Kids' clothing can be as expensive as adult clothing, and the biggest problem with the cost is that children are almost always guaranteed to grow out of their clothes before you can blink.

There are always exceptions to the rules when it comes to breaking the bank on children's fashion holidays and school pictures may be one time when you don't mind spending a few dollars more on a dressy outfit.

But some splurges simply aren't worth it. Here are 5 kids' fashion items that are and aren't worth shelling out on.

Whether you're shopping for your baby's first pair of shoes that will help teach him how to walk or are in the market for a new pair of running shoes that your teenager can wear to track and field, shoes are the one children's item that is worth the splurge.

A well-made pair of shoes fit the foot better, are more comfortable, and are sturdier and protect a child's foot better than cheap shoes.

They also offer proper arch support and can provide shock absorption--all good reasons to pay a little more for quality kids' shoes.


Winter Coat
Depending on where you live, your child will wear his/her winter coat or snowsuit anywhere from 3-5 months.

A great winter coat features insulated layers, a waterproof shell, and, more often than not, a hefty price tag.

When you consider how much use your child will get out of a winter coat, it’s well worth the splurge.

In many cases, you can buy one or two sizes up and the coat may last two years.


Formal Clothing

Your little boy looks adorable in a silk snowman-print vest and your daughter will be an absolute angel in a floor-length pastel tutu this Easter.

But, unless you were able to find these items on sale, you're probably paying far too much for fashion choices that your kids will only wear once in their lifetime.


A more frugal way to approach formal children's clothing is to purchase a dress or suit that isn't holiday  or season-specific and comes in a shade that can be worn throughout the year.


Tees & Onesies

If you're watching your budget, spending money on hip baby T-shirts and onesies--the kinds that feature band logos and ironic sayings--is the equivalent of going on a candy-buying spree at the grocery store when you really need fresh produce.

It's always fun to be gifted with hipster baby gear, but you'll spend less on no-frills shirts and pants and they'll help your child look timeless in photos.


Layette

A layette is a cozy, sweet set of clothing for a newborn baby that is often made from a soft material like organic pima cotton.

Depending on the material, you could spend a great deal of money on what amounts to loungewear for a baby who will likely outgrow the clothing in a few weeks.

Because all parents want their newborns to be as comfortable in their clothing as possible, there's really no right or wrong answer about whether layettes are worth the extra money.

If you'd rather not spend the money, there are plenty of other pajama and layette options that do not cost much.

If the thought of cradling your newborn in the finest materials brings you peace of mind, however, there's nothing wrong with that either.