Branded Kids Clothing: Top 20 Must-Know Brands for Parents
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Time to read 7 min
Introduction - Why Branded Kids Clothing Is Great For Your Little Ones
When it comes to dressing your little ones, nothing compares to branded kids clothing. Parents in New Zealand and Australia are increasingly turning away from fast fashion and instead seeking durable, stylish, and sustainable pieces that stand up to playtime, school days, and multiple hand-me-downs. Investing in branded kids clothing means you’re choosing quality fabrics, better stitching, and timeless styles that retain resale value — all while supporting a more circular approach to fashion.
Thrifting has become a staple for NZ and Aussie families, and branded kids clothing is especially popular in this scene. From Instagram Live sales to local vintage markets, parents know they can find high-quality, stylish kids’ clothing without breaking the bank. At My Little Thrifter, we specialize in curating these pieces, helping families access brands that combine practicality, nostalgia, and fashion-forward design.
In this guide, we’ll introduce the top 20 kids clothing brands every parent should know. We’ll highlight what makes each brand special, provide brief buying guides, and link you to their collections so you can start shopping or thrifting with confidence.
1. Carhartt
Carhartt is legendary for its workwear, and the kids’ line is just as robust. Known for durable overalls, jackets, and outerwear, branded kids clothing from Carhartt can handle mud, bikes, and playground adventures. Parents love its combination of ruggedness and streetwear appeal.
Buying Guide: Look for reinforced stitching, adjustable fits, and classic colours like brown, navy, and khaki. Vintage Carhartt pieces are highly sought after in NZ and Aussie thrifting communities.
👉 Shop CarharttÂ
👉 Why Kids Vintage Carhartt Is the Perfect Choice
2. OshKosh B’gosh
Few brands are as iconic as OshKosh, especially for overalls. Their denim and corduroy pieces are timeless staples of branded kids clothing wardrobes. Durable, playful, and perfect for layering, OshKosh overalls are a must-have for active kids.
Buying Guide: Seek adjustable straps and reinforced knees for longevity. Darker washes hide stains and maintain a vintage aesthetic. Thrifted OshKosh is popular across NZ and Australia for both style and value.
👉 Shop OshKosh
👉 OshKosh Overalls – The Ultimate Kids’  Vintage Staple
→ Why Vintage Kids Clothing Beats Fast Fashion
→ Why Preloved Kids Clothing Is a Win for Parents, Kids and the Planet
3. Dickies
Dickies combines workwear toughness with casual streetwear style. Its kids’ line features shorts, tees, and jackets that are perfect for school, outdoor adventures, and everyday wear. In the world of branded kids clothing, Dickies stands out for practicality and trendiness.
Buying Guide: Look for durable fabrics, elastic waistbands, and neutral colours. Vintage Dickies is highly collectible in thrift circles.
👉 Shop Dickies
4. Levi's
Levi’s denim is a global staple, and their kids’ line offers the same iconic quality. Jeans, jackets, and tees are perfect for everyday play while maintaining the style of branded kids clothing. Levi’s durability and classic design make it a smart choice for parents.
Buying Guide: Focus on adjustable waistbands and classic fits. Vintage Levi’s is highly popular in NZ thrift markets, giving parents both style and value.
👉 Shop Levi’s
5. Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren is synonymous with preppy style and timeless fashion, making it a cornerstone in the world of branded kids clothing. From iconic polos and cozy sweaters to beautifully cut dresses. Parents often turn to Ralph Lauren when they want branded kids clothes that work for both special occasions and elevated everyday looks. The brand’s emphasis on clean lines, quality fabrics, and polished detailing ensures that each item feels sophisticated yet still comfortable for active kids.
One reason Ralph Lauren has remained such a trusted name in branded kids clothing is its versatility. A single polo shirt can be layered under sweaters in winter or worn alone in summer, giving families true value across seasons. Whether it’s for a birthday party, a family photo, or simply to add an extra layer of style to outfits, Ralph Lauren delivers timeless appeal.
Buying Guide: Look for signature polos, layering-friendly cardigans, and classic colourways like navy, red, and cream. These high-quality branded kids clothes not only last but also retain their resale value exceptionally well.
👉 Shop Ralph Lauren
6. Tommy Hilfiger
Tommy Hilfiger brings bold American style to branded kids clothing. Iconic logos, bright colours, and versatile designs make these pieces both fun and practical for NZ and Aussie families.
Buying Guide: Seek preppy staples like striped tees, denim jackets, and logo hoodies. These pieces are especially popular on resale platforms and at local markets.
👉 Shop Tommy Hilfiger Collection
7. Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson isn’t just for bikers — it’s a lifestyle brand that has found a home in kids’ wardrobes too. Their children’s line includes tees, hoodies, and outerwear that capture that rugged, vintage-inspired aesthetic while still being practical for everyday wear. Within the world of branded kids clothing, Harley-Davidson stands out because their pieces are both collectible and wearable, making them a unique choice for families who appreciate nostalgia as much as durability.
What sets Harley-Davidson apart is that their branded kids clothes carry the same authenticity as their adult line. The bold logos, classic graphics, and sturdy fabrics mean these items don’t just look cool — they last through countless adventures. Harley-Davidson kids wear offers a slice of vintage culture that’s both fun and functional.
Buying Guide: When shopping Harley-Davidson branded kids clothing, keep an eye out for iconic logo prints, heavy cotton tees, and durable outerwear. These items not only give your child a standout look but also hold their value as collectible pieces. Perfect for parents who want a mix of nostalgia, toughness, and play-ready practicality.
👉 Shop Harley-Davidson
8. Nike Kids
Nike dominates the sportswear scene globally. From tees to tracksuits, their kids’ range is a staple of branded kids clothing. Parents in NZ and Australia love the combination of comfort, performance fabrics, and street style.
Buying Guide: Focus on classic sweats, logo tees, and versatile track pants. Vintage or limited-edition Nike pieces are highly sought after.
👉 Shop Nike Kids
9. Jordan Kids
Jordan’s kids’ range brings iconic sports heritage to mini wardrobes. Hoodies, tees, and athleisure sets are a must-have for branded kids clothing collectors.
Buying Guide: Seek classic basketball logos, comfortable fits, and durable fabrics. Perfect for both active kids and parents looking for style longevity.
👉 Shop JordanÂ
10. Adidas Kids
Adidas offers a perfect mix of athleisure and retro style. Their kids’ range is essential for any branded kids clothing wardrobe, known for durability, comfort, and sporty aesthetics.
Buying Guide: Look for sweatshirts, track pants, and logo tees. Limited-edition or retro styles are increasingly popular in NZ thrift circles.
👉 Shop AdidasÂ
11. Champion Kids
Champion has returned as a streetwear icon. Hoodies and sweatshirts from Champion are practical, comfortable, and fun additions to any branded kids clothing collection.
Buying Guide: Look for heavyweight fabrics, classic logo placements, and neutral colours. Vintage Champion pieces often appear in NZ and Aussie markets.
👉 Shop Champion Collection
12. Disney Kids
Disney’s characters never go out of style. From Mickey Mouse tees to Frozen dresses, Disney is a cornerstone of branded kids clothing and collectible pieces.
Buying Guide: Focus on character authenticity, durable fabrics, and proper sizing. Thrifted Disney is popular among NZ/Aus parents seeking nostalgia.
👉 Shop Disney
13. U.S. Polo Assn Kids
U.S. Polo Assn blends sporty and preppy style. Polos, tees, and sweatshirts make this branded kids clothing range versatile and stylish.
Buying Guide: Look for classic polos, colour-block designs, and easy-care fabrics. Affordable and popular in local markets.
👉 Shop Polo AssnÂ
14. Starter Kids
Starter jackets and hoodies carry a 90s sports heritage. Their bold colours and iconic designs make Starter a staple of branded kids clothing in Australasia.
Buying Guide: Focus on logo jackets, reversible pieces, and authentic retro styles.
👉 Shop Starter
15. Patagonia Kids
Patagonia is the ultimate sustainable outdoor brand. Jackets, fleeces, and tees are durable, eco-friendly, and perfect for NZ/Aus outdoor lifestyles.
Buying Guide: Look for recycled fabrics, technical jackets, and fleeces with adjustable fits. Patagonia’s resale value is excellent.
👉 Shop PatagoniaÂ
16. The North FaceÂ
North Face provides warmth and rugged durability. Puffers, fleeces, and outerwear make this a trusted branded kids clothing choice for active families.
Buying Guide: Focus on lightweight, insulated jackets and versatile colours suitable for school or outdoor adventures.
👉 Shop North Face
17. Reebok Kids
Reebok combines comfort, performance, and retro flair. Tracksuits, tees, and sneakers form essential pieces of branded kids clothing wardrobes.
Buying Guide: Look for signature logos and flexible fabrics. Vintage Reebok is often found in local NZ markets.
👉 Shop Reebok
18. Puma Kids
Puma offers sleek, sporty designs that blend performance with style. Tees, hoodies, and trainers are essential branded kids clothing pieces.
Buying Guide: Seek classic athleisure styles, vibrant colours, and durable stitching. Popular for both play and casual fashion.
👉 Shop Puma
19. NFL Kids Apparel
NFL kids’ clothing brings American sports culture to Australasia. Jerseys, tees, and hoodies are stylish and fun additions to branded kids clothing collections.
Buying Guide: Look for authentic team logos, breathable fabrics, and durable prints. Perfect for young sports fans.
👉 Shop NFL
20. NBA Kids Apparel
NBA kids’ clothing captures basketball culture in a wearable form. Hoodies, shorts, and tees are staples for branded kids clothing wardrobes.
Buying Guide: Focus on licensed logos, comfortable fits, and layering options for school or play.
👉 Shop NBA
Conclusion
Investing in branded kids clothing is more than just a style choice; it’s practical, sustainable, and often nostalgic. NZ and Aussie parents are embracing thrifting and resale markets to access high-quality, long-lasting brands that stand the test of time. From Carhartt and OshKosh overalls to Nike, Adidas, and vintage Disney classics, these brands combine durability, style, and timeless appeal.
Whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe, shopping for outdoor adventures, or hunting for collectible pieces, branded kids clothing ensures your kids look stylish, stay comfortable, and grow in clothing that lasts. Explore our blog hub and dive into the collections to start curating your own timeless kids’ wardrobe today.