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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

To give clothes as a present?

26 replies

NewYearNiki · 28/01/2018 11:01

I have a friend who has just split with her husband.

I know she is struggling financially since the split.

Her DDs 5th birthday is coming up in February. Would it be ok for me to give her some clothes as a present? Given that I know her mum is struggling to afford essentials. Or would that be shit .

I usually get her toys / books.

OP posts:
dancinfeet · 28/01/2018 11:09

I can only speak from my own experience, but when I was struggling financially I would have really appreciated clothes for my child instead of lots of plastic tat. Just make sure that they are the right size though, or bigger to grow in to!

SenoritaViva · 28/01/2018 11:11

Yes definitely ok! Nice and supportive.

Original poster
NewYearNiki · 28/01/2018 11:11

If she is turning 5, I assume 5-6 would be ok?

OP posts:
MyBrilliantDisguise · 28/01/2018 11:13

I think that's a great present, but perhaps find out what she needs? Could you look online with her and ask her to choose some things so that you have some idea?

PlateOfBiscuits · 28/01/2018 11:16

I would just say “I’m thinking of that to get dd for her birthday. Are there any clothes she needs at the moment?”

MrsHathaway · 28/01/2018 11:21

I think it's fine but you must get the right size - ask, don't guess - and it must be a bit special, so not plain tops for example. Character hoodie perhaps?

Otherwise Sewing Circus is having a closing down sale I think. Some beautiful and unique things which are definitely everyday wear but also present special. Check the FB page for offer codes.

Original poster
NewYearNiki · 28/01/2018 11:31

Oh yes I know the kind of things she likes. She loves rainbows / unicorns for example.

There are gorgeous clothes everywhere with rainbows etc on and she loves things like that.

I was thinking of getting her a few items like tops and trousers with print on them that she would like and also one special item, maybe a pretty dress. She loves pretty clothes.

I will check with her mum what size.

OP posts:
roses2 · 28/01/2018 11:32

I went to two birthday parties in the past few weeks and gave both clothes from m&s sale with the gift receipt.

When it is my kids birthday I would appreciate cheap clothes more than cheap plastic tat that gets left on the shelf.

MrsHathaway · 28/01/2018 11:34

I think that might be a bit OTT tbh. One or two things but not a drawer full Grin

I can just imagine a 5yo getting very excited by those things.

abitoflight · 28/01/2018 11:39

I had a friend in similar situation and gave next gift cards - she said her DC loved going and choosing something in the shop for themselves

PurpleRobe · 28/01/2018 11:46

Excellent idea x

Original poster
NewYearNiki · 28/01/2018 11:51

I normally get her quite a bit for her b.day anyway as I know her mum so well. So it will come as no surprise that she gets a few things.

I dont have my own children so like to spoil. It gives me an excuse to buy childrens things.

OP posts:
Original poster
NewYearNiki · 28/01/2018 11:52

Ah yes a gift card is a good idea. To go shopping with mum.

OP posts:
Putyourdamnshoeson · 28/01/2018 11:54

I'd say get some cute clothes that the kid will Like, but get a little book or toy too.

Rudeolf · 28/01/2018 12:00

She could get a load in Primark, as they will only fit for around one season. They do coloured jeans for £5 & T.Shirts are £2.

I do like other shops but DD would rather have a few different cheaper things than 2 expensive items.

Primark also sell magic sand & unicorn lip balms etc.

MyBrilliantDisguise · 28/01/2018 12:02

She might need something specific eg a coat or jacket or shoes - that's why I think you should ask her mum.

Original poster
NewYearNiki · 28/01/2018 12:07

I will ask

OP posts:
LeonoraFlorence · 28/01/2018 12:09

Lovely idea. Maybe a small chocolate or book to go with it if your budget would allow.

user1488397844 · 28/01/2018 12:09

My DD has just turned 4 & her favourite item for her birthday was a unicorn t-shirt from Primark with reversible sequins! I always appreciate clothes for my child's bday/xmas and she does too! If you are particularly close could you take her out & let her choose some? I think you are a great friend, I'm sure she will appreciate you whatever you choose!

Lonesurvivor · 28/01/2018 12:10

That's a very thoughtful idea.

Jolad · 31/01/2018 12:08

Totally agree as long as she can exchange them in case they're the wrong size...better get something she will actually need rather than piles of plastic toys! You could organise a 'gift collection' online on www.giftwaffles.com and get friends to contribute towards a sizeable gift voucher - then you/she could use it to buy something useful.

Bluelady · 31/01/2018 12:33

Lovely idea. Could you make it a treat as well by taking them with you to choose?

BrizzleMaverick · 31/01/2018 12:37

Unless I know the kids I buy for want something specific then my fall back is always t-shirt/jumper and a book.
I normally get them from a supermarket so never really expensive but definitely check the size beforehand and stay away from specific characters in case the child isn't a fan e.g. superman or my little pony.

Drknittingfrog · 31/01/2018 12:41

Yes absolutely and yes to checking the sizes with mum... My 5 yo needs 7 yo tops as he is long on top 😁

dontquotemeondailymail · 31/01/2018 12:46

If you're going with the gift card idea, so that the little girl can go shopping with her Mum, could you also put a small amount on a (eg) Costa gift card so they can have coffee and cake while they're out? Little bit of luxury to make it a nice trip out

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