Dressing Your Kids for Crazy Weather: Create a Foolproof Wardrob

Spring weather in Oroville is so unpredictable, as evidenced by the pouring rain hitting my windows as I write this column right before Easter. I had a dilemma this week; my daughter needed new jeans, pronto! I had hoped to bridge the gap of winter and spring by making those jeans that were getting too short (tried to call them capris, but they were really high waters) last just a little bit longer. Here I was, with no spring weather in sight; so, shorts were out of the question, and her jeans were not going to last another day.

Frantically I ran to town knowing that I would probably be hard pressed to find any winter clothes in the stores. Shorts, swimsuits and tank tops filled the shelves, with rain coming down in buckets outside. Luckily we found jeans on the clearance rack that fit, so I bought two pairs knowing that winter may morph into summer around June 1st, so those shorts will have to wait.

I started thinking about our crazy seasons, and how we have such a unique weather system in our area. My goal is to create the perfect spring/summer wardrobe that will carry over into a hot fall that makes the most of the clothing budget for my growing kids. Here is what I have come up with to create a basic clothing wardrobe that should be foolproof for surviving the seasons.

1.  Shorts—a must have for Oroville. Shorts will carry us through most of the year (and sometimes the entire year). Be sure to have enough pairs to cover at least five days,
so you are not trying to wash clothes midweek. (I have learned this lesson well.) I also suggest the adjustable waist option, which allows for you to buy a slightly larger size and take the waist in as needed. With the way kids grow, you will be lucky to get a couple of seasons wear out of them. Most shorts now hit about knee length, which makes them perfect for fall wear as well; just add a sweatshirt, and usually you are warm enough.

2.  Tank Tops—another must have for hot weather but also great for layering in winter. Your child can wear them for playing sports, exercising, and even sleeping in. Have a variety of colors and even more than one of a favorite color. I really think you cannot have too many tank tops, especially for girls.

3.  T-shirts—this is the basic of any boy wardrobe. Short sleeves are the best, since they can be warmed up in the winter with a sweatshirt, so have enough T-shirts for everyday of the week and more. This will also save you from doing extra loads of laundry during the week.

4.  Flip Flops—every kid should have a pair, even if they are not big fans. This footwear can be used for camp (showers), the pool, and for a quick run outside or to the store. A must have.

5.  Sandals—girls should have a pair or two, and boys can chose something more manly like a Teva style that can be worn while climbing rocks. Summer is hot, feet sweat— enough said.

6.  Tennis Shoes—all kids should have a good pair of tennis shoes to wear in the spring/summer for any athletics.

7.  Dresses—for girls, some summer dresses can transition into fall with the addition of a light sweater and even carry into spring. Leggings can be added and boots as well for winter depending on the dress.

These are some of the basics that I have found to be useful living in Oroville, to keep my kids comfortable. These pieces can transition easily between our crazy seasons, and often carry kids back to school in the fall.

Now if only I could find a way to keep my kids from growing!