Preparations for dressing a child to attend a wedding as a guest are equally as important as considerations for an adult.
The presentation of children does matter, not only out of respect for the bride and groom but also for the personal pride of the child.
PROTOCOLS
While the details of children's clothing are specific to them, they fall under the same set of rules as that of an adult. Torn, ripped, sports etc clothing would not be suitable and casual is very different to formal. They will need to be dressed appropriately for daytime or evening occasion, which requires slightly more formality as the time moves towards the later hours. For a casual wedding, their clothing can be less elaborate with a clean, neat look. For a formal wedding they have the opportunity to dress up more depending on the degree of formality. Their clothing should be attractive and match where appropriate like the belt with the shoes.
COLOUR & STYLE
Choose shades of which are complimentary to the skin-tone of the children. However, be mindful of their tender age and try not to choose a colour which would be too strong for them.
Unless they are in the bridal party and have a specific role which requires its, steer clear of whites, out of respect for the bride.
Choose carefully the style of clothing when considering children's formal wear it would not be suitable for them to be in styles and patterns which are too mature for them.
Additionally watch the size of the pattern, young children can look swamped in garments with very big designs. Calculate in your mind the ratio of the pattern in relation to the size of the child.
They need to enjoy these childhood years and no less so than in their garments.
FIT & COMFORT
Their wellbeing is all the utmost importance, children will do anything to make themselves comfortable if they are not and they are also, not thinking or caring of the end results to their appearance as an adult would.
Ensure their clothing is not too heavy and fits well; the collars should not be tight or restricting and the sleeves should be able to bend easily, waistbands also should not be tight and shoes must be comfortable. Bear in mind that for the children too big shoes can be just as bad as too tight shoes, trying to keep them on is stressful and can cause blisters.
Additionally, if they are going to be indoors for long spell, try not to over dress them or you can choose to put them in suitable separates so that they can remove a jacket, waistcoat etc if they have to and not become hot and uncomfortable.
FABRIC QUALITY
Check for quality, while children do grow out of things quickly, it doesn't mean that you should skimp on condition.
Clothes need to be durable and even more so for children because they are very active.
Children are naturally very energetic. Keep in mind that
a highly presentable and neatly dressed child, can soon become disheveled by reception time, due to him or her just being themselves. Poor quality clothing may tear, crease or stain easily.
ETHNIC CLOTHING
Children wear ethnic clothing beautifully and it is a nice alternative for them if they are from or honouring a cultural background.
However be mindful, remember that children fall under the same ethnic clothing considerations when attending weddings as adults.
Put as much a loving thought into the selection of children's clothing as you do your own, may be even more because you are responsible for their appearance, while older children might have some say or input, the final decision is up to you. The good news is that it only takes a little preparation and consideration to present them in a way in which everybody can be proud.
