Summer clothing sizing for children

Summer sizing has its own challenges

Summer clothing should be comfortable, breathable and easy to move in. Children may need clothes for warm weather, travel, swimming, outdoor play and sun protection.

Measure your child’s height and foot length before buying new summer clothing or sandals. If your child is close to the upper end of a size, consider whether the clothes need to last the whole summer.

T-shirts and tops

For T-shirts, height is usually a good starting point. A slightly relaxed fit can be useful for comfort in warm weather. However, tops should not be so large that they slip off the shoulders or interfere with play.

Shorts and trousers

For shorts, waist measurement matters more than many parents expect. Adjustable waists can make a big difference, especially if your child is tall and slim or shorter with a wider waist.

Dresses and skirts

For dresses, check both height and chest measurement if available. A dress that is too short may become uncomfortable quickly, while a dress that is too wide may not sit properly on the shoulders.

Swimwear, sandals and sun hats

Swimwear often needs a closer fit than regular clothing because it stretches in water. Avoid sizing up too much. Swimwear that is too loose can sag or move around when wet.

Sandals should have enough room for toes, but not so much that the foot slides forward. Measure both feet and use the longer measurement.

For hats, head circumference is more useful than age. A hat that is too small will be uncomfortable, while one that is too large may fall off or fail to provide proper sun coverage.

Plan for growth, but avoid over-sizing

Summer clothes are often lighter and more flexible than winter clothes, but fit still matters. Oversized sandals, loose swimwear or poorly fitting hats can be uncomfortable.

• Kids shoe size conversion guide
• How fast children grow by season

Try the free size tool

Frequently asked questions