Mummy-and-me fashion: A wholesome guide to coordinating outfits with your kids

Beyond a trend, mummy-and-me fashion gives you moments to bond with your child and sweet memories that last a lifetime. Here’s how to get it right.

There are few things as delightful as seeing mummy-and-me fashion; a mother and child stepping out in matching outfits. The mummy-and-me fashion trend has taken off in recent years, but I’ve always seen it beyond a cute Instagram moment. It’s a way to bond, create memories, and celebrate the connection between mothers and their children. 

Mummy-and-me fashion was exciting for me as a child. I loved matching outfits with my mum, especially because it was playful, creative, and I could tell she got so much joy from it too. I already look a lot like her, and it was always such a cute mini-me moment. Even as an adult, I’ve continued the habit of coordinating outfits with my loved ones. Some things never change.

Mummy-and-me fashion is a huge trend for mothers, but how can you pull it off without looking forced or overly coordinated? With just a little intention, you can create stylish and fun coordinated looks that are comfortable for you and your child. 

Read also: “I don’t know what to wear to work after having a baby” — we’ve got the perfect workwear guide for working mums

Mummy and me fashion - Mum and child in matching print outfits via @stephinlondon on Instagram
Mum and child in matching print outfits via @stephinlondon on Instagram

 

Why we love mummy and me fashion

Children often love to imitate their parents, and style is no exception. I inherited my love for fashion from my mum. I used to mimic her in so many ways. When mothers and children dress in coordinated outfits, it feels like a natural extension of their bond. 

It’s not just about vanity. Beyond the visual cuteness, mummy-and-me fashion can strengthen emotional connections through shared experiences. It’s a core memory your child carries into adulthood and a fun activity that makes everyday moments feel extra special. 

If you love to document your life in pictures, this can create timeless moments to treasure for years to come. I also believe it allows mothers to express their own personal style while introducing their children to fashion in a fun way. 

These tips will help you get mummy-and-me fashion right.

Match colours, not entire outfits

Mummy and me fashion - Mum and child in matching colours via @uwase_muyang on Instagram
Mum and child in matching colours via @uwase_muyang on Instagram

 

One of the easiest ways to make mummy-and-me fashion look stylish is by matching colours rather than wearing identical outfits. Pair your pastel dress with a pastel romper or shorts for your child to create a harmonious look without feeling too “matchy matchy”

You can play with softer palettes — whites, creams, pastels, or even seasonal tones like shades of brown and orange. This gives you flexibility while maintaining the coordinated effect.

Play with patterns and textures

Mum and child in complementing outfits via @jennybvby on Instagram
Mum and child in complementing outfits via @jennybvby on Instagram

 

Matching doesn’t always mean solid colours. Stripes, florals, or even polka dots can look adorable when done right. If you wear a print dress, your child can wear a shirt or pants with the same print or vice versa.

Textures are another fun way to experiment with mummy-and-me fashion. A denim jacket for you paired with a denim dungaree for your toddler instantly feels coordinated, without being identical.

Read also: Toke Makinwa gives us an exclusive look into her pregnancy fashion and skincare

Use accessories for a subtle touch

Mummy and me fashion - Mum and child in complementing outfits via @tostos_ on Instagram
Mummy and me fashion – Mum and child in complementing outfits via @tostos_ on Instagram

 

If you’re not ready for full-on matching outfits, accessories are a brilliant entry point into mummy-and-me fashion. Matching hairbands, hats, shoes, or even bags add a cute and noticeable touch. You could match your shoes to your toddler’s dress, or she could carry  a mini version of your bag. These little details look cohesive without requiring a full wardrobe overhaul.

Choose occasions to go all out

Mum and children in matching dress outfits from Becelli fashion studio via @passiboo on Instagram
Mum and children in matching dress outfits from Becelli fashion studio via @passiboo on Instagram

 

While you don’t need to coordinate outfits with your little one daily, there are moments where mummy-and-me fashion feels extra special. If you’re attending birthday parties, family holidays, or photo shoots, don’t be afraid to lean into full-on matching outfits. Go all out with elegant dresses for both you and your little girl, or matching personalised T-shirts. These moments will not only look stunning but also become cherished family memories.

Celebrate individuality

Mummy-and-me fashion - Mum and child in complementing outfits via @adjoaaa on Instagram
Mum and child in complementing outfits via @adjoaaa on Instagram

 

While coordinating is fun, children also enjoy expressing their independence. Sometimes your little one may not want to wear what you’ve picked, and that’s okay. Encourage their individuality by letting them add their own touch — a favourite pair of shoes or a beloved item as part of the look. This way, mummy-and me-fashion feels inclusive rather than restrictive. Their choices may even inspire some of yours too, but individuality is important as they can develop their personal style from it.

Read also: 3 mum influencers share what keeps them going — and their best advice for new mums

Go forth and coordinate!

Tomike Adeoye and her daughter in matching outfits via @tomike_a on Instagram
Tomike Adeoye and her daughter in matching outfits via @tomike_a on Instagram

Mummy-and-me fashion is more than a trend; it’s a special bond between a mother and child. The key is to keep it fun and comfortable. Fashion should never be a burden; rather, it should be an expression of joy.

Remember to prioritise comfort a when styling your child. Clothes that itch, pull, or restrict movement will only make them fussy, and no look is worth that struggle. Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, and avoid anything overly structured.

The beauty of mummy-and-me fashion is that you can elevate your look with accessories, shoes, or silhouettes, while your little one wears a simplified version. This way, both of you look stylish without compromising on practicality.

Don’t forget to document as well. Fashion is fleeting, but photographs are forever. Every time you and your child step out in coordinated looks, take a moment to capture it. These pictures will become keepsakes of a stage in life that passes faster than most mums would like.

So whether you’re planning a family photoshoot or just heading out for ice cream, go ahead and coordinate outfits with your child. These are the moments that become the sweetest memories.

Read more: Here’s how your couple style can be more chic than cringe

Author

  • lazyload

    Back like I never left and with even more style! Marie Claire Nigeria’s first Fashion & Beauty Editor, and now she’s back to do what she was born to do: spotlight women, celebrate fashion, and find beauty in everything. With over a decade of experience across print, broadcast, and digital media (with a PR major to boot), she knows how to tell the stories that matter. Her forever faves? A crisp two-piece set, white wine, sunny beach days, thrift store finds, and a good cheesy romcom.

    View all posts Fashion & Beauty Editor
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