Shopping Tips For Parents: Things To Keep In Mind While Buying Children's Clothing
The arrival of summer brings sunshine, ice lollies and outdoor adventures, but it also signals the annual rush to refresh kids' wardrobes. It seems simple enough: buy lightweight clothes, throw in a few hats and call it a day. But any seasoned parent knows that shopping for children's summer outfits can turn into a tricky puzzle.
Many parents, eager to keep their children cool and stylish, end up making choices that lead to discomfort, wasted money, or an overflowing wardrobe full of barely worn clothes. A too-tight swimsuit, a flimsy T-shirt that barely survives a wash, or a trendy piece that causes a meltdown because it's too itchy, sound familiar?
To avoid these all-too-common blunders, let's explore the biggest mistakes parents make when buying summer clothes for kids and how to shop smarter for a stress-free, sun-filled season.
Shopping Tips For Parents While Buying Children's Clothes; Photo Credit: Pexels
1. Choosing The Wrong Fabrics
Summer is all about keeping cool, but not all fabrics are created equal. A common mistake parents make is selecting synthetic materials that trap heat, causing discomfort and irritation.
Polyester blends may be tempting due to their affordability and durability, but they can leave children sweaty and miserable on hot days. The best choices are breathable, natural fabrics like cotton, linen and bamboo. These materials allow air circulation, wick away moisture and feel gentle on sensitive skin.
Another overlooked factor is texture. Some fabrics may look cute but feel rough, leading to irritation, especially for children with eczema or sensitive skin. Before buying, it's worth giving items the ‘cheek test': rub the fabric against your cheek to check for softness. If it feels scratchy to you, imagine how it would feel after hours of wear in the heat!
The key takeaway? Prioritise comfort over trendiness, kids will thank you when they're happily running around instead of tugging at an itchy seam.
2. Ignoring The Importance Of A Proper Fit
Parents often buy summer clothes based on their child's current size, only to find that a sudden growth spurt turns those brand-new shorts into tight-fitting disasters. On the flip side, sizing up too much can leave kids drowning in oversized clothes that hinder movement and look awkward.
The trick is to strike a balance. When in doubt, opt for slightly looser fits that allow room for growth without being excessively baggy. Adjustable waistbands, stretchable fabrics and elasticated cuffs help clothes last longer while ensuring comfort.
Shoes are another area where parents frequently misjudge fit. Sandals that are too tight cause blisters, while loose ones lead to trips and falls. A simple rule of thumb: leave a small gap (about a thumb's width) at the front of sandals to accommodate growth, but ensure straps provide good support.
Getting the right fit means fewer complaints, more confidence and better freedom of movement for summer adventures.
Shopping Tips For Parents While Buying Children's Clothes; Photo Credit: Pexels
3. Prioritising Style Over Comfort
It's easy to get carried away by adorable outfits, tiny floral dresses, miniature denim jackets, or trendy slogan T-shirts. But let's be honest: stylish doesn't always mean practical.
Kids need breathable, fuss-free clothing that allows them to run, jump and explore freely. Rigid fabrics, tight waistbands, or overly intricate designs often lead to discomfort. An itchy lace trim or stiff collar might look charming in photos, but after ten minutes of wear, it's a battle to keep them on.
Instead of focusing purely on aesthetics, opt for soft, flexible materials that allow movement. Simple, well-made staples, like cotton shorts, loose dresses and lightweight rompers, offer both comfort and style. And let's not forget easy dressing! Buttons, zips and complicated fastenings can turn getting dressed into a daily struggle, especially with toddlers.
By choosing practical yet stylish pieces, parents can ensure their little ones stay happy and active while still looking adorable.
4. Forgetting Sun Protection
Sunburn isn't just a beach-day concern, it can happen anytime children are exposed to strong sunlight. Yet, many parents forget to factor in sun protection when shopping for summer clothes.
Shorts and sleeveless tops may seem ideal for hot weather, but they leave delicate skin exposed. Lightweight, long-sleeved tops and full-coverage swimsuits provide better protection without causing overheating. Look for clothing with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to reduce the risk of sunburn.
Hats are another must-have but are often bought without much thought. Flimsy baseball caps may look trendy but don't provide enough shade. A good sun hat should have a wide brim and a neck flap for extra coverage. And sunglasses? Essential. UV-protective lenses shield young eyes from harsh sunlight, preventing long-term damage.
A little planning ensures kids stay safe under the sun without constant reapplications of sun cream.
Shopping Tips For Parents While Buying Children's Clothes; Photo Credit: Pexels
5. Overlooking Practicality
A beautiful white linen outfit might look dreamy in the shop, but in the real world of ice creams, muddy playgrounds and sticky fingers, it's a stain magnet waiting to happen. Many parents overlook how practical an outfit is until it's too late.
Difficult-to-wash fabrics, outfits that require ironing, or pieces that don't mix and match with existing clothes add unnecessary stress. Instead, choosing durable, machine-washable clothes in darker or patterned fabrics can save time and hassle.
Versatility is another key factor. A wardrobe filled with clothes that only match one specific outfit makes dressing a nightmare. Sticking to a colour scheme or choosing interchangeable basics ensures maximum wearability with minimal effort.
The best summer clothes are easy to clean, mix and match, so kids can get dirty without parents worrying about every spill.
6. Not Considering Footwear Needs
Barefoot days are wonderful, but kids still need proper footwear for summer activities. A common mistake is choosing shoes based on appearance rather than function.
Flip-flops may seem like a summer essential, but they offer little support and can cause tripping. Similarly, plastic jelly sandals, while nostalgic, often cause painful blisters. The best summer footwear includes lightweight, breathable trainers, closed-toe sandals for rough play and water-friendly shoes for beach days.
Comfort should always come first. Breathable materials, flexible soles and adjustable straps prevent discomfort and allow children to move freely. When in doubt, let kids try walking in new shoes indoors before committing to outdoor adventures.
A well-chosen pair of summer shoes makes all the difference in keeping little feet happy and blister-free.
Shopping Tips For Parents While Buying Children's Clothes; Photo Credit: Pexels
7. Buying Too Many Trendy Items
Fashion trends change rapidly and what seems like a must-have today might be forgotten tomorrow. Many parents fall into the trap of buying trendy summer clothes that end up barely worn before they're out of style, or outgrown.
It's tempting to stock up on adorable matching sets or influencer-inspired outfits, but practicality should always come first. Instead of splurging on fleeting trends, invest in timeless staples that can be worn in multiple ways. Classic cotton tees, comfortable shorts and easy-wear dresses never go out of fashion.
Of course, a fun statement piece here and there is fine, but balance is key. A mix of practical and stylish ensures kids stay comfortable while still looking cute.
8. Forgetting To Involve The Child
One of the biggest mistakes? Buying clothes without considering the child's preferences. Parents may love a particular style, but if a child finds it uncomfortable, too tight, or simply ‘not cool', it will likely gather dust in the wardrobe.
Letting kids have a say, within reason, makes them more excited to wear their clothes. Offering a choice between two pre-approved options can make all the difference. For younger children, soft fabrics and easy-to-wear designs should be prioritised. For older kids, allowing them to pick colours or styles they love ensures they'll actually wear what's bought.
Shopping together (even if just online) helps avoid battles over ‘itchy' tops or ‘too tight' shorts. After all, happy kids mean fewer wardrobe meltdowns!
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Buying summer clothes for kids should be a fun, stress-free experience, but common mistakes often turn it into a frustrating ordeal. Choosing the right fabrics, prioritising comfort, ensuring sun protection and involving children in decisions make all the difference. By shopping smarter, parents can avoid the pitfalls of itchy fabrics, impractical outfits and endless wardrobe struggles. The goal? A simple, comfortable and practical summer wardrobe that keeps kids cool, happy and ready for adventure. After all, summer is for making memories, not for battling with uncomfortable clothes. Shop Now On Myntra
Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purposes only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories, and brands listed in this article.
