Why do children's clothing sizes vary between brands?

If you've ever ordered children's clothing online, you might have experienced something similar.

You ordered two sweatshirts in size 92. One fit perfectly. The other was suddenly several centimeters wider or had sleeves almost reaching the fingertips. Or vice versa – it was smaller than you expected.

The first thought is usually the same.

"I must have ordered the wrong size."

However, the truth is that very often, you didn't make a mistake. The reason is much simpler.

There isn't one universal standard that all manufacturers must follow to make children's clothing exactly the same.

Yes, sizes like 74, 80, 86, or 92 are based on the approximate height of the child in centimeters. But in practice, each brand works with its own patterns, allowances, and clothing design philosophy.

Some brands make narrower models, others wider. Some design close-fitting clothing, while others prefer looser cuts. The difference can be in sleeve length, pant length, chest width, or the elasticity of the material used.

This means that two sweatshirts with the same number on the label can look completely different on a child.

And now imagine one more thing.

Every child is unique.

Some are tall and very slender. Others are shorter but have wider shoulders or a sturdier build. Some children's legs grow first, others their torso. Therefore, even two children of the same height may not wear the same size clothing.

That's why I always try to tell customers one important thing.

The number on the label is only an indicative value. It's not a guarantee that the clothing will fit the same as another brand's.

When I shop for children's clothing today, I only look at the number as a first clue. I'm much more interested in the cut, the material used, the dimensions of the specific product, and how it's designed.

And that's exactly why at mojetrdlo, you'll find a detailed size chart with measurements for every product. I want you to be able to decide based on actual centimeters, not just the number on the label.

Perhaps a question now comes to mind:

"So what should I actually choose the size based on?"

That's a perfectly natural question. And we'll answer it in the next chapter, where I'll show you why a child's age is often the least reliable piece of information when choosing a size.

💡 Jarka's tip: If you're hesitating between two brands, never compare just the size number. Always look at the dimensions of the specific product. These will tell you much more than the number on the label itself.

 

Why a child's age is not enough to choose the right size

When we're expecting a baby, everything seems simple.

On clothes, we see labels like 0 – 3 months, 6 – 9 months, or sizes 68, 74, 80, and we feel that knowing the child's age is enough.

But you'll quickly find that reality is completely different.

Perhaps you have a two-year-old who wears size 86. But your friend has a son of the same age who is already wearing size 98.

And yet, both are perfectly healthy.

There's nothing unusual about it.

Children don't grow according to the calendar.

Each has its own pace. Some grow quickly in height, others gain more slowly, some's legs lengthen first and only later their torso. Differences between children of the same age can easily be 8 to 10 centimeters, which in children's sizes represents one to two full sizes.

That's why a child's age is used more as a guideline.

If you rely solely on it, there's a good chance the clothes won't fit as you expect.

What's more important when choosing a size?

If I had to choose just one thing to recommend for selecting a size, it would be the child's height.

That's why children's sizes are marked with numbers like 80, 86, or 92. These numbers approximately correspond to the child's height in centimeters.

However, that's not the only factor.

When choosing a size, it's also worth looking at:

• the child's build – are they slender, athletic, or sturdier?
• the clothing's cut – is it fitted or oversized?
• the material – is it stretchy or firm?
• the purpose of the clothing – do you want it to fit immediately, or to last the entire season?

When you combine these four things with the child's height, you'll have a much better chance of choosing the right size.

Two children. Same age. Completely different size.

Imagine two three-year-old children.

Eliška is 92 cm tall, tiny and slender.

Jakub is 101 cm tall, has wider shoulders, and appears generally more robust.

Both are three years old.

If you only went by age, you would order them the same size.

In reality, Eliška will probably wear size 92, while Jakub will fit better in size 104.

And both will have clothes that fit them correctly.

That's why at mojetrdlo, I never try to advise by age. When a mother writes to me: "My daughter is two years old. What size do you recommend?", I always ask:

👉 How many centimeters tall is she?

This one piece of information tells me much more than the age itself.

What if you don't know the exact height?

That happens more often than you think.

Not every child will willingly let themselves be measured at home, and not every parent knows the current data from the last check-up.

In that case, you can help yourself with a simple trick.

Take their favorite T-shirt or sweatshirt that fits them best right now. Lay it on a flat surface and measure its length and width. Then compare these measurements with the size chart on the e-shop.

This is often a more accurate way than estimating by age or by a product photo.

💡 My tip: If you're unsure about the size, send me a message. If you tell me the child's height, approximate weight, and whether they are more slender or sturdier, I'll be happy to help you choose. I do this regularly and I know that choosing the right size saves us both a lot of trouble.

How to properly measure a child before buying clothes

Now that you know a child's age is just a guideline, it's time for the most practical part of choosing a size.

Measuring.

It might sound a bit technical, but in reality, all you need is two minutes, a tape measure, and ideally a child who decides to cooperate for at least a little while. 😊

And if you don't have a tape measure at home, feel free to use a regular ruler or a string that you then measure with a ruler.

The most important thing is not to overcomplicate it.

For children's clothing, you don't need to measure ten different data points. In most cases, the child's height will suffice, and depending on the type of clothing, a few simple measurements more.

Start with the child's height

Height is the most important piece of information when choosing children's clothing sizes.

Have the child stand barefoot with their back against a flat wall. They should stand naturally, with their feet together and head straight. Place a book or another flat object on their head and mark the spot where it touches the wall.

Then just measure the distance from the floor to the mark.

If the child measures, for example, 93 centimeters, their size will most often be around 92 or 98. However, which one to choose also depends on the cut, build, and whether you want the clothes to fit immediately or with a little room to grow.

That's why height alone is sometimes not enough, but it's the best starting point.

How to measure chest circumference

Chest circumference will be useful especially when choosing a sweatshirt, T-shirt, bodysuit, or dress.

Guide the tape measure around the widest part of the chest, usually just under the armpits. It should not constrict the child, but also not hang loosely.

It's best to measure over a thin T-shirt or directly on the body.

If you're buying oversized children's clothing, chest circumference may not be as crucial as with a fitted cut. However, it can still help if the child has wider shoulders or a sturdier build.

How to measure waist circumference

Waist circumference is especially important for leggings, sweatpants, and trousers.

Place the tape measure around the natural waistline. Don't pull it too tight and let the child breathe freely.

For children's trousers, it's very important that the waist doesn't pinch, but at the same time, the trousers don't fall down. Therefore, always look at whether there's an elastic band, drawstring, or other adjustment method in the waist.

How to measure leg length

If you're choosing leggings or trousers, leg length can also help.

The easiest way is to measure the inseam length from the crotch to the ankle. For looser trousers, you can also measure the outseam length from the waist to the ankle.

You don't have to try to get every millimeter right. It's more about knowing whether the child has longer or shorter legs compared to standard clothing.

This is often where it becomes clear why two children of the same height may not wear the same size trousers.

One may have a longer torso and shorter legs, the other exactly the opposite.

How to measure sleeve length

For sweatshirts, sweaters, or long-sleeved T-shirts, it can also be useful to measure the sleeve.

The easiest way is to measure from the shoulder, over a slightly bent elbow, to the wrist.

With oversized sweatshirts, sleeves are often intentionally a bit longer. This doesn't mean the sweatshirt is automatically too big. It's important that the sleeves don't hinder the child while playing and that they can be comfortably rolled up or held by a cuff.

The simplest trick: measure a favorite piece from the wardrobe

If your child refuses to stand against the wall, squirms with every measurement, or you simply don't feel like chasing them around the apartment with a tape measure, there's an even simpler way.

Take a favorite sweatshirt, leggings, or bodysuit that currently fits them well.

Lay them flat on a surface and measure:

• overall length,
• width across the chest or waist,
• sleeve length,
• or pant length.

Then compare these measurements with the dimensions of the specific product in the e-shop.

I really like this method because you're comparing something you already know fits the child. You don't have to imagine how the data in the table will look on the figure. You see it directly on the clothes you already have at home.

Don't measure the child over thick clothing

A small but important piece of advice.

If you're measuring the child, don't do it over a thick sweatshirt, sweatpants, or jacket. The measurements could be distorted, and the resulting size unnecessarily large.

It's best to measure in a thin T-shirt and leggings or just in underwear.

What to prepare before measuring

You don't have to make a big event out of it. A tape measure, paper or notes on your phone, and a few minutes of your time are perfectly sufficient.

Write down the child's current height and, if necessary, chest circumference, waist, or leg length. This data will be useful for every subsequent purchase, and you won't have to start from scratch every time.

Just keep in mind that children grow fast. If you measured the child six months ago, the data may no longer be current.

My tip: When comparing clothing dimensions from an e-shop with a favorite piece from the wardrobe, always measure them in the same way. Lay the sweatshirt flat, don't stretch the material, and measure from the same points. Even a few centimeters can make a difference with children's clothing.

Once you have these measurements, choosing a size is no longer guesswork.

It's a simple comparison.

In the next chapter, we'll therefore look at how to properly read a size chart, what exactly individual dimensions mean, and which numbers are worth focusing on depending on whether you're choosing a sweatshirt, leggings, bodysuit, or an oversized piece.

How to properly measure a child before choosing a size

The good news is that when choosing a size at mojetrdlo, you don't need to measure the child from head to toe or write down many measurements.

In most cases, you only need one piece of information – the child's current height.

This is also how children's sizes are marked. The number on the label approximately corresponds to the child's height in centimeters. So, if your child is approximately 92 cm tall, you will naturally look at size 92.

Of course, every child grows at a slightly different pace. Some are slimmer, others have a sturdier build, and there can also be differences in proportions. Therefore, I recommend taking the age stated in the table only as a guideline. It is much more reliable to go by height.

How to measure a child's height at home

It's simpler than it might seem.

Have the child stand barefoot with their back against a wall. Their heels, back, and head should be as close to the wall as possible. Place a book or other flat object on their head and gently mark the spot where it touches the wall.

Then simply measure the distance from the floor to the marked spot.

Done.

The entire measurement only takes a few minutes, and this information will best help you choose the correct size.

How I choose sizes for individual mojetrdlo products

Even though a child's height is the most important factor when choosing a size, it's worth considering the cut of individual products.

Not all pieces are worn the same way. Some are designed to be looser, others have a naturally more fitted cut. That's why customers often ask me:

"Does the same recommendation apply to a sweatshirt and a bodysuit?"

My answer is simple.

Not entirely.

Let's take a look at individual pieces.

Oversized sweatshirts

Sweatshirts are the heart of mojetrdlo.

From the beginning, I designed them so that they wouldn't pinch children anywhere, wouldn't restrict their movement, and so they could wear them for as long as possible.

That's why they have an oversized cut.

If your child is, for example, 92 cm tall, in most cases I recommend ordering size 92.

You don't need to buy a larger one just to make it last longer. Room for growth is already part of the cut itself.

The sweatshirt has dropped shoulders, a looser cut, and is designed to fit beautifully for several months.

Ribbed leggings

I also sew leggings with room to grow.

Many mothers think that because leggings are stretchy, they should fit very snugly. However, I designed them to be comfortable from the first wear and to last as long as possible.

If you're deciding between two sizes, in most cases I recommend going by the child's current height. Thanks to the stretchy ribbed knit and thoughtful cut, they have natural room to grow, so there's no need to automatically buy a larger size.

They might seem a bit longer at first glance, but that's their advantage. The child won't just wear them for a few weeks, but often for the entire season.

Bodysuits

A bodysuit is the only product for which I recommend thinking a little differently.

If you're hesitating between two sizes, feel free to choose the larger one.

The reason is simple.

For bodysuits, length is the most important factor. If it's too short, it will pull between the legs and be uncomfortable for the child, even if it fits across the chest.

A bodysuit one size larger won't look ill-fitting but will provide more room for growth and be more comfortable for the child over a longer period.

So, if someone asks me whether to go smaller or larger for a bodysuit, my answer is almost always the same.

If in doubt, choose larger.

Muslin ponchos

A poncho is one of the most forgiving pieces when it comes to size.

It's loose, airy, and doesn't need to fit perfectly. Even if it's a bit larger, it's not a problem at all. On the contrary, it will last the child longer and they will be able to wear it for more seasons.

If you're between two sizes, feel free to go for the larger one.

What if you're still unsure?

The size chart is a great helper, but every child is unique.

Some have longer legs, others a longer torso. Some are tiny, others have a rounder belly.

So, never be afraid to write to me.

Just send me the child's height, and ideally information on whether they are rather slender or sturdier, and I'll be happy to advise you which size I would choose.

If your child has a more pronounced belly, I can also adjust the elastic in the waistband of the leggings upon request to make the clothing truly comfortable. This is one of the advantages of handmade production – we don't have to adapt to mass production, but can tailor the clothing to a specific child.

💛 Jarka's tip: If you're hesitating between two sizes, don't just ask: "Which one will be good today?" Try to think about how long you want to use the clothing. That's why I design most of my patterns to last children longer, not just a few weeks.

 

What to do when the child is between two sizes?

If I had to choose one question I get most often, it would be this one.

"My daughter is 91 centimeters tall. Should I order size 92 or rather 98?"

Or:

"My son is 97 centimeters tall. Will 98 still be good for him, or should I already buy 104?"

If you've asked a similar question, you're not alone.

It is precisely children who are "somewhere in between" that cause parents the most trouble when choosing sizes.

The good news is that in most cases, there isn't one right answer.

And that's perfectly fine.

Because the choice depends on several things.

Ask yourself these three simple questions

When I hesitate between two sizes, I always ask myself three questions.

Do I want the clothing to fit immediately, or to last as long as possible?

If you are buying clothes for a specific occasion or want them to fit beautifully today, I usually recommend sticking with the size that corresponds to the child's current height.

However, if you are shopping for a whole season in advance or know that your child is growing rapidly, it might make sense to consider a larger size.

With mojetrdlo products, however, one important thing should not be forgotten.

Most of my patterns already include a natural reserve.

This means there's no need to automatically buy a size larger just to make the clothes last.

What is the cut of the specific product?

Not all clothing behaves the same way.

An oversized sweatshirt provides much more room than a fitted bodysuit.

Ribbed leggings are flexible and designed to adapt to a child's movement.

A muslin poncho, on the other hand, doesn't need to fit exactly to the centimeter.

That's why I always recommend checking the description of the specific product.

If I write that it's an oversized cut, you don't have to worry that the child will outgrow it in a few weeks.

How is your child growing?

Every mother knows her child best.

Some children outgrow clothes literally overnight.

Others wear the same size for several months.

Try to think about how it usually is in your home.

If you know your child has just gone through a major growth spurt and growth has slowed down for a while, feel free to stick with the current size.

However, if they are growing like a weed and you are buying clothes for the entire season, a larger size might be a reasonable choice.

What do I do?

When I sew new collections or choose clothes for my own children, I don't try to buy something that will only be good today.

At the same time, I don't want the child to wear clothes that are unnecessarily large and hinder their movement.

That's why I design most of my patterns with a natural reserve.

My goal is not for a sweatshirt to fit for only two weeks.

I want the child to feel comfortable in it today, a month from now, and several months later.

Still hesitating?

That's completely normal.

The size chart gives you a direction, but every child is different.

If you are still unsure after reading the article, feel free to write to me.

Just send me:

• the child's current height,
• approximate weight (if you know it),
• information on whether they are rather slim or sturdy,
• and the product you want to order.

I'd be happy to advise you on what size I would choose, or you'll find a size selection helper for every item in the e-shop. 

Because for me, the greatest joy is not a dispatched order.

My greatest joy is when I receive a message a few days later:

"It fit absolutely perfectly. Thank you!"

💛 My tip: If you are between two sizes and choosing a bodysuit, feel free to go for the larger one. For oversized sweatshirts and leggings, in most cases, follow the child's current height – their cut already accounts for them lasting longer for children.

 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I was most afraid of ordering the wrong size. Jarka advised me based on my daughter's height, and the sweatshirt fit absolutely perfectly. Plus, we've been wearing it for several months now and it's still beautiful."

 

Most common mistakes when choosing children's clothing sizes

After years of sewing children's clothing and hundreds of conversations with customers, I've noticed that some situations repeat over and over again.

Not because parents are doing something wrong.

Simply because choosing the right size is not always easy.

If you avoid the following mistakes, there's a good chance that the clothing will fit perfectly the first time.

Mistake No. 1 – Choosing a size based only on age

This is probably the most common mistake of all.

A child is two years old, so we automatically order a size for a two-year-old.

But as we have already shown in the previous chapters, children grow at completely different rates.

Some two-year-olds wear size 86.

Others can easily wear 98.

Therefore, I recommend treating age only as a guide and always looking at the child's current height.

Mistake No. 2 – Buying everything one size larger

You've probably heard this advice.

"Buy larger, so it lasts."

At first glance, it sounds logical.

But if you buy clothes that are too big, the sleeves might fall down, the trousers might get tangled around their feet, and instead of comfort, the child will constantly be adjusting something during play.

That's why I sew most of my pieces in oversized cuts or with a natural reserve.

You don't have to buy a size larger just out of fear that they will quickly outgrow the clothes.

Mistake No. 3 – Forgetting that every product fits a little differently

A sweatshirt is not a bodysuit.

A bodysuit is not a poncho.

And leggings are not sweatpants.

Each cut is designed for a slightly different purpose.

That's why I always recommend reading the product description.

You'll often find information there on whether it's an oversized cut, if it has a natural reserve, or if I recommend something specific when choosing the size.

Mistake No. 4 – Not checking the product dimensions

The size chart is not just on the e-shop to be there.

😊

It's the best helper for choosing the right size.

If you're hesitant, spend two minutes on it.

Very often, it's what determines whether the clothing will fit perfectly.

Mistake No. 5 – Being afraid to ask

You know what surprises me the most?

How many moms hesitate to write.

Yet, it's completely normal.

I know my products down to the last centimeter.

I know how they behave after washing.

I know which cuts are looser.

I know which materials are more stretchy.

And that's why I can advise you much more accurately than if you were guessing yourself.

If you are unsure, feel free to write to me.

I'd rather we chat for two minutes than you have to deal with a size exchange at home.

The truth I want you to take away from this article

If I were to summarize the entire article into one single thought, it would probably be this:

Don't choose clothes based on the number on the label. Choose them based on your child.

Height.

Build.

Cut.

Material.

Only when these four things come together do you get clothes that will truly fit the child.

Choosing the right size can sometimes be challenging, especially if you're ordering for the first time. If you're still unsure after reading the article, contact me. Just tell me your child's height, their build if you know it, and the product you want to order. I'll be happy to advise you on what size I would choose.
I want you to open the package with a smile and feel that everything fit exactly as it should.

I believe this guide has helped you understand sizes better and that choosing clothes will be a little easier. If you are still unsure, feel free to write to me – I'll be happy to help. And if you already know what size you are looking for, you can view the entire collection of handmade children's clothing that I sew with an emphasis on comfort, freedom of movement, and durability for children.