Understanding “what size is medium in kids’ clothes” can be tricky, as sizing varies by brand and region. Generally, a medium fits children aged 7-8, measuring 50-55 inches tall and weighing 55-65 pounds. To find the perfect fit, measure your child’s height, chest, and waist, and compare these numbers to the brand’s size chart. This article offers a detailed guide to medium sizes, including tips for shopping online, handling growth spurts, and comparing sizes across popular brands like Carter’s, Nike, and H&M.

What kind of parents don’t love to buy clothes for their kids? None! Buying new clothes for your kids is one of the most common ways parents can show their love. It’s a tangible way a parent can show their love for their child. But clothes shopping is hard, especially for kids. For example, what size is medium in kids clothes?

A medium typically fits children aged 7-8, measuring 50-55 inches tall and weighing 55-65 pounds, but sizes vary by brand. This guide helps parents measure accurately, compare sizes across brands like Carter’s and Nike, and choose clothes for growth spurts. By the end, you will become a kids’ clothes-shopping wizard.

Introduction to Kids’ Clothing Sizes

Before we answer what size is medium in kids’ clothes, we need to go over why size matters. The answer isn’t just that kids need the right-sized clothes; there are some other reasons. Aside from buying the wrong-sized clothes, you also need to consider that you have wasted money.

Wrong-sized clothes mean you spend money on clothes your kids won’t ever wear, which is wasted money. Not all stores accept returns because the clothes might be damaged or just worn. That means you have spent money for no return, and some of your closet space is also wasted. This is why it’s important to know what size clothing will fit your kids and only buy those. That means doing your clothes shopping physically.

However, that is becoming less common every day. More and more people are shopping online, but not all of them have succeeded. Many online stores, even trustworthy ones like Amazon, have less-than-reputable sellers.

These sellers advertise one size but deliver the wrong one. Parents who fall into traps like these waste hundreds of dollars buying and shipping these clothes. Even worse, they have to wait for weeks, if not months, before they find out they have bought the wrong item.

Understanding Kids’ Clothing Size Charts

Now you have a better understanding of the need to answer what size is medium in kids clothes. So let’s go over how to measure your kid’s clothes size and what this “medium” size even means.

How Kids’ Sizes Are Measured

The answer to how kids’ sizes are measured is just as hard to pin down what size is medium in kids’ clothes. That is why we will be looking to give you an answer from multiple angles. So here is how kids’ clothing sizes are measured:

Age vs. Height/Weight Sizes

The first way is either through the kids’ ages or their height and weight.

Age-based clothes sizing is a standard method, especially for younger kids. The clothes have labels with ages on them, like 4, 6, and 8. The reason it’s common is because known brands follow this method, and others do the same. Also, parents supposedly find this method to be easier for them. However, while age is the same for all kids, their height and weight aren’t. A shirt that says it fits a 4-year-old might not because be the same his height or weight isn’t the same as the one meant for that shirt.

The height/weight method uses just that for the labels: the height and weight of the kids the clothes are meant for. The measurements are also quite specific, usually in pounds or kilograms for weight and cm or inches for height. This method is way more accurate and is often seen on the clothing of slightly older kids. However, clothing with these labels is harder to make. This is because a measurement that will work for a wide range of kids is hard to find.

Difference in Brands and Regions

The UK, the US, and the EU are the three main regions whose standard clothing measurements are used worldwide.

• US sizes: Labeled by age (e.g., 4, 6, 8) or height/weight ranges.
• UK sizes: Often by age but may also have height in cm.
• EU sizes: Based on height in cm (e.g., 116 for a child who is 116 cm tall).

What Does “Medium” Mean in Kids’ Clothes?

Now, we have reached the part where we really need to define medium sizes. We need to examine this question from multiple perspectives to do just that.

Definition of “Medium”

“Medium” in the case of kids’ clothing typically means that the size is average for kids of a certain age group. Often, it’s for kids who aren’t too old or young. For example, the typical measurement for medium would be:

• Age: 7-8 years old.
• Height: 50-55 inches.
• Weight: 55-65 pounds.

Brand Size Charts

Here’s how medium sizes compare across popular kids’ clothing brands:

1. Carter’s:
   1. Medium Size: Fits children aged 7-8.
   2. Height: 50-52 inches.
   3. Weight: 55-60 pounds.
2. Nike:
   1. Medium Size (M): Fits children aged 8-10.
   2. Height: 53-57 inches.
   3. Weight: 60-75 pounds.
3. H&M:
   1. Medium Size (116-122 cm): Fits children aged 6-7.
   2. Height: 45-48 inches.
   3. Weight: 50-55 pounds.
4. Gap Kids:
   1. Medium Size (7-8): Fits children aged 7-8.
   2. Height: 50-53 inches.
   3. Weight: 55-65 pounds.
5. Old Navy:
   1. Medium Size (7-8): Fits children aged 7-8.
   2. Height: 50-53 inches.
   3. Weight: 55-65 pounds.

While these are the most well-known brands’ size charts, they are reliable because other lesser-known brands follow them closely.  

How to Find the Right Size for Your Child

Knowing what size is medium in kids clothes is helpful but only if you can compare the medium sizes with your kids measurements. To be able to do that, you will need to first measure your kid’s size. So here is how you can do that:

Measuring Your Child for the Perfect Fit

Follow the guide below to get the most accurate measurement of your kid’s clothing. Our guide will take you step-by-step and include some tips to make the process easier.

Step-by-step measurement guide

Height:

• Have your kid stand straight against a wall
• Have them place something flat over their head
• Mark where the flat object meets the wall
• Use a ruler to measure the distance

Chest:

• Wrap a soft measuring tape around under your kid’s armpit
• Keep it snug but not too tight
• Measure in cm or inches

Waist:

• Find your kid’s natural waistline, typically below the bellybutton
• Go around the area and keep it snug only
• Measure in cm or inches

Hip:

• This measurement is only for pants or skirts
• Measure around your kid’s fullest hip area
• Keep it snug and level

Tips for measuring active or growing kids

Here are a few things you should do to make your kids’ clothing measurement accurate and easy:

• Measure your kid only when they are calm and cooperative
• Use a flexible measure tape for accurate measurement
• Allow for growth by sizing up measurement if a kid is in the middle of a growth spurt
• Don’t measure over heavy clothing
• Update measurement every few months to stay up-to-date

Tips for Shopping for Medium-Sized Kids’ Clothes

You know what size is medium in kids’ clothes and how to get measurements, so it’s time to buy some clothes for your kids. But wait! How can you ensure you are buying the right clothes, and from where? That’s what we will cover now.

Shopping Online vs. In-Store

Since everyone is familiar with buying clothes in-store, we won’t discuss that. Instead, we will share the pros and cons of shopping online for kids’ clothing. Recently, it has become quite common and is trending for good reasons.

There is just something comfortable about buying something, clothes or else, from your couch. Also, you can do it at any time. Online shopping also allows for more diversity through multiple online shopping platforms. Each one of them offers something slightly or a lot different. They all offer various styles, brands, and sizes. Thanks to reviews and ratings, parents can learn which seller is trustworthy and has the best clothes. This a game-changer!

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbow in the world of the online shopping industry. One of the biggest issues with online shopping is that you can’t try on the clothes for your kids. So, all of you must rely on is the sizes mentioned and the seller’s integrity. If the seller isn’t local, you need to spend extra on shipping, which will also drive your overall cost up. Finally, there is the waiting you need to consider as well. All shopping done online revolves around the delivery time. Nothing is instant like in-store shopping.

Seasonal Considerations for Kids’ Fashion

Medium-size kids’ clothing has a different meaning depending on the seasons and weather. Summer and winter kids’ clothing are slightly different sizes; parents sometimes forget to consider this.

In the wintertime, clothes are generally heavier, so parents need to size up the measurements they have in mind. A general tip while shopping for kids’ winter clothes would be to look for materials such as fleece, wool, or thermal. Kids get cold a lot faster than adults, and these materials ensure that doesn’t happen. Also, find clothes with drawstrings or elastic cuffs for that extra cold protection.

In the summertime, lightweight, breathable clothing is in vogue. To find the best fit for these, you need to do the opposite of winter clothing. Size down your measurements to find ones that fit your kids comfortably. Parents should look for cotton and linen because they allow for better airflow. Don’t size down your measurements too much because a slightly looser fit will also allow for better airflow.

Related: What Size Is Large in Kids Clothes: Kids’ Size Chart

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Kids’ Clothes

Finding medium-sized kids’ clothes will be easier for you if you remember not to make certain mistakes. Which mistakes are we talking about? These ones right here:  

Overestimating or underestimating your child’s size

We said that you might have to size up or down your measurements depending on the season, but don’t go too low or too high. The measurement you get following our guide is the most accurate one you will have. Therefore, this measurement will help you find the right clothes for your kid.

Ignoring fabric stretch and shrinkage

All clothes stretch or shrink over time and after multiple washing. Also, as your kids grow, the clothes they wear the most often will wear out and stretch. So keep that in mind next time you go clothes shopping. Find medium-sized kids’ clothes made of flexible materials to accommodate eventual stretching and shrinking.

Not considering your child’s comfort and preferences

Any medium-sized kids’ clothing you buy must be comfortable for your child. If they aren’t, then it’s a complete waste of money. Prioritize your child’s comfort and preference above all else. Because these are for them, after all.

How to Handle Growth Spurts and Sizing Changes

Kids grow up pretty fast, and that’s not a sentimental statement but a proven fact. So, when you are buying medium-sized kids’ clothes, you need to account for growth spurts and size changes.

Buy Adjustable Clothing

Buy adjustable clothes to ensure your kids can wear their clothing even through growth spurts. Elastic waistbands and adjustable straps ensure your kids can wear their clothes even when they grow bigger or taller.

Layer Smartly

Layering isn’t just a fashion style or technique; parents can also layer clothes to accommodate size changes. Buying cardigans, vests, and hoodies allows parents to dress their kids through multiple seasons with limited options.

Donate or Resell Old Clothing

By donating clothes that don’t fit your kids, you can help other parents who aren’t able to purchase clothes for their kids. It’s also a smart and eco-friendly strategy to follow. Charities and cloth swap meets are excellent places to go if you want to find clothes that your kids can wear. Of course, you can also go to Facebook or other social media marketplace to sell and buy slightly used clothes at a discount to save money.

Kids’ Fashion Trends for Medium-Sized Clothing

Kids’ fashion is a world of its own regarding trends that come and go. But there are a few trends we think you will love. Some are geared toward comfort, while others are about sustainability or boldness.

Athleisure

Athleisure is a fashion statement that combines athletic design with comfortability. Clothing such as this is ideal for super active kids. It is durable and can handle rough play, yet it is still comfortable for kids.

Sustainable Fashion

Environmental awareness is a rising topic, especially in the fashion world. Parents looking to be eco-friendly can now find clothes made from organic, recycled, or ethically sourced materials. If you are looking for sustainable clothes, look at Patagonia, Hanna Andersson, and Primary.

Bold Prints and Colors

Finding what size is medium in kids’ clothes is one thing, but they can’t look bland either. Kids are all about vibrant patterns and colors. They represent the excitement and creativity that is inside each child. From animal prints to geometric designs, bold patterns are a fun way for children to express their personalities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

So, what size is medium in kids clothes? Medium-sized clothes are typically meant for kids between ages 7 and 8. They are between 50 and 55 inches in height and 55 and 65 pounds in weight. However, you must be careful because not every brand or store will follow these measurements. Also, certain brands and regions use age to indicate medium-sized clothes.

Follow our guide on finding your kid’s size measurement and use it to find clothes in stores that will fit your kids perfectly. Depending on the season, you might also have to size these measurements up or down. Kids tend to grow fast, so try to find medium-size clothes with adjustable fabric and features to ensure they will last for multiple seasons or years.

With this guide, you’re now equipped to tackle the world of kids’ fashion sizing confidently. Happy shopping!