Children's ethnic wear looks adorable in the shop and in photos. Then, half an hour into a wedding, the child is pulling at a scratchy collar, tripping over a long skirt or crying because they are too hot. Choosing kids' festive wear is mostly about comfort, and the right choices make the whole day easier for everyone.
Fabric comes first
Children have sensitive skin, move constantly and get hot quickly. The fabric matters more than the design.
- Best: cotton, cotton-silk, mulmul and linen blends. They are soft, breathable and wash easily.
- Fine for short events: silk with a soft cotton lining.
- Avoid for young children: stiff net, unlined sequins and synthetic satin. These scratch and trap heat. If you buy them, make sure every seam is lined with cotton.
Turn the garment inside out in the shop and run your hand over the inside. Rough embroidery backs, exposed seams and tags are what make children uncomfortable.
Outfits that work for boys
- Kurta-pyjama: the most comfortable choice. Choose an elasticated pyjama rather than a drawstring for younger children.
- Kurta with a jacket: adds a dressy touch, and the jacket can come off when the child gets warm.
- Dhoti-kurta sets: ready-stitched dhotis with an elastic waist are much easier than traditional ones.
- Sherwanis: best kept for older children and short events, since they are heavy and warm.
Outfits that work for girls
- Frock-style Anarkali: easy to put on, comfortable, and twirls well.
- Lehenga-choli: choose an ankle-length skirt so she doesn't trip, with a cotton lining and an elastic or adjustable waist.
- Sharara or palazzo sets: great for active children because the legs are free.
- Pavadai (pattu pavadai): the traditional South Indian silk skirt and blouse. Make sure it has a soft lining.
Practical details parents forget
- Closures: buttons at the front or side, or a back zip with a cloth flap behind it so the zip doesn't touch the skin. Avoid tiny hooks that children can't manage in the bathroom.
- Dupattas: for under-fives, skip the dupatta or stitch it in place. Loose dupattas get stepped on and are a hazard near diyas.
- Necklines: check that the neck opening goes over the head easily. Tight necklines are the biggest cause of tantrums when dressing.
- Length: nothing should touch the floor. Children run and climb at every function.
- Spare clothes: pack a simple cotton outfit. Food spills and messy play are guaranteed.
Sizing for growing children
Kids' ethnic wear is often worn only a few times before it is outgrown. To get more wear from it:
- Measure chest, waist and height (shoulder to ankle for full-length outfits) rather than going by age. Children of the same age vary a lot.
- Add 2 to 4 cm of room at the chest for growth.
- Choose adjustable features: elastic waists, tie-backs and ankle-length skirts that can be shortened with a hem.
- Ask the tailor to leave extra seam allowance in custom-made outfits so they can be let out later.
Safety around diyas and crackers
Synthetic fabrics such as nylon, polyester and many nets can melt onto skin if they catch fire. During Diwali and other festivals with open flames, dress children in cotton and keep loose dupattas and long sleeves away from diyas. Read more in our Diwali outfit guide.
A comfortable child is a happy child, and a happy child takes better photos. Choose soft fabrics, easy closures and the right length, and festive dressing becomes simple.