What Makes the Kids Original Artichokes Different
The Kids Original Artichokes bring back a block print design from 1995, created by Josie Bidwill and Victoria McKenzie. These aren't just a nostalgic print — they're a practical, comfortable underwear option for children who need to move freely. The design is modest and covers the bum completely, so kids can hang upside down on the jungle gym without any worries.
These used to be called Girl's Original Thunderpants, but the fit works for all kids. The fabric is 90% regeneratively grown cotton and 10% spandex, giving a soft, stretchy feel without the need for grippy elastic in the waist and leg bands.
Product Details at a Glance
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Kids Original Artichokes: Available in sizes small (2-4 years), medium (5-7 years), and large (8-10 years). You can choose the size that matches your child's age range, but the stretchy fabric also accommodates different body shapes.
Kids Original Artichokes
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Kids Original Artichokes: The brief sits in the natural crease at the top of the leg and around the high hip to navel area. This placement keeps the pants securely in place during active play without riding up or shifting.
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Kids Original Artichokes: Waist and leg bands are made from the same fabric, eliminating the need for grippy elastic. No elastic means less pressure on the skin, making these pants comfortable for all-day wear.
Sizing and Fit: What to Expect
In the small size (2-4 years), these pants are designed to sit waist-high, which makes them excellent for toilet training. As the sizes get bigger, the waist lowers a bit — but not by a silly amount, according to the design team. This means older kids still get good coverage without feeling like they're wearing a high-rise.
All kids can wear this style, and the stretch in the fabric means it adapts to different body shapes. If your child is between sizes or has a longer torso, the stretch helps the pants stay comfortable without digging in.
How to Choose the Right Size
Follow these steps to find the best fit for your child.
- Check the age range: Sizes are small (2-4 years), medium (5-7 years), and large (8-10 years). Start with your child's age, but adjust if they are on the taller or shorter side.
- Consider the waist placement: For younger kids (small size), expect a waist-high fit. For older kids, the waist sits a bit lower but still above the hips.
- Use the fabric stretch: The 10% spandex gives enough give to accommodate different body shapes, so you don't need to size up for comfort.
Care Instructions to Keep the Print Bright
To preserve the vibrant colours and life of the fabric, do not soak or bleach the pants. Use a gentle detergent in a cold machine wash and dry them on the line — not in a drier. The fabric is designed to withstand active wear, so you can wash them regularly without worrying about damage.
These pants are made locally in New Zealand, and the care routine is simple enough to follow even with busy family laundry schedules.
