Let Them Be Little: Why Imaginative Play Deserves Clothes That Keep Up
November 27 2025 – Lottie & Lysh
Let Them Be Little: Dressing for Imagination, Wonder, and Wild-Hearted Days
In a quiet woodland clearing, a little girl pours invisible tea into tiny cups. Around her, rabbits gather - not real ones, but the soft kind, stuffed and loved until the fur wears thin. Her coat has long ears that bounce as she moves, and for this moment, she believes she’s one of them. A bunny among friends. A host at a magical woodland tea party.
These are the moments that shape childhood. Not the big milestones, but the muddy-kneed, wild-hearted ones. The kind where imagination runs free and time slows down just enough to let the magic in.
Why the Right Clothes Matter for Imaginative Play
We talk a lot about functionality in kidswear - warmth, durability, ease of movement - and yes, all of that matters. But when it comes to childhood, there’s another layer that often gets overlooked: imagination.
Children don’t just wear clothes. They become them. A hood with ears can transform a coat into a costume. A comfy romper becomes the uniform of an explorer. A soft swaddle becomes a superhero cape or a picnic rug for stuffed animal guests.
If clothes are too restrictive, itchy, or stiff, play is cut short. Wonder gets swapped for discomfort. That’s why we design everything with comfort at the core - so that your little ones can run, climb, dance, and dream without limits.
Outdoor Adventures Start With the Right Layers
Nature is the ultimate playground, and it doesn’t take much to enjoy it. A stick becomes a spoon. A tree stump becomes a throne. All they need is the right layering to make the outdoors feel like home.
Our Bunny Coats are a staple for this kind of play. With warm linings, soft vegan wool outers, and roomy shapes that allow for layering, they’re made to keep up with every adventure. Light enough for spring, warm enough for winter, and durable enough to hand down.
When you’re dressed right, there’s no such thing as bad weather - only more chances to explore.
Handmade with Heart: Why We Do It This Way
Every Lottie & Lysh piece is made to order in our UK studio, by real people who care deeply about quality, ethics, and the joy of creating something meaningful. We don’t mass-produce. We don’t cut corners. And we certainly don’t chase trends.
Instead, we prioritise thoughtful design: turn-back cuffs that grow with your child, reversible linings that give two looks in one, and silhouettes that are made to last through growth spurts, play dates, and everything in between.
Because childhood isn’t disposable. And neither are the clothes that accompany it.
Little Moments Become Big Memories
The tea party in the woods. The treasure hunt in the garden. A rainy day turned into an adventure with nothing more than a pair of wellies and a wild imagination.
These are the memories that last. And when we dress our children in clothes that support those moments - that feel good, fit well, and allow for freedom. We’re giving them more than just outfits. We’re giving them the freedom to play fully, dream wildly, and feel seen in all their magic.
Favourite Picks for Outdoor Make-Believe
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Wildflowers Bunny Coat – Featuring mustard vegan wool and wildflower jersey lining, complete with floppy bunny ears and an optional tail
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Smile Beanie – Soft, breathable, and perfect for chilly adventures
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Footless Rompers – Great for crawlers and early walkers
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Swaddle Blankets – Ideal for picnics, dens, or wrapping up cuddly guests
All handmade in Cornwall, all made to move with your little one.
Let Them Be Little... A Little Longer
Because there’s no rush.
No rules.
Just wonder.
🧡
Want to explore our most-loved pieces? You’ll find them ready to make memories with you - no fast fashion, no fuss, just heartfelt design made for childhood


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