What Should My Newborn Wear
Capturing newborns in their homes is definitely my jam! And since I don’t provide clothes for the baby or take naked posed pictures, I always share “what your newborn should wear” with my clients! But, I realize this is probably a question a lot of people have, so I thought I’d share what I recommend for my tiniest clients.
And I’ll make it easy – they only need two things…a one piece outfit or two piece knits and a swaddle! That’s it!
One Piece Outfits or Two Piece Knits
So, what outfits do I recommend?
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onesies (solid colors please)
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knotted gown (easy access to their feet)
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a day gown
- knit two piece outfits that are sized appropriately
What should you avoid?
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outfits that make them look like mini adults
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dark colors (babies skin absorbs all the dark colors – keep it light!)
- BIG bows and crocheted items (they seem like a good idea, but hide the newborn’s face and never fit correctly)
Everything swaddle!
I personally prefer the muslin type swaddles in light colors or simple prints, but the large cotton swaddle blankets work well, too. As with their clothes, keep it simple and stay away from dark colors. White, cream, pastels and gray work well.
“But my baby doesn’t like being swaddled.” I hear this at about half my sessions and I understand your newborn might not like sleeping in a swaddle or they might be a little Houdini who escapes every chance they get, but trust me, have a swaddle handy! If the baby gets fussy or is wide awake, a quick swaddle will calm them and control their flailing arms.
And Last but Not Least, Diapers
I know diapers come in adorable prints! One client even had Red Sox diapers and let me take one because my ob-gyn husband is a HUGE Red Sox fan and I knew he would get the biggest kick out of them – and he did! But, dark diapers with lots of patterns sometimes show through their very neutral outfit or swaddle. So, if possible, save the white diapers for your newborn session, please! I’ll be thanking you as I edit!
Where to Shop
Not sure where to shop for neutral onesies? Or that perfect swaddle? I’ve compiled a list of places that have the perfect newborn looks that won’t break the bank! Also, local shops like Three Littles in DC and Monday’s Child in Alexandria, VA are great places to shop local and find the perfect item for your newborn session!
Need some online shopping options? Check out a curated newborn clothing options HERE.
Haven’t booked your newborn session? I’d love to work with you!
Natasha Sewell is a family and newborn photographer plus a photographer educator and mentor. She captures family’s joyful chaos in the place they are most comfortable – home. Natasha serves Washington, DC and surrounding areas and specializes in maternity, baby, and family photography.
