Starting a business in the kidswear industry can be an exciting and rewarding venture. But before you dive in, there's a crucial step you must take: choosing the right business idea. Your choice of kidswear business idea will shape the type of clothing business you establish, influence how you run it and ultimately determine its profitability.
Think of your business idea as the foundation upon which your entire venture will be built. Just like a house needs a solid foundation to stand strong, your kidswear business needs a well-thought-out idea to thrive.
In this article, we'll explore various kidswear business ideas, ranging from preemie and newborn clothing to teenage fashion. By understanding the distinct segments of the market, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision and set your business on the path to success.
Tip: read our comprehensive guide on how to start a clothing business.
In the world of kidswear, there are so many clothing options to consider. To help navigate this diverse market, we’ve categorized kidswear by age and use.
Kidswear business ideas by age
Unlock a world of kidswear business opportunities that span generations. From preemie and newborn fashion to toddler, school-age and teenage attire, discover the diverse and exciting market for every age group.
01. Preemie and newborn kidswear business ideas
This is where comfort, practicality and adorable design converge. When choosing to sell preemie, newborn and baby wear as a business idea, there are several essential factors to consider:
Size and fit: Preemie and newborn clothes must fit snugly and comfortably. Consider adjustable designs, soft fabrics and easy fastenings for convenience.
Safety: Safety is paramount with clothing for this age. Avoid any embellishments or small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Opt for hypoallergenic materials to prevent skin irritations.
Seasonal considerations: Newborns are born year-round, so consider selling a range of clothing suitable for hot and cold weather year-round. Layering options are often appreciated by parents regardless of the weather.
Durability and easy washing: Babies can be messy, so durability is key. Look for materials that can withstand frequent washing without losing shape or color.
Design: Cute, whimsical designs are often sought after by new parents. Consider gender-neutral options as well to cater to a broader customer base.
5 types of kidswear ideas to sell for newborns and babies:
Onesies: These one-piece outfits are easy to put on and take off, perfect for quick diaper changes. They’re an essential part of any newborn's wardrobe and parents often need to buy a lot at once.
Baby sleeping suits: Soft, full-body sleepers provide warmth and comfort for bedtime in colder climates.
Swaddle blankets and sleep sacks: These snug wraps keep newborns feeling secure and cozy, while sleep sacks are recommended for best safe sleep practices.
Bodysuits: Essential for layering, bodysuits can be worn under other clothing or as standalone pieces.
Baby hats: Keeping a newborn's head covered helps regulate body temperature and adds an adorable touch.
A business example that sells baby collections online:
This online baby clothing store has a selection of cute and modern clothing ideas for babies of all ages. They also have matching clothes for Momstoo. A great example of an online business idea in action.
02. Toddler kidswear business ideas
This kidswear is designed for children between the ages of 2 and 4 years old, an age filled with exploration and growing independence but also a messy one. When venturing into the world of selling toddler clothing, several key considerations exist for selling it successfully.
Durability: Toddlers are notorious for their boundless energy and messes. It’s best to prioritize durable materials and reinforced seams that can withstand the rigors of play and frequent washing.
Safety: Safety remains paramount, especially for this age group. Ensure that buttons, zippers and other fasteners are securely attached to prevent choking hazards. Choose non-toxic dyes and fabrics that won't irritate their sensitive skin. Most countries have their own standards for the manufacturing and sale of children's clothing, so make sure to research and follow them. Learn more about US standards from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Dressing ease: Toddlers are often eager to assert their independence, including dressing themselves. Offer clothing with simple closures, such as elastic waistbands, easy-to-use snaps and hook-and-loop fasteners, to foster their growing self-sufficiency.
Comfort: This is key for active toddlers. Prioritize soft, breathable fabrics that allow for freedom of movement. Avoid rough or scratchy materials that may lead to discomfort.
Design and practicality: Toddlers may have strong preferences for colors, patterns or characters. Balance style with practicality, ensuring that your offerings include both everyday playwear and dressier outfits suitable for special occasions.
5 types of kidswear ideas to sell for toddlers:
T-shirts and tops: Colorful and fun tops that are perfect for everyday wear and easy to mix and match. These tend to be toddler wardrobe staples throughout the year.
Toddler play dresses: Comfortable dresses that allow for movement and are suitable for both casual and dressier occasions.
Shorts and pants: Elastic waistbands and pull-on pants for active play, making dressing and undressing a breeze.
Outerwear: Jackets and coats designed to keep little ones warm and protected during different seasons.
Pajamas: Soft, cozy sleepwear designed to ensure a comfortable and restful night's sleep.
03. School-age kidswear business ideas
This stage covers kids from around 5 to 12 years old, a time when they're starting to express their unique style and preferences. When selling school-age kidswear, it's important to think about the following factors.
Durability: School-age kids are active and engaged in various activities, so prioritize durable materials and strong stitching that can withstand wear and tear.
Safety: While older, kids still need clothing with secure closures to prevent accidents. Ensure buttons, zippers and fasteners are well-attached.
Sizing options: This age group covers a wide range of sizes and children’s sizes can vary widely even within the same age group, so offer a variety to accommodate different body types and growth spurts.
Comfort and flexibility: Children need comfortable clothing that allows for movement, especially during playtime. Choose breathable fabrics and designs that do not restrict their activity.
Style and trends: School-age kids often have preferences for specific colors, patterns and styles. Keep an eye on current trending products to appeal to their evolving tastes. At this age, they’re often influenced by television characters or social media trends.
5 types of school-age kidswear ideas:
Graphic tees: Trendy and fun tops featuring favorite characters, themes, or slogans.
Jeans and pants: Comfortable bottoms suitable for both school and play.
School uniform: Offer classic uniform options for schools with dress codes, such as button shirts. In general, the colors should be reasonably muted.
Hoodies and sweatshirts: Cozy outerwear for cooler weather, often featuring popular designs.
Casual dresses and skirts: Stylish dresses and skirts for girls that are both comfortable and fashionable.
School-age kidswear real business example you can learn from:
The tye-dyed hoodies offered by this online clothing brand are colorful, bright and on point, making them a top choice for kids of school age and up.
Be inspired: Home-based business ideas
04. Teenage clothing business ideas
This age group, ranging from 13 to 18 years old, is notorious for their ever-evolving and varied fashion preferences.
When it comes to selling teenage kidswear, it's crucial to consider the following aspects.
Trends: Teenagers are often highly attuned to fashion trends and peer influences. Stay updated on the latest styles, brands and cultural movements to meet their expectations. Today this is heavily influenced by what’s popular and viral on social media.
Quality and comfort: Quality matters to teenagers and they appreciate comfortable clothing that reflects their unique style. Prioritize well-constructed garments made from comfortable materials.
Customization: Many teenagers enjoy expressing their individuality through their clothing. Offer customizable or personalized items to cater to their desire for uniqueness. Be inspired: Unique business ideas.
Sizing and fit: Adolescents come in various shapes and sizes. Provide a range of sizes to accommodate different body types and preferences.
Be online with your selling: Teens are often active online shoppers and social media users. Establish a strong online presence and engage with your target audience through digital marketing and social media platforms. Consider making a website, or an eCommerce site in order to sell your clothing.
5 types of teenager clothing ideas:
Graphic tees: Trendy and statement-making graphic tees featuring pop culture references, bands or artistic designs.
Jeans and denim clothing: Stylish and comfortable denim options, including skinny jeans, distressed jeans and denim jackets.
Streetwear and sneakers: Urban-inspired clothing and sneakers that align with the street fashion subculture.
Athletic wear: Sporty and athleisure clothing, including leggings, hoodies and sportswear for active teens.
Formal wear: Chic dresses, suits and formal wear suitable for special occasions like proms and parties.
Teenage clothing real business example:
This graphic tee seller has t-shirts that should appeal to teenagers, regardless of their style.
Kidswear business ideas by use
Dive into these kidswear business ideas for every occasion – from formal and schoolwear to playwear, beachwear and sleepwear.
01. Formal and party kidswear business ideas
Formal and party kidswear is designed for special occasions and events, whether that’s a birthday party or school prom. When selling formal and party kidswear, the following tips are worth bearing in mind.
Quality: Parents want high-quality, elegant garments for their children to wear on special occasions. Offer clothing made from premium materials and featuring fine craftsmanship to make it really special.
Comfort: While formalwear should look sophisticated, it should also be comfortable for kids to wear for extended periods. Look for designs that balance style and comfort.
Sizing and fit: Ensure a range of sizes is available to accommodate various ages and body types. Consider offering adjustable features to enhance the fit and so the clothing can be worn for more than one occasion or child.
Variety: The formal and party wear category encompasses a wide range of styles, from classic to contemporary. Offer diverse options to cater to different tastes and occasions.
Accessories: Don't forget about accessories including ties, bowties, belts and hair accessories. These can easily complement an outfit and offer more sales opportunities.
5 types of kids' partywear ideas to sell:
Party dresses: Dresses with elegant designs, embroidery or sequins for girls, suitable for weddings, birthdays and special gatherings. You can sell by niche, for example, bridesmaid dresses or first communion wear.
Suits: Formal suits or tuxedos complete with jackets, pants, shirts and ties for boys attending formal events.
Tutu skirts: Fluffy and playful tutu skirts are a popular party choice, paired with tops for a whimsical look that's perfect for birthday parties.
Party shoes: Stylish and comfortable shoes for both boys and girls, including dress shoes and ballet flats.
Special occasion outfits: Unique and themed outfits for holidays, like Christmas or Easter, as well as costumes for themed parties.
02. School kidswear business ideas
Schoolwear kidswear includes clothing that children wear to school on a daily basis. When selling school wear, it's important to consider several things unique to this type of kidswear and how it’s used.
Uniform regulations: Many schools have specific uniform requirements, such as color, style and accessories. Ensure your school wear offerings comply with these regulations to cater to students and their parents in your local area.
Comfort and durability: School wear needs to be comfortable for long school days and durable enough to withstand daily wear and washing. Look for fabrics that are both soft and sturdy.
Sizing and fit: Offer a range of sizes to accommodate students of different ages and body types. Provide size charts and guides to help parents make informed choices. You can also include reviews from customers on the sizing in real life.
Easy care: Parents appreciate clothing that's easy to care for. Consider offering items that are machine-washable and resistant to stains and wrinkles.
Affordability: School wear should be reasonably priced to make it accessible for families. Consider offering package deals or discounts for buying multiple items.
5 types of kidswear suitable for school:
Polo shirts: Collared polo shirts in school-approved colors are a common staple for school uniforms.
Button-up shirts: Button-up shirts, often with short or long sleeves, are suitable for older students.
Khaki or navy pants and skirts: Classic pants or skirts in khaki or navy blue, adhere to many school uniform dress codes.
Cardigans and sweaters: V-neck or crew neck cardigans and sweaters, are always a popular school clothing choice, for added warmth during colder months.
Ties and accessories: Ties, belts and other accessories that may be part of the school uniform requirements.
03. Casual and play kidswear business ideas
Casual play kidswear is designed for children's everyday activities, whether it's running around the playground, exploring the outdoors or simply relaxing at home. When selling casual play kidswear there are a few things to consider when choosing your idea.
Comfort: Comfort is paramount for active children. Choose soft, breathable fabrics that allow for freedom of movement and play.
Durability: Kids can be rough on their clothing, so prioritize durable materials and reinforced stitching that can withstand wear and frequent washing.
Safety: Ensure that clothing is free from small parts that could pose choking hazards. Opt for non-toxic dyes and materials that won't irritate sensitive skin.
Dressing ease: Parents appreciate clothing that is easy to put on and take off, especially when dealing with energetic kids. Look for designs with simple closures, like elastic waistbands or snap buttons.
Fun design: Casual playwear often features fun and playful designs, including bright colors, graphics and patterns that resonate with children's interests and imagination.
5 types of casual play kidswear ideas:
T-shirts: Comfortable and playful t-shirts featuring kid-friendly designs and characters.
Sweatpants and joggers: Easy-to-wear pants with elastic waistbands for active play.
Hoodies and sweatshirts: Cozy and warm outerwear perfect for cooler weather and any time of play or casual time.
Leggings: Stretchy and comfortable leggings in multiple color choices that allow for easy movement.
Shorts: Breathable and lightweight shorts for warm-weather play.
04. Hot weather and beach kidswear business ideas
Hot weather and beach kidswear are specifically designed to keep children comfortable and protected in warm, sunny conditions or during trips to the beach, lake, or pool. When selling hot weather and beach kidswear it’s worth considering:
Sun protection: Sun safety is paramount. Offer clothing with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to shield children from harmful UV rays. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can also provide added protection and are great accessories to sell alongside hot-weather clothes.
Breathable fabrics: Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that allow for air circulation, keeping kids cool in hot weather.
Quick-drying: Beachwear should dry quickly to prevent discomfort when transitioning from water activities to land.
Durability: Kids are active at the beach, so prioritize durable materials and stitching that can withstand sand, saltwater and play.
Comfort and mobility: Opt for designs that provide freedom of movement for beach games and activities. Elastic waistbands and secure closures are practical features.
5 types of hot weather and beach kidswear for you to sell:
Swimwear: One-piece swimsuits, bikinis and swim trunks designed for kids, often with built-in sun protection.
Rash guards: Lightweight, long-sleeved tops that protect against sunburn and abrasions when playing in the water.
Cover-ups: Lightweight, breathable cover-ups like kaftans or beach dresses for quick transitions from the water to land.
Sun hats: Wide-brimmed hats with UPF to protect the face, neck and ears from the sun.
Water sandals: Comfortable, water-resistant sandals suitable for beach and water activities.
05. Kids sleepwear business ideas
Kids' sleepwear, or pajamas, is clothing designed for a comfortable and restful night's sleep. When selling sleepwear for kids, it's important to keep in mind the following factors.
Safety standards: Ensure that your sleepwear meets safety standards, such as flammability requirements outlined by government regulations. This is especially important for children's sleepwear. Full government regulations for sleepwear can be found here.
Comfort: Comfort is key to a good night's sleep. Choose soft, breathable materials like cotton or flannel that are gentle on the skin.
Design and style: Kids' sleepwear comes in a wide range of designs, from cute and whimsical patterns to character-themed options. Cater to children's preferences and interests.
Sizing: Offer a variety of sizes to accommodate different ages and body types.
Dressing ease: Pajamas should be easy to put on and take off, especially for younger children who may need assistance.
5 types of kids sleepwear for you to sell:
Matching or coordinated pajama sets: Coordinated sets that typically include both a top and pants or shorts are a popular sleepwear choice for kids.
Nightgowns: Comfortable and breathable nightgowns, often made from soft fabrics.
Footed pajamas: Pajamas with enclosed feet for added warmth during colder nights and most popular with parents of babies and toddlers.
Character pajamas: Pajamas featuring beloved characters from movies, TV shows, or books.
Robes: Soft and cozy robes for added warmth and comfort when getting ready for bed or lounging in the morning.
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