Babies are tiny and delicate, so they need soft, comfortable clothing that is easy to move in and won’t irritate their skin. The right fabrics and well-fitting clothes are also important for a baby’s healthy development because they support their ability to crawl, roll, and eventually walk. In addition, properly-fitted outfits allow babies to explore their surroundings without limiting their movement and inhibiting their natural curiosity.
While it’s tempting to fill your baby’s wardrobe with a wide array of adorable styles and prints, you should focus on basics that will provide a variety of options throughout the year. A few essentials include onesie tees and jumpsuits, body suits, short-sleeve or sleeveless tops, sweatshirt rompers, and pants that fasten between the legs for easy diaper changes.
In terms of fabric, cotton is a good choice because it’s gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin. It’s also breathable, so it will help keep your baby cool and comfortable in warm weather. Cotton is also durable and washes well, making it an ideal choice for kids’ clothing.
It’s best to stick with natural fabrics for your baby, since synthetic fibers can cause irritation. You should also avoid anything with small buttons or strings, which can pose a choking hazard. If you want to give your baby a more luxe look, consider organic cotton clothes for your baby or a combination of cotton and wool.
A great place to start shopping for your baby is Gap, as it offers a classic style that is timeless and affordable. Unlike some other stores, it doesn’t have a lot of frou-frou, overpriced apparel, and you can often find a great sale at the end of the season or on Black Friday.
Another option is the brand Monica + Andy, which carries onesie tees and jumpsuits in cute patterns and colors. They also have a line of sweaters, which are great for cold weather and come in a range of sizes.
Other must-haves include hats and socks. Babies lose a lot of heat through their heads, so hats are essential. Thin mittens are helpful, too, as they protect newborns’ little fingers from scratching themselves. And, of course, a pair of warm socks is essential for keeping your baby’s feet toasty while walking outside.
For a complete outfit, add a coat or windbreaker for extra warmth, a bib to prevent food spills and leaks, and a soft skull cap (or an actual hat, if your baby likes it). For strolling in winter, you might want to add a bunting (a jacket that covers most of the body) and a warm foot muff (which slides over a pair of boots). Then, finish off with a set of reusable wipes, as baby will inevitably spit up or poop on their outfit.