Children are your first priority in life. There are many things to consider when being a parent, as well as many decisions and choices to make. Clothing is a vital need for all people. Children cannot shop for themselves, so it is up to you to make sure that they are clothed correctly, protected and comfortable in their clothing. There are things to consider when purchasing clothes for your children. Here is a list of 10 things to consider when purchasing clothes for your child.
1. Fabric/Materials: When buying a child clothes you must consider the fabric. The child should be comfortable in the garment. Fabric should be soft and a nice touch to the skin. The most popular fabric for children is cotton. Also consider the extra materials on the garment. Are there buttons, drawstrings, or embellishments that your child could play with and may be found has a choking or safety hazard? Of course, we like clothing that is different or flashy, but it is not necessarily the safest for your child. Children like to play with things and put things in their mouth. Really inspect what you’re buying and consider outcomes that could happen. Be mindful of your baby.
2. Size/Fit: Most of the time, NOT ALWAYS, a child’s age correlates with a child’s size. That being said, if a child is 2, he/she most likely wears a 2T. But, this is not always the case, so you should try clothes on your child to make sure you are purchasing the proper fit; or if you rebutting for someone else, ask the other what size the child is wearing, so you are certain of the size. If your child looks like he/she is about to outgrow a size, buy the next size up so the clothing will last longer. If you are buying for another child, it also does not hurt to buy a size up, that way the child has a head start on clothes to wear when he/she grows to be the next size. Elastic is your friend when referring to size. Adjustable waistbands and necklines prevent clothes from being too tight. Just know if you are buying a size up for the waist to last longer, consider the fit in other areas such as length. You do not want to child to trip if the pants are too long. Consider the fit of the garment as a whole before deciding it is a perfect fit. It is true, that not all kids are the same size as the same age, so always consider fit before buying for all clothing and accessories too, such as socks.
3. Quality: Although kids grow out of their clothes at a fast rate, you still want to go for quality clothing. There are plenty of good quality clothing out there at reasonable prices; and don’t forget to shop sales! When shopping for quality, check the seams to make sure they are study and free from fraying. Of course, stay away from clothes looking like they would fall apart and/or thin fabrics that could easily rip.
4. Price: When purchasing kids clothes, go for whats affordable. Also keep in mind the quality is what determines the price, or at least what should determine the price; therefore, do not compromise the quality for the price. Of course, you have to think the more fabric the more expensive it will be. A winter coat is going to cost more than a summer outfit because the amount of materials and also the type of fabric used. You could also find a balance in your spending. Just like adults, it is okay to spend a little more on a better quality jean knowing it will last longer and then balancing it with less expensive tops.
5. Functionality: Always keep in mind why you are purchasing a certain item. There are many different occasions that a child will need clothing for. Think of the function/purpose of the clothing. Children will need play clothes, swimming clothes, holiday outfits, winter coats, etc. Another thing to think when referring to functionality is kids move around a lot, they need clothes that will move with them as well as hold up during playtime. Function is key, think a sweatshirt that doubles are a windbreaker because it is reversible.
6. Washability: Children’s clothes should be easy to wash and care for. Parents like simplicity. There shouldn’t be a childrens’ article of clothing that you have to go and dry-clean. Always read the tags inside the clothing before purchasing. If it requires too much care, then consider an alternative that can be easily laundered at home. Another tip: wash your child’s clothes after purchasing, before wearing. This way you can wash away anything that could irritate your child’s skin, as well as have it smelling fresh and clean.
7. Season: If you are in an area where the weather changes as drastically as Chicago does, seasons matter when purchasing kids clothes. Children will need thin, light fabrics for summer to keep them cool; while in the winter, they will need coats, boots, hats and mittens, as well as heavy fabrics to keep them warm. You can always shop ahead and buy bigger, so the child is prepared ahead of time before the season changes with clothes that will fit.
8. Color: Now when I say color, I don’t mean dictating what color a child should wear, because children should be able to wear colors they like, as dress in a form of expression. In referring to color, the purpose is to consider stains. Children play and get dirty, they are kids! But if you want clothes that will last more than one trip to the park or survive a messy meal, stay away from buying a lot of light colors and white. Otherwise, there is always the magic in stain fighters and laundry detergents.
9. Appeal: When buying clothes for a child, always consider their likes and dislikes. Kids are tough to budge, so if they do not like something, chances are no matter how much you spent on it, your child will not wear it. Again, adolescence is a development stage. Children like to express themselves and create the person they want to be. As little as they are, they have opinions too. Do not limit your child on expression because of your own personal likes and dislikes. Always consider clothing that appeals to your child, as well as yourself and agree in a happy medium.
10. Sell and/or Shop Resale Shops: Let’s face it, children grow like weeds and a lot of their clothes they are only wearing once to a couple times before they are too small. Ever hear of Once Upon a Child? It is a resale shop for childrenswear and there are others shops out there that are similar. Whether you are in a tight budget or have a closet overflowing with clothes that no longer fit, resale shops are the place to go. Parents can find gently used and even sometimes new clothing there. While on the flip side, you can sell you child’s gently used clothing and get some cash to buy new clothes that fit. It is a win, win for all!
You’re child means the world to you, so make sure they are properly attired. Keep this list in mind next time you shop for a child. When in doubt, always get a gift receipt!
Feature Image Photo Credit: lighttruth
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