The first ever nationwide sizing survey is out today and it shows children are significantly taller and fatter than their parents were at the same age. Both typical waist-lines and height have increased over the last 30 years. Girls are typically 2cm taller, with waist measurements up by 8cm, and boys are 4cm taller, with waists up by 7cm.
I was asked what I thought by reporter Tamsin Smith for BBC Breakfast TV. It's a sensitive issue and I'm sympathetic to parents with children who are larger than average as I was definitely a 'bonny' baby.
a bonny me - apparently aged only 18 months!
In fact I recently found an old pattern for a dress that Mum used to make for me with sizing for girls and "chubbies"! I think it's affected my designs.
I try and make clothes that will flatter the skinniest minnies as well as covering little tummies. But undoubtedly I have a huge advantage over the mass manufacturers because I'm able to cut a bodice a little larger and mix and match it with a skirt that's a little longer to fit your child. But the high street retailers will have to adapt their sizing to reflect the changing shape of today's generation of children.
I'd love to know what you think.
