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  Above: Marquise Embroidered Baby Singlet, A$8.95, Marquise for stockists.

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  It’s A Snap – Onesies like these won’t ride up and make layering clothes a breeze. Have a selection of short, long-sleeved and sleeveless. Above: Marquise Bodysuits, from A$13.95, Marquise for stockists; Vulli Sophie the Giraffe, A$33.95, Babys Got Style

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  Top And Tail – Protect new little heads from sun, wind and rain without itching with a cotton cap. Bloomers are a sweet choice if it’s warm. Little booties make a stylish alternative to socks when you’re going out. Marquise Beanie, A$6.95, Marquise Bloomers with frill, A$12.95, Marquise Booties, A$8.95, Above: Marquise Embroidered Baby Singlet, A$8.95, Marquise for stockists; Mastro Geppetto Coccolo rattle, ¥2,940, Mastro Geppetto

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  All items are from the Marquise Essentials collection unless otherwise noted. Visit Marquise for stockists. Muslin wraps, Weegoamigo, A$9.95 each, Urban Baby

Gone are the days when you were expected to hand-sew the layette – your baby’s first set of basic clothes and accessories. But that doesn’t mean selecting what, and how much to buy isn’t a daunting prospect for new mums.

The following guide should serve you (or the new mum you’re buying for) well for the first few weeks. Of course, you don’t have to confine yourself to basics – feel free to add in a pretty dress or a sweet set of overalls.

Sizing up. Babies start small and grow fast. If you’re not sure, buy on the bigger side and they’ll grow into it. Unless your baby is premature, three months is a safe bet. Start with sizing in the 0000 to 000 range.

Easy does it. Their fragile little bodies won’t stand much fussing, so think about how simple each garment will be to put on and take off. Anything that ties up around the neck is a no-no (choking hazard). Go for easy fastenings like snap buttons and wrap-around or front-buttoned suits and nightdresses. Anything that does up at the back will drive you potty, so avoid them until your baby is able to sit up
to be dressed.

Wrap it up. Muslin wraps! You can never have too many of them. As swaddling, sun-shield, breastfeeding modesty shawl and even impromptu wash-cloth, they are officially mother’s best friend. Choose a heavier fabric for winter-born bubs.

Top to toe. Don’t forget the hat. Soft stretch cotton beanies or pilot’s caps with ear flaps provide good protection from both winter chills and summer sun. Socks are worth including, but if it’s chilly, it’s much easier to keep them toasty in a footed studsuit.

Softly, softly. Your baby’s skin is sensitive, so look for good quality brands like Marquise for their first garments. You want fine, breathable, 100% cotton with an elastic stretch and a good weave that won’t lose its shape. And check inside too. You don’t want the inside seams to rub. Flat-locked seams make sure there’s minimal skin irritation. Lastly, absolutely everything should be machine washable.

Sizing
0000 – newborn to 3 months
000 – 3 months
00 – 6 months
0 – 9 months
1 – 12 months
2 – 24 months

Layette List
6 singlets
6 – 8 snap button bodysuits
2 spencers
2 – 4 footed and footless leggings
2 romper suits
2 footed studsuits
2 sleeping bags
2 nightgowns

Accessories
2 beanies
2 pairs of socks
2 pairs of booties & mittens
1 cardigan
Muslin Wraps

READ THE FULL STORY
See more layette suggestions in LMNOP Magazine, Issue 14.
Download it now