I know a lot of us do this with shoe sizes to save money, but do you extend this to clothing as well?
Now I’m too “hippy” for girl size jeans, but sweaters, sweatshirts, tshirts etc. I’ll definitely buy from the girls and boys section. The girls plus size section…oh I’m over there looking for myself.
👍Pros: It’s cheaper for the same thing and great cost alternative for petite women (I’m 5’1)
🤔Cons: the sleeves are sometimes too short for my liking and the shaping of some items are of course not for grown women with curves.
... Read morePicking out clothes can be a real challenge, especially when you're a busy woman with young kids, like many of us! We need outfits that are not just stylish but also practical, comfortable, and forgiving – something that moves with us, hides a few spills, and makes us feel good without much effort. And let's be honest, who has the time for endless shopping trips when you're juggling family life? That's why I'm always on the hunt for ways to shop efficiently right from my couch!
My journey into finding truly practical and forgiving clothing led me to some unexpected places. While the main article talks about the incredible savings by dipping into the kids' section for adult wear (which is a total game-changer for my budget!), I’ve also learned so much about choosing pieces that work for real life. For instance, when I think about 'forgiving' clothing, I instantly picture soft, stretchy fabrics and relaxed silhouettes. Children's sweatshirts, as mentioned, are fantastic for this – often made with durable, cozy materials that stand up to daily wear and tear, and surprisingly, can offer that comfortable, oversized fit we love as adults. They’re perfect for chasing after toddlers or just lounging around after a long day.
But it’s not just about comfort; it's about making smart choices that flatter. As someone who's petite and has curves, I’ve definitely had my share of fashion misses. I remember seeing a YouTube channel, perhaps from a 'minimalist style expert' like Thessely Juliet, where they discussed 'Outfits That I ALWAYS Avoid As A Petite With Curves.' This really resonated with me because it highlights the importance of understanding your body shape, even when you're trying to save money or simplify your wardrobe. For example, while kids' sweaters can be amazing, sometimes the shaping isn’t quite right for a grown woman’s body, especially around the hips or bust. That’s why I stick to items like basic crewnecks, hoodies, or even some t-shirts from the girls' or boys' plus size sections. They tend to have a straighter cut that can actually look intentionally oversized and chic, rather than ill-fitting.
Shopping efficiently without leaving the house has become my superpower. Online shopping is key here. Rather than endlessly browsing adult sections, I’ve learned to filter by size (hello, girls' XXL or boys' XL!) and focus on specific items I know will work, like those quarter-zip sweatshirts I saw compared in a visual. Knowing my measurements and comparing them to online size charts for children's clothing has saved me countless returns and disappointment. It's about being strategic. I look for items that are less structured, avoiding anything with darts or specific waistlines that might not align with an adult's proportions. This way, I can quickly find those practical, forgiving pieces that fit my lifestyle and my budget.
And for those of us with young kids, having a wardrobe that's easy to care for is paramount. Many children’s clothes are designed to be durable and machine-washable, which is a huge bonus. No delicate dry-cleaning needed here! It’s all part of building a functional wardrobe that supports our busy lives, allowing us to focus on what truly matters. So, next time you're looking for that perfect cozy sweater or a new practical tee, don't overlook the kids' section – it might just be your new favorite secret!
I use to but after having kids I no longer fit 🥺