Petit Bateau Kids' Sizing Guide: How to Get the Right Fit

Quick Answer

To find the right Petit Bateau size, measure your child's height and chest, compare with the brand's European size chart (which uses age-based sizes like 6A, 10A), and consider the garment's fit. For example, a size 6A generally fits a child around 6 years old, but always check the specific product's size range, as some items come in multiple sizes within a range. When in doubt, size up for growing room, especially for pajamas and loungewear.

Shopping for kids' clothing online can be tricky, especially when sizes come from a European brand like Petit Bateau. You want the outfit to fit now, but also to last a few months. This guide breaks down how Petit Bateau sizes work, how to convert them to US sizes, and how to measure your child for the best fit.

We'll cover the basics of the brand's size labels, provide a simple conversion approach, and share tips for different types of clothing—from everyday tops to cozy pajamas. By the end, you'll feel confident ordering the right size the first time.

Understanding Petit Bateau Size Labels

Petit Bateau uses a straightforward sizing system based on age, but it's not a strict rule. You'll see labels like '6A', '10A', or '12A' for older kids, and '6M', '12M', '24M', '36M' for babies. The 'A' stands for 'age' (in years), while 'M' stands for 'months'. For example, a size 6A is designed for a child around 6 years old, but the actual fit depends on the child's height and build.

Importantly, Petit Bateau sizes are based on the average European child's measurements, which can run slightly smaller or larger than US sizes. Always refer to the specific product's size range, as some items, like the A08WE socks, come in a range like 23-26 or 31-34, which correspond to European shoe sizes for socks. For clothing, check the size guide on the product page or the brand's official chart.

• Check the product's size range: Some items list multiple sizes, like '6A and 10A', so you can choose the closest to your child's measurements.

European vs. US Kids' Sizes: A Simple Conversion

The most common question is how to convert Petit Bateau's European sizes to US sizes. In general, a US size 6/7 corresponds to a European size 6A, and a US size 10/12 corresponds to a European size 10A. However, this is a rough guide. Petit Bateau's fit tends to be 'true to size' for slim kids, but if your child is on the taller or broader side, you may want to size up.

For babies, a US 6-9 months roughly equals a Petit Bateau 6M, and US 12-18 months equals 12M. But remember, these are averages. The best approach is to measure your child's height and chest, then compare to the brand's size chart. For example, the FW23 A05WB baby leggings come in sizes 6M, 12M, 24M, and 36M, so you can pick based on your baby's current height and age.

• When in doubt, size up for items like pajamas or loungewear that should be roomy for comfort.

Measuring Your Child for the Best Fit

To get the right fit, measure your child's height, chest, waist, and hips. For tops, the chest and height are most important. For bottoms, the waist and height matter. Use a soft measuring tape and have your child stand straight. For height, measure from the top of the head to the floor. For chest, measure around the fullest part of the chest, keeping the tape snug but not tight.

Once you have these measurements, compare them to Petit Bateau's size chart. If your child is between sizes, consider the garment's style. For example, the AW25 - A0DVO long-sleeved check shirt is a classic top that should fit comfortably over a t-shirt, so you might choose a size that allows for layering. Similarly, the SS25 - A0CJC pants are designed for warm weather, so a more fitted look might be fine, but if you want them to last, size up.

• Measure your child in their underwear for the most accurate results.

Fit Guidance by Clothing Type

Different types of clothing have different fit expectations. For everyday tops and shirts, like the AW25 - A0DVO check shirt, a regular fit is ideal—not too tight, not too loose. For bottoms like the SS25 - A0CJC pants, a straight or regular fit works well. For loungewear and pajamas, like the AW24 - A0BIT floral set, a roomier fit is more comfortable for sleep.

For baby leggings like the FW23 A05WB, a snug but stretchy fit is fine, as they're meant to be worn under dresses or with tops. Always check if the product description mentions a 'regular fit' or 'wide cut'—for example, the FW26 - A0GLU heart print pants are described as having a 'classic straight-leg, wide cut', which means they offer more room through the leg.

• Read the product description for fit cues like 'wide cut' or 'classic fit' to understand the silhouette.

Quick Decision Rules for Petit Bateau Sizing

• For tops and shirts: Measure chest and height. If between sizes, choose the larger size for layering or if your child is tall. Size up for growing room.
• For pants and bottoms: Measure waist and height. Consider the fit description (e.g., 'wide cut' means more room). If between sizes, size up for length. Check the leg length, not just waist.
• For baby clothes: Use age in months as a starting point, but measure height for a better fit. Sizes like 6M, 12M, etc., are based on average growth. Always measure your baby's height.
• For socks and accessories: Use the European shoe size conversion. If your child wears a US shoe size 10-12, choose 23-26; for US 13-3, choose 31-34. Match the sock size to the shoe size.

Key Products and Their Sizing

• A08WE: 3-pack of striped and solid socks, available in sizes 23-26 and 31-34. Sock sizes correspond to European shoe sizes. Size 23-26 fits toddlers to young kids, while 31-34 fits older kids. Check your child's shoe size to choose correctly.
• AW25 - A0DVO: Long-sleeved check shirt for boys, offered in sizes 6A and 10A. This shirt is a classic top; choose size based on your child's age and height. Size 6A fits around 6 years, 10A around 10 years. If your child is tall, consider sizing up for length.
• SS25 - A0CJC: Boy's pants from Spring Summer 2025, available in sizes 8A and 12A. These pants are designed for warm weather. Size 8A fits around 8 years, 12A around 12 years. For a longer wear, size up if your child is between sizes.
• FW23 A05WB: Baby leggings available in sizes 6M, 12M, 24M, and 36M. Baby sizes are based on months. Size 6M fits up to 6 months, 12M up to 12 months, etc. Measure your baby's height to ensure the leggings are not too short.

Best For vs. Not For

Best For

• Parents who want a snug, true-to-size fit for their child's current age.
• Shoppers who are comfortable measuring their child and comparing to a size chart.

Not For

• Parents who prefer to buy a larger size to last multiple seasons without measuring.
• Children who are significantly taller or heavier than average for their age.

Getting the right Petit Bateau size is about measuring, understanding the brand's sizing, and thinking about how you want the clothes to fit. Use this guide as your go-to reference, and you'll be able to order with confidence—whether it's a cozy pajama set or a classic shirt for the school year.