In the present times, the kids have all clothing options like that of adults, and even much more. They are much more aware than the previous generations, and like to make their shopping decisions for styling by themselves. Excessive exposure to the plethora of brands and the latest fashion trends, kids of today have become brand conscious. And expectedly the trend first started in Hollywood for example the fashionable Suri Cruise.

 

Today’s parents are happy to overindulge in keeping their kids stylish, and chic. This flaw has been well realized by the fashion retailers. They are well aware of this metamorphosis of children; their near magnetic attraction to wards prominent brands. Today’s kids are consumers who guarantee a purchase and are mostly independent buyers. With nuclear family where both the parents are working, there is enough of disposable income, to splurge on branded merchandise which might be over priced irrespective of the quality that it is offering.

 

Based on the Age, Kids wear can be classified as:

Generally Size ranges are in terms of months like, 3M, 6M, 9M, 12 M 24 M .Clothing for infants should be warm. It should be comfortable. Clothing should be easy to clean .Garments should be able to evaporate moisture, hence proper ventilation. Clothing has to be roomy for diapers and not too bulky. Should be soft Babies do not like clothes pulled over their heads-hence best to use are zippers, snap fasteners or buttoned neck opening. Blue for boys and pink for girls are traditional colors, although these are becoming less important.

 

Generally Pastels are most salable. They could have delicate embroideries and appliqu work; Smocking is also an interesting option. The patterns and prints are mostly delicate and small. Fit is important so that the garment does not discomfort the baby. A layette is what primarily every retailer dealing in infant wear would keep as part of his merchandise. It is a collection of articles needed by each individual baby. It includes clothing and non clothing items for an infant’s wardrobe, nursery, bathing, feeding and bedding needs. The contents of an infant wear category consist of Jumpsuits/ Coveralls/ Bodysuits, co-ordinate sets, Frocks, Buntings or Snow suits, Booties, Mittens, Caps, Separates, Bibs etc.

This segment consists of a size of clothing for children between the ages of about one and three years. The garment size usually does not conform to the age of the child. Color is very important at this stage; Children are attracted to bright colors especially RED. Buttons should be large enough to be grasped by little fingers Pull on pants and elasticized waist with adjusters is preferred. Zipper pullers must be large enough for the kids to handle properly.

 

Clothes will last longer if they are re-enforced at points of highest wear. For example, pants can be reinforced with knee patches, shirts with elbow patches, double stitch at crotch, pockets; will make the garment more durable. The merchandise varies according to the gender of the kid, but basically consists of Overalls or dungarees; Pull up pants with reinforced knees, T shirts/ shirts/ tops/ Sweatshirts and sweaters, Dresses, winter wear/ outerwear, Active Sportswear etc.

A segment of apparels consisting of 3years to 6 years of kids. Practical clothes should be sturdy for the active child. Easy wearability is something that most parents and kids look out for. Large hems for alterations as the kids are rapidly growing. Shirts should be long to allow for torso growth. Bright Colors, Favorite cartoon characters are a sure shot favorite among the kids of this age group. Character merchandise is again a desired by many. Both boys and Girls attire starts to reflect the trends as seen in general menswear and women’s wear categories. The clothing more or less starts emulating the adult clothes based on the prevalent trends.

7 years to 14 years of kids comprise the segment for Teens. Active wear is the athletic look popular with children warm-up and exercise suits. Comfort and practicality still remain important at this stage. It is a great business opportunity for Uniform sellers since most of the schools have uniforms not only for their classes but for various extracurricular activities as well.