SS26: the childrenswear trends from the CWF runway in Paris
Denim, sport, playful graphics & more...
Some shows remind you why childrenswear can be such an exciting space. During Paris Fashion Week, the runway curated by CWF presented a vibrant overview of the current Spring/Summer 2026 trends.
The show brought together a portfolio of brands with distinct identities but a shared approach to contemporary kids fashion. From graphic denim to sporty references and playful couture touches, the runway offered a lively snapshot of little wardrobes.
Denim remains a key fabric
Denim was one of the most visible materials on the runway, but rarely in its most classic form.
At Kenzo Kids, it appeared in a coordinated set combining a jacket and cargo trousers covered with an all-over pattern. The effect was graphic and contemporary, transforming denim into something almost illustrative while keeping a relaxed, streetwear-inspired attitude.
A different approach emerged at Boss, where denim took on a more refined tone. Clean silhouettes, minimal accessories and metallic details created a polished look that reflects the brand’s understated aesthetic.
Sport continues to shape childrenswear. Timberland leaned into its outdoor DNA with practical silhouettes and warm colour accents, particularly shades of orange that echoed the brand’s adventurous identity.
The sporty mood also surfaced through graphic elements, such as the tennis-inspired stripes seen in the Kids Around collection, where tennis references became part of a bold visual language.
Translating maison identities
For many labels, the challenge of childrenswear lies in translating the visual codes of the main line into something playful and wearable.
Karl Lagerfeld Kids did so with a touch of irony, introducing a crossbody bag shaped like Choupette, the designer’s famous cat. Paired with a black tulle dress, the look balanced humour with a subtle couture attitude.
With Lanvin, the mood shifted toward relaxed elegance: oversized polos, bucket hats and neutral tones created a wardrobe that felt effortless yet refined.
Graphic energy
Playfulness remains essential in childrenswear, and several brands embraced it through graphics and prints.
Marc Jacobs explored colourful sticker-like motifs scattered across garments, adding a pop and youthful energy to otherwise simple silhouettes.
Meanwhile, Zadig & Voltaire stayed true to its signature rock spirit, combining striped knits with relaxed layering and a slightly rebellious attitude.
Michael Kors introduced a flowing cream dress paired with a wide-brim hat, evoking a dreamy summer mood.
At the more playful end of the spectrum, Billieblush delivered its signature mix of pink, tulle and bold colour accents, a look that perfectly captures the brand’s joyful identity.
The direction of childrenswear
Overall, the runway highlighted a clear direction for the season: childrenswear is increasingly positioned between heritage, comfort and strong visual storytelling.
A balance that reflects the evolving identity of the category, where fashion becomes both expressive and practical for a new generation.
Shop all the brands here → kidsaround.com
🇮🇹 Looking for more kids fashion? Discover this playful capsule collection that speaks Italian — with “ciao” printed on the garments. Explore the story here.
