Joybuy Insights

Buying children’s clothes: how to choose the right size, fabric and style online

Buying children’s clothes seems straightforward until a shirt comes up too small, a jumper feels scratchy or pyjamas lose their shape after just a few washes. When shopping for children’s clothes online, you also have to contend with different sizing systems, incomplete material information and product photos that do not always make the fit clear.

This practical buying guide helps you compare baby clothes, girls’ clothing, boys’ clothing and unisex children’s clothing based on the features that matter in everyday use.

Common pitfalls when buying children’s clothes

1. Relying only on age

A size description such as “6 months” or “7-8 years” is a guideline, not a guarantee of the right fit. Children do not all grow in the same way. So also check the height in centimetres and, where available, chest, waist and hip measurements.

For example, Chicco’s size chart ranges from size 44 for newborns to size 152 for children of around 12 years old. The step from children’s clothing size 62 to size 68 represents approximately six months, but the actual body measurements should always be the deciding factor.

2. Treating “cotton” as interchangeable with every other cotton fabric

Cotton can be comfortable for everyday wear, but the label tells you more when the full composition is provided. According to the product description, a Chicco set consists of 95% cotton and 5% elastane. That small percentage of elastane can allow greater freedom of movement and help create a closer fit.

According to the product descriptions, other items are made from 100% cotton, while Tommy Hilfiger sweatshirts and hoodies are described as 100% organic cotton. Always check the product label and care instructions. The term “organic” alone does not tell you how thick, soft or warm the fabric will feel.

3. Prioritising appearance over practicality

A prominent logo, bright colour or decorative detail does not determine whether a garment is suitable for school, sleeping or play. Pay attention to seams, cuffs, neck openings, pockets and fastenings. Simple designs are often more convenient when changing babies. For older children, a relaxed fit or sturdy ribbing may be more important.

Which specifications should you check before buying?

Size and body height

Use this approach:

  1. Measure the child’s height without shoes, from the crown of the head to the floor.
  2. Compare the measurement with the size chart for the specific brand.
  3. For baby clothes, check both the age and the measurement in centimetres.
  4. Do not automatically choose a larger size so that the garment can be worn for longer.

Examples from the available product information:

  • Size 62: generally around six months for Chicco.
  • Size 98: generally around three years for various Chicco items.
  • Size 122: generally around seven years.
  • Size 152: for some designs, around eleven to twelve years or fifteen to sixteen years.

Sizing varies from one brand to another. For example, a Tommy Hilfiger size 152 may be linked to a different age category than a Chicco size 152. So do not compare the number alone.

Material composition

For everyday use, the following details are verifiable and relevant:

  • 100% cotton: a clearly specified fibre composition.
  • 95% cotton, 5% elastane: cotton with added stretch.
  • Organic cotton children’s clothing: check whether the product description or label states this composition and includes any relevant certification.
  • The lining, ribbing and decoration may have a different composition from the main fabric.

According to Tommy Hilfiger’s own product information, the Essential sweatshirts and hoodies mentioned are made from organic cotton. Treat this as a brand product specification and check the label when the item arrives.

Garment type and occasion

Choose the garment to suit the situation:

  • A long-sleeved T-shirt for children is suitable as a layer in spring and autumn.
  • A children’s sweatshirt offers more structure and warmth than a lightweight shirt.
  • A children’s hoodie has additional features such as a hood, ribbed trims and, on some designs, a kangaroo pocket.
  • A baby bodysuit stays in place thanks to its fastening and is practical under trousers or a sleeping bag.
  • Children’s pyjamas should allow enough freedom of movement without loose or irritating elements.
  • A set with a shirt and trousers or shorts can be useful when you want an outfit that is easy to wear together.
Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Chicco 2-piece T-shirt and shorts set, medium light blue, size 62

Chicco 09075795000000 BOYS MEDIUM LIGHT BLUE 062

Why it suits this profile: A 2-piece set gives you a matching shirt and shorts in one purchase. It is a practical choice for everyday outfits for a baby or toddler.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size 062 and age indication of 6 months are clearly stated. The composition is specified as 95% cotton and 5% elastane.

Key benefit & highlights

2-piece set; 95% cotton and 5% elastane; medium light blue colour.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Tommy Hilfiger Essential sweatshirt for children, light grey

Tommy Hilfiger Essential Sweatshirt Kids Gender Inclusive Light Grey Heather 4

Why it suits this profile: This gender-neutral sweatshirt works for school, weekends and layering. The light grey shade is easy to pair with girls’ clothing, boys’ clothing or a unisex wardrobe.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description states that the fabric is 100% organic cotton and mentions ribbed trims at the neck, cuffs and hem. Do check the selected size before buying.

Key benefit & highlights

100% organic cotton according to the product information; crew neck; ribbed trims; gender-neutral design.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent wear
Tommy Hilfiger Essential hoodie for children, light grey

Tommy Hilfiger Essential Hoodie Kids Gender Inclusive Light Grey Heather 4

Why it suits this profile: A hoodie is useful for children who spend lots of time outdoors or like wearing layers. The hood and kangaroo pocket are practical details for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description states that it is made from 100% organic cotton and has ribbed trims and a kangaroo pocket. The care instructions specify washing at 30 °C and not tumble drying.

Key benefit & highlights

Hood; kangaroo pocket; ribbed trims; 100% organic cotton according to the product description.

Chicco or Tommy Hilfiger children’s clothing?

Chicco children’s clothing includes long-sleeved T-shirts, sets, bodysuits, pyjamas and tank tops. This makes the brand appealing when you are looking for different types of clothing for babies and young children. Check for each item whether it is boys’, girls’ or unisex children’s clothing.

Tommy Hilfiger children’s clothing in this selection consists of gender-neutral sweatshirts and hoodies. The product descriptions mention organic cotton, logo details and ribbed trims. The sizes for the models mentioned range from 98 to 152. Bear in mind that size ranges may vary by colour and design.

For babies, a baby bodysuit or cotton romper may be more practical than a separate shirt. For school-age children, long-sleeved tops, sweatshirts and hoodies are easier to mix and match. If you are conscious of the materials used, you can search for cotton children’s clothing or organic cotton children’s clothing, but always check the composition for each product.

Checklist before ordering

  • Is the size based on body height and not just age?
  • Is the full material composition stated?
  • Is the garment suitable for the intended use?
  • Are the care instructions clear?
  • Is the colour easy to mix and match and suitable for regular washing?
  • Have you checked the returns policy and available size before completing your purchase?

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about children’s clothing

How do I determine the right children’s clothing size?

Measure the child’s height and compare it with the brand’s size chart. Also check the chest, waist and hip measurements when these are available. An age indication is only a guide.

Which fabric is suitable for everyday children’s clothing?

That depends on the garment and the child’s preferences. Cotton is a commonly used material. Some designs combine cotton with elastane for added stretch. For organic cotton children’s clothing, check that the product information and label state the same composition.

How long do children’s clothes last?

The lifespan depends on growth, how often the garment is worn, the fit and how it is cared for. Follow the care label, use the recommended temperature and avoid tumble drying when specified. The right size and sturdy ribbing can help keep a garment wearable for longer, but they do not guarantee a fixed lifespan.