How to Find Cute Boys' Clothes

If you want to find cute boys' clothes, it may not be as easy as you would think. While most stores seem to have unlimited choices for little girls, when you find the boys' racks, the pickings often seem disappointingly slim. But that doesn't mean you have to give in and settle for items that you don't like. You may just have to be persistent in looking for the cutest styles which might mean shopping at multiple stores. In addition, for the best selection, you may also need to be willing to either buy second-hand or pay a little more.

Things You'll Need

• Button-down sweater Basic white T-shirts White oxford shirt Argyle vest Loafers Jeans Corduroys Khakis Peacoat Sports jersey

Instructions

1. Shop at stores that carry classics. Places like J. Crew, Talbots Kids, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger provide an upscale collection of basic boys clothes that you can dress up for formal occasions or make work for everyday. Look for items that will span several seasons to get the most from your investment, since these brands don't come cheap. Opt for button-down sweaters, argyle vests, khakis in neutral colors and a white oxford shirt. These items can be mixed with other inexpensive pieces (like jeans, turtlenecks and corduroys) that you can buy from Walmart, Target or Kmart to get a cute and fashionable look without breaking the bank for the outfit.

2. Select items that are inspired by menswear. Pieces like a navy or corduroy blazer in a toddler or little boy size can turn jeans and a T-shirt into an outfit sure to catch attention with its sense of style. Also find miniature versions of men's loafers or dress shoes. Check the boys section at high-end department stores such as Nordstrom, Bloomingdales and Saks for first-quality fabrics and cuts. You may also find less expensive versions of these pieces at more moderately-priced stores like Macy's, Kohls and JC Penney. Also see the boys' Lands End line at Sears, which offers cute pieces at a reasonable cost.

3. Become a regular at the Gap, Gymboree, The Children's Place and Old Navy. These stores often carry cute boys' clothes and get new styles in often. Most of their clothes come with coordinating pieces. You may want to pick and choose your favorites from among the selection and pair them with items from other stores to create a more individualized look and avoid dressing your child like the store mannequin.

4. Consider the impact accessories can have. A belt embroidered with dolphins or fish, a jaunty cap, shirts with puppy dog icons and patterned sneakers can be worth splurging on since you can use these pieces with a variety of outfits and they are sure to look great.

5. Invest in a great winter jacket. A classic peacoat, a "leather" bomber jacket with a fleece collar or a colorful ski coat can be the perfect topper for almost any outfit. You can often find especially nice boys coats in department stores, J. Crew's Crewcuts, Talbots Kids and Brooks Brothers Kids, as well as in children's specialty boutiques.

6. Shop the holiday collections. Most of the children's clothing chain stores carry their cutest items at that time of year. Stock up on different sizes when these items get marked down so you will have them for next year, too, since the styles don't change much on these types of items. Decorated sweaters, corduroys in rich colors, plaid button downs and cable knit sweaters are good choices that can work long after the holidays have ended.

7. Look for sports-inspired clothes. Faux layered shirts, sports team jerseys, velour sweat suits and athletic pants make very modern school and play clothes.

8. Visit upscale consignment shops to buy the best kids' brands at a discount. Keep in mind that parents who invest in expensive boys' clothing are also likely to take care of them, so you may be able to score a few cute used pieces in great condition at a significantly reduced price.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the clearance racks at boutiques, chain stores and specialty places for deals on expensive clothes so you can get more for your money. Check out the Disney store for cute clothes that feature popular movie and cartoon characters. Look online for closeouts of your favorite brands.

• Don't overlook practicality. Some of the cutest boys' clothes just won't work for real life. Pay attention to the way fabrics feel and the washing instructions. Try to select items that are not only cute but also will wear well, too.

Resources

• J. Crew
• Gap
• Gymboree