The Indian kids’ fashion market was traditionally focused on practicality. Styling and accessorising were often seen as an afterthought. However, a new generation of parents is choosing to style themselves and their children differently. Today’s parents, influenced by global trends, the rise of social media, and higher disposable incomes, are adopting a new approach to dressing their children. They want their children to feel confident, stylish, and able to express their unique personalities through their outfits and accessories. This shift has led to a surge in the kids’ fashion market, offering exciting opportunities for brands and retailers.
Terms like ‘styling’ and ‘#OOTD’ (Outfit of the Day) are no longer just for Gen Z and millennials; they are now commonplace in the vocabulary of fashion-forward parents and their children. The internet has been a game-changer for the kids’ fashion industry. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have become breeding grounds for fashion inspiration, with parents around the world sharing pictures of their children in stylish outfits. This trend has been fuelled in part by premium brands offering miniature, child-sized versions of stylish accessories. The popularity of these ‘mini-me’ styles has made parents more comfortable spending on their children’s wardrobes, according to Fortune Business Insights.
This new behaviour has fuelled growth for brands specialising in kids’ fashion. The kids’ fashion market comprises everything from clothing, accessories, and footwear to beauty products. According to a Statista report, the Indian children’s apparel market generated a revenue of US$23.37 billion in 2024. The Indian kids’ footwear market holds a significant position within the children’s industry, with an estimated value of US$1.8 billion in 2023. According to Million Insights, the global children’s clothing accessories market (hats, scarves, gloves, etc.) is expected to see steady growth, driven partly by rising disposable incomes in Asia-Pacific countries like India.
While the kids’ fashion market flourishes, a significant segment of children’s accessories remains largely untapped. Niche and mass-premium brands specialising in kids’ accessories are capitalising on this trend, offering unique, trendy pieces with quality standards safer for children that stand out from the regular market. Many of these brands leverage social media marketing, using captivating visuals and influencer partnerships to reach their target audience: fashion-forward parents. Indian parents, known for their willingness to invest in their children’s well-being and happiness, are constantly seeking novel products. This parental tendency, coupled with the growing focus on self-expression through fashion, suggests significant room for further market growth beyond current projections.
