4 of 19

Write now Article Tools

So your daughter has grown up and is now a pre-teen. You remember those days right? When you wanted to fit in socially at school and be popular? Well now your daughter is at that age and you have to take her shopping for clothes. So how do you shop with your preteen daughter?

BEFORE YOU HEAD OUT
Before you even attempt to go shopping, then as a parent you need to educate yourself on a few things. First you should check the school dress code. Most schools want skirts to be no shorter than the knees or they may not allow tank tops. Also check out some teen magazines and watch MTV for a day or so. Check out what the latest celebrities are wearing because chances are, your daughter is going to want to imitate them. By arming yourself with information ahead of time, you will be able to help your daughter pick out the appropriate wardrobe for her lifestyle.

INVOLVE HER
When you shop with your daughter, do not just make all of the purchasing decisions. Ask for her opinion. Ask her which kind of styles are in and what she is into? Let her pick some items out and try them on and then you can approve them. By asking for her input and letting her pick out her own items, you are giving her some responsibility in the choosing of her wardrobe.

Of course you will have to put your foot down if she wants to purchase and array of tube tops and low-rise jeans, however, show her some guidance when shopping and she won't feel like you are picking out her clothes for her.

NAME BRAND CLOTHING
This is the age where girls want to wear name brand clothing and carry those expensive Coach purses. Gone are the days where you could outfit your daughter in Walmart brand jeans and thrift store sweaters. Most girls this age, know the trendy designers and styles and are going to want to dress that way. This is where parental common sense comes in. Talk to your daughter about the finances so that she is aware that you will not be spending $200 on Seven jeans or $300 on a Coach purse. Tell her that you are open to the name brands, however, you are also going to be sensible with the prices. By compromising with issues like this, you will have a more pleasant shopping trip.

MAKEUP
If your daughter is entering her teen years, then guaranteed she is going to want to start wearing makeup soon. While you are out shopping, then hit the cosmetic counter for a makeover. Almost all cosmetic counters in most department stores will perform free makeovers so that you can see what kind of makeup looks best on your child. Since your daughter is only a preteen then sheer lip-glosses, mascara, and a light foundation will probably be sufficient. This will make your daughter feel grown up, and you still got to approve the makeup without a fight.

MAKE IT SPECIAL
Instead of just going out and shopping, make the trip a mother-daughter event. Go get manicures, have lunch, then shop. Your daughter will appreciate the special time together and will be more relaxed when picking her clothes out later. Not only will they appreciate the day out, but also will help you become closer to your daughter by spending more time with her.

Just remember to be open to your daughters shopping ideas as well as still showing your authority as a parent. This way, your child will respect your opinion and they will still achieve the style they want.

Learn more about this author, Adina Carter Allen.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Tips for shopping with your preteen girl?
We want to hear your view. Write now!