Menu: Parenting
Dress Your Baby in Style — It’s All Up to You
Updated: July 20, 2021
Originally Published: July 20, 2021
Can we all agree that babies are absolutely adorable? Seriously, can anyone resist those chubby cheeks and pudgy thighs? The giggles and smiles from a little one can brighten even the darkest day. And let’s be honest, dressing your baby is pure joy. There’s something delightful about choosing outfits for your tiny human. But is it possible you’re imposing too much of your own style on them? Nah!
My first child was a son. From the moment he arrived, I treated him like a living doll. I dressed him in what I believed was charming—adorable onesies and pants from popular stores. For special occasions, I opted for smocked shortalls and crisp white shirts. I adored what my mom referred to as “timeless fashion.” My partner thought it was a bit much, suggesting our son might one day resent me for those outfits. Fast forward to today—he’s thirteen and has never once brought it up. Turns out, wearing a sailor suit didn’t traumatize him; it just resulted in some precious photos that I’ll cherish forever.
With two more sons, they often wore hand-me-downs from their older brother. Was it wrong to put them in used onesies that had likely been soiled before? Absolutely not! I was raising three boys under five and saving money by getting extra wear out of those pull-on pants. Now that they’re in school, they’ve adjusted just fine—even after rocking footed pajamas with holes. Who really cares?
Then came baby number four—a girl! From the get-go, it was a whole new ballgame. She was born with a head full of hair that cried out for a bow, so I made it a point to put one in her hair every single day. Now, at five years old, she still loves her big bows. Did I encourage this? You bet! But as she grows, it’s clear her fashion choices come from within. She adores dresses, jewelry, and bright colors, and I didn’t mold her style; it blossomed naturally.
My four kids have unique personalities. The three boys, although dressed similarly, are completely different from one another. I have countless photos of them in matching outfits at the same age. Even wearing my brothers’ old clothes that my mom smocked for them as babies didn’t lead to any lasting grievances. They’ve all grown into their own selves, and none of them have cut ties over the outfits I chose for them as infants.
Honestly, I never considered how my kids’ clothing might shape them. I simply picked what I loved. For me, dressing them is part of the joy of parenthood. After carrying that little one for nine months, the moment they arrive, you want to showcase your pride. And how do you do that? By dressing them up! No matter your style—be it 80s band tees or elegant smocked dresses—it’s your baby. Dress them how you see fit.
If you’re in your forties like me, you might recall George Michael’s classic tune “Freedom! ‘90.” There’s a lyric that resonates: “Sometimes the clothes do not make the man.” Those lamb pajamas you put on your baby at night won’t define who they are.
As your child grows, they’ll develop their own unique style. One of my sons went through a phase where he only wore blue for nearly two years. We fully supported his self-expression. Your child might embrace your style or rebel against it completely. That’s perfectly fine! They’ll find their tastes in food, music, and clothing—what makes them uniquely them.
There’s no right or wrong way to dress a baby—unless we’re talking about weather conditions. Make sure they’re warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. Beyond that, enjoy dressing your baby in whatever makes you happy. They will always be adorable and radiant, just as you see them.
For more insights into parenting and home insemination, check out this post from our blog. If you’re looking for expert advice, visit Cleveland Clinic’s podcast for valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination. For additional resources, check out Intracervical Insemination, they provide authoritative guidance on this topic.
Summary
Dressing your baby is a delightful aspect of parenthood, allowing you to express your joy and pride. Each child has their own personality, and while you may choose their outfits, they will ultimately develop their own style as they grow. There are no hard and fast rules—just ensure they are dressed appropriately for the weather. Embrace your choices and enjoy this precious time with your little one.
Probable Search Queries: