If you've never had children, or if yours have grown up and flown the next, you might be in a quandary about what to purchase for a baby shower gift. Even if you know that you want to buy clothes for newborns, it can be perplexing to sort through all of the boy's clothing and girl's clothing - not to mention children's shoes - and settle on baby clothing that will be both wanted and needed. Here are some tips to help you shop:
Look for Brand Name Children's Clothing: Off brands or discount store brands may seem like a bargain, but when it comes to clothes for newborns, you want to rely on popular and trusted manufacturers. When you do, you'll be assured of high quality fabric and workmanship that meet the latest safety standards. Moreover, you'll make it easy for the mom-to-be or new mother to exchange duplicate items or find pieces that coordinate with the one you purchase.
Think About Sizing: Clothes for newborns typically are sized either according to months (such as 0 to 3 months, 3 to 6 months, 6 to 9 months, and 9 to 12 months) or according to the baby's weight (such as 7 pounds and under, 8 to 10 pounds, and so forth). Moms-to-be often receive clothing gifts that are sized for babies that have just been born. The problem is, the baby quickly outgrows these clothes. That's why it's a great idea to purchase children's clothes that will come in handy three, six, or even nine months down the road. Buying larger infant sizes will ensure that the baby has clothes that fit as he or she grows.
Think About Gender: If you know that the baby is a boy, it's perfectly appropriate to select an adorable baseball-themed "Baby League" layette. Similarly, if you know that the baby is a girl, a Babykins pink coverall is an excellent choice. However, if you're not sure of the baby's gender, it's best to go with something in a gender-neutral color (like green or yellow), or to select an item that is perfect for boys and girls, such as a Sesame Street Big Bird bathrobe.
Think About Seasons: One mistake that many shower guests make is gifting children's clothes that don't match size and season. Put another way, if a baby is born in November, you need to take care not to purchase a size 3-month outfit consisting of shorts and a T-shirt. You can bet that the baby won't be wearing shorts in February. Similarly, you don't want to buy the baby a size 9-month jacket or heavy corduroy overalls. She'll overheat come August!
Find a Reliable Online Source: If you're not familiar with children's clothes, your best bet is to find a reliable online source for your shopping needs. Look for an online store that carries brand name children's clothing, and that has everything from clothes for newborns to children's shoes. The best online stores also offer gift certificates - a perfect present for a mom-to-be who will surely need to restock the layette as time goes on.
Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web.
Learn more about Children's Clothes.
