How to Choose Age-Appropriate Clothes for Preteen Girls

Many parents are concerned about the fashions available to preteen girls today, with some retailers offering clothing that seems too mature for this age group. The trick is finding outfits that gradually bring them out of childhood and toward the teenage years ahead. Here's how to choose age-appropriate clothes for preteen girls.

Instructions

1. Bring the girl with you on any and all shopping ventures. The best way to determine whether the clothes will be appropriate will be for her to try them on. Plus, this will save you a trip back to the mall to return the stuff she doesn't like.

2. Opt for modesty in low-rise jeans. Anything too close to the hip bones will be disastrous every time she has to sit down. Check the tightness as well to make sure she does not look as though she's been poured into her pants.

3. Skip the baby tees with ditsy or offensive expressions. Many slogan tees can be found that are funny or cute without projecting snarky attitudes.

4. Follow a simple top and bottom formula: shorts and skirts should be paired with modest tops, while tanks or shirts with spaghetti straps are best paired with jeans or long pants.

5. Choose appropriate underthings for the girl as well. There is little need for padded push-up bras and thongs. Keep in mind that preteen lingerie can be cute without being overly sexy.

6. Beware of track pants and athletic shorts with cutesy or flirty sayings emblazoned on the rear end. This is generally not a good advertising location for girls of any age.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't lose your cool in the battle of wills. The more you freak out about certain clothes, the more she may want to wear them. Be prepared to make compromises within your range of comfort.