Buying baby clothes as a gift is trickier than it looks — you're guessing a size months in advance, and picking something the parents will actually use rather than just admire once. Here's how to get it right for both baby showers and first birthdays.
For baby showers: skip the newborn size
It's tempting to buy 0–3M since that's the "cutest" newborn size, but most babies are already dressed in that size by the time they're born, and gifts often arrive after the shower. Sizing up to 3–6M or 6–12M means the outfit gets worn instead of outgrown before it's opened. Browse Infants for options across those sizes.
Rompers and dungarees make better gifts than sets
A single well-made dungaree or romper tends to get more actual wear than a full multi-piece set, since parents don't have to coordinate anything — it's grab-and-go for busy mornings.
For first birthdays: think photo-ready
First birthday outfits get worn for cake-smash photos and the party itself, so a slightly more festive piece makes sense here versus a baby shower gift. Check Party Wear or Girls Dresses & Frocks for options that photograph well without being uncomfortable for a one-year-old to sit and crawl in.
When you don't know the exact size
If you're unsure of the baby's current size, buying one size larger than their age suggests is a safer bet than sizing exactly — babies grow into slightly big clothes but can't wear anything too small. Our size guide can help narrow the range if the parents have shared recent measurements.
A gift that isn't just clothing
Pairing an outfit with something practical — like a set of bags for daycare or travel — rounds out a gift without adding another outfit the parents have to find space for.
Keep the receipt handy
Even with careful sizing, exchanges are common with gifted baby clothes. Let the parents know exchanges are easy within our 7-day return window, so they're not stuck with something that doesn't fit.
