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

Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? Yes
What's your overall opinion of it? Generally good quality, was well, wear well
If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? DD doesn't find it cool. We often check in there for cardigans, nightware or undies but generally come away empty handed.
What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from? H&M, Next and, this last year, Hollister.

~ 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 combination, but most of all, must appeal to 11 year old girl.
~ 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? Yes, I shop online and then pick up in 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? Their stuff is a bit frilly/flouncy. DD finds it girly rather than urban/cutting edge/fashion forward. It's all too smart for her. The jeans don't fit her build and she's a Next girl for jeans anyway.

~ 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'm past the baby stage, so this question doesn't apply.

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

~ 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?! colours, hard wearing, practical

~ 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? More practical stuff for toddler girls. More trendy but not tarty preteen/teen girks. No characters! 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? Need more hard wearing & trousers for girls.
More consistent sizing.

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? Yes.What's your overall opinion of it? not exciting, not good value apart from uniform. If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you?I can never get the right sizes in store - have to choose in store amd order online. What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from? Boden , Lands End, Gap ~ When you're shopping for kid' 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?! colours, hard wearing, practical ~ 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 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?

I have a ten yr old boy. He is tall. We have not been able to find any clothes to fit him in M&S for the last couple of years and we have relly tried as he gets vouchers for his birthday every year. He ends up having to spend his birthday cash on pants and socks.

Uniforms are very good. Girls clothes are a bit cheap looking and not quirky or charming. School shoes have been excellent.

yes, i buy the kidswear. I find it to be good quality, washes and dries well without shrinking or losing shape and is durable. I particularly like the sleepsuits and vests, but also sometimes buy t-shirts and trousers.

I think the pricing is reasonable given the clothes tend to last longer than supermarket brands, for example. On a par with M&S are Next baby clothes, which i think are a tad more expensive.

What always irks me though, and this is not just M&S, is that whenever there is a children's clothes sale, there are racks and racks of girls clothes and a few paltry boys items stuck on the end. What gives with that?

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 like M&S, some of it is a bit overpriced, but the things I do buy are t-shirts and cardigans for DD, on occasions I will buy her a set of some kind, dress/cardi/tights. I also buy children's socks, pants, and vests from there as they last well despite numerous washes, good quality, comfortable. I buy school uniforms there as they are simple and reasonably priced. I used to by grey school tights, but seeing as DD rips holes in them within weeks, the fact they keep their elastic and wash well mean nought, so might as well buy cheap.

I also buy Blue Zoo/other debenhams range, DD is growing out of Blue Zoo but they do fab boys clothes. In fact, to be honest, most of my clothes and the children's clothes are from there (Gorgeous Ted Baker dresses for DD, often in a sale!).

~ 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?!

In order, for DD, cost/quality/style/design, brand/label only important in so far as it indicates to be the quality levels. For DS, in order cost/quality - the rest is he gets what is on sale (second child, poor boy).

~ 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?

Either, if there is a sale I will go online, or else I pop in at lunch time or so and browse without children.

~ 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?

Do more boys clothes that are not blue/grey/green/combats.

~ 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 reasonable enough for baby stuff, I got a few bits there.

Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear?
Yes

What's your overall opinion of it?
Good quality, colourful, some pieces quite expensive, others good value.

If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you?
Price. There doesn't seem to be much of a 'basics' range, ie simple everyday leggings, t shirts (unless in sets) etc. Everything is brightly coloured or black, very little neutral stuff to mix and match with other ranges

What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from?
Next, supermarket ranges, pumpkin patch, h&m

~ 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?!
Combination, mainly quality and price.

~ Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why?
In store, I tend to do one shop per season so go to a shopping mall and do it in one hit. then top up in between as and when I see anything I can't resist!

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?
Go along and see what takes my fancy

~ Is there anything that you think M&S could do to encourage you to buy their kidswear?
More basics, better aisle space for buggies, better displays. the sizing seems to be quite off, too. My DD is average size but I always have to buy one age younger than her actual years. trousers in particular are very long.

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?
Lots of pretty stuff for baby girls, little basics other than sleepsuits and vests.

1. In the past I have purchased from M&S. I often get new items purchased for my children from M&S from the grandparents. I only consider M&S now if I am buying for a decent quality Winter coat, but often can't find the style for my little girl. I often purchase clothes for my little girl from H&M and I like the styling and price. For my little boy I purchase from Gap.

1. The quality at M&S is still there in the clothing. I find the clothing a bit too girl for my liking. Fancy hearts on t-shirts are not really want I want to put my 2-3 year old in.

1. I prefer to shop online for children's clothes, but will look in store if I can't get a particular item (that has sold out online). For convenience the children and myself don't like shopping instore

1. Cost is an important factor, I prefer H&M to M&S and Next clothing. I like to purchase slightly different clothing for my children and you can get a nice item for a child for £5.99. If it was in M&S it would be more like £15-20 for a similar item.

1. I prefer to look online for kids clothing as I don't want to drag the children around the town shopping for clothes as both children would get bored easily and it would cost me petrol to travel from the countryside into town and parking costs and then would cost extra at the cafe to ease the children from the shopping boredom.

1. The boys clothing is a bit dull and uninteresting, I purchase my little boys jeans and tops from Gap. The trousers for M&S are simply too large in waist for my child and don't fit. The girls clothing needs to change and adapt for the current economic climate. If you want to pay M&S prices then I feel I would prefer to save a little more and purchase a decent top from Joules or Boden.

1. The ranges for the baby and very cute, pale pink and blue. I think their baby sleepsuits are great quality and wash well. Don't know if I would pay the price for them now.

1. No they don't have enough variety - they need to improve their clothing range. They need to look at their pricing and design and perhaps look at how other stores are adapting their childrens ranges.

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? Yes.

What's your overall opinion of it? Good quality, washes well.

If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? I buy the bright stuff, the sizes are always good for DS, the colours don't fade and the clothes are nearly always cotton.
If you're not, is there anything specific that's stopping you? N/A

What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from? Next, John Lewis, tesco sometimes

~ 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?! Brand is not important but cost, design and quality are.

~ 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 tend to get sale things 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? More colours! I prefer to dress my son in bright clothes rather than blues.

~ 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? Your sleep suits and vests and brill and I have recently bought a nice red tshirt but you have much too much blue and muted tones in baby boy wear.

~ 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 regularly bought, and been bought (by in-laws etc) M&S Kidswear. I think it's a fair price for good quality clothing. Our staples are school uniform and underwear/socks, but I will also buy normal clothes because there's a good range of boys' clothing (I have 3 boys!). There's always a good selection of sizes.

~ 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 combination of quality and cost. I sometimes buy from supermarkets because it's cheap, but find the clothes badly made and will wear quicker. I also find it frustrating when I buy from more expensive brands, like Boden, for example, and find the clothes wear out far too quickly for the money paid. M&S seems to provide a consistently good quality (my 3rd son is wearing some M&S clothes that his 2 older brothers wore). I like basic styles - not lots of slogans or too 'trendy' designs, and although M&S caters for this market as well, I find I can still find more simple, classic styles that I prefer. I also shop at John Lewis (a favourite), Gap (in the sale!), H&M (great stuff for reasonable price) and sometimes Fat Face/Joules/Boden (in the sale).

~ 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?
A bit of both. In M&S, John Lewis, H&M & Gap it's in store. I don't usually check online before going into 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?
Less slogans/'branded goods' - like Disney/Thomas the Tank/Ben 10. That stuff really puts me off and there always seems to be such an abundance of it (especially in the boys' section). More classic clothing for older boys (well, from 6 years, perhaps) - nice chinos, normal jeans, plain cargo pants, shirts, plain/stripy t-shirts without writing or numbers on them, wool (yes, proper wool!) jumpers - round/v-necks - in different colours. For toddlers/pre-schoolers more basic styles: dungarees without writing/pictures/patches etc on (think OshKosh), plain/stripy t-shirts without writing/logos. Think simple - no extras!! One of our favourite buys (from H&M) for every age has been their stripy long-sleeved t-shirts, which are a little bit ribbed & a slimmer fit.

~ 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 been a while since I bought any babywear from M&S, but I do remember good quality babygros which lasted all 3 children. I do, however, remember a pair of jeans (12-18 months, I think) that I put on once and they never wore again as they were a trendy 'low-cut' which seemed SO uncomfortable for a baby. For me and babies, comfort has always been key - they all wore comfy leggings/tights/lined cords/jeans with stretchy waists. Oh yes, and less slogans/logos!!!

~ 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, its good. If there's something worth buying then we get it, but often I forget about M&S for the children. Some of it is a bit expensive for what it is (but that is the same with all M&S clothes). I get my childrens clothes from supermarkets, Primark, H&M and sometimes Next.

~ 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?!
Price, If they dont grow out of them quickly they stain them with mainly food, but also things like paint, pen etc. If its for a good price the colour/design/style or brand make no difference to me. Obviously I wouldn't buy them clothes I didnt like, but if I like something then its the price.

~ 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?
Instore as I never buy clothes online. I dont know why TBH. I never look online first either. Sometimes if the DCs are with us I will ask their opinion, but if they're not with us (eg they are at school) and I like something I will just buy 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?
Make it a bit more obvious that its there as I often forget about looking in M&S for children's clothes. I dont know how to make it more obvious that M&S is a choice for kids clothes though. I think all places cater better for girls than boys, but that is because IMO boys clothes are boring. I think there is more choice for girls.

~ 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?
Cant answer this Im afraid as I haven't really looked at the baby ranges.

I do have one more comment. I would like to see more older children's clothes with adjustable waists. DS (7YO) and DD1 (4YO) are both tall, but both skinny (especially DS) and getting trousers is a nightmare as they are usually too baggy. Also Id like to see more shorts and tracky bottoms (for either PE or general slugging about at home) to have a tie waste. They often have the ties, but they are attached and for show, not for any practical use.

Hope Ive helped :)

~ 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 childrenswear regularly for my daughter. I buy because the quality is good, the price is fair and quite often the designs are to my taste.
I also buy from Next, Debenhams, John Lewis, Joules, Animal and smaller independent labels.

~ 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. Firstly it has to be aesthetically pleasing and of decent quality. It also has to be fairly practical an age appropriate (no low rise jeans on a toddler for example!). I would be willing to pay a bit extra for the 'perfect' item of clothing but not for everyday staples.

~ 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 mostly shop in store, although if I've been instore and seen an item I like which is not in my daughter's size I willl then look online. I also look online during sales (less frantic!)

~ 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?
Most seasons I can buy a few outfits from M&S but there have been a few ranges in the last few years which have failed to inspire me at all. It's a matter of taste but sometimes I can't imagine anyone's daughter wearing the outfit- never mind my own!

~ 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?
Very good value for money and well made. Washes well and still looks new after daughter had grown out of it. Would prefer some more gender neutral choices and perhaps more baby blankets or shawls. The ones that you offer are great but a bit more choice would be lovely.

1. I've bought childrenswear from M&S before, I find the trousers a good fit on my tall, skinny ds1 and like the adjustable waists. I tend to buy smarter stuff and jeans from M&S and 'play' clothes from Sainsbury's Tu range.

1. Brand/label - no. Other than that, a combination of the others. If I'm going to pay M&S prices, I expect the quality. I've had some great clothes from M&S but also some ones that, after a few washes, definitely weren't worth the price. It seems quite hit and miss.

1. I buy from both. I have a look online as well to see whether a trip to the store is worth it.

1. More interesting colours for boys always attracts my attention. Otherwise it's a depressing combination of blue, black and khaki . I'd like to see school coats for older children in colours other than black so that they're safer when walking to school in the winter.

1. Couldn't seem to find anythng that wasn't baby pink, lemon yellow or powder blue in M&S when the dc were babies (2-5 years ago) which was a bit annoying. I didn't feel the need to colour-code my baby . The fabrics were nice and soft though and washed well.

~ 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. I like to go for socks, vests, pants, basics sorts of things, as well as maybe a special dress. Don't tend to find tshirts/skirts/pyjamas sort of thing that I like. I find the girls clothes too girly or over-patterned/designed and would rather some simpler, bright/stripey clothes of good quality, unisex design. I think H&M style is good and good price for decent enough quality.

~ 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 of course a factor but I am prepared to spend more for some special clothes or something I/DD really liked, especially if it is likely to last a while, for example go on to younger siblings. So quality is important if the price is more. However, brand names/labels of no importance to me. Colour and design v important. I find so many girls clothes covered in pink/glitter/fairies/cutesy bunnies that I can't bear and would never buy.

~ 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 online if there's a sale or if I want something very specific. Otherwise would always be in store and see what's there.

~ 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?

Less decoration and simpler, more classic, unisex clothes would make me buy more often. Fewer cartoon character-sponsored ranges. Same goes for cutesy characters and extremely gendered clothing.

~ 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 quite a few pieces from M&S in a sale before my daughter was born. I liked the simple white basic pieces and also got some baby sleeping bags which were very cosy. Brighter colours along with the whites, rather than pastels would get my vote.

~ 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?
We love M&S kidswear and have bought plenty in the last 2 years, it washes and wears well, we think it represents very good value for money. Our daughter mostly wears next, gap, cakewalk or Boden if not in m&s

~ 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! But price, proportions (some brands are too short in the back and it drives me mad, my daughter is not alone in being an older size in tops in many brands because of the age appropriate sizes resting around her navel!) and durability are everything. The fabrics also have to stand up to stain removal well, very essential in our house!

~ 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 shop in person and try on in store, we make it an adventure and shop with a purpose. I do sometimes research online, but not much, mostly because colours and sizes never appear accurate

~ 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?
Most stores need more room between rails, when we went shopping with a buggy it was hell! Most of the time you get stuck and it gets frustrating and must drive many people from the department. Fitting rooms next to the kids clothes are a must, dragging them waaaaay across the shop is awful. Some plain, staple lines would be good too... In the adults ranges there are fantastic plain t shirts, trousers etc etc, wardrobe staples for thousands, the children's range is very brightly coloured and patterned and I cannot help feeling that we would like things like long sleeve plain t shirts, plain trousers, jeans and pinnafores. Please?

~ 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 range is fabulous, at one point I think we had the entire current stock for when AJ was 1! Perhaps a little variety in colour, soft pink is nice but.......

~ 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?

occasionally...although MIL occasionally buys stuff from there. Our local store has a really small selection and never seems to have much stock in. we do tend to buy school socks so i can write their names in. we've also had really good pyjama bottoms from there for 8 yr old DS. he's almost worn them to death- they were soft cotton check comfy and washed well. I mainly buy clothes from h and m 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 plays a part but also bright colours other than blue and now they are getting a bit older they like things that are a bit more fashionable- h and m seems good for this

~ 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?

some things online like t shirts/ hoodies. but for shorts trousers prefer to see/ try on as my children are quite short and skin so need to check fit/ length. VERY rarely buy impulsively based on what children like

~ 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 want affordable fun brightly coloured clothes. preferably "unisex". like polarn o pyret pye stuff but at a more affordable price. quality is aways good but selection is a bit drab for boys

~ 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 would be great to see bright unisex colours with unisex designs.... not just beige or pastels.

i buy ds(10) m and s alot however i find the sizing comes up quite small.

Also dislike the way the tops jump so much in pricing the larger they get!

would like to see a good jeans range for boys - though h am m meet this market quite well now. also would like more plain t shirts.

Find boys range quite limited even in our massive local store.

~ 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?
Have bought from M&S occasionally but usually when I look at M&S, in store or on line I can't find anything I want to buy. In 2009 my daughter was given a £20 voucher for M&S, I looked regularly on line but it was 18 months before I could spend it! The girls clothes are often heavily embellished and in strange colours/shades, just too flouncy for my taste. Also the sizing is unpredictable - although on the large side more often than not. My favourite brands are Gap, Next, H&M, Boden. But I do feel that both Gap and Next have deteriorated in the last 3 years.

~ 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 for me are cost and quality. I have two girls are prefer not to buy anything pink so colour is important too.

~ 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 mainly shop on line for clothing because we're a long way from our nearest major town with decent shops. It's important to me that brand sizing is consistant so that I know exactly which size to order and not have the hassel of returning clothes that don't fit. If making a special trip for example to buy a winter coat I do look on line in advance. I like to buy on line at the start of a season and order most things the girls will need then top up with clothes from local shops and supermarkets.

~ 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? Have a complete rethink on design. Fewer sequins, bits of lace and embroidery please. Also look at sizing, things from M&S always swamp my girls and it's hard for me to know which size I should choose.

~ 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 have always found M&S baby clothes to be very disappointing. I went there first when pregnant with my first baby because M&S has a good reputation for quality but found the range very uninspiring. Particularly the neutral clothes. More primary colours and much less pink/blue stereotype colours would be great. In the end I just bought a pack of white baby grows having gone in prepared to spend plenty of money.

I also dislike all the cartoon character tie-ins there seem to be in M&S. Simple, classic good quality cotton and wool clothes sized for children who are not giants would mean I was able/inclined to buy far more from M&S.

~ Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear?
Yes
What's your overall opinion of it?
I actually rather like it but I never remember it is there!

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 just don't go into M&S very often. I like the styles when I do go in. I buy from Gap, Next, Mothercare

~ 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 complicated combination. DD1 is 8 and starting to get to the point where a lot of the clothes for sale are too grown up IMO. Brand/label is not an influence at all; I suppose design and quality with some cost influence.

~ 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?
A mixture of both. I try to shop without them as much as possible :)

~ 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 do like the different colours in M&S, not wanting my girls to wear pink all the time. I am pretty confident I will buy more when our lovely new store opens this summer :)

~ 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?
Too much pink/blue not enough neutrals and brights. I struggled to find toddler tights in there once.

Have you ever bought any M&S Kidswear? yes

What's your overall opinion of it? good quality but a bit boring

If you're a regular buyer, what makes you buy? I buy all DS's school clothes there because it is well priced, washes well and lasts for ages. It is also an excellent fit - he's tall and skinny and M&S do "skinny fit" school trousers. I have also bought smart shirts and trousers for formal occasions as they look really smart and are better priced then Monsoon

What other brands/shops do you buy kids' clothes from? H&M, GAP, scandanavian designers eg Polarn O pyret, Ida T, Katvig, TKMaxx, Ebay

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?! all EXCEPT brand/label

Do you tend to shop in store or online for kids' clothes and why? Online now that I have a new baby! It just easier then taking 2 kids round the shop

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 don't tend to look online before going to the shops

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? more bright and quirky, like scandenavian designers, the baby wear is too "beige" and needs to be brighter with less cute slogans. I really hate the branded stuff (ben10, cars etc) it looks so cheap and nasty. Some of the girl's stuff is too fussy

Do you think they cater for certain ages better than others? Or for boys better than girls or vice versa? I prefer the 2-5 age range and the boys wear is far simpler and cleaner looking than the girls

Thinking specifically about the M&S baby ranges, what's your overall opinion of these? good for basics like packets of babygrows and vests. I do not like the rest of the clothes
Do you think there's enough variety? Is there anything you'd like to see more of? more bright colours, simpler ie no silly writing or complex patters, no "cute" writing on the garments. More like H&M or Danish/swedish designer stuff but with M&S quality and prices

~ 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, generally it's good quality and value. I get school trousers from there (have just ordered the Skinkind trousers for DS1 after seeing them recommended on here) which are great quality and the fact the trousers come in different lengths is good too. I buy casual clothes from there occasionally but more often from Sainsbury's simply because I live much closer to it and it's a bit cheaper. I also buy from Next and H&M and occasionally Boden in the sale!

~ 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 - must wash well. Cost - I would not spend for eg £10 on a T-shirt because they get grown out of/torn/covered in paint. Colour/design - as a mum of boys I look for bright colours, nice cute designs, and no skulls/camo/'little ASBO' type 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 usually shop instore because my DSes are peculiar shapes (long body, slim hips, short legs) and it's easier to see if something will fit them, plus you don't have to pay for delivery.

~ 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?
The online selection for young boys sometimes seems a bit limited, the under-6 tops for example are mostly either character-based, or boring polo shirts which will need ironing! Would like to see some more cute designs and brighter colours. Like Boden but cheaper would be nice :)

~ 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 babywear looks lovely, I used to get basics from M&S all the while. Can't stand seeing a baby wearing a shirt though!

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 love the kids wear but my local store is very limited. We have a small M&S and an outlet locally and it doesn't have the range of children's clothes that would make it a really tempting shopping destination - it's more if something catches my eye when passing through.
I like mini boden, gap kids, laura ashley, vertbaudet and I'll buy bits from the supermarkets 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?!

Cost is a big factor but design can override that - I bought a satin lined cashmere cardigan for my two year old once at M&S - way more than I'd spend usually and not in the least practical. But it was so gorgeous that didn't much matter I also buy children's gifts and clothes as gifts at M&S because of the returns policy and the number of stores - I know whoever I give it to can swap it easily.

~ 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?
Online for second hand stuff and in store for everything else. i don't browse online for kid's stuff usually, except with stores like vertbaudet and boden.

~ 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've never bought for a boy other than a baby and the range there was fine. Bigger choice locally may tempt me more. My daughter would lobby for anything with extras included - hairbands and the like. I would like to see more 100% cotton, plain (as in non character) pyjamas and basics - I don't go to M&S for all that Ben10/hello kitty malarkey in polycotton.
More plain clothes in general and a move away from the pink/blue stuff. M&S could go for bright, primary colours or strong pastels, well designed and no tv characters or naff slogans or writing on the bum. Particularly no random embroidery saying 'love' or 'cute'. A unisex range would be positive.

~ 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?

A good range of sizes and some nice gift packs - aimed at christenings/new baby presents. Good natural fabrics. As above with the colours.

~ 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 cost, quality and colour/design. It depends on what the clothes are for; everyday casual clothes for nursery have to be cheap, comfy and wash well! For special occasions its more design and colour.

~ 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?
a mixture of both. I order basics like t shirts and pyjamas online. I like being able to touch and feel the clothes i buy and look at the size as it can vary from shop to shop.

~ 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 m&s kids clothes are fab! they are bright, colourful and fun. They wash and wear well, very good quality. I like their character ranges - peppa pig is VERY popular with dd!

~ 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 lovely and quite traditional. Maybe some more funky colours but overall I think they are good quality and nice designs.

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?

Only ever brought baby clothes from M&S. My DS has had a couple of presents when he was older but to be honest its the price that is off putting. We are more supermarket price range at the moment.

~ 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 quality. I will pay more for coats, shoes and jeans as they are items that take a hammering. Not at all interested in brands- just the design and print sometimes draws me in as more unusual than supermarket brands.

~ 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?

Shop instore as need arises. Recently looked for a lightweight waterproof online across several retailers including m&s and couldnt find anything.

~ 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?

Boys ranges are always undercatered for. Smaller prices would encourage me in.

~ 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 found the sleepsuits and vests to be of very good quality and more unusual nice unisex prints.Only slighty more expensive. Both My DS and DD were dressed in m&s as their first outfits