Booties, hoodies and more: Sustainable kids' clothes on a budget.

There’s an unspoken, niggling thought many women have while clothes shopping for their kids (or for their nieces, nephews or friends’ children): Does buying budget-friendly options mean that I’m contributing to terrible working conditions somewhere in the world or the demise of our environment?

Being a conscious shopper when you’re on a tight budget can be harder than giving up chocolate at Easter. But we have the solution – you can have your chocolate bunny and eat it too. The answer, friends, is fashion forward brand, H&M.

It’s famous for being very easy on your wallet (tick), for stocking kids’ clothing from newborn up to 14+ years old (tick), and also for offering eco-friendly and sustainably-focused children’s clothing (big, big tick). This includes using materials like organic cotton to produce the clothes – all of which can be found in-stores marked by a green swing tag.

Being committed to sustainability, H&M encourages customers to take part in their garment collecting initiative which allows shoppers to bring in any old textiles and garments from any brand, in any condition. Really. By reusing and recycling, it not only closes the fashion loop and decreases waste, it also gives them a new life. Nice, huh?

Guilt-free, credit card-loving shopping for the kids you love. Yes – it’s possible. Here are our picks…

2-pack long-sleeved bodysuits, $14.99.

The perfect gift for a new mother? Forget frills, heavy prints or hectic details - a couple of functional, easy-to-manoeuvre bodysuits will be a god-send when she’s changing nappies at 2am. Plus, they’re made from organic cotton and feature adorable little dogs, what’s not to love?

Jersey dress, $12.99.

Like cookies and cream, pink and polka dots were made to be together. This frock made from organic cotton jersey is a go-to for every little girl in your life. Ranging in sizes from one to two months right up to two years old, it’s perfect for bub or toddler.

The striped shirt, $14.99.

You know how the Little Black Dress, a crisp white shirt and blue denim jeans are considered fashion staples? Well, I think it’s safe to add "nautical stripes" to that list, too. Blue and white stripes are not just universally flattering, they’re universally fun - exactly what you want in kids’ gear. And let’s not get gender specific here - this gorgeous knitted cotton jumper could suit girls and boys (aged nine to 14).

Patterned leggings, $14.99.

Made partly from organic cotton, these sturdy jersey leggings can be thrown on under dresses for added warmth (and colour), or worn on their own with sneakers and a cardigan once the weather turns cooler.

Yep, your child will live in these guys. Plus, it never hurts to reiterate to your loved little one that they’re a star in your eyes. All together now: naw.

Statement knitted booties, $9.99.

Gift a pair of these to a mum-to-be or buy them for your own newborn and mark my words - you will spend just as much time cooing over these booties as you will your own offspring. Knitted in organic cotton with gorgeous embroidery and a so-cute-it-hurts little teddy face and ears, these booties will keep little feet warm and extremely adorable.

The patterned hoodie, $24.99.

Find me a little boy (or girl, for that matter) who hasn’t become obsessed with dinosaurs at some point and I will bequeath you my life savings. This fun hoodie made from an organic cotton blend ticks all the boxes when it comes to a practical clothing item your child will actually want to wear. Rawrrrr.

2-pack pyjamas, $24.99.

I still fondly remember my childhood nightie that had a teddy bear on it saying "I’m positive that I’m perfect". The moral of the story? Jim jams that have a bit of sparkle and personality (and are comfy to boot) will capture your child’s imagination. These galactic-themed organic cotton jersey pjs will do just that. Let’s hope they also help your child sleep in until at least seven am on the weekend, too...

See? Sustainable fashion for kids can be easy and affordable.

This post was brought to you with thanks to H&M Australia. To be the first to know about H&M’s fashion news and deals, sign-up here.