Affordable clothes for kids

Don’t rule out Mothercare. There are finds to be had, such as this cosy dress.
Corduroy dress with poloneck top, up to age eight, from £12.80, mothercare.com Photograph: PR

The smartness of the cotton poplin and the red trim look expensive, but it’s all at the price of Gap. Postage is costly, so best used for big orders.
€14.50 (up to age 14), dpam.com Photograph: PR

The best straight-leg jeans.
From £14.99 (up to age 14), H&M, 020 7323 2211 Photograph: Sarah Lee/Guardian

Every childrenswear department has a pair of cords, but when comparing chunkiness of fabric to price, these are the clear winners.
£14.99 (up to age 13), from Gap, 0800 427 789 Photograph: Sarah Lee/Guardian

A bit pricey this, but good quality in nice neutral shade.
£39.99 from Zara, 020 7518 1550 Photograph: Sarah Lee/Guardian

This top has a swanky Parisian feel, with an E­iffel tower print.
From £10.50, (up to age 12), vertbaudet.co.uk Photograph: Sarah Lee/Guardian

As smart-looking as any at The Little White Company, at a fraction of the cost. Buy online and at major Boots stores.
£13 (up to age six only), minimode.co.uk Photograph: PR