NOW CLOSED Talk to M&S about their kidswear and win one of two £100 M&S giftcards

[TheOtherHelenMumsnet]

As you may have seen, we're working with M&S over the next few months - the Mumsnet M&S panel are going to be putting shapewear and the Simply Fuller Longer range to the test, and now we're asking all MNers to tell us what you think about M&S kidswear.

Here's what M&S say about their Kidswear: "We believe that at M&S you can find great value and fashionable kids' clothes. We also want to make shopping for kids' clothes as stress-free as possible, so we're asking Mumsnetters for their feedback on all things kidswear-related so that we can continue to improve our ranges."

We've provided some questions below to get you started, but please feel free to add any other comments you have as well. Everyone who adds their comments to this thread will be entered into a prize draw to win one of two £100 M&S giftcards. Please note, we want your honest opinions and we don't want you to do any research online before you answer the questions below so no cheating now!

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

Thanks and good luck with the prize draw
MNHQ

[MrsMcNulty]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

Yes, am regular buyer since DD was a baby, she is now 4. Overall opinion is v good quality, washes well without shrinking, good range of colours in general (not all pink), and decent value for money. Always buy winter coat from M&S as good value and good quality, and the last one lasted 2 winters which I was very pleased about. Also buy her clothes from Next, H&M, Gap. Boden sometimes, occasionally Tesco.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

A combination of all except brand/label - DD doesn't care about the brand and neither do I. I avoid anything with written logo/brand on it. Cost - needs to be good value for money, that's why I buy Boden a lot less now as prices have got silly. M&S prices higher than some some stores but clothes good quality so can justify the price. Quality - always a factor, M&S is good. Colour/design a factor - I am fighting the pink invasion and avoid anything too girly/glittery and certainly anything princessy.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

Mostly in store as I enjoy buying for her, don't usually look online first. Often take her and ask her what she likes in store, if I don't like it (or too expensive) I just tell her to choose something else!

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

I would buy more from M&S if there was less branded stuff such as Hello Kitty and Peppa Pig, as the pester power is a pain (and I do not give in and buy it, I say no and leave with a grumpy DD!), and more imaginative designs for girls not just "girly" stuff like kittens/sparkly hearts etc. For example DD has 2 boys dinosaur tops from Next which she chose herself as she loves dinosaurs. Some girls' stuff is OTT - frills buttons glitter bows etc. More bright colours for boys, less sludge. Less pink/blue for babies, and a bigger range of colours. No logos/numbers/random fake sports team names/written captions on clothes - I avoid buying all of these. Simple good quality imaginative clothes in a range of colours for both sexes would be the holy grail of kids clothes shopping...

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

I used to buy some of DD's baby clothes from M&S, but the range is too pink or blue, with not much gender neutral stuff. A range of colours would be nice, and not all pastels - DD looks lovely in dark and bright colours too.

[gramercy]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

Buy some kidswear; buy a lot of M&S school uniform - it is good quality and traditional. Not impressed by 7-14 wear - boys' too frumpy and girls' too silvery/black.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

Cost and style - avoid brand names. Spend a little more on a few items which will last (e.g. fleeces)

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

I have bought uniform on-line; for other clothes tend to impulse buy.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

I would like to see the age range extended upwards for younger girls. At 7-8 my daughter is still a little girl and I prefer that range to the older girls' clothes which are too old. I saw some nice things in M&S yesterday and then discovered that they stopped at age 7 which was disappointing. The older boys' range could be a bit more "Bodeny" - classic trendy but no skulls/skater stuff.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

I think the baby range is good - sleep suits and vests nice and soft; some cute outfits for babies and toddlers.

Tha

[lynniep]

I have bought little boys clothes in the past and the quality is good, however I have found more often than not that they are just too shallow from crotch to waist. Boys under 3 more often than not are in nappies, and I find that the trousers dont stay up terribly well because of the bulk underneath. I also find the designs very hit and miss. Some are lovely ( I have a little yellow rain jacket with an assymetric zip, and a navy and white striped hood lining that is gorgeous and everyone comments on it - but a lot of the boys stuff is blah)

I also want pure cotton school uniform to be available. I realise that you do cotton mix, and very occasionally skinkind pure cotton products are available - but why only occasionally? I've not managedto get hold of any yet. My sons skin is very sensitive, and there should be something to fill the gap between incredibly expensive cotton school trousers and ultra cheap supermarket polyester mixes?

[lynniep]

I take that back M&S youve got them in stock at the mo!!!

[AlanMoore]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

I have bought M&S kidswear and have had it bought for me as gifts.The quality is good and things wash well. The "value" Indigo baby jeans were absolutely brilliant.

Unfortunately a lot of the stuff, for girls in particular, is spoilt by horrible trims/embroidery/applique and there is a tendency for things to be really awful colours, a lot of salmon/taupey stuff which is just vile. I like brights and patterns but find a lot of the M&S stuff migraine inducing. I think the styles for slightly older girls are a bit "trashy" as well, too much lame and animal print.

Don't buy M&S very often as I find the colours and patterns very garish and the sizing is odd, most things seem very very large but the legs of tights are very short!

I buy most stuff from Next, Gap and George at Asda, I think M&S quality and pricing is comparable but the design is really letting you down. Sizing is just too big as well - if I don't have the child with me I often end up having to return and size down, recently a dress for my only slightly smaller than average 2 year old that had to be exchanged for 9-12m!


~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

I want things that are well made and will wash well and stand up to playtime, but I do like fun/pretty things for DC so the design is important. A choice of colours is a big selling point, particularly for boys as so much is just beige, brown or blue and it's SO boring! Skirts need to be short or full enough to allow them to run about and I do really like the way Gap provide little pants with their baby and toddler skirts and dresses, I wish all shops would do this.
I don't mind cartoon characters on kid's clothes (my DD loves Hello Kitty and has lots of stuff with her on) but I prefer slogans and text to be kept to a minimum. I was bought an otherwise lovely Autograph outfit for my DD that says on the back "All the cool girls dream of becoming a superstar" - she's never worn it because that makes me want to puke!

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

I shop in store for M&S kidswear as there is not that often anything I like, just the odd gem, so I tend to just pop in if I'm passing (I do shop in M&S quite a bit for myself). As mentioned before I find the sizing huge so wouldn't dare buy online, I have to be able to see the garment to judge the size.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

Improve your overall designs - get more up to date, your stuff does not compete with Zara or Gap in terms of design and a lot of it is rather frumpy!
Bring back classics. When I was pregnant with my DD I saw beautiful little princess line wool coats in pink and navy, the kind I remember having, and Mary Jane shoes, but these days there only seem to be garish patterned anoraks. Plain cardigans and jumpers in a range of colours, corduroy pinafores and dungarees, wool coats, pretty cotton dresses, printed shirts for boys, that's the sort of thing I expect to be able to buy in M&S.
Sort your sizing out. George at Asda comes up big IME but not as big as M&S, but then the legs on your tights are really short!
I would like more choice of tights for preschoolers. M&S tights beat Next into a cocked hat for quality but Next have far better choice of colours and designs.


~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

The quality of the baby stuff is lovely, but it's overwhelmingly pale pink, pale blue or white. Some more exciting designs and some bright colours would be great. The layette sets (7 piece I think, about £15, with vests/jersey cardi/trousers/bib etc) are absolutely fantastic for price/quality, I would like more choice of design in those as they make lovely gifts.

[MrsPlugThePlumber]

1/ I like a lot of M&S kidswear, although I think the girl stuff in particular could be less girly... more bright colours, practical hard-wearing trousers, stripes and spots etc rather than typical "girl" clothes. I think the younger girls range should be completely different to the tween/older girls stuff. I think the quality is great (usually) and haven't had a problem with the sizing. It's obviously more expensive than other places (supermarkets etc) and lower prices would tempt me further, though I appreciate the quality is usually better at M&S.

2/ Cost, quality, fabric (cotton, not polyester etc), no branding, no slogans particularly gender-specific "I'm a little monster/Mummy's princess" etc. which many people detest. Bright kid colours and designs.

3/ I almost always online. I don't have a local M&S but do have a M&S food that you can order into which is VERY convenient. I would probably buy more sale items if you could order them into the store also. I never let my kids pick their own clothes, but they are young at the moment and can't be trusted

4/ I have both a boy and girl, and I think colours for both should be brighter, more unisex and more "kiddy" than "fashionable"/stylish. I'm also not a fan of branded clothes/character t-shirts etc. Boys clothes should not be the colour of sludge, girls should not need to look hard for something that isn't PINK or doesn't have a kitten on it.

5/ Babywear a bit "twee", boring, safe colours, teddy design etc - the kind of thing your Mum would buy for you but you wouldn't buy for your own baby - but I have looked recently and thought things were looking a bit brighter.

Thanks!

[Selyna]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?
Not technically, but have had items bought for dd by relatives from there, and I have to say the quality of the clothes is brilliant, hard wearing and lovely.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!
Cost, quality are the two main important factors here. I like to try and get value for money.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?
I look online mostly first then visit the store.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?
More options for little babies (i.e 6 months and below) other than that no not really.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?
More sleepsuits maybe as I have always struggled to find these when looking on websites (might just be me there though.)

[Hulababy]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

I have bought clothes for 10y DD there occasionally. There isn't enough variety to do all her shopping there, not even most of it. But the quality is good ime and I find the prices fairly average for the high street. DD currently has a couple of outfits from M&S which she likes. The clothes for older girls/pre teens isn't too grown up, but still not too little girly either - which is a good compromise for me and DD. DD also liked the new teen range they have - the smallest size fits her, so it gives us a few more options now.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

It's a mix of those things. DD is 10y so she is starting to want fashionable clothing, but isn't really into names as such. I like to make sure what I am buying isn't too grown up (some shops really are very questionable over their designs for preteens) but is not babyish. I also look for quality and price. I am happy to get some buts from cheaper shops, and some bits from more expensive plavces - but for the majority of DD's wardrobe I want middle of the road pricing that washes and wears well

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

Both. I look online and buy online, but I do take DD into the store with me usually before ordering so that she can try - she is often different sizes in different shops, so I can't rely on ages.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

A bit more variety, a bigger range, esp at pre teen age.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

I don't really know much of their baby range to be honest as no baby to buy for.

[Thevelveteenrabbit]

Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?
Yes - usually pretty good quality. Also Boden, Debenhams, Next, Supermarket, Landsend, John Lewis

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!
Complicated - I have ID twins so often need to find 2 similar but not identical outfits - not easy to do at M&S - Also find some of the older girls stuff too grown up for my 8 yr old who needs age 10 clothes as she is so tall

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?
In store - rarely look online at M&S - but do buy school uniform online

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?
I can usually find 1 nice item but not an outfit for all of my girls. Mre mix and match and items that will co-ordinate rather than 1 top that matches one skirt/pair of trousers

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?
Can't comment haven't bought baby clothes here for a while!

[EssentialFattyAcid]

Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

I rarely buy from my local store but if I am near a store with a bigger kids dept my dd often chooses things she likes. The local store has hardly any of the range so I don't bother looking - kids is on the top floor and I rarely go into the store as the clothes don't suit me and i hate the look of the store and the lighting. I mainly buy from Gap, Zara, Next and John Lewis, sometimes Boden, Joules or FatFace

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

If my dd like the stuff then I buy it

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

Usually buy in store but sometimes online from Boden or Next.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

My store would need to carry a bigger range to persuade me to buy, and then I would as my 12 year old often finds things she likes in bigger stores, but we only visit a bigger store perhaps once or twice a year.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

I never look at the baby range and wouldn't think of buying babywear from M&S as I would assume that the styling wouldn't appeal to me - too dull.

[turkeyboots]

~ "Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from? "

Yes, am a regular buyer. I like the sturdy plain clothes which are getting harder to find now my children are moving into older age ranges. I dislike the lack of every day type outfits (in my local store at least its all almost all party clothes). Otherwise buy from H&M and Sainsburys TU range.

~ "When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?! "

Quality is important, as is material and style, as my DC can only wear pure cotton due to ezcema. I'm not a huge fan of all the branded stuff, so avoid that where possible.

~ "Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy? "

Both. However I often end up buying online with M&S as local store carries a very poor range of sizes in vital stuff like underwear and school clothes.

~ "Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?"

I am finding it harder to find styles I want by children to wear. Too many strappy tops and vest style tops for boys, which I dislike. I like the multi-packs of t-shirts (plain or pattered) and would liketo see more practical stuff year round. Its very hard to find a cardigan or coat this time of year, or a swim suit in Jan.

~ "Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?"

Was disappointed in the range recently when buying a baby dress as a gift. H&M do similiar things in nicer styles. Also everything was very summery and strappy. I'd also prefer less, white/pink/beige/blue as options in the baby clothes. More colours would be good.

[Slambang]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

Yes, but now my 'kids' are too big (teens). Overall decent quality and reasonably priced. I used to buy lots of the basics night clothes, jeans, hoodies, t shirts. What stopped me (apart from having hulking teens) was the goddawful limited choice for boys. Twelve year olds do not want cartoon figure pyjamas. They do not want cutesy logos saying things like 'Life is good' and they do not want anythig identifiably M&S branded with this year's theme (I remember a terrible year when you couldn't buy anything that didn't have a David Beckham logo or label - even on trousers).

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

As a parent all of the above but mainly cost. On ds1's behalf I'd say style and label. On ds2's behalf comfort and lack of distinguishing features or logos.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?
In store. Dss do not seem good at visualising what an online picture will look like worn in real life.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

As above - the boyswear is appalling. The girls' clothes usually take up a good 2/3rds of the floor space, lovely bright colours and choice. The boys' clothes are always in the furthest darkest corner of the store with a very limited choice of only navy, black or khaki even for little boys. And why is there no betweeny range for the post 12 year old skinny teens? You seem to go from ten year old to XX large fat men with nowt in between.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?
Haven't checked these out lately but have got some nice presents fromthe range previously.

[ChippyMinton]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from? I buy schoolwear (non-iron shirts, trousers & skirts, socks, boys underwear). The quality has declined over the last few years though - shiny knees on trousers, bubbling on shirt collars, colours fading. Fit is good - adjustable waists and choice of length is essential. Other clothes, though are a bit hit and miss, the choice and colours are awful. Best recent buys were a pair of navy sequin plimsolls for DD (good quality and she hates pink) and camouflage trousers for DS1 & DS2, although the sizing is not the same as the school clothes, and a choice of colours would've been nice. I tend to shop at H&M (fun stuff), GAP (plain sweats and t-shirts, underwear) , Boden (jeans are a good fit, and I like the fleeces), occasionally Bhs, TKMaxx, Tu, Tesco.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?! Sizing is important, having small, skinny kids. With regard to cost/quality I look for offers, and sell or pass on outgrown stuff, so maximise the value. Colours are important - M&S tend to have slightly odd, loud colours. And I don't like labels. logos, or random bits of print on clothes (I avoid Next for this reason)

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy? Look online then go shopping. Have learnt the expensive way that my kids prefer to see/feel/try stuff on before agreeing to wear it!

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa? Where to start? I would go to M&S for decent quality plain basics, if they stocked them, but they don't. EG this season not a single plain boys trouser is available - either too formal, or too casual. Or a long sleeved t-shirt for layering under the 'fun' t-shirts or football shirts. Colours are VILE. Same for girls. What I need are good basics - jeans, chinos, cargos, leggings, plain t-shirts, plain sweatshirts, warm hoodies - that can then be accessorised with print t-shirts, checked shirts etc. And stock more in-store. And make the sizes consistent with the schoolwear.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of? Haven't looked recently.

[TheMonster]

~ I have bought M&S kidswear before, and I do fairly often. I trust M&S clothes and believe them to be good quality and of a nice design. I think people can think of it as expensive when compared to other shops (such as Primark), but it's really not. I also buy kidswear from supermarkets (Sainsbos and Asda) and Next.

~ The important factor is the label/brand (a brand I trust), then the design and colour.

~ I don't shop online for kidswear as I like to see the sizes.

~ I think there is a lot more available for girls and I would like to see more boys clothes. Also, I'd like more designes that were just coloured or with characters, not with 'sports' all over it and random numbers.

~ When my son was a baby, I did buy M&S baby clothes, as they washed well. However, I do remember buying something that had an incorrectly places apostrophe and I was very disappointed!

[LillianGish]

Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

I buy it regularly for my children aged 9 and 11. I think it is reasonably priced (often reduced) and well made. I also shop in Gap and Boden.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

It is a combination of all of these things. My kids are growing fast so I don't want to spend a fortune, but at the same time I want the stuff I buy to be well made and most importantly to wash well. My kids are still slightly too young to be brand obsessed, but even when they are I'll be teaching them to mix things up.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

I prefer to shop in store, but if something isn't available in the right size I will go on line and order it to be delivered to my local store.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

I don't always find the sizing great - 9 - 10 or 11 -12 - sometimes I actually need the size in between. I hate the fact that a lot of the boys' jeans look as if they've been run over with a lawn-mower - I'm sure some people like that style, but I'd actually like some that look new to start with and can age and wear out naturally. I love the styles for younger girls, but find the range for older girls is sometimes a bit chavvy. It's not what I want and not even what my daughter wants. I don't want her dressing like a teenager until she is a teenager thanks very much - for this reason we've been shopping in Boden a bit more (because we happen to live near the shop - I hate mail order clothes) even though it is a bit more expensive.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?
It's a long time since I shopped for baby clothes, but from memory I wasn't that keen on them. I hardly bought anything from M and S when they were babies where as now almost everything comes from there.

[lumbago]

Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

Yes i buy often although less now the boys are heading twds teenage, love the Autograph range for older boys - find the jeans still a bit naff and made for fatter kids also buy from next ( v occasionally is a bit naff) and a LOT from H and M for boys

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!
most important is that they like it! and that it fits them, and mixed into that the price. Having three of the same sex means there are certain economies of scale, apart from jeans which tend to wear out.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

I do impulse buys in store but planned buying online, Marks REALLY need to look at their delivery charges to stay competitive, having free del only over 2 million pounds makes me look elsewhere

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

MOre trousers for slim boys - i know far more skinsters than fatties. Id like free delivery obviously and more availabilty for school uniform - trying to buy a school jumper in the middle of a rather cool summer was nigh on impossible

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

I dont buy baby stuff any more.

[carrotsandcelery]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?


I sometimes buy M&S Kidswear for my son who is 7. The things I have bought are good quality and have washed well. I generally bought because I liked the colours or the character on the item.

I have bought schoolwear for my daughter (11) but not casual clothes as I feel the older girls clothes are a bit too revealing or "adult". Often the girls clothes are black or heavily sequinsed or very strappy and I am not keen to dress my daughter in any of these styles.

I also shop for them in Next, H&M, Boden, Zara & John Lewis.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

Cost is clearly an issue but I do look for decent quality items which will last well in the wash. I am usually drawn to clothes by attractive bright colours and character prints for ds or appealing patterns for dd.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

We tend to know roughly what sort of item we are looking for. I find the M&S website difficult to use and if I look there I can rarely find the same items in the store so we generally just go into the store and see if they have a suitable version of the item.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

They cater for boys much better than girls. The girls clothes are either too adult or way too prim. Somewhere in between is what I am looking for.
More variety in length and width would also be helpful. Dd needs wider shorter items whereas ds needs much narrower items. They also put the childrens clothing in the least accessible area of the shop and the shop is always too hot so it puts us off battling our way through the shop and up the floors to the children's section.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

I don't buy babywear from M&S.

[Badvoc]

Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

Yes. I have bought baby clothes/muslins/bibs/etc. I have also bought clothes as gifts for others. I like the quality and the fact it washes well. I also buy from NEXT and John Lewis.

When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

Cost is a factor. I buy pants/socks/vests from cheaper stores. But for nice tops/shirts/trousers and pjs I go to M&S. It is SUCH a relief as the mother of 2 sons that M&S clothes are not covered in skulls and crossbones/superheroes/"typical" boy things and the 4 pack of tops aer very good value.

Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

I look online and then go into store usually.

Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

A value schoolwear range inc socks, pants, vests and plimsoles etc. Also more packs of clothes...eg; 3 pack of tops/t shirts/joggers.

Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

The muslins were fantastic...I bought loads of them! I also bought 2 sleeping bags. The babygros are a bit bland....cream/biege isnt a very exciting colour for babywear!

[nextphase]

We buy most of DS1's trousers from M&S. They have adjustable waists, which is essential for us. We also have next and H&M, and tesco if I see the adjustable waists. He is currently in 2-3 yr old trousers.
They do plain trousers, which don't have too many pockets etc making them look like combat trousers, and aren't denim. Price seems good, tho we don't buy trousers on price - we buy on waist size.
I look on line, and order the size I require to store - our local on often doesn't have the right size in all styles.
We also got some teeshirts recently, as they had some plain and striped ones, rather than branded, which I prefer. The head size seems too small for the body - they are already slightly tight to pull on, but are on the large size on the body, so I guess a more elasticated neck or larger cut.
All the clothes seem to be wearing well, and the tee's have been commented on.
I've never looked at girls wear or baby wear.

[bagelmonkey]

I've bought quite a few items of M&S childrens clothes, but only for up to age 2. I find the girls clothes a bit too pink and the boys stuff too boyish for a girl. I'd like to see more bright unisex baby clothes. Some of the older childrens clothes look good, but I won't be buying them for a while, so I hope the bright colours stick around.
I sometimes buy online, but I still prefer to get a proper look at things in the shop because sometimes the colours are hard to determine on a computer.

[OfflineFor30Years]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

I have bought a few items. Mainly nightwear and underwear. I find a lot of the normal clothes too garish/flashy/cheap looking/have too much commercial branding for the money. If I come in looking for something, I often leave disappointed. Our local store is cramped, untidy, has a poor range in terms of sizing, and often wrong season. Instead I buy from Gap, John Lewis, H&M, Debenhams, Boots when children were smaller or second hand Boden.



~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

Cost for daily wear items (H&M is good for cheap dresses/t shirts), but durability and design for longer term items such as coats which will be handed down to younger siblings.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

Mostly in store, browsing for general clothes, but online for shops which are not in our locality. If I'm after something specific like swimwear or pyjamas I'll probably check online first.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

As mentioned before, the range in our local store seems to be out of kilter with seasons - we still need wellies in March for example. Less branding or silly pictures on clothes. Less "fashion" items for toddlers, and more plain, classic clothes. I've found that the clothes range in Boots is what I would have expected from M&S.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

I bought very little from M&S baby. I can't remember why but it was probably because it was overpriced and not very inspiring.

Sorry, but you did ask!

[GreatGooglyMoogly]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

Yes, I often buy children's clothes from M&S. I can find things there that I can't find elsewhere eg. non-boring boys swimming trunks; thick jogging bottoms with pockets and cuffs; smart knitted jumpers. I also buy from Next, H&M, Tesco and Sainsburys.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

Cost, bright/ different colours, non-offensive pictures (eg. no skulls and crossbones, negative slogans).

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

I shop in store and online. Online for specific items I need and in store if just browsing.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

I would like there to be equal amounts of boys clothes and girls clothes, as there are always more for girls. Also more older boys' trousers with elasticated waists that aren't adjustable and slippers with velcro fastenings for older boys! Also -cheaper pyjamas - I object to paying anything over £10 per pair.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

I haven't bought anything for babies for a while but I seem to recall a lot of blue, pink and white and would much prefer more interesting, bright, non-gender specific colours.

[megabored]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?

Yes, I regularly buy from M&S kidswear. Overall, M&S quality is fantastic. The items wash well and last. For example, I purchased pajamas for DC 1 a year ago and they need washing every day. Still they have retained the shape and colour. The colours, designs and competitive pricing (in line with quality) makes me buy. I purchase regularly from Next, John Lewis and Tesco (while grocery shopping)

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!

If I am buying something like a coat, then the quality is important. Brand and label do not matter. Style, specially the colour is very important. Easy to wear and practical is also of great consideration.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?

I tend to shop n store store and online. Sometimes I go online before visiting the store to see whats available. But getting a feel of things in the store is much better. My child is too young to choose what he wants. However, the Cars 2 T shirts from M&S were a hit. Same with the Mr Tickle pajamas. My DS chose them himself. The delivery charge puts me off at times as I think its worth spending that amount in petrol and time just so that I dont have to return things.


~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?

Yes, The colours for boys, even baby boys are dire. All I see when I go in store are blues, greys and browns. Some brighter/fresher (not luminous ) would be nice for boys. The winter jackets available in store in October 2011 were dire. All greys and blues and browns. I had to purchase elsewhere. Even baby boy outfits are dull. Surely your fabulous designers can do better!




~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?

Baby range is okay. Again, dull for boys. but this seems to be the trend for all UK retailers. Quality is good but more styles for boys and brighter colours please. John Lewis IMO fared better last winter. Hope this helps you M&S.

[stressheaderic]

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? What's your overall opinion of it? If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?
I buy quite a bit of M&S clothes, for DD (age 2) and for gifts. Overall, I think they are high quality and wash well, keeping their shape. I have a problem with the sizing being way too large for my average sized DD.
I get my other kids' clothes from primarily H&M, Tesco F&F, George, Debenhams, and Next. The odd treat from Ladybird too and JoJo Maman too.

~ When you're shopping for kids' clothes, what are the most important factors? Is it cost, quality, colour/design, style or brand/label? Or a complicated combination of all of those?!
Most important factors for me - soft comfortable fabrics, good quality cotton and knitwear and classic designs, no fashion-y things, they are children, I don't want them to look like a mini adult.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? If you shop in store, do you look online at what items you might buy beforehand, or do you tend to go and see what takes your/your DC's fancy?
I do browse online but usually shop instore so I can feel the fabrics. Been caught out before by Matalan's crappest of cotton.

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear? Or buy it more often if you already buy it? Is there anything missing from their kidswear ranges that you'd like to see more of? Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa?
I think they cater for girls more, but then so do most places. The kidswear at my local high street M&S is very very cramped, can't get a slim buggy round. The young children's range is OK but the older girls' stuff is dreadful. It really is just so bad. All blacks and greys and glitter and ill-fitting tunic and leggings sets.

~ Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of?
I think the 'Petit Bebe' range is fantastic and pretty good value. Lots of fabulous unisex items, sets and gifts. We used the vests, socks, and babygros over and over without them looking tatty. I would highly recommend this range.