I don’t buy Emi too many items of clothing because 1) she only wears the same thing all the time and 2) I’m always expecting her to grow out of her clothing quick so I don’t want to buy too many items of the same size. But I have to say, some of my favorite items of clothing I have purchased for her were these two dresses from Hanna Andersson. I didn’t know too much about the brand, but they have a store in my local mall and the cute but simple cotton dresses caught my eye. Well after learning more about them on their website, I’m so glad that I found them.
If you’re not familiar with the brand, they are a Portland, Oregon, based brand founded by a Swedish woman, Gen Denhart. Their found principles are clothes for kids that are “hand-me-down” quality, made for play, and simple. They use organic cotton and are committed to becoming more sustainable as a company. And I have to say their cotton garments are well-made and yes are definitely of “hand-me-down” quality. I purchased two dresses for Emi right before her first birthday (of course they were a tad big for her since I fully believe in the “she’ll grow into it” way of thinking and buying). Well I just sold one of the dresses a month ago when it became a little too tight around the chest area. And even with a lot of wear and washing, it looked just as good as the day I bought it. I sold it for about $12 (purchased for $23 during one of their sales), so $11 for 10 months of use is a pretty great deal.
As for sizing, they do use a European sizing metric so 3T is the size 90cm. This is the size Emi is currently wearing and I would say the toddler clothing runs true to size.
And as for the ethics behind Hanna Andersson, they do have a Code of Conduct and independent auditors that make sure there’s no child labor, workers are paid fairly, and that they work in safe conditions. They’re also one of the brands mentioned by Andrea, in her very excellent guide on buying ethical clothing for kids.
One of Emi’s current favorites is this rainbow stripe mid dress, which still fits a year later after I purchased it. And I definitely plan to get more cotton dresses when the summer rolls around (I personally like the sleeveless dresses for her since I can layer a tee or onesie under it). If you’re interested in trying out this brand, this referral code will get you 20% off your first purchase (it also gives me 20% so thank you for helping me fund Emi’s wardrobe if you do purchase).
{November 2021 Update: I recently purchased several winter pajamas for Emi from Hanna Andersson and I have to say I love love love the quality of their PJs. The organic cotton fabric they use is the thickest of any brand and yes stretchy enough to be comfortable and snug. I highly recommend them and if you can snag them on sale—usually a Black Friday sale, I’ve seen them go for as low as $25 (they retail for $48).}
{April 2022 Update: I’m still buying clothes for Emi from Hanna Andersson as she grows to the next size (she’s now on 120cm which is 6-7). I just recently purchased these mommy and me matching dresses for Mother’s Day (I’m going to milk these years where she loves to match mama lol). The dresses are really pretty and I’m very impressed with the quality. Now I’m also thinking of purchasing some of their winter items in the next size up that are on super sale right now, though I know that’s a bit of a risk. Either way I’m a life long fan of Hanna Andersson!}