Guest Post: Fashion v. Function: Finding the Balance in Kids’ Clothes


mini
Ultra-stylish kids clothes are all the rage and moms are seeking out fashion-forward gear for their tots like never before.

Celebrity styles and high fashion fancy provoke thoughts of extravagant wish lists and all the bling and blitz that accompany the vanguard designs to fit their little princes or princesses.

How can moms and dads be sure that the next piece of the ensemble is something worthy of their hard earned dollars? Finding balance when buying for kids isn’t always easy.

Children want the best and parents want them to have it, but reasonable parents realize that no matter how fabulous the duds, the key to a great wardrobe for kids is all about function. Here are some hints to help you find the perfect balance for your own little fashionista:

Think about where she’ll wear it. If there’s no real occasion for that phenomenal party dress this season, maybe you should rethink it. Change modes and consider a great skirt and sweater that are school and play-date friendly instead.  (think USED for special items- cost will be LESS, and if your kid only wear it once or twice, it's not such a hit on the pocketbook!)

Wonder if it will last. If the great glass slippers are must-haves for the school social, test them in the store first. If they pinch the toes or are likely to be ruined if she walks through a puddle, convince her to choose something fun and hip that sparkles and shines and that she can wear without fear of devastation if it rains.
(pay for quality- quality made usually means LONG lasting! If you pay $2 for a shirt new, you KNOW it's not gonna last beyond one season) 

Take a good look. If the look is too sexy or savvy for your eight-year-old, tell her so. It doesn’t really matter if the hottest stars are wearing it down the runway if it isn’t appropriate for her. Steer her toward a similar style or motif that fits her perfectly and that you can both be comfortable with. (ok, this is a major issue with me- Kiddo may get a choice in color, but MOM picks the clothes that are AGE APPROPRIATE for her. I personally don;t go along with the make my 7 year old look like a 16 yr old fashion trend. LET MY KID BE A KID AS LONG AS POSSIBLE. The rest is gonna come later anyways, WHY hurry it up? Celebrity kids' parents may not care but this mom DOES!)

Style and function aren’t exclusive. There are some great picks that are touted by the best children’s boutiques and are designed to provide both fashion-forward fun and cool functionality to any child’s wardrobe. Choose wisely. You can have it both ways!




 Ashley Justice loves fashion and is a freelance writer for My Baby Clothes dot com. Step up your tots wardrobe with these stylish baby clothes, tutus and baby hats.

Comments