be quite cool.
Layer strategically. A smocked dress over a long-sleeve onesie, or a bubble with a girls cardigan, lets you adjust for temperature. Boys can wear undershirts beneath button downs or polos if needed.
Think about the day's activities. If you'll be outside for egg hunts, choose fabrics and styles that work for play. If Easter celebrations are primarily indoors, you have more flexibility.
Keeping Kids Comfortable All Day Long in Children's Easter Clothing
Easter often involves hours of celebration. Church services, family gatherings, photo sessions, meals, and egg hunts. It's a lot. Your kids need to be comfortable enough to make it through the day without constant complaints.
Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or cotton blends. Avoid anything with scratchy tags, tight elastic, or restrictive fits. Test how comfortable something is by having your child move around, sit down, and bend over while trying on outfits.
Children's Easter Clothing Shopping Timeline
The best time to shop for Easter outfits is - the earlier the better! We know life gets nuts and super busy. We're here for you 2 months before Easter or the week of. But shopping in late January through February gives you the best selection and allows enough time for shipping and potential exchanges.
If you wait too long, popular sizes might sell out. Shop too early (like December), and you risk sizing issues as your child grows. That late January/February sweet spot works great for most families.
If you're ordering online, pay attention to shipping timelines and return policies. Order early enough that you can exchange for a different size if needed and still receive the new item before Easter.
Styling and Accessorizing Kids Easter Outfits
The outfit is just part of it. The right accessories and styling touches take a nice outfit and make it feel really special for Easter.
Hair Accessories for Girls
Easter is basically hair bow season. Big statement bows can give any outfit that cherry on top. Look for hair bows that go with your outfit colors. Soft pink bows for pink dresses, light green bows for floral patterns, or classic white hair bows that work with anything.
Just make sure the bow is comfortable. If it looks cute but gives your daughter a headache, she's not going to keep it on for long. Test things out before Easter morning.
Add a Matching Doll Outfit
For girls who love their dolls, a matching doll outfit makes Easter even more fun. When your little girl's doll is dressed up too, it becomes part of the whole celebration and usually leads to the cutest photos.
It doesn't have to match exactly. Check out the doll collection to see if there's something that coordinates with your daughter's outfit.
Layering Childrens Easter Outfits for Weather
Cardigans, lightweight jackets, and vests work as both a backup plan for temperature and a style choice. A white or pastel cardigan over an Easter dress looks great and can come off for photos if it warms up.
For boys, lightweight hoodies or one of our boys sweaters over button downs dress things up a bit without being uncomfortable. These can usually come off halfway through the day when everyone heads outside.
Tights, Socks, and Finishing Touches
For girls, tights, leggings, or frilly ankle socks complete the Easter look. White tights are still the classic choice under dresses. Pastel tights can match your outfit colors. If it's warm out, ankle socks with lace trim look sweet without adding extra heat.
Boys usually just need basic socks, but picking colors that go with the outfit (instead of white athletic socks) makes everything look more put together.
Dressing Up or Down for Easter Day
The same outfit can look different depending on how you style it. A smocked dress with patent leather Mary Janes and a big bow looks formal for church. The same dress with sandals and a simple headband works for a casual backyard party.
Think about how your Easter day will go. If you're starting with church and ending with outdoor activities, plan for both. Maybe hair starts fancy with an updo and accessories, then switches to a simple ponytail for egg hunting. Or swap dress shoes for comfortable sandals once the formal stuff is done.
Photography Styling Tips
If professional family photos are part of your Easter plans, think about how outfits will photograph. Soft pastels photograph beautifully in spring light. Patterns can be beautiful but avoid super busy or small patterns that could create weird effects in photos.
Think about makeup and grooming too. If older daughters want to wear makeup, keep it simple and natural looking. Make sure everyone's hair is trimmed and neat (or styled messy if you're going for that relaxed vibe).
The little details you add to Easter outfits make a difference. They don't need to be fancy or expensive, but they help the outfit feel special.
Shopping the Shrimp & Grits Kids Easter Clothing Collection
Now that you know what to look for, let's talk about where to find those perfect Easter outfits. Shrimp & Grits Kids has built their reputation on creating exactly the kind of classic children's clothing that works beautifully for Easter, other special occasions and every day wear.
What Makes Shrimp & Grits Kids Different
Founded by artist and mom Megan Hewitt, Shrimp & Grits Kids follows a simple philosophy - "children should be able to dress like children, and moms should be able to afford it." That approach shapes every collection.
The brand specializes in smocked clothing, traditional silhouettes, and fun designs inspired by Charleston's beautiful Lowcountry.
You'll find smocked dresses, bubble rompers for both girls and boys, coordinating family items, and classic children's apparel that celebrates childhood while being affordable.
Quality matters here. Our fabrics hold up to active play, washing, and getting worn again and again. The details like careful smocking, reinforced seams, and thoughtful sizing mean you're getting clothes that'll last way beyond one wearing.
Shop Our Easter Collection Online or In Store
You can browse our complete Easter collection online at shrimpandgritskids.com, where you'll find detailed product descriptions, sizing information, and customer reviews to help you make confident choices.
If you're local to the Charleston area, visit our boutique in Mt. Pleasant, - 1220 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Suite B1. Seeing and touching the fabrics, checking sizing in person, and getting personalized recommendations from the staff can make Easter shopping even easier!
Customer Service Support
Questions about sizing? Need help matching sibling outfits? The Shrimp & Grits Kids team is available to help. You can reach customer service at info@shrimpandgritskids.com or call 843-884-9310.
Creating Easter Memories That Last
As we wrap up this guide, let's recap what children's Easter clothing is really about - celebrating family, marking the season, and creating moments you'll remember years from now.
The perfect Easter outfit doesn't have to be the most expensive, the most elaborate, or even the most coordinated. It's the one your child feels comfortable and confident wearing. It's the dress your daughter twirls in, the bubble your son can move freely in, the set that makes your baby smile in photos.
Quality matters because kids clothes need to survive celebrations, not because perfection is the goal. Comfort matters because happy kids make for happy families and better photos. Thoughtful planning matters because it reduces last minute stress and helps everyone enjoy the day more.
Whether you choose traditional smocked Easter dresses, casual kids athletic wear for egg hunts, matching sibling outfits, or simple basics in spring colors, the choice that works for your family is the right choice.
Easter is April 5th. Start shopping now while you've got the best selection, let your kids help pick when it makes sense, and remember that the outfit isn't what matters. What matters is the time you spend together as a family. But looking absolutely adorable is totally okay, too!
Check out the Easter collection at shrimpandgritskids.com or stop by the store in Mt. Pleasant, SC. Find outfits that make Easter morning feel special and give you photos you'll cherish for years to come!
Happy Easter shopping!
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