James Joyner points to Robin Givhan's criticism of John Roberts' family's clothing choices.

I don't have young ones, so I've not been in the market for children's dress-up clothing.

What would alternatives be that were both appropriate to the occasion and the season? (And all that blond hair.)

Apart from puff sleeves, which I would have chosen for the little girl. There are only so many years a girl can wear puff sleeves. My time is up, for sure.

I loved my little dresses with puff sleeves, gathered skirts and bow sashes. And Mary Janes with lacy anklets.

My question would be why do they look so much like Southerners ready for church?

UPDATE: David C, commenting on that post, probably has it right.