If you’re the mum of a tween, you’ll know the feeling: you buy something they swear they love, only for it to be declared out of style a couple weeks later. One minute it’s bows, the next it’s leopard print, and before you know it, their taste has evolved faster than you can peel the sticker off the packaging.
I’ve learned the hard way that when it comes to the bigger, more practical pieces — bedding, pyjamas, the things you actually want to last — it pays to step away from trends and lean into simple, timeless patterns that get no complaints. Stripes and checks have been around forever, still feel fresh, and crucially, don’t scream a particular phase that will be deeply embarrassing in six months’ time.
My daughter loves pink. However, as she’s got a bit older, I’ve started choosing pieces that feel playful without being overly novelty-led.
Her bed is now dressed in the Stripe Frill Duvet Cover Set in Pink/Red, which feels fun without being shouty, with the frill edge adding a chic, distinctive touch.
For evenings, the Candy Stripe Button Through Pyjama Set has become a firm favourite — soft, comfortable and playful without tipping into babyish.
I did cave slightly with the Striped Bow Shaped Cushion, but at such a low price, it’s one indulgence I’m willing to live with.
Shopping for my son is a different challenge entirely. He’s less about aesthetics and more about comfort.
The Teddy Gingham Coverless Duvet & Pillowcases was an instant hit. It’s warm, practical, and somehow manages to look put-together even when the rest of the room doesn’t. The Winter Check Teddy Throw lives permanently on his bed (and occasionally migrates downstairs), while the Tartan Check Print Teddy Dressing Gown is one of those pieces that goes on after school and stays on until bedtime.
Nothing fussy, nothing trend-led — just cosy, reliable patterns that work year after year.
Interestingly, the long-lasting mindset didn’t stop at the kids’ bedrooms. It’s has made its way into the garden as well. Our outdoor cushions and pads only come out for a few months each year, which makes it even more frustrating when they feel dated after just one season.
So this time, I resisted anything too bold and went for classic stripes instead. The OHS Stripe Print Gravity Chair Cushion, along with the matching seat pads feels calm, fresh, and easy to live with. They work beautifully with our existing furniture and don’t tie me into a particular “trend year”.
There’s something oddly satisfying about knowing that when spring rolls around again, I won’t be itching to replace everything — I can simply get them out, give them a quick freshen-up, and enjoy them all over again.
Having kids has taught me that flexibility is everything. Their tastes will keep changing (probably faster than mine ever did), but choosing patterns that have stood the test of time means I’m not constantly re-buying the basics.
Stripes and checks are familiar, comforting, and quietly stylish. They let personality shine through without locking you into a moment. And honestly, anything that saves money, time, and a bit of mental energy feels like a win these days.
If you’re trying to strike that balance between fun and future-proof, this might just be the easiest place to start.