Velvet “Little Lord Fauntleroy” suits, for example, were trendy for boys as well as dressed up short pants, kilts, and even sailor suits. Since adults of the time dressed likewise conservatively and formally, their children literally followed suit. Meanwhile, young girls wore dresses with high necks, and full length sleeves made of silk taffeta, cotton calico, satin, and light wool. Indeed a far cry from the children’s clothing you can buy online today.

Thankfully, in the 19th century, children’s fashions changed and gave greater freedom to move, fast forwarding to children’s clothing online today with its seasonal selection of comfy tees, overalls, shorts, cardigans, leggings, and more.