The pockets might be what draw you to a pair of kids jeans first. We understand that, especially when there are lemons involved. But before you choose a print, spend a little time with the denim and the shape. A pair can be made from 100% cotton and still feel quite different from the cotton jeans already in your child's drawer.
For our Play Jean, we brought together substantial denim, an elastic waist and a roomy, slightly cropped leg. Those choices belong together. Here's how we'd think through them if you were choosing a pair, whether it's one of ours or something you've found elsewhere.
What does “100% cotton” refer to?
Look at the composition of the main denim fabric. A 100% cotton description means that fabric is cotton; an elastic waistband, contrasting pockets or other trims can have their own materials. If you're looking for something specific, it's worth asking about that part of the garment.
Denim with elastane or spandex is another option, particularly if your child likes a stretchier feel. Our cotton and stretch denim guide gets into those differences. The percentage gives you a useful fact, but it can't tell you on its own whether your child will want to wear the jeans.
Compare the pair you know with the shape you want
Take a pair that fits comfortably and lay it flat. Measure the relaxed waist and the inseam, then the front rise if you're trying to understand where the waistband will sit. Keep flat measurements separate from body circumference, and use the same method for both garments. We've laid out the steps in our kids jeans measurement walkthrough.
The Lemon Patch Pocket Play Jean, for example, has a 2T chart measurement of 8.5 inches across the flat waist and an 11.5-inch inseam. Those numbers describe this particular pair. They aren't a definition of 2T across every brand.
When trying jeans on, give the seat and thighs some attention too. Have your child sit and bend, and see where the hem falls with the shoes they'd usually wear. If something isn't right, try to name the part that needs changing before automatically going up a size. More length also comes with changes in width and rise.
A little about the cloth we chose
Our Play Jeans use 13.75-ounce denim from Mt. Vernon Mills in Georgia. Fabric weight describes the cloth per unit of area; the lemon pair's soft-washed finish is a separate part of how it feels. We like a substantial woven fabric with room in the cut, and the story behind this denim explains the choices in more detail.
If you're wondering whether cotton jeans will feel softer with wear, start with the pair as it is now. Our guide to the feel of cotton jeans talks about fabric, finish and fit. We wouldn't want you to buy an uncomfortable fit while hoping time will solve it.
Then, yes, the pockets
The Vintage Fabric Pocket Play Jean uses found vintage fabric on a new denim garment. We enjoy how much those small pieces can change the feeling of a pair. You can read more about where the vintage pockets fit into the making, or choose the lemon print for a different kind of brightness.
Both styles are sewn in San Francisco. If the jeans are for a particular date, allow for production as well as delivery; the time spent making a made-to-order pair isn't the shipping time.
One last practical detail before choosing: these jeans need a cool, delicate machine or hand wash with mild soap, then flat drying. No bleach, and a low iron if needed. The care guide has the fuller routine. And if a knit pant would get more use in your house, take a look at the organic cotton French terry Washed Black Jogger. It's fine for the next pair to be the one that makes an ordinary morning easier.
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