Childrenswear market insights

When you think of decorated apparel, your mind likely goes to adult-sized garments and designs. However, clothing for the younger generations offers an additional segment that your shop can serve — from infants to toddlers and up through the varying sizes of youth. We chatted with Stephanie Anzalone, director of merchandising and design for LAT Apparel/Rabbit Skins, about the current childrenswear market and opportunities decorators can find within it.

Q: How would you describe the current state of the childrenswear market?

A: Currently, I would describe the childrenswear market as resilient. Parents are still spending, but are becoming much more intentional, prioritizing quality, product differentiation, and relevance to the child.

Q: What are you seeing/can we expect to see trending in childrenswear along the lines of colors, fabrics, fits, and decoration methods?

1. Colors: Nature-inspired tones alongside more intentional pops of color. Earthy neutrals, washed tones, and playful brights. We’ll see a big uptick in the color Royal, since a trend forecasting firm named it the color of the year.
2. Fabrics/materials: Comfort and versatility remain key. Growth in elevated basics, sustainable product offerings and fabrics with a lived-in feel.
3. Fits: More relaxed, boxy silhouettes continue to grow in the youth category, while younger childrenswear remains focused on comfort and easy-to-move-in silhouettes.
4. Decoration methods: Soft-hand screen prints, embroidery, special dye effects. Texture and dimension are becoming important in creating perceived value.

Q: Have there been any major updates or changes in safety standards?

A: Not any major updates, but compliance and testing requirements continue to be strictly enforced, particularly around flammability and lead/phthalates.

Q: What opportunities might apparel decorators be missing out on in the childrenswear market?

A: Moving beyond the traditional graphic tee and capitalizing on the growing demand for personalization and elevated decoration through embroidery, patches, appliques, and/or tonal graphics. Kids are increasingly influencing their own clothing decisions, creating greater opportunity for products that feel personal.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share about childrenswear with our readers?

A: I think the biggest opportunity in childrenswear is continuing to bridge the gap between what parents value and what kids want. The brands that can deliver quality, comfort, and value while still giving kids a sense of individuality and self-expression will have the strongest opportunity for growth.