It seems that there are some generational, class, and cultural preferences reflected here. As some of the others have pointed out, European children dress differently, especially those from relatively affluent families. Just like their Mamas, they have smaller, more curated wardrobes that emphasize quality items that can be passed down to siblings and cousins. Clothes are largely chosen by the parents with minimal input from the child, especially "good" clothes. Costumes, or "creative" dressing, would be discouraged unless it was for a special event. The thinking is that a child who dresses properly will behave properly.
This view is, of course, an older one, and younger parents don't always follow these "rules" today. But Alt's daughter would probably be considered to be perfectly normal child who was dressed appropriately for visiting friends or relatives. The rolled jeans would likely be a bit of fashion trendiness added by her mama, but still within the bounds of good taste.
It's interesting to read the opinions that have been expressed about this picture, especially that this is a "adult" look. To my eye, dressing a child in a "real" coat is far easier to swallow than the overly costumed princess, or skimpy "hooker", looks that I see on too many 6 year-olds these days. And I'm old fashioned enough to think that parents ought to have the final say in what their children wear in public, especially for the 10 and under crowd. Whimsy, personal expression, and creativity aren't stifled by helping a child understand that dressing is something you do for others as well as for yourself.
Do I need to start ducking for being so out of touch with modern child rearing?
