How Different Children's Clothing Brands Vary in Fit – A Guide for Parents in Austria and Germany
Children grow quickly – and just as quickly, their wardrobes fill up with clothes that, unfortunately, don’t fit as expected. One of the most common reasons for incorrect purchases: Each brand sizes and cuts its clothing differently. What fits perfectly at H&M might be too tight at Zara, while French and Spanish brands tend to run smaller, and German or Scandinavian brands are often more generously sized. For parents—especially mothers—of children aged 0 to 10 years in Austria and Germany, understanding the fit and sizing variations of popular children's clothing brands can make shopping much easier.
This guide covers six popular brands—Jacadi, H&M, C&A, Zara, Le Petit Bateau, and Ralph Lauren—and explains:
✅ Whether they run large or small
✅ Whether their clothes are narrow or wide cut
✅ Which children (slim, chubby, long-legged, etc.) their fit is best suited for
✅ Tips for finding the right size
✅ Challenges of buying children's clothes online
H&M – Larger Sizes and Comfortable Fits
H&M (Sweden) is known for its more generous sizes. In general, H&M children's clothing runs larger than average. This means, for example, that a baby who usually wears size 68 might still fit comfortably into an H&M size 62 onesie. Many parents report that H&M’s baby clothes tend to be roomy.
H&M’s cut is comfortable and rather wide. Pants and tops often have extra width, making them ideal for larger or taller children. H&M pants are often long and slightly wide, while tops fit more regularly.
For slim children, some H&M pieces may feel loose—luckily, the brand offers adjustable waistbands (elastic with buttons inside) on many trousers. This allows slimmer children to wear them comfortably.
For Which Children?
✅ Perfect for normal to larger children who need more room to move
✅ Great for taller kids, as H&M trousers are usually longer
✅ Slim children may find some pieces too loose, but adjustable waistbands help
✅ Babies should stick to their current size or size down (H&M tends to be roomy)
Tip: H&M often uses double sizes (e.g., 98/104, 110/116). Always remember: Double sizes align with the larger number. For example, a 98/104 shirt fits more like a 104, so it might feel a bit big at first.
C&A – Runs Small and Narrow
C&A (Germany/Netherlands) is a well-known children's brand in Austria and Germany. However, C&A’s children's clothing tends to run small.
Parents often say: “C&A fits tightly and runs small.” For example, if your child usually wears size 68, they may need size 74 at C&A, especially if they have a chubbier build.
C&A’s cuts are generally slimmer, especially bodysuits, shirts, and narrow-fit trousers. Many parents of larger babies find that C&A’s onesies are too snug around the belly.
For Which Children?
✅ Best for slim or normal-sized children
✅ Great for kids with a narrow waist or shoulders
❌ Not ideal for chubby babies or children with a longer torso
❌ Can be too short for kids with long legs
Tip: When shopping at C&A, it’s best to size up to avoid tight fits, especially for babies.
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Zara – Stylish but Often Slim Cut
Zara Kids (Spain) is known for trendy children's fashion, but Zara clothes tend to run small compared to H&M.
Zara's cuts are slim and sometimes short. If a baby wears size 68 at H&M, they might need size 74 at Zara to ensure a comfortable fit.
Some parents also note that Zara’s clothes are wide but short, while others find them long and narrow. This likely depends on the specific item—Zara offers both oversized and slim styles, so it's important to check product descriptions carefully.
For Which Children?
✅ Best for slim and tall children
✅ Perfect for those who prefer a snugger, more fitted style
❌ Not ideal for chubby babies or kids with round bellies (tops and pants may feel tight)
❌ Shorter kids may find some Zara pants too long
Tip: Zara often uses age-based sizes (e.g., "2-3 years"), which can be misleading. Instead, look for the cm size on the label. Zara also has symbols (triangle, square, or circle) that indicate whether an item is slim, regular, or wide fit—a handy trick for online shopping!
Jacadi – French Elegance with a Slim Fit
Jacadi Paris (France) is known for its high-quality, elegant children's clothing. Like many French brands, Jacadi’s sizes run small.
For example, a 12-month size at Jacadi may fit a 9-month-old baby. French sizing is often shorter and slimmer compared to German and Scandinavian brands.
For Which Children?
✅ Great for slim, petite children
✅ Perfect for those with narrow shoulders and waists
❌ Not ideal for bigger, chubby children (tops and pants may be too tight)
❌ Tall kids may find Jacadi's clothing too short
Tip: Jacadi uses French size labeling (Mois for months, Ans for years), so be sure to check the cm sizing chart when shopping
Le Petit Bateau – High-Quality Basics, but Runs Small and Short
Le Petit Bateau (France) is famous for its durable basics, from baby onesies to striped shirts. However, like Jacadi, it tends to run small.
Many parents note that Le Petit Bateau’s clothing is slim and short, so it's best to size up if your child is between sizes.
For Which Children?
✅ Ideal for slim children
✅ Perfect for kids with narrow shoulders and a petite frame ❌ Not ideal for tall kids or those with longer legs and arms
Tip:French sizing can be tricky—always go for the larger size if your child is at the upper end of the age range.
Ralph Lauren – True to Size and Comfortable
Polo Ralph Lauren (USA) offers classic, preppy children's fashion. Ralph Lauren sizes are generally accurate, but they follow the American system.
Toddler sizes include 2T, 3T, 4T, while larger sizes are numbered (5, 6, 7, etc.). These often match the cm sizes used in Europe.
Most Ralph Lauren clothing has a relaxed fit, especially in the Classic Fit. However, Slim Fit styles are available for a narrower cut.
For Which Children?
✅ Great for most children, as it has a balanced fit
✅ Ideal for children who need slightly more room
✅ Classic Fit styles work well for broader kids
✅ Slim Fit styles suit slimmer children
Tip: Since Ralph Lauren follows the US sizing system, check a conversion chart if shopping from a European store.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Fit
Every brand has its own sizing system, and no two brands fit the same! To avoid mistakes:
✅ Check size charts before buying
✅ Read online reviews for fit guidance
✅ Order two sizes to compare if unsure
✅ Know your child’s body type (slim, tall, chubby, etc.)
With these tips, you can shop for children's clothes with confidence, knowing which brands will fit your child best!
Happy shopping! 🎉
