How to Buy Clothes for Teenagers

Tips for Shopping for Teen Apparel

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Aug 11, 2009 Christina Majaski

Buying clothes for teenagers doesn't have to be difficult.

Shopping for teen apparel can seem like a mystery unless you really know the person well. Here are tips for buying clothing for teenagers that they’ll actually want to wear.

Get to Know the Teenager

  • Pay attention to what the teen is wearing as well as what other teens are wearing. Is there a specific movie, TV show or band that they like? A graphic tee or hoodie are both common articles of teen clothing that are almost always needed and welcomed.
  • If familiar with the teen’s favorite brand of clothing browse the website and pick something out to be purchased online or in the store. Shopping will be easier if you already have an idea of what you’re looking for.
  • What is their style? Is she a rocker chic? Is he a sporty guy or a skater? Make sure you have a general idea of the teen’s style and avoid mistakes like buying the preppie girl a John Deere hoodie.
  • Know the teen's accurate size. Are they a petite or plus size teen? Clothing line sizes will vary but at least you’ll be in the correct vicinity.
  • Above all, know the age group that you’re shopping for. The only thing worse than getting a dorky shirt is getting one for someone 4 years younger (too old can be just as bad).

Think Like a Teenager

  • Keep in mind that adults and teens don’t always agree on style. Just because an adult thinks the knitted vest is adorable, doesn’t mean the teen will agree.
  • Don’t expect the teen to put the clothing on and model it for you immediately. It can be embarrassing if the gift doesn’t fit or is too small. If trying on clothes at the store, don’t harass them with questions like why didn’t you like those pants or what was wrong with that shirt.
  • Select something similar to clothing you’ve already seen the teen wearing. A new pair of jeans is always a safe bet and you can’t really go wrong if the style, whether cargo, flare or skinny , already resemble jeans the teen wears regularly.

Let the Teen Choose their Own Clothing

  • Give the teen a gift receipt so the clothes can be returned subtly if not the right size or style. This way, they don’t have to figure out how to tell you they don’t like it and you don’t have to feel bad about buying them something they didn’t like.
  • Buy clothing store gift cards that the teenager can use to purchase their own clothing. The teen will not only be able to purchase their favorite article of clothing, but they can use the gift card on their next outing with their friends.
  • Suggest taking the teen shopping so that they can pick out the clothing. The shopping spree will also give you ideas of what kind of clothing they like and which stores or brands they prefer for any future clothing purchases.

Keep these tips in mind when shopping for teen apparel and there’s a better chance you’ll buy your teenager cool and trendy clothing that they’ll love.

Readers of this article may also be interested in Twilight Movie Inspired Teen Jewelry.

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The copyright of the article How to Buy Clothes for Teenagers in Children's & Teen Fashion is owned by Christina Majaski. Permission to republish How to Buy Clothes for Teenagers in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
Buying Clothes for Teens, Think Like a Teenager, flickr.com/acrylica Buying Clothes for Teens, Think Like a Teenager
   
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