How to choose children's clothes: size, fabric and comfort

Children grow fast, move all the time and simply refuse to wear clothes that feel uncomfortable. So when you choose kids' clothes, looks matter, but they are not the most important thing: the right size, a pleasant fabric and freedom of movement come first. Here are practical tips to help you choose clothes your child will be happy to wear.

Understanding sizes

U.S. Polo Assn. children's sizes are given by age:

• For babies and toddlers in months, for example 6–9, 9–12, 12–18, 18–24 and 24–36 months.
• For children and teens in years, from 3–4 up to 13–14 years.

Age is only a rough guide. Children of the same age can differ a lot in height and build, so going by height is more reliable. Another good trick is to take something at home that fits well now, lay it flat and compare it with the new piece.

Fabric

Children's clothes get washed often and work hard, so the fabric needs to be both pleasant and durable.

• Cotton is soft, breathes well and suits every day, including sensitive skin. For example, this children's long-sleeve polo is 100% cotton and works well for school.
• Cotton and polyester blends keep their shape better after many washes, crease less and dry faster. A practical choice for active kids.
• A little elastane gives jeans a slight stretch, so children can run, climb and sit on the floor with ease. For example, these children's jeans contain 2% elastane.

The composition is always listed in the product description, and it is worth checking before you buy.

Comfort comes first

Clothes should let a child move freely. When choosing, look at the details:

• Waistband: an elastic or soft waistband is comfortable, and trousers don't dig in or slip down.
• Cuffs on sleeves and trousers keep them in place so they don't get in the way during play.
• Seams and labels: seams should be smooth on the inside. If a label scratches, cut it off carefully, but note the care instructions first.
• Easy dressing: for little ones, pieces with a wide neck or buttons are easier to put on and take off. Older children like to dress themselves, so it helps when that is easy.

Sets and pieces that mix and match

Children's sets are a practical choice: the top and trousers already go together, and you can also wear the pieces separately. A few wardrobe tips:

• Pick a few base colours, such as navy, white and beige, that are easy to combine.
• Two or three pairs of trousers and four or five tops already give you lots of different outfits.
• For school, a polo or a long-sleeve polo with jeans or trousers looks neat and is still comfortable.
• Always keep a spare outfit: children's clothes often need a wash.

Buying a gift

When choosing a gift, ask the parents for the child's height or current size; if that isn't possible, go one size up from their age. Keep the receipt: in U.S. Polo Assn. stores you can exchange the size within 14 days if the item is unworn and the tag is still on.

A few care rules

• Wash new clothes before they are worn for the first time.
• Wash printed items inside out and don't run the iron over the print.
• For everyday washing, 30 °C is usually enough, but always check the care label.

In short

• The size is chosen by height, not just age
• It is at most one size bigger
• The fabric is soft and suits every day
• The waistband doesn't dig in, and sleeves and trousers don't get in the way
• Inside seams are smooth and labels don't scratch
• The pieces go with the rest of the wardrobe

You can find U.S. Polo Assn. children's clothes, from babies to teens, in our online shop or in the U.S. Polo Assn. stores in Yerevan Mall, Dalma Garden Mall, MegaMall Armenia and Rio Mall (open daily 10:00–22:00). We deliver anywhere in Armenia, and within 2 hours in Yerevan.