Baby Clothing Essentials

Newborn clothes aren’t just for cuteness; they’re a necessity to keep your little one warm and comfortable during their first year. Start with a solid base of bodysuits and onesies, then add layers to create outfits for any occasion. The right mix-and-match pieces can make your baby look like a mini trendsetter in the making.

Depending on how often you’ll be doing laundry, you might want to double the amount of newborn essentials in the list below. If you are planning to do laundry more frequently, consider stocking up on clothing items that can be worn more than once before washing (like reversible jackets or dual-sided bibs).

For daytime wear, consider rompers for a sunny outing. They’re a comfortable option for any weather, and come in a variety of styles, from ruffled shoulders to sweet prints. They also pair well with baby hats and socks to protect your bundle of joy from sun, wind, and cold.

At night, you’ll need some footie pajamas to keep your newborn warm from head to toe. These are similar to bodysuits except they have built-in feet to prevent overheating during the night. For extra warmth, you may also consider a blanket for swaddling and a cozy sleeper gown.

For playdates and family outings, dresses and skirts will provide the comfort and style you’re looking for. From twirl-worthy florals to baby girl stripes and black-and-white prints, your little lady can sport these trendy outfits with confidence.

You can find stylish gender neutral baby clothes from brands like Colored Organics, which features a line of contemporary clothing with cool colors and prints, including skulls, stars and stripes. The brand also partners with charitable organizations to support families in need.

Another popular option is Hanna Andersson, which has been a favorite of parents for decades. The company offers print-forward designs that can work for little boys or girls and is backed by the GOTS certification to ensure that every step of the production process is eco-friendly. They’re also partnered with beloved pop culture franchises and characters that are a hit for both baby girls and boys.

Babies aren’t known for their patience, so don’t be afraid to shop around for the best price on the items you need most. You’ll often find deals on the newest styles and sizes from major retailers, but you can also look for gently-used baby clothing on sites like Poshmark and ThredUP to save money.

Aside from price, it’s important to think about what you’ll be using the clothes for. Will you be using them for photos? Will you need them for a specific occasion, like a family portrait or a wedding? If you plan to use them for special occasions, consider splurging on a few designer pieces. These are typically made of higher quality fabrics and have details like matching parent versions to create a coordinated ensemble. They also tend to be more durable and can be passed down to future babies.