Preparing for the arrival of a baby is an exciting time and one of the most enjoyable tasks is shopping for those adorable baby clothes. However with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here’s what I’ve found helpful to make the baby shopping experience a breeze. From choosing the right sizes to considering practicality and style, I’ve got you covered!
Start with the Basics
When shopping, it’s best to begin with essentials. Look for onesies, bodysuits, sleepers, and comfortable pants. Soft fabrics are a must have for a baby’s delicate skin so look for soft breathable cotton.
Consider the Size
Everyone knows how quickly a baby grows so choosing the right size when shopping for clothes. Newborn sizes are suitable for the first few weeks but don’t stock up to much on them. When buying clothes prior to your third trimester, opt for larger sizes like 3-6 or 6-9 months. Once you start getting regular measurements of the baby, you can look to stock on the lower size range like 0-3months. This way, if your baby is on the larger side, you haven’t wasted money on clothes they’ve outgrown before even coming home! Always ensure you’re buying varying sizes though, so your little one has clothes that fit as they continue to grow.
Choose Easy-to-Dress Designs
Babies can be wiggly during diaper changes so look for clothes with convenient features like snap buttons, zippers, or envelope necklines. These make dressing and changing much more efficient.
Prioritize Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to baby clothes. Avoid outfits with scratch tags, rough seams, or tight elastic bands that could irritate your baby’s sensitive skin.
Think About Seasonal Needs
Consider the climate and time of year your baby will be born. For warmer weather, choose lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or bamboo. In colder months, opt for cozy layers like onesie, sweaters, and sleep sacks to keep your baby warm. This is also a consideration when purchasing sizes. If your baby is born in December, don’t buy 0-3 month sizes in summer clothes that will likely not fit them once the warmer weather arrives.
Embrace Versatility
Select clothes that offer versatility and can be mixed/matched to create multiple outfits. Look for coordinating sets or pieces that can easily be paired together. This allows for more outfit options while minimizing cost and space usage for your baby’s wardrobe.
Have Fun with Colors and Prints
Baby clothes come in a wide array of colors and adorable prints. Feel free to have fun and express your personal style or try something completely out of the norm as this period of time doesn’t last forever. From pastels to bold patterns, there’s something for everyone. However, remember to choose designs that are not overly stimulating or may distract your baby during sleep or playtime.
Consider Practicality
While cute outfits are fun, consider practicality as well. Look for clothes that are easy to clean, preferably machine washable. Babies are messy! Avoid delicate fabrics that require special care or a lot of maneuvering for a diaper change.
Shopping for baby clothes should be an enjoyable experience filled with anticipation and excitement. By considering the above tips, you can find the perfect outfits for your little one. Be sure to prioritize your baby’s comfort over the appeal of high fashion pieces but also have fun and explore the variety of colors and prints available to you. Remember, you’ll have just as much fun shopping for clothes when your baby arrives so don’t rush to purchase everything all at once. Happy shopping!