Infant clothing

Infant clothing refers to the clothing that is designed for infants, a term usually applied to children between the ages of 0 months to 12 months. Infant clothing is typically designed for convenience and comfort, but fashion plays an increasingly important role in its design and production.

History

The history of infant clothing is closely tied to the history of clothing in general. In ancient times, infant clothing was typically made from natural materials such as wool, linen, and cotton. The clothing was often simple in design, consisting of swaddling clothes, tunics, and gowns. In the Middle Ages, the use of swaddling bands became common. These were strips of cloth that were wrapped tightly around the baby to restrict movement and supposedly to help the baby's limbs grow straight.

Types of Infant Clothing

There are several types of infant clothing, including:

• Onesies: A onesie is a one-piece garment for infants which snaps or buttons at the crotch for easy diaper changes.
• Rompers: A romper is a one-piece garment that combines a top and shorts. It is typically used for playtime.
• Sleepwear: Sleepwear for infants can include one-piece sleepers, pajama sets, and wearable blankets.
• Outerwear: Outerwear for infants includes items such as jackets, sweaters, and snowsuits.

Sizing

Infant clothing is typically sized by age, with sizes including newborn (0-3 months), infant (3-6 months), and baby (6-12 months). However, sizing can vary greatly between different brands and countries, so it is always best to check the specific sizing chart for each brand.

Safety Considerations

Safety is a major concern when it comes to infant clothing. Clothes should not have small buttons, bows, or other decorative items that could be a choking hazard. In addition, sleepwear should be flame-resistant and not too loose, to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Fashion Trends

Fashion trends in infant clothing have changed over the years, with a move towards more gender-neutral colors and styles. There is also a growing trend towards organic and sustainable materials, as parents become more conscious of the environmental impact of clothing production.

See Also

• Children's clothing
• Fashion design
• Sustainable fashion