Use of Weight Measurement in Children’s Clothing Size Charts
As adults, we almost never see weight as a measurement on clothing size charts – brands list other body dimensions in their size charts. Using other measurements helps customers decide which size will best fit their particular shape, since we each gain weight differently and it affects our proportions in vastly different ways.
For children, weight does play a role in clothing size charts – particularly during the early years.
Because babies and toddlers grow in somewhat predictable ways – even if some grow more quickly or slowly than others – most clothing brands will use height and weight as size guidelines for children of this age range. By monitoring your child’s height/length and weight, you will likely have the information you need to determine if a size will fit your child well.
As children’s bodies mature and develop in their own unique ways, though, other measurements may be used to see how weight is distributed relative to the child’s height. Chest, waist, and hip measurements help do this and you will typically see these dimensions listed on size charts when looking for a size to fit your child. Inseam and sleeve length may also be used, but these are measures of arm and leg length, rather than weight distribution.
Brands that offer children’s husky, plus or slim sizes, are sensitive to weight distribution. Their clothing designs and size charts typically avoid weight as a guideline, and instead use other measurements to help determine the size that will fit a child best.
Occasionally, you will find an exception to the rules when it comes to older children’s clothing. If their sizes are “regular” or “average”, some brands still occasionally use weight as a size guideline, in addition to other body measurements.
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