FUNDAMENTALS OF CLOTHING CONSTRUCTION 3(1+2)

Lesson 15 : Clothing Requirements for Toddlers

Room for growth

Growth is most rapid during the pre-school years. Clothes with adjustable features have possibilities for longer wear. However, the following features should be looked for when selecting clothing for the pre-school child:

1. To provide for growth in height: The following features provide for growth in height
• Skirts, dresses & trousers with deep hems or tucks at the bottom can be later opened up as the child grows in height.
• Overalls with adjustable straps help in adjusting the length of the garment
• Yoke dresses with lengthwise tucks can be released later as the child grows in height
• Two piece garments are better since they can be mixed and matched with other garments
• Garments with no waistline and deep hems can be lengthened as per the child’s needs.
2. To provide for growth in girth or width: The following features provide for growth in width
• Yoke dresses with crosswise tucks can be released later as the child grows in girth
• Garments that provide growth in girth or width such as Raglan or kimono sleeves are better than set-in sleeves.
• Garments made out of stretch fabrics help tide over any sudden growth spurts.
• Tucks, pleats and gathers at shoulder can be released as and when the garment gets tight.
• Large underarm and leg seams can be let out as needed.