When the child models stepped out onto the catwalks at this year’s autumn/winter designer shows they looked seriously snug in their quilted jackets, gilets and coats. It seemed that every designer had given puffed-up, quilted pieces a place in their collection – great news for parents who want their kids’ clothes to be practical as well as trendy!

At Pinko and Blumarine there were leopard-print puffa jackets, which created a striking contrast to the ultra-feminine girls’ clothes. Alberta Ferretti created padded gilets in light reflective metallic fabrics and added faux-fur trim for a bit of luxury.

Ski label Moncler came into its own this season, with its collection of quilted jackets for boys and girls making a major impact on the catwalk. In a palette of orange, black, bronze and blue, these coats would work as well at the school gates as they do on the slopes.

You’ll find copycat versions of this look in the high-street stores before long – but to get a unique piece and a perfect fit, it’s a better bet to make your own. Buy ready-quilted fabric for the speediest option – or be adventurous and quilt your own. A gilet is a greet place to start, as there are no fiddly sleeves to contend with!

A word of warning, though: these jackets are so soft and cosy that you’ll want one for yourself!

Pictures courtesy of www.modaonline.it