Whether you’re shopping for yourself or planning to register, it’s helpful to have a rough idea of how many of each size of baby clothing you’ll need. This will help you plan your closet and guide friends and family so they don’t shower you with more than you need or overwhelm you with too little!
Aside from sizing, the most important thing to keep in mind when shopping for baby clothes is that simple is often best. Avoid outfits with lots of buttons and ruffles, which will likely irritate baby’s delicate skin. Instead, look for soft fabrics like cotton and linen that are naturally antimicrobial and will prevent moisture from trapping against the skin.
Newborns will need to be dressed in layers for warmth, as babies tend to overheat easily. The trick is finding the right balance of lightweight clothing for summer and heavier clothing for winter. During the warmer months, 2-in-1 dresses and rompers are a popular choice. They provide all the benefits of a dress, including full leg coverage, with the ease and convenience of a tee and a diaper underneath.
You’ll also want to stock up on warm weather outerwear, such as a light jacket and hats. In the winter, a warm snowsuit is essential for keeping baby comfortable and cozy.
Regardless of the season, it’s always a good idea to purchase clothes that are GOTS Certified Organic, which means they’re free from chemicals, dyes, and flame retardants, making them safe for baby to wear next to their skin. Also, look for sustainable brands that use less fabric and work with small-scale factories to ensure a fair, ethical work environment.
Another great way to support sustainable companies is by purchasing items that are made in the USA. These are often a little bit more expensive than other options, but it’s worth the extra cost for peace of mind.
When it comes to baby clothing, one piece will probably make up the bulk of your newborn’s wardrobe: the all-purpose bodysuit (also known as a “onesie”). Aside from being super soft, onesies feature a flap at the crotch that unsnaps for easy diaper changes. This will come in handy during the inevitable diaper blowouts that happen frequently with newborns!
You’ll also need a few pairs of leggings or pants in your newborn’s wardrobe. Actual pants are a pain to get on and off, so opt for stretchy leggings or sweatpants that can be pulled up and down with ease.
Lastly, you’ll want to pick up a few pair of pajamas for baby. Hanna Andersson is a great place to shop for gender-neutral baby apparel, as their pajamas and onesie sets include matching tops and bottoms in a range of prints and colors. For a more classic style, consider Gap. Their clothes have a Ralph Lauren feel with Zara prices, and their sweater rompers in nautical stripes are a nice alternative to the typical dinosaurs and sharks you’ll see elsewhere.