I'm a Stylist and mother of two—here's how I dress my children for the holiday season.
Bettina Looney serves as an editor in residence at Who What Wear, and is known as a stylist, tastemaker, entrepreneur, and creative consultant, renowned for her discerning eye and influence across various industries. Encompassing fashion, interiors, and beauty, she converts style into meaningful experiences through personalized styling at The Bettina Looney Edit.
Christmas has always held a special place in our hearts, but having two little ones this year makes it feel even more magical. We're thrilled to host in our new home, allowing our loved ones to come together at last. There's something enchanting about children during the holiday season—their joyful anticipation and the new family traditions we're creating together evoke memories of my own childhood. I can vividly recall wearing heavy velvet dresses with a bow just above my bangs, soaking up every moment.
Holiday attire has turned into one of our cherished traditions, particularly coordinating outfits for the boys and their cousins. I aim for pieces that are comfortable enough to wear throughout the day and can be reused later. There’s something delightful about kids running around in their festive outfits on Christmas Day—tiny feet moving from room to room with hands covered in chocolate or cookie crumbs, completely lost in their fun. Watching them brings me back to my own childhood, making these moments even more precious.
As the year winds down, I find myself attracted to tartan, soft stripes, gingham, and cozy knits. This season, I've come across many beautiful Fair Isle jumpers and cardigans that capture the festive spirit without being overly extravagant. I prioritize selecting cozy, practical items that can continue to be worn after Christmas, and ideally passed down to a cousin or friend when my kids outgrow them.
Here are a few festive favorites I'm considering for the boys and their cousins this year.
**Comfy Cashmere**
I can’t believe how small Salvador was last Christmas, living in the cutest outfits that remained soft even after several washes.
**Shop My Favorites**
- H&M: 2-Piece Fine-Knit Cotton Set
- Belle Enfant: Wrap Top, Leggings & Tassel Hat Set - Snow White
**Father Christmas**
The boys were a bit perplexed by him, but those moments bundled up in their cozy knits are memories I’ll cherish forever.
**Shop My Favorites**
- Polo Ralph Lauren: Cable-Knit Cotton Scarf
- The Little Tailor: Baby 100% Cotton Cable Knit Romper and Hat Gift Set
- Polo Ralph Lauren: Kids' Cabled Cotton Crewneck Sweater
**Heritage Style**
I enjoy dressing the boys in matching outfits, and the sailor onesies from La Coqueta were ideal for them to wear during Thanksgiving.
**Shop My Favorites**
- La Coqueta: Navy Antonio Baby Boy Set
- La Coqueta: Ivory Leather Toddler T-Bar Shoes
**Little Helper on Tree Duty**
Santi appeared so grown up in this coordinated neutral outfit! The jacket has proven to be versatile and easy to wear on various occasions.
**Shop My Favorites**
- Elephantito: Lakke Driver Loafers
- Carter's: Organic Cotton Western Jacket
- ZARA: Lined Corduroy Pants With Buttons
- Next: Cream/Brown Cord Collar Canvas Bomber Jacket
**Shop More of My Holiday Picks for Boys**
- ZARA: Reindeer Knit Cardigan With Wool
- La Coqueta: Chocolate Otto Velvet Baby Boy Set
- UGG: Kids' Tasman Maxi Curly Genuine Shearling Slipper
- La Coqueta: Red Tartan Bastia Baby Body Vest
- La Coqueta: Off White Ribbed Knee High Kids Socks
**Shop My Holiday Picks for Girls**
- ZARA: T-Bar Patent Ballet Flats
- La Coqueta: Red Tartan Arcadia Baby Girl Hand-Smocked Set
- ZARA: Heart Jacquard Knit Jumper
- La Coqueta: Green Antonella Velvet Baby Girl Set
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I'm a Stylist and mother of two—here's how I dress my children for the holiday season.
Bettina Looney is offering her advice on dressing children for the holidays.
