Vintage Soft Girlswear | AW26/27

This season, we’re drawn to softness – not just in texture, but in tone, attitude and mood.

Vintage Soft is a gentle throwback with a polished edge. It blends nostalgic Parisian charm with subtle retro tech references and a muted, powdery palette. There’s a sense of comfort here – tactile fabrics, cosy layers, and romantic details – but it’s not overly sentimental. Instead, it’s grounded, wearable, and quietly elevated.

At its core, this trend speaks to a shift we’re seeing in kidswear: a move away from high-saturation novelty into something more refined. It’s playful, but grown-up. Sweet, but confident. You’ll see nods to traditional schoolgirl silhouettes – boxy coats, A-line skirts, and sweater vests – but reworked in soft boucle, brushed cottons and tonal textures.

The colour story is key: warm, dusty pinks sit next to biscuit beige, cocoa, washed black and blush. These shades give vintage a fresh softness, removing any sense of costume or pastiche. The palette feels editorial, but still cosy – ideal for baby and toddlerwear brands looking to create collections that are equal parts practical and beautiful.

There’s a quiet sophistication here:

• Knitwear with crafted charm- cables, fluffy textures, and nostalgic jacquard details
• Layering pieces that feel vintage-inspired but updated – such as sweater vests, Peter Pan collars, and berets with modern badges or embroidery
• Accessories and trims that nod to personalisation and memory – Paris patches, novelty buttons, and embroidered motifs
• A styling sensibility that suggests ease, comfort, and confidence – kids who know their own mind

This trend is perfect for:

• Brands leaning into slow style, elevated basics or limited-edition storytelling
• Collections that blend modern softness with a nostalgic point of view
• Toddler and babywear ranges focused on refined comfort and touchable texture

Image Credits: @selfportraitkids, @bonpoint