A baby's first year of life is full of wonder. As they grow and discover the world around them, you do all that you can to keep them safe, happy, and healthy. You start nesting and planning outfits with the best newborn baby clothes you can find. But as newborn parents, you might get nervous that you aren't making the right choices.
You could start asking yourself, "How should I dress my baby? Should I care more about functional clothing or stylish ones? What if I don't know the sex of my baby but need to start buying clothes? How many clothing items do I need to buy before my baby arrives? Which baby clothing brands are best?"
Believe us, asking questions is normal. Every parent— new, experienced, young, or old—worries they aren't prepared to raise their newborn.
Many first-time parents turn to their moms, friends, and family who walked the newborn path to ask them for advice. But newborn parent advice can vary greatly.
We gathered all the parents at the RAGS office to ask them for the advice they wished they'd heard when choosing baby clothes for the firstborns to simplify the process. Then, we compiled their tips into an all-in-one "How to Choose Baby Clothes" guide.
Here is what you should know.
The First-Time Parent's Guide to Dressing a Newborn
When you first learn that you are pregnant, you probably ran out and bought the cutest romper you could find. Since then, you might have received a few shower gifts filled with newborn outfits, dresses, shoes, and more. Before you know it, you have a group of mismatched clothing items that might or might not last for your baby's first six months.
Don't go to the hospital unprepared. Instead, make sure that your newborn has a fully stocked wardrobe with all the most essential newborn clothing items.
Infant Wardrobe Items:
- Newborn one-piece rompers: 5-7
- Baby Pajamas or sleepers: 6-8>
- Socks or booties: 3-4
- Footed one-pieces: 3-4
- Baby top knots, hats, caps, or other newborn hair accessories: 2-3
- Undershirts: 3-4 short and 1-2 long-sleeve
- Sweaters: 2-3
- Baby Swaddle: 1-2
Newborn Dressing Tips
Along with knowing which items you need and how many of each, there are a few guidelines we suggest following when buying clothes for your little one.
Stick to the Basics
When it comes to dressing your newborn, think simple. Outfits with too many design features, such as frills, buttons, or ruffles, may look cute, but they will quickly lose their appeal when it comes time to change your baby's diaper. Instead, prioritize your baby's comfort and choose items that offer function. We recommend stocking up on basic items and only buying a few frilly outfits to store for special occasions. You will be grateful when you open your newborn baby's dresser drawers to find clean one-piece baby rompers, leggings, and pajamas for them to wear.
Perhaps the most useful key to shopping for basics is focusing on base layers. RAGS parents know that starting with a good base layer that is butter-soft against your newborn's sensitive skin is a vital step in dressing your infant.
Our RAGS newborn rompers are made of high-quality, durable fabric and ultra-comfortable material, providing a layer of protection for your baby from the elements.
The stretchy fabric gives your baby the freedom to move about while still offering a snug wrap to help them unwind. Built-in mittens and footies keep little fingers and toes warm while also relieving parents of the concern of losing those tiny socks that always seem to vanish.
It is the all-in-one solution that can remedy your newborn baby's wardrobe woes. Shop our collection of the best newborn one-piece rompers at RAGS to find rompers that you (and your little one) will love.
Consider Buying More Base Layers
Focusing on base layers is maybe the most useful tip we give first-time parents shopping for their newborn baby. Starting with a good base layer that is butter-soft against your baby's sensitive skin is a crucial step to dressing your infant the right way.
Our RAGS newborn rompers use high-quality, long-lasting fabric and ultra-comfortable material to give a layer of weather protection for your baby. These one-pieces work as a stand-alone outfit or provide the perfect base to layer on additional clothing items in cooler climates.
The elastic fabric allows your baby to roam freely while still providing a snug wrap to help them relax. Built-in mittens and footies keep little fingers and toes warm while relieving parents of the worry that their little ones might lose their tiny socks at any minute.
It's the all-in-one solution to learning how to dress your newborn. Find the perfect set of baby rompers that you (and your little one) will enjoy by browsing our latest collection of newborn rompers at RAGS.
Skip the Buttons, Snaps, or Zippers
Every veteran parent knows how frustrating it can be to snap a million buttons after the fifth diaper change of the day. Not to mention the constant mix-up when you miss a button and must start all over again.
Along with the parental buttons, snaps, and zippers get, babies aren't big fans, either. These unnecessary features can irritate your newborn's soft skin. Stop making your baby uncomfortable and stick to designs that don't have any snaps, buttons, or zippers, instead.
Gone are the days when you spent many minutes undoing the row of buttons on your newborn's one-piece at the start and finish of a diaper change. RAGS' newborn rompers feature a no-button design that is revolutionary.
For a fuss-free design, RAGS removes that difficult feature to make dressing your newborn quick and easy. Whether you are changing your baby's diaper, dressing them for the day, or undressing them at night, you won't need to worry about no snaps, buttons, or zippers getting in the way.
RAGS' patented neckline allows you to quickly pull the newborn one-piece to the side for an easy outfit change or engage the Peek-a-Booty TM design for an easy diaper change.
Choose Baby Clothes Made with Soft Material or Fabric
When shopping for newborn clothes, opt for items made from high-quality materials and fabrics. As you buy new clothes, read clothing tags to learn about the material make-up when you purchase.
Cotton and other natural fabrics, such as linen, are ideal because they do not trap moisture. We suggest breathable cotton blends that won't irritate your baby's skin and help keep it as soft as the day they were born.
Prioritize Function Without Sacrificing Style
Most first-time parents either believe that they must buy functional or fashionable clothes, but what if you could have the best of both worlds? In the world of baby fashion, several brands allow you to dress your baby comfortably and on-trend without spending too much money.
For example, our brand, RAGS, commits to making baby clothes that provide comfort, function, and style. Because of our patented, one-of-a-kind designs, parents can find newborn one-piece and baby clothing that look great and make day-to-day life with a new baby as easy as possible.
We use soft, elastic fabrics, patented stretchy neckline, and quirky features to ensure that your newborn has everything they need to make their first years of life comfortable and easy.
When it comes time to change their clothes, all you need to do is slide the romper to one side, wiggle the one-piece over their torso, then move their arms in and out as needed. It is a super simple, easy-on, easy-off process that makes both parents and babies happy.
But what makes our newborn rompers even better is that they are also available in trendy prints, patterns, and colors. Each iconic RAGS graphic perfectly blends trendy charm and quirky design, incorporating bright florals, illustrated prints, and stripes.
Whether you need baby clothes and one-pieces that are seasonal, playful, trendy, adorable or a little rebellious, we have it all. Find classic pieces and stylish rompers that are as fashionable as they are functional at RAGS today.
Focus on How the Clothes Will Fit Your Baby
Not only will fabric and material play a role in how comfortable your baby is throughout the day, but how it fits. Your baby's wardrobe should include a range of sizes, as well as clothing items that give them room to grow.
When buying new baby clothes, look for items that don't roll up, wrap too tightly around the skin, or leave a mark. If any of these things are happening, the clothes are too tight for your baby to wear.
We typically recommend buying sizes that one or two sizes larger than your baby's actual size. You should also buy a few different sizes, just in case your baby grows a lot faster than you thought it would.
You should also leave all the tags on any unworn items and only remove them when your baby actually wears the item. That way, if you end up not needing the item, you can return it and put the money towards new, appropriately sized clothes.
Consider Neutral Colors and Unisex Designs
Many parents may go to considerable measures to clothe their newborn newborns is extremely masculine or feminine attire. However, buying unisex items for most of your newborn's wardrobe can be a cost-effective method to save money.
Look for baby clothes with neutral prints and colors that both genders can wear. While there are no hard and fast rules, stick to simple colors that work for every child, no matter their gender. Plus, gender-neutral designs are just as adorable as the rest.
If you prefer the gender-neutral route, RAGS is the right brand for you. Many of our baby clothes feature unisex designs, neutral colors, and long-lasting fabrics, which any new parent will appreciate.
No matter which item you are shopping for, choose RAGS to make your newborn's wardrobe cherished for years to come.
Don't Blow Your Budget
When you are a first-time parent, it can be easy to go overboard and over-budget. Don't let things get out of control.
While we know that with all the current stylish baby clothes available, it is to go a little crazy, but that doesn't mean you need to spend more money than you have to buy new clothes.
Instead, concentrate on buying essential clothing items that are durable so your newborn can wear them several times without any wear and tear.
RAGS rompers and baby clothes use high-quality materials that you can wash and rewash multiple times without losing any integrity or shape.
These design features will reduce how much you spend on new clothes and allow you to store handy downs for future siblings, as well. It's a win-win situation for everyone, including your little one.
What Must-Have Clothing Items Every Baby Needs
As parents, we know it is all too easy to make the mistake of mindlessly shopping for baby clothes. Don't get caught up in the hype. Shop smart by making a list of the products your little one needs before you buy.
To help you create your shopping list, we create a condensed list of baby essentials to add to your cart. You can use it as a starting point but make adjustments based on your exact situation and baby's needs.
Baby Rompers
In the summer, newborn rompers work as an easy-on, easy-off outfit. Then, when the temperatures drop, you can use the romper as a base layer, adding sweaters and extra items to keep your baby warm.
Rompers with large openings and loose legs are your best option. It can be stressful for both you and your baby if there are too many snaps, seams, or tight material. On the other hand, wide necklines and seamless designs will make dressing your baby simple.
Our patented necklines take this concept to the next level. Forget the frustration and dress your baby from the bottom up in a RAGS romper. It will make getting dressed a breeze for you and your little one. It also serves as a buttery soft base layer for those colder nights.
We suggest having more than a few extra rompers in your baby's wardrobe. Then, when you haven't had time to do laundry, you will still have a couple of different rompers on hand if something goes wrong.
Baby Pajamas
Even at night, your baby deserves the best. One-piece baby rompers are equally as great during the night as they are during the day.
Depending on the weather, you can switch between short- and long-sleeved alternatives. Swaddle your baby in a lightweight swaddle to add an extra layer during those extremely cold evenings.
RAGS baby rompers are a terrific addition to your newborn's bedtime wardrobe, especially if you frequently wake up in the middle of the night to change your baby's diaper. The iconic Peek-A-Booty TM provides easy diaper access so you can make the process as quick-and-easy as you can hope for at 2 AM.
Newborn One-Piece Rompers
Rompers are another great addition to your baby's wardrobe. Although all you need to dress your baby is a newborn romper, you can also use them as a one-piece under sweaters, shirts, joggers, or pants.
If you choose to buy stand-alone one-pieces, look for ones that have stretchy necklines and use soft material. You shouldn't buy any clothes that will make your baby agitated as you pull the shirt up and over their head.
Baby Swaddle Blankets
Another item that you need for your newborn baby is a swaddling blanket.
Although it is not technically a clothing item, you can easily wrap your baby in a RAGS baby swaddle to keep them safe and secure. Plus, these blankets will allow your little one to stretch and move while staying warm.
You can also use your baby swaddle blanket as a stroller cover, a tight swaddle, or a nursing cover. It is a multi-use item that both you and your baby will appreciate.
Choose between our single and duo packs. Our duo packs include two blankets in complementary prints, while our single packs only have one. We offer various prints and patterns, whether you are looking for a unique, artistic flair or basic print.
Whichever style you prefer, find a baby swaddle that your baby will love at RAGS.
Baby Beanies
While you are at it, grab a baby beanie or two to add to your newborn's wardrobe.
Look for beanies that are ultra-soft, lightweight, and won't irritate your baby's sensitive skin. These soft caps will protect your baby's ears, keep them warm in any weather, and make a great addition to any outfit. Plus, they feature unisex designs that can work for each of your babies.
So, what are you waiting for? Browse RAGS to find the perfect baby beanie (or two) for your newborn.
Make the Best Decision for Your Baby— Shop RAGS
Trust the baby clothes experts at RAGS for everything you need to make your baby's wardrobe perfect. Our newborn one pieces and other baby clothing items are available in sizes 3-6M, 6-12M, 12-18M, 18-24M, 2T, 3/4Y, and 5/6Y.
Whatever size or item you need, shop RAGS (you and your little one will thank you for it).
We also offer AfterPay. An interest-free service that allows you to buy now and pay later. It's a great option for shoppers looking to buy a last-minute gift for a baby shower or party.
Build your new baby's wardrobe— browse our newborn collection today.