As all parents know, late summer shopping traditionally means school uniforms, smart shoes and practical backpacks. And, while these are undoubtedly necessities, we’re of the mindset that, after a week spent in uniform, children deserve to have a weekend wardrobe full of pieces that show off their personality, character and style.

The even better news for mums and dads? Harvey Nichols’ new childrenswear department houses the latest kids collections from brands including Balmain, Burberry, Stella McCartney and Zimmerman under one roof – so there’s no need to traipse from store to store with little ones in tow. Alternatively, with the whole range also available online, you can simply wait until they’ve gone to bed and kit them out from the comfort of home. Here’s our pick of the best new pieces for autumn…

For babies

You’re never too young to learn great style – and with baby options as adorable as this how can any parent resist? If you’re looking for a chic but practical gift for new parents, Baby Mori’s jersey sleep set comes complete with everything they need to get newborns off to a peaceful slumber while Polo Ralph Lauren’s colourful babygrow makes for a brilliant unisex option. Throw in the complementary beanie to make sure they’re prepared for the colder months.

Once they’ve graduated beyond all-in-ones, however, things get really fun. Bobo Choses’ adorable teacup print sweatpants are perfect for energetic crawlers (and look great paired with Givenchy’s classic white T-shirt), while there are few more adorable matches than Stella McCarney’s embroidered chambray dress and Tartine et Chocolat’s hooded coat. Save this one for special occasions.

For the weekend

After wearing shirts and tailoring for school all week, allow kids to run free in comfortable pieces perfect for active weekends. For girls, Chloe’s blush pink sweatpants elevate casual jogging bottoms to new levels of style while Balmain’s miniature version of its signature logo jumper is ideal for a touch of mini-me dressing. Add a pretty finishing touch with Burberry’s floral print silk twill hair tie.

For boys, meanwhile, Luke Junior’s three-pack of classic T-shirts are hugely versatile (and every parent knows the value of having back-up clothing on hand). Pair with Stone Island’s hard-wearing cargo pants – which are more than up to withstanding a bit of rough and tumble – and Bobo Choses’ colourful Good Morning jumper; it’s guaranteed to bring cheer after even the most sleepless of nights. And as for shoes? Boys and girls alike will love Alexander McQueen’s glow-in-the-dark leather sneakers.

For parties

Of course certain events – lunch with their grandparents, classmates’ birthday parties – call for children to don something a little smarter. This, however, doesn’t mean their outfits can’t still be fun. If dad is a fan of a Ralph Lauren shirt (and who isn’t?), this is the perfect opportunity to introduce your son to the most reliable and flattering blue shirt on the market. Eschew standard black trousers for Tartine et Chocolat’s check numbers and finish with Axel Arigato’s embroidered sneakers – they find just the right balance between smart, stylish and comfortable.

Likewise, Zimmerman’s vibrant ruffled dress will look completely adorable while being light and breezy enough to wear all day. Again, turn to Polo Ralph Lauren for a classic cable knit cardigan should the weather turn cold and complete the look with Ancient Greek Sandals wing-embellished Ikaria sandals. We promise she’ll love them as much as you do.