Baby clothing - Great shopping tips
If you're expecting a new bundle of joy, or have a few that are already giving you sleepless nights, you know full well that there's lots to consider when it comes to raising a baby. You've got to keep them safe, healthy, happy, clean. Fed and watered, sheltered and at more than just an arm's length away from all cleaning supplies and electrical outlets. There's a never-ending list of considerations. Oh, and you have to clothe them, too!
We checked in with Donna Paris, senior editor at Canadian Living magazine to find out what you need to consider when it comes to dressing your baby. She tells us what's on trend and provides helpful shopping tips that'll help you keep your baby safe and comfortable.
"When we talk about baby fashion trends, the basics come first," says Paris. "You want your baby to be comfortable. Everyday clothing should be light and casual. Remember: We're talking about babies."
Whether you're looking for everyday wear or clothing for special occasions, Paris says to remember to keep baby's clothes playful, colourful and, of course, uber-cute!
"Baby jeans are fun, trendy and always in style," she says. "But make sure they aren't too tight or constricting." Leggings, she says, are perfect. "And you can never go wrong with soft, warm fabrics."
Baby fashion trends
Paris provides tips for making sure that your baby is both comfortable and stylish.
Look for modern updates on classic styles
Fashion-forward New York–based masalababy.com offers clothing with a spicy colour palette of saffron, clove brown and turmeric yellow, getting their inspiration from traditional Indian roots.
Go green
One trend that will only continue to grow is for eco-friendly clothes. Look for kids clothes made with organic and recycled materials. All-natural bamboo is becoming a very popular alternative to cotton for baby clothes. It will adjust with your baby's body temperature and is great for layering. Hypoallergenic and antibacterial, it is an excellent choice. As for hues, think of the colours of nature – sky blues, ocean greys and grassy greens are hot.
Consider designer duds
If you're going all out, check out the designer duds for babies. It may seem crazy to be dressing a baby in Gucci, Prada or Versace, but practical and beautiful trendy babywear is certainly out there. And babies are a growing target market, with designers focusing on younger and younger kids for parents who want to indulge. Keep in mind, however, you don't want to buy too many expensive outfits: Most newborns will triple their body weight in a year, so they’ll outgrow stuff pretty quickly.
Shopping dos and don'ts
Ready to hit the shops? Heed Paris' helpful shopping tips before you do!
Do look for things that make it easy for you and your baby, such as Velcro, snaps or elastic waistbands.
Do look for comfortable clothing that doesn't constrict your baby in any way.
Don't buy clothing with embellishments such as feathers that can come off or cause allergic reactions.
Do avoid buttons. Buttons take time to do up and babies can get fussy if it takes a lot of handling to dress them – which you may have to do a few times a day if they spit up or get dirty. Worse, buttons can come off if they’re not sewn on properly, and end up in a baby's mouth.
Do look for clothes with easy snap closures at leg inseams. This will make it fast and easy to change your baby's diaper. Look for items that will give you easy access for diaper changes, such as slip-on pants, shirts with snap-on closures and coveralls. These make cleaning your baby easy, without constantly having to pull clothes over their heads.
Do look for prewashed clothing – it's soft and comfortable and reduces shrinking. A ribbed knit trim at the neck and cuffs will help onesies and sweaters keep their shape.
Don't buy clothing with zippers. Zippers can get stuck and if your baby is wriggling while you try to dress her, her skin could get caught in the zipper. At the very least, make sure the item of clothing has a zipper guard.
Do buy clothes in natural, breathable fibres, which will keep your baby cooler in the summertime.
Must-have baby clothes
You're not the only one who needs a wardrobe fit for a variety of seasons and occasions. But what exactly should your baby's wardrobe contain? Paris suggests the following:
Lots of onesies. You'll be surprised at how many your baby will go through!
One-piece footed coveralls. Babies can sleep and get through a day in these. They are comfortable and will keep baby warm, too, as they will often kick off their socks.
Light cotton flannel blankets that will keep your baby comfortable.
A few cute dress up outfits (and I do mean just a few). Really, your baby will be happiest in the one-piece coveralls or shortalls in the summertime when it's warm out.
Socks and shoes. Cotton socks are best. Look for soft-soled, slip-on shoes that are easy to put on and take off.
Caps and hats. These are a must during the summer, to protect against sun damage. Opt for baseball caps or sun hats. For colder weather, look for hats with ties so they stay put.
Outerwear. Layered clothing is best. If a baby gets too hot, he can develop a heat rash or at the very least, be very irritable. Cozy fleece hoodies are easy to put on and take off. In the wintertime, a bunting bag or snowsuit will ensure your baby is protected from the elements.
Check out 10 baby clothing items we love.
Natalie Bahadur is the senior editor of styleathome.com and is a regular contributor to CanadianLiving.com.
