As anyone who has been a new parent knows, the clothing that babies wear isn’t just a fashion statement—it plays an important role in their health and development. The right garments can make a difference in everything from sleep patterns to diapering frequency. And while it’s fine to have a style preference, it’s important to keep in mind that infants need clothes that fit well and are easy to put on and take off. That means avoiding outfits with multiple pieces that require assembling and selecting fabrics and designs that are gentle on delicate skin.
The newest collections from designer Kate Quinn feature refined apparel that’s ideal for both newborns and toddlers, including ruffled leggings in colors like garnet wisteria, a 2-in-1 dress top half with a romper under section, and even baby bodysuits that leave the legs bare. The collection’s popularity has resulted in a growing secondary market for Kate Quinn pieces, with some parents reporting being “cart-jacked,” or watching their selections disappear from their cart as another shopper beats them to payment.
When shopping for baby clothes, it’s important to consider the time of year and your baby’s needs. During the warmer summer months, young babies need light layers that are breathable to help prevent overheating. Rompers and dresses with flutter sleeves or a skirt bottom half are a great choice, along with light sweaters and jackets. It’s also a good idea to stock up on cotton diapering underwear in several sizes, since you may need to change your baby’s nappy multiple times during a day.
For colder weather, a warm coat, hat, and mittens are essential for keeping your little one comfortable. Look for a coat with a hood that won’t leave your child exposed to wind and rain, as well as a hat that will protect the ears from heat and sunburn. In addition to being practical, mittens can help prevent your baby from scratching their delicate head.
You’ll also want to stock up on onesies, especially long-sleeved varieties, as you will likely be changing your baby’s clothes multiple times during a day. It’s a good idea to have several pairs of footie pajamas as well, since they provide warmth and are designed for easy nappy changes.
Many new parents are choosing to skip gender-specific clothing in favor of more neutral options. In addition to being environmentally friendly, the choice of gender-neutral baby clothes can also help new parents avoid stereotypes that they might face from friends and family members who plan to give gifts. That’s because if they know that you are having a girl, they will be more inclined to buy frilly pink clothing, while if they know you’re having a boy, they might select blue clothing with floral patterns and trucks.