We're delighted to share that Ducky Zebra has been shortlisted for Best Unisex Fashion Collection in the Junior Design Awards 2026 for our Highland Pals collection.

As a small independent children's clothing brand, this recognition means a great deal. Not just because a collection we love has been shortlisted, but because it reflects the values that have guided Ducky Zebra since day one.

Why We Create Unisex Children's Clothing

We launched Ducky Zebra nearly five years ago after becoming frustrated by the messages children's clothing often sends. Girls' clothes were frequently centred around being kind, friendly, pretty and gentle, while boys' clothes were more likely to focus on adventure, bravery, action and heroism.

These messages weren't always explicit, but they were everywhere. At Ducky Zebra, our aim is simple: to create sustainable unisex children's clothing that opens up opportunities, rather than closing them down. We want every child to feel that kindness, confidence, curiosity, friendship and adventure belong to them, regardless of gender.

The Story Behind Highland Pals

Inspired by the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, Highland Pals celebrates friendship, kindness and outdoor adventure. The collection draws on moments such as wild swimming, rowing on the loch and exploring nature together. Through playful animal characters and imaginative storytelling, it encourages children to connect with the outdoors, build confidence and embrace adventure. But just as importantly, it celebrates friendship, teamwork and care for others.

These themes are often separated in children's clothing. Adventure and action are frequently marketed to boys, while friendship and kindness are more commonly associated with girls. Highland Pals brings them together because children need all of these qualities, regardless of gender.

Rethinking Familiar Themes

This thinking runs through the collection in different ways, including our fire engine sweatshirt. We almost didn't design it, as it felt like a familiar, overused theme. But we noticed a pattern: these designs are often aimed at boys, in blue or muted colours, and centred on lone-hero narratives. What was missing was teamwork - something fundamental to firefighting in real life. So we created our own version, reframing the story around shared action, collaboration and care.

Thoughtful Design for Real Childhood

Every piece in the Highland Pals collection is made from soft GOTS-certified organic cotton and designed to be worn, loved and passed on.

Practical details are just as important as the prints themselves. Our dungarees feature a front zip that was carefully developed through extensive testing and refinement. The design supports independent dressing, makes toilet trips easier and helps children build confidence in their own abilities. Roll-down cuffs extend the life of garments as children grow, while durable fabrics help ensure pieces can be enjoyed for longer.

Every garment also includes our embroidered power button – a small tactile reminder to splash kindness and confidence, even when things feel tricky.

Looking Ahead

We're incredibly proud to see Highland Pals shortlisted for Best Unisex Fashion Collection and look forward to hearing the results in the autumn.

If you'd like to discover the collection, you can explore Highland Pals here.