Quality staples and cozy natural fabrics will go the distance in your newborn’s wardrobe.
You’ve just accomplished one of the most empowering, beautiful, challenging, and exhausting feats you’ll ever experience in your life: you’ve birthed your baby. Now that you have your new little love in your arms, you’re probably pondering a plethora of questions including newborn feeding, sleep patterns, and other important things that will give your baby the best start in life. One question we hear a lot (and you may be asking yourself) is “what clothes do I need for my newborn”? We’ve been there—and we’re here to support you and help take the guesswork out of dressing your newborn for those exciting first months.
One important thing to keep in mind is that the newborn phase is fleeting—a baby is only considered a newborn the first 2-3 months of their life. When you’re in the thick of it, those sleepless nights and constant feeds can feel never-ending, but trust us when we say it doesn’t last forever. For this reason, your baby won’t require a lot of clothing in the beginning. Instead, opt for a few well-made key styles crafted from high-quality natural fabrics. Here’s what clothing we suggest having on hand for the first few weeks at home with your newborn.
Take Me Home Outfit
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! You finally get to bring your precious baby home. This momentous milestone is worthy of a special heirloom piece like our hand-embroidered Flora romper. You can snap some photos of your baby in this keepsake outfit at the hospital and again when they arrive home for the first time. Mama-to-mama tip: be sure to select garments that are smooth and soft so your baby is comfortable during the car ride.
Tops (four to six)
When it comes to tops, opt for tie-fastening wrap styles or side-snap tees that your baby can wear comfortably until their umbilical cord separates. We always suggest choosing natural, untreated fabrics like organic cotton or muslin that offer better breathability and will feel smooth and gentle against your newborn’s sensitive skin.
Pants (three to five)
Messy blow-outs and spit-ups will create the need for a few outfit changes throughout the day, so we suggest having four to six leggings or stretchy pants on hand for your little one. Tops will often come with coordinating bottoms to complete the look. Mama-to-mama tip: choose unembellished styles (no bows, pockets, or patches) so baby will feel comfortable while being held or laying on their back.
Onesies and Bodysuits (four to six)
These easy one-and-done outfits are comfy for baby and make diaper changes a breeze with a handy snap-fastening base. Select a few different sleeve lengths (sleeveless, short sleeve, or long sleeve) depending on the season, and again, choose natural fabrics whenever possible. If you love to dress your baby in colorful clothing, look for styles that are pigmented with safe, AZO-free dyes (all Shirley Bredal pieces are finished with AZO-free dyes).
Sleepers or Sleep Gowns (two)
A lightweight, breathable one-piece sleeper is a great option for bedtime. You can choose a style with feet if you live in chillier climes, but make sure baby isn’t too warm while they’re sleeping (a breathable onesie and swaddle make a great pairing for bedtime).
Socks and Hats (three to five)
Your little one won’t be wearing shoes for some time yet, but you can keep their feet cozy and warm with breathable cotton socks. You’ll also want to invest in a few beanie-style hats to keep in the heat during those delicate first weeks.
Milestone Photo Outfit
You’ll want to document your baby’s big “firsts”, like when they turn one week old, and then one month old. A treasured heirloom piece like our bubble-knit set is a lovely way to commemorate these special moments.
Most of all, your baby will need lots of love (and patience!) during those precious first months. Click here to explore our newborn collection featuring beautiful, one-of-a-kind heirloom pieces for your new baby.
