Month: October 2025

Newborn babies require a lot of clothing. Choosing clothes that are comfortable, practical and a good fit is important to help them sleep, move and grow. In addition, many parents prefer to choose organic baby clothes and other sustainable options for their little ones. Eco-friendly materials are not only better for the environment, but they also provide a softness that babies appreciate and can minimize irritation. These materials also promote ethical and responsible corporate practices. Newborns spend 16-18 hours a day sleeping, so it is vital that their clothes are comfortable and soft. Too-tight or rough clothing can irritate the skin and limit movement, which is not good for babies’ development. Stylish and functional infant clothes are available to keep newborns comfortable all through the day and night, including bodysuits, infant rompers, footed pajamas, dresses and skirts, knit sweaters and layette sets, plus a wide range of accessories such as socks, hats, mittens and bibs. Keeping up with baby’s ever-growing wardrobe can be expensive, especially since they outgrow outfits so quickly. To avoid overspending, look for a versatile style that can be worn for both warm and cold weather. A onesie is an excellent choice, with sleeves and a bottom that zips and fastens. They can be worn with a jacket or coat for outdoor trips. A hoodie, with its soft fleece fabric, is another option for cold weather. The warm material keeps babies cozy, while the hood protects their faces from cold winds or sunburn. Some hoodies also include fold-over scratch mitts to prevent babies from accidentally scratching themselves. During warmer weather, rompers or 2-in-1 dresses (a dress top half with a romper under section) are a popular choice. They are ideal for combining dressy elements with the convenience of a nappy-changing outfit, and can be supplemented with bibs during feeding time. Babies need socks and hats to stay warm, particularly during the winter months. They lose heat through their heads and feet, so having 3-5 pairs of soft cotton hats and socks in rotation is helpful. These items can also be useful for trips outdoors or when the temperature drops in indoor settings. The best baby clothing is soft and durable to withstand diaper blowouts, spills, spit-ups and other everyday wear and tear. Durable baby clothing is made of fabrics that are gentle and smooth on the skin, such as organic cotton or bamboo rayon fibers. Look for snaps or poppers instead of traditional buttons, which can be difficult to grasp for tiny hands. Newborns like to be swaddled, which can help them feel secure and comfortable. Swaddle blankets or sleep sacks wrap babies tightly, mimicking the feeling of the womb and helping them sleep soundly. A few swaddle blankets and sleep sacks are essential in your newborn’s wardrobe, but as they grow older and become more mobile, it is recommended to transition them into regular clothing, such as sleepers or footed pajamas. If possible, opt for organic cotton and/or eco-friendly fabrics for the highest quality, and consider buying a few extra pieces to allow for growth.

The death of a loved one is a difficult time for everyone involved. There are many details that need to be taken care of, including funeral arrangements and clothing choices. While this may seem like an odd thing to think about, it is important that the final attire respects the deceased and reflects their personality and style. It is common for burial attire to lean towards formality, especially with men’s and women’s clothing options. Suits, dress shirts, and ties are a popular choice for men, while dresses or skirts are often preferred for women. However, the level of formality can vary depending on the preferences and culture of the deceased as well as their family’s beliefs and values. For example, some families may choose more casual clothing such as a favorite outfit or a t-shirt with a special message on it. Others may prefer a more traditional option such as a classic black dress that exudes elegance and solemnity. In addition to these considerations, religious beliefs or customs can also play a role in the selection of burial clothes. If your loved one has made their funeral or memorial plans prior to their passing, they may have specified an outfit that they would like to be buried in. In addition, many funeral homes offer a wide selection of burial clothing as part of their services and can guide you through the available choices. Additionally, there are several local organizations that can provide you with a range of burial apparel from wedding gowns to baby blankets. For infants, it can be difficult to find clothing in small sizes. For this reason, Missy Ray founded Angel Gowns of WNY in April 2014, a nonprofit organization that aims to make one-of-a-kind angel gowns for every infant that passes away before their parents can hold them in their arms. The angel gowns are made from donated wedding and prom dresses and are able to be provided for free to families who request them. A few things to remember when selecting burial clothing are that items should be comfortable and easy to move in, since the body will begin to swell after embalming. Also, items with rubber, plastic, or metal should be avoided because they can cause damage to the cremation chamber. If you have any questions, be sure to contact your funeral home for guidance or assistance. Often times, people choose to donate their own wedding gowns or prom dresses so that other women and children can be dressed in them for their loved ones’ funerals. This allows people to pay tribute to the deceased and also provides them with a beautiful keepsake from their life. Additionally, some people choose to purchase or borrow gowns so that they can have something that is as close to their loved one’s style as possible during a very difficult time. This option is also a great way to support the work of nonprofits such as Angel Gowns of WNY.

For many brides, their wedding gown is one of the most sentimental items they own. While some brides choose to preserve their bridal gowns for future use (like at a vow renewal or their child’s wedding), others find that the work involved with maintaining a dress and storing it in a closet outweigh the benefits of keeping it. That’s where wedding dress donation comes in. Donating your gown to a charity or thrift shop can free up closet space, provide a tax deduction and help someone else’s special day, too. While reselling your wedding dress can be an option, it can also be more work than it’s worth. Between getting your gown professionally cleaned and mended, taking high-quality photos, and waiting for it to sell, the process can take six months or more. In addition, there’s no guarantee that you’ll recoup your initial investment. “You could always repurpose your dress as a piece of decor, but it’s just not the same,” says Drew Edwards, founder of Brides Against Breast Cancer Charity, who advises that donating is the best way to ensure your gown has a meaningful, positive impact. Founded in 1997, Brides Against Breast Cancer resells gently used dresses in order to raise money for early detection and awareness programs. They’ve sold over 50,000 donated wedding gowns in the past two decades, and the proceeds from those sales have funded research, education, and support groups for breast cancer victims. The organization has an online shop where brides can schedule a time to drop off their dress in-person, and they’ll send you instructions for shipping the dress if you can’t make it. The Brides Project in Michigan resells donated wedding gowns to raise money for cancer support services, like counseling and nutrition workshops, for those affected by the disease. Their online store features both gently worn wedding gowns and new bridal accessories. They accept donations year-round and offer a drop-off box in Ann Arbor, or you can ship your wedding gown to them by following their online guidelines. A Maryland-based bridal boutique, Cherie Sustainable Bridal, sells preowned gowns to support Success in Style, a nonprofit that provides professional attire and basic interview skills to those in crisis. It accepts wedding gowns less than five years old, as well as dresses from the bride’s maids and flower girls. It doesn’t require you to have your gown professionally cleaned before donating, but they ask that you contact them for their mailing address and donation release form beforehand. If you’d rather assist a sex trafficking victim, consider donating your wedding dress to Adorned in Grace. The faith-based organization carries wedding dresses and formalwear, and the sales proceeds fund professional counseling for trafficking survivors and awareness publications. You can drop off your wedding gown at a Goodwill store in quarantine, or contact the nonprofit directly for mailing instructions.

1 in 4 women will experience an infant loss either through miscarriage or stillbirth. It is not easy for families to say goodbye to their precious little one. Angel gowns are a way for parents to say their last farewell in comfort. These are created by volunteer seamstresses from donated wedding dresses that are remade into beautiful one of a kind burial gowns and angel wraps. Each angel gown comes in a kit that includes the special dress, blanket, two hats and heart and memorial trinkets. These kits are given to hospitals, bereavement groups and funeral homes. KOMO’s ANALANE POWELL: The process of creating the tiny angel gowns takes a long time and is very meticulous work. The seamstresses use every piece of the white fabric and beads to create something that is unique for someone so precious. They can make up to 18 one of a kind little gowns and angel wraps from a single wedding dress. They even create special baby blankets made out of the material that are used in hospitals for the smallest babies. If you have a wedding dress that you no longer want, look up an organization that accepts them in your area. You can also donate supplies like lace, ribbons and sewing materials. Some of these groups even need donated men’s ties for making little bow ties for the boys’ angel gowns and wraps.

The decision to include children in funeral events is a personal one that should be made by each family. Many families find that having their children present at a visitation period or funeral helps them better cope with the loss. Children are often confused about what death means and may have unanswered questions that need to be addressed. Including children in funeral services also provides an opportunity for family members to share their grief and remembrances with one another, which can be very healing. A child’s funeral can take place in any way that feels appropriate and comfortable to the family. Some families choose to hold a ceremony at the funeral home or another venue such as a church, synagogue or other faith center. Other families choose to bury their children in a cemetery or have a service at the gravesite with friends and family. It is a good idea to familiarize children with the funeral venue and its surroundings ahead of time. Many children feel more comfortable on the day of the funeral if they know what to expect. It is also helpful to spend time explaining the significance of the funeral services, as well as any rituals that will occur. During this very difficult time, children often need to be allowed to be children and will express their emotions in different ways. Some of these behaviors may be upsetting to others, but this is a normal part of grieving. If a child becomes disruptive during the visitation or funeral, it is a good idea to appoint a trusted and known adult as their “funeral buddy” who can take them outside or offer a distraction if needed. When it comes to the actual funeral, it is important to give children clear and honest information about what will happen. It is helpful to explain the difference between a dead body and a spirit, so they understand that while the physical body stops working, the memories and essence of the person continue on. Many children respond well when offered the chance to actively participate in a funeral or memorial service, such as putting flowers on a casket or placing a special memento in an urn. Shyer children might prefer to sign a message board or make a card instead. It is a good idea to discuss religious beliefs and concepts with a children’s funeral director, if possible, in order to get the most accurate and comprehensive answers to children’s questions. For example, some children may believe that God takes a loved one because He needs them and will bring them back when He is ready. This belief can lead to additional feelings of guilt if the child later realizes that what they did or said caused their parent’s death. In addition, it is important to listen to your child and respond to their questions in the way that they best understand them. If the funeral director feels that your child is not responding to their explanations, he or she will advise you on what other options might be helpful.

Newborns need a lot of clothes. Between sleeping, feeding and pooping, their outfits will change many times throughout the day and night. Baby clothing should be comfortable, easy to put on and take off (ideally without any snaps or zips), and made of high quality materials. It should also be machine washable and dryable, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. Some clothing is also designed for newborns, with features like fold over scratch mitts to prevent early diaper rash and cold weather outerwear that keeps babies warm. When selecting baby clothing, it is important to consider your infant’s age, weight and height. Carter’s offers a wide range of infant sizes, from preemie and newborn, to three- and six-month increments up to 24 months. To determine the best size for your baby, you can check out our size chart or refer to the specific size information on each product page. We also offer a number of mix and match outfit sets that can help simplify the dressing process and are color-coordinated for your newborn. A good start to any wardrobe is a pack of baby bodysuits. These are great for newborns, because they’re soft and stretchy and make it easier to dress your baby, especially with their fussy, gassy stomachs. They’re available in a variety of colors and patterns so you can find one that coordinates with your baby’s nursery. Another essential piece of newborn clothing is a pair of soft, stretchy cotton leggings. These can be worn under a onesie or a dress. They can help your baby stay warm and cozy, while providing a layer of protection between their sensitive skin and the rough edges of the change table. It’s a good idea to get a few pairs, so you have enough to wear them with multiple outfits. Once you’ve got your basic outfits, it’s time to add a few hats and scarves to your newborn clothing collection. These are a cute way to keep your baby’s head covered while they sleep and look great in photos. You’ll also want a few pairs of socks, to keep their tiny feet warm and to prevent them from slipping off during naps and nighttime sleep. Finally, don’t forget to add a few pairs of footie pajamas. These are a parent favorite and make excellent baby shower gifts. These PJs are a soft, snuggly choice for newborns and support sweet dreams at every age and stage. When dressing your baby, it’s a good idea to talk and sing to them, or even dance with them while you’re doing so. This will distract them and make the experience fun for both of you. Also, remember to keep one hand on your baby at all times during the dressing and undressing process. A fall from a change table can seriously injure a baby, so it’s important to be aware of their movements at all times. Also, be sure the change table is on a sturdy surface and doesn’t have any broken latches or locking devices that can cause your baby to slip or fall off.