How many times have you stood in front of your child's closet and wondered, "What should I wear today?" or "This dress is already too small after only three months?" As a mother and owner of Nuvò Kids, I've learned that choosing the right clothing for children is an art that combines practicality, quality, and style.
My experience in retail as a sales assistant and visual merchandiser has taught me to recognize true quality, to understand what parents are really looking for, and to observe how children interact with their clothes. Working directly with families and handling garments from prestigious brands like Pinko , Kappa , Paciotti , and MSGM on a daily basis , I've developed an expert eye for what really works.
1. The Basics: What to Consider Before Buying
During my years in retail, I've seen hundreds of parents make the same mistakes. Here's what I've learned from observing them:
Age and growth rate: Every child grows differently. I've noticed that some grow rapidly in height, while others "broaden" before they grow. Observe your child to understand their growth pattern.
Smart seasonality: I can't count the number of times I've seen parents buy winter coats in July! Kids change sizes too quickly. It's better to invest in transitional pieces like Kappa sweatshirts that work both spring and fall.
Family Lifestyle: Working in the store, I learned to ask the right questions: "Does the child go to kindergarten? Does he play sports? Do you often have formal events?" Paciotti trousers are perfect for special occasions, while Kappa t-shirts are ideal for everyday play.
2. Materials: The Science of Touch
As a visual merchandiser, I have touched thousands of garments and learned to recognize quality at first contact:
Quality cotton: Always the best choice for babies' delicate skin. Working with brands like Pinko , I've learned to distinguish high-quality cottons that retain their shape even after numerous washes.
The touch test: A trick I always use: gently rub the fabric between your fingers. If a "ball" forms immediately, the quality isn't optimal.
Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers: Natural fibers allow the skin to breathe. However, a small amount of elastane (2-5%) can make garments more comfortable and durable.
How to read labels: Always check the fabric composition. Avoid items with more than 30% polyester for clothing that comes into direct contact with the skin.
3. Fit and Comfort: What I Learned in the Field
Years of experience fitting children have taught me what really works:
The secret to sizing: Don't just rely on the age label. Each brand has its own sizing. Kappa T-shirts , for example, tend to be slightly looser, perfect for athletic comfort.
Strategic growth margins: The rule I always apply: 2-3 cm more for shirts and sweatshirts, 3-4 cm for trousers. MSGM trousers often have a design that "grows" with the child.
Critical areas I always check:
- Shoulders: they must fall in the right place
- Crotch: essential for comfort
- Cuffs: must allow free movement
Age-based locking systems (what I've seen work best):
- 0-2 years: snap buttons and zip
- 3-5 years: large buttons and velcro
- 6+ years: can handle normal buttons and zippers
4. Quality vs. Price: The Smart Retail Strategy
My experience in retail has taught me when it is worth investing:
When to spend more:
- Coats and jackets (like Pinko coats ): they will use them all season long
- Special Occasion Dresses: Special Day Dresses Are Investments That Last
Basic pieces vs. Statement pieces:
- Basic: focus on medium quality but higher quantity
- Statement pieces ( Pinko skirts , elegant dresses): invest in superior quality
How to recognize quality (my tricks as a visual merchandiser):
- Straight and durable seams
- Buttons securely fastened (try pulling them gently)
- Fabrics that return to shape after being wrinkled
- Clear composition labels
5. Common Mistakes I See Every Day
When working in contact with customers, these are the most common mistakes:
Buying too far in advance: I've seen too many mothers disappointed because the dress they bought on sale no longer fit the season.
Neglecting practicality: That little dress may be beautiful, but if it requires special care, it will end up forgotten.
Don't involve the child: From age 3 onwards, children have specific tastes. I've seen too many avoidable tantrums!
Forget about ease of washing: Children get dirty, always choose machine-washable items.
My Expert Selection
At Nuvò Kids, every piece is chosen with the eye of someone who has worked in the industry. I know how to recognize a quality T-Love dress , I know the perfect fit of Pinko sweaters , and I can guarantee that every piece has passed my "mom and expert test."
My experience in visual merchandising has taught me that children's fashion is more than just aesthetics: it's comfort, safety, freedom of movement, and that little bit of magic that makes our little ones feel special.
Want advice from someone who truly knows the product? I'll be waiting for you in store. My retail experience, combined with my motherhood, allows me to always advise you on the right choice for your baby.
Because every child deserves clothes that make them feel comfortable and beautiful, chosen by those who truly understand the meaning of quality.
Milena Moscote
Co-Founder Nuvò Kids
Former sales assistant and visual merchandiser
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