As parents, we know that kids can be quite picky. We want to give them clothing that not only looks stylish and fashionable, but also fits comfortably and is made with good quality fabrics. But how do you find the perfect balance between fashionable and comfortable? We’ll show you how to choose the right fabrics for kids’ clothing to help make the process as stress-free as possible.
1. Exploring the World of Kid’s Fabrics
When it comes to crafting, one of the most rewarding and valuable experiences is . Whether you’re a professional sewer or just a beginner, the sheer variety of fabrics available is sure to inspire you. From vibrant colors to wonderfully soft textures, the possibilities are endless!
Types of Fabrics: Broadly speaking, kid’s fabrics are divided into two categories:
- Printed fabrics – these are suitable for quilting and are available in a variety of prints and colors
- Woven fabrics – these fabrics are soft and lightweight and have a more casual feel than their printed counterparts
These fabrics come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you’re sure to find something that suits your project. Whether you’re looking for something fun and playful, or something more classic and timeless, there’s a kid’s fabric just for you.
Texture: The texture of kid’s fabrics can vary from light and airy to thick and cozy. Cotton is one of the most popular fabrics used in kid’s fashion, and its unique texture provides a great way to add interest to any project. Other popular options include twill, jersey, and corduroy. Each of these fabrics has its own unique characteristics that can bring a unique look and feel to any project.
Care: When shopping for kid’s fabrics, it’s important to consider how they need to be cared for. Most fabrics are easy to care for and can be machine washed and dried. However, some fabrics may require dry cleaning or hand washing to maintain their quality. For this reason, it’s important to understand the care instructions for each fabric before making a purchase.
2. Making Fashion and Comfort Compatible
We all crave the opportunity to be in fashion and comfortable at the same time. It’s not often that these two contradicting desires coexist, and yet, it’s a common goal of many. Keep reading for some of the ways that you can make fashion and comfort compatible.
Be mindful of what you’re wearing. This may sound like a no-brainer, but it’s important to carefully consider what you wear when trying to look fashionable while also being comfortable. Some materials are more breathable than others, and some fits are more restrictive. It pays to be mindful of what kind of fabrics, cuts and silhouettes will bring you both comfort and style.
Always size up. We tend to err on the side of caution and size down when buying clothes, especially for items of clothing that are snugger than we like. But sizing up can be your friend in this situation. Going a size up from your usual size provide more wiggle room and less restriction around the waist and arms, so you don’t feel too restricted. Paired with more breathable fabrics, this combination can be very comfortable.
Look for looser fits. Skin-tight clothing may look fashionable but it can be unbearably uncomfortable. For items like t-shirts, skirts, dresses, opt for slightly looser fits instead. This will give you more room to move about, while still looking stylish.
Choose versatile pieces. When shopping, look for pieces that can be worn for multiple occasions. This means finding clothes that you can dress up and/or down depending on the occasion. A good item of clothing should be able to take you from the office to a fun event with minimal styling.
Accessorise. Get creative with accessorising your outfits to achieve both fashion and comfort. Summer sandals, a lightweight scarf, a pair of statement sunglasses – these can all be worn to add a touch of personality to an outfit, whilst also bringing comfort. Have fun experimenting with different accessories to bring the best of both fashion and comfort to your wardrobe.
3. Taking the Stress Out of Kids’ Closet Shopping
1. Get Organized
Going clothes shopping for kids can be an overwhelming process, but it doesn’t have to be. To take the stress out of kids’ closet shopping, it helps to have a plan. Before taking your little ones to the store:
- Clean out the children’s closet or drawers first and take inventory of which items still fit.
- Create a list of what type of clothing is needed.
- Set a budget and decide how much to spend.
Having kids come to the store prepared with what they need helps to avoid unnecessary impulsive purchases.
2. Set the Mood
Create an atmosphere that is inviting. If the kids are excited about shopping, the task can be accomplished more quickly. Make it fun but keep the limits clear. Talk to them about going on a mission to save the wardrobe, bring a good attitude, and remind them of the family budget.
3. Shop Intelligently
When it comes to the actual shopping, try to keep in mind what the items will be used for. Choose clothes that are comfortable and sturdy enough to survive after being dragged around and sat in. Understand the clothing needs for all the upcoming activities and look for items that can be versatile. Make sure items that can be dressed up or down can serve a purpose.
Pay attention to quality and look for items that can last. Buy fewer items of higher quality, so that when the time comes these items will still be in good shape.
4. Have Fun
Even though clothes shopping can turn into a stressful process, making it fun for children can help to put everyone in a good mood. Have a contest to see who can find the best style or color of the day. Sing songs or make up stories about the different outfits while looking around the store.
The more fun it is for the kids to be a part of the process, the quicker the shopping trip will be and the more successful the wardrobe will be. is possible if the preparation is done in advance.
4. The Parents’ Guide to Smart Kid’s Clothing Choices
When it comes to clothing for your kids, the choices can become overwhelming. Fabric, shape, color – all these aspects have to be considered when selecting items for their wardrobe. Here we provide some guidance to make sure your child looks their best and that their clothing is comfortable and practical.
Focus on Comfort and Practicality
Children generally have no interest in wearing something that makes them look uncomfortable or feel embarrassed. Your kids will be much happier sporting something they’re comfortable with and find flattering. So purchase items that are easy to move in. Stick to breathable materials that have plenty of give, like cotton or spandex.
Fashion Is a Topic for Older Kids
Younger children should never be pushed to wear something just because it’s “in fashion” or “trendy”. While it’s nice to look your best, your kids should feel comfortable in the outfits they wear. Of course, if they express interest in fashion you can talk with them about it and create guidelines for dressing in a tasteful way.
Invest in Quality
It’s best to buy items that are made of good quality materials and are built to last. You don’t want to have to keep replacing outfits over and over due to wear and tear. While it’s tempting to purchase cheaper clothing, you will end up saving money in the long run by investing in pieces that will last.
Usage of Accessories
- Don’t overdo it – If you want to provide some “pop-of-color”, stick to one or two accessories like a scarf or belt.
- Layer – Layering usually makes any outfit look stylish. It also helps in keeping your kid warm while looking trendy.
- Quality vs Quantity – Focus on quality instead of quantity when it comes to accessories. It’s better to wear a few high-quality items than a lot of generic ones.
Stay Organized
It is important to establish a structured wardrobe for your child. Don’t use clothing hampers where items get tossed into a pile. Use hangers or other types of storage systems to keep items neatly organized and easily accessible. This will help your kid to get ready faster and encourage them to take better care of their clothing.
When it comes to clothing your kids, comfort and style can be one and the same. By investing a little time in assessing your fabric choices for kids’ clothing, you can ensure that your kids have the best of both worlds: something to feel good in and something that looks good at the same time.
