Scrolling through Pinterest for some pose inspiration can be quite misleading. More advanced poses where the newborn is supporting its head are always edited to look like they are doing it by themselves. The mother's hands supporting the child have been edited out in post-production. Not being aware of this can lead to some pretty high expectations, frustration, and possibly harm done to the infant. Be sure to research safe poses for your newborn if attempting a DIY photo shoot.
Because of the risks mentioned above to vulnerable newborns, it is that much more important to make sure that your photographer is informed. Finding a newborn photographer that is comfortable and capable will all but guarantee beautiful photos. Asking neighbors, friends, and family is a good way to find some photographer recommendations.
A lot of things can go wrong on the big day. I don’t say that to scare you but to prepare you. Extra clothes, a rattle, or a bottle will not only give you peace of mind, but make sure that you and your baby will enjoy the experience. Keep in mind that temperature, lighting, and the energy of the room are all things that might affect your baby. So have a positive attitude, keep the room a cozy temperature, and dim the lights a little.
If you are planning to use an adorable little outfit in your photo shoot, be sure to have the baby try it on before arriving! This tip might seem obvious, but these little things can slip through the cracks if you're not careful. Showing up and discovering that your baby doesn’t fit their outfits is disappointing. A quick fix for this problem is posing without the outfit, but nobody wants to miss out on cute little jumpers if possible.
So you've shown up, and are ready to go! But your baby is just not having it. You have tried almost everything to get this little one to cooperate but they just don't seem to want to take pictures. That is OK. Somedays, newborns are not going to be in the mood to take photos. Most newborn photographers are very accommodating and will not mind it if you ask to reschedule.
As Mark Twain said, “Clothes make the man.” This quote could not be more true when taking photos that are sure to be treasured by future generations. These photos are not only for your immediate family to enjoy but for their kids too. From the classic little sailor outfit to a white flowing gown, there are so many options! The following are a few unique outfit ideas for your next photo shoot.
Who doesn’t love a cute animal-inspired look? From cheetah print to cat headbands for your wild one, there is plenty of inspiration from the jungle.
This one is perfect for your little sports fan. If mom or dad loves baseball, a sports outfit will definitely be a crowd-pleaser. Having a stadium or park background is going to make this one a home run.
Classically feminine and extremely popular makes this outfit an excellent choice for lovers of the Arts. With a soft pink tutu and a hair bow, this is sure to get a standing ovation. Bravo!
Bows are versatile. Elegant, fun, and above all, CUTE! I previously thought of bows as an accessory, but it is with complete authority that I tell you that these can be stars of the show. Baby bows can make any outfit a statement.
There is almost nothing cuter than a baby boy in a tie, considered to be the counterpart to bows. These little things will have you in awe. Striped, polka-dotted, or print, the options are almost endless.
Is mom a doctor and dad a chef? Consider dressing up your little one in either uniform; it makes for a fun and quirky photo op! Also, have you ever seen a baby in a chef outfit? Adorable.
Make sure to have the baby try on every part of the outfit. This may be how you find out problematic allergies to dyes, materials, or detergent. Check the fit of socks, headbands (especially headbands!), or hats before the big day. Sizing between clothing companies often varies and that quarter of an inch might make or break an outfit. Knowing what size your baby is in different brands helps when making decisions like this. Many brands include sizing guides on their website for their baby clothes, so make the most of your shopping time by doing a couple of quick searches before. Another thing to consider is how easy it is to put on the outfit. Buttons are hard with a wiggly baby. Snaps and zippers are recommended. Also, be sure to look for stretchy neck holes and snaps at the collar to make the experience better for you and your baby.
Themes can determine both the outfit and setting of your photo shoot. Themes lend themselves to more fun and characterized shoots. They keep your photos looking unique, instead of cookie-cutter. The following are a couple of themes that are sure to stand out.
Crunching leaves, crisp air, and captivating colors make this an attractive choice. Breaking out a little raincoat or scarf is sure to make this a success among peers. Piles of brown, yellow, and orange leaves make for a striking autumnal contrast.
Out of this world! Your little explorer will look so cute discovering aliens, playing on the moon, or hanging out with Curiosity on Mars. “I Love you to the moon and back” is a famous quote that inspires even the smallest of astronauts.
Sweet summertime lemonade, a powerful counter to summer heat, and a cute photo-op! Grassy fields, a personal lemonade stand, or a picnic scene is sure to make this tooth-achingly sweet. Little lemon patterned onesies or stacked sugar cubes make this a refreshing choice.
So many options! Whales, sailors, mermaids, starfish, or octopi make this theme one of the most diverse. Island living, sailing, surfing, or sandcastles are all popular choices for any beach themed photos. Your photos are sure to be teeming with life if you decide that this one is the one for you.
Do sudsy bubbles, fluffy towels and rubber duckies need explanation? Tiny little clawfoot baths or galvanized tubs, allow for a vintage or rustic feel. Add a small bath mat to go under the tub and this photo is sure to be a winner.
Timeless and darling, this one is adorable and pairs well with closeups, always an excellent option to let your baby be the star of the show. Black, white, and gray look good in any home. This theme has a peaceful and classic feel to it.
Themes are so much fun. It can be easy to get carried away with them. Getting excited about a stuffed octopus, jellyfish, or seahorse is understandable, but takes away from the focal point. Overwhelming viewers with a lot of background can distract them from the purpose of the photos, showing off your cute baby. A good tip is to step back and count the elements in your photo. If there are more than three or four, consider cutting some of them. Remember, we want the audience to see your baby first, not the adorable octopus.
Holidays are a time of relaxation. What could be more fun than memorializing the baby's first Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Valentine's day? Holidays are the perfect excuse to take more cute photos.
Santa, reindeer, angels, elves, or snowflakes provide plenty of inspiration for this classic holiday. With backgrounds of snow, candy canes, or Christmas trees, the options are endless.
Turkeys, cornucopias, fall leaves, and flannel are sure to set this autumnal scene. The popular idea is to make a "nest" out of hay (fake hay) and place orange, red, and yellow flowers around.
Pastels and quality time with mom make this holiday special. Consider a mommy and me matching outfit with a simple background. A white fur rug for some tummy time is all you need to make these photos special.
Bunnies, colorful eggs, and baskets are signatures of this holiday. Bright, cheerful colors and soft stuffed bunnies bring a smile to viewers. Try swapping the classic rabbit for a baby chick, to spice things up.
Fireworks, BBQ, and patriotism celebrate America's independence with red, white, and blue. Pinwheels, red gingham, and denim are all excellent choices for this holiday's photo shoot. Consider framing the photo shoot at a picnic or campfire.
Darker colors and a more outdoor setting all lend themselves to be a more masculine photo shoot. Including toy tractors, dump trucks, or trains is a fun way to celebrate the men in your baby's life.
Bats, witches, and superheroes are this holiday's trademark. Plenty of creative opportunities make this one of the most unique pictures around. Coordinated family outfits are an easy way to have fun with this holiday.
I love this holiday; Valentine's Day is one of the most iconic "baby's first." Candy, paper hearts, ribbon, and pink! Setting up a 'kissing booth" is a great way to put a twist on this classic holiday.
Rainbows, leprechauns and green are synonymous with this holiday. Using a pot of gold as a prop and placing your baby inside it shows just how much you treasure them. I wish you the best of luck with this holiday.
Black white and silver are popular choices for this holiday. Add some confetti and a cute little disco ball to the photo, to set the scene. A good tip is to swap the confetti for sprinkles if you are worried about them being eaten.
A prop is a portable object other than furniture or costumes used on the set of a play, movie, or in this case a photo shoot. Props are a low-cost way to bring uniqueness to your photos.
Angelic, feminine, and seasonal. Flowers are a beautiful way to connect with nature. I recommend using high-quality fake flowers to prevent allergies.
Favorite toys are a great way to make this process comfortable for your baby. Use wooden blocks to spell names or plushies of popular movie characters to hug. There is so much potential when using toys!
Babies and bubbles, so very cute. In addition to being the most cost-effective option, the amazed look on your baby's face is just precious. Be sure to take these photos outside and avoid carpet; the bubbles can make quite the mess.
Classically popular, this option is simply a comfortable swaddle and a soft blanket behind the baby. Usually, this picture is taken from the top down to capture your small and precious baby.
Don't be afraid to include siblings in baby's first photos! Having the baby lay on the older siblings back makes for a cute photo op.
A wicker basket is one of the most popular options for newborn photos. These photos are shot from the top-down and the basket is filled with blankets and surrounded in flowers. Perfect for a rustic theme.
Show how sweet your baby is with candy! Decorate a little candy shop with jawbreakers, peppermints and Hershey’s kisses galore.
Soft blues, whites, and pinks are all I can think to add to this one. Having both parents hold the baby adds to the loving mood of this picture. This opportunity is not one to miss.
Puppies and babies, how much more cuteness can you squeeze in one photo? The baby serenely asleep and the dog guarding over them is a popular position.
Strawberries, lemons, and watermelon are all popular summer props. Picking a color theme and including all fruits of the same color or two different colors are a sure way to make these photos pop.
It might be hard to capture a perfectly still moment. So why not focus on action shots? These photos are sure to be memorable and have that feeling of life.
These photos have a peaceful quality to them. Seeing an adorable little squinched up face moments before sleep makes this choice one of the best.
So many options, hands, feet, or lips. Remember every detail of your baby with these closeups. I would recommend a warm color pallet or stick to black and white photography.
This might not be the most action-packed, but it is one of the easiest to accomplish. And with great results! A sleeping baby is a lot easier to pose and take time photographing, but they might be cranky if you wake them up.
Do not use hairspray on a newborn. Hairspray contains phthalates, which are not good for little lungs (or adult lungs). If phthalates are inhaled in large doses (hairspray qualifies) they are dangerous. A quick internet search for “baby hair spray” shows that 1/2 cup water and 1 tsp granulated sugar, in a spray bottle is a common fix for this. There are also plenty of baby-safe hairspray options online.
Do not under any circumstance put makeup on your baby. Not only is this a health hazard, but it's also just common sense. Babies have extremely sensitive skin, makeup will cause your baby to have an adverse reaction. Skin color in newborns can vary greatly — from a pink and white or yellowish tone to the typical redness. Irritating your child's eczema or other skin condition for the sake of a picture is simply not responsible. All of these things can be edited out in post (after the picture is taken) if they are really a problem.
This list is everything that you will need to make this photo shoot a success. It also doubles as a way to gain peace of mind and calm any nervous energy before the photo shoot.
Please bring a diaper bag! The most important item on this list, a diaper bag is essential to a good photo shoot. You get security from being prepared and your baby gets a clean diaper. It's a solid win-win.
This should be in your diaper bag. Having two pairs of the same outfit, or having the second outfit coordinate with the first is a great decision. While the latter is more favorable, sometimes that first outfit is so cute you have to make sure the rest of the world sees it.
This should also be in your diaper bag. Maybe you were running a bit late and couldn't spare the time for a snack. Luckily you have food in your diaper bag. Crisis averted. Nobody wants their baby to be hungry.
A distraction from overwhelming stimulus can be the difference between a meltdown and a happy baby. This is an ace in the hole for any new parent.
Anything worth having takes hard work. Being patient is absolutely key to the success of the photo shoot. You can handle the meltdowns, dirty diapers and spit-up because it’s worth it.
Congratulations! You reached the end of this comprehensive guide. Now armed with the knowledge of how to pull off a successful newborn photo shoot, schedule an appointment with your local photographer. Have fun making memories that are sure to be cherished for generations to come.
If you know us at The Hair Bow Company, you know we are huge fans of tutu skirts! We’ve been stocking fun tutus in sizes for babies, girls, teens, and women for years and we’ve created more than a few tutus of our own out of our tulle by the roll. However, we recently realized our tutu line up was missing something; an elegant, midi length tutu skirt that can be dressed up for stylish events. Our fancy tutu skirts just arrived (in Mommy & Me sizes!) and we can’t wait to show them off!
Tutu Skirts: The Perfect Style for a Mom & Daughter Date
Our Brand Rep Irelyn and her mom had the perfect idea for their tutu skirts; dressing up for a fun mom and daughter date at our favorite local seaside destination of Galveston, Texas.
A special mommy/daughter date is the perfect excuse for dressing up! Who doesn’t want to feel like a princess for a day? If you are trying to find a perfectly elegant outfit for your day, a fancy women’s tutu skirt is a great alternative to a Mommy & Me dress. You can dress a tutu skirt up or down and tutu skirts are just plain fun to wear!
Styling Your Tutu Skirt
Our Mommy & Me Tutu Skirts are fancy and affordable! Why spend a fortune on Mommy & Me dresses to wear once when you can create fun outfits with tutu skirts for adults? After pairing your tutu skirts with elegant tops for you mom and daughter date, get them out again for Halloween, or an impromptu dance party at home! Our girls tutu skirts are very reasonably priced, so you won’t end up crying when you daughter decides to wear hers to the playground. Why have a toddler tutu skirt if you aren’t going to have fun in it, right?
Tutu Skirts for Adult, Toddlers, and Girls
These longer length tulle tutu skirts are available in several sizes for both women and girls. Girls sizes start at 2t, so if you are looking for a toddler tutu skirt, this is it! They have two tulle layers over an opaque base layer and partial elastic waist bands and satin sashes. They are designed to sit at the natural waist and look perfect with our lace tops for girls. Mommy & Me tutu skirts are available in mauve and grey. (Irelyn and her mom Caitilin were wearing the mauve color in these photos, but it was very bright and sunny that day, so they look like a lighter pink in the photos.)
Are you feeling inspired for your very own mommy/daughter date? Do you have an idea for how you are going to wear your adult tutu skirt or an idea for a costume? Tell us about them in the comments! We love hearing your creative ideas for styling these gorgeous long tutu skirts!
Shop All Tutus & Tutu Skirts Available at The Hair Bow Company by clicking here!
]]>Jewelry for babies isn’t one of the most common gift choices for babies, of course, but it’s certainly occurring more often these days. Naturally, many of the people who purchase jewelry for babies are the parents. Many doting grandparents do, too. However, these days it’s becoming more common for aunts and uncles, older siblings, in-laws, and close friends to give jewelry as a baby gift.
We get asked often if we carry baby jewelry, and we do not! If you’re interested in learning more about or purchasing baby jewelry,
we recommend Avonlea Jewelry. Just like us, they’re based right here in Texas,
and even more importantly, we know the owners personally. They’re great people, and they’d be just the
ones to talk to about your options when it comes to baby jewelry, or any other
jewelry pieces you’re interested in.
They’re authorized dealers for some of the most respected jewelry
companies in the world, and they have the knowledge and experience to help you
find that perfect piece. Plus, their
customer service can’t be beat.
Mommy and Me Clothing: 10 Great Outfit Inspirations
"Every woman becomes like their mothers," wrote Oscar Wilde. His popular comic play "The Importance of Being Earnest" is a satire on Victorian life in London. Wilde didn't anticipate the fashion of wearing matching mommy and me clothing but what an interesting variation on his idea.
Matching mother-daughter outfits can be fun and cute. If you're looking for the perfect mommy and me outfits, read on for 10 great inspirational ideas.
It's easy to find matching opportunities with color. You can coordinate without being obviously trying to be twins. Choose to tone together rather than go for exact matches.
Look for a theme to coordinate your outfits. Using the same colors albeit in different materials and tones can look great. Just as you might put together a blue or pink theme in your own outfit, simply extend this theme to your child's outfit.
If you would like to go for a stronger combination, the fashion industry tends to use the same palette across different manufacturers and designers. You will find the same colors used for kids wear and adult outfits. Match colors and materials for the full-on mommy and me look.
If the full matching outfit is too much for you, don't go all the way. Finding matching tops is easy and they can look less contrived.
Many brands have a sweatshirt or T-shirt in children and adult sizes. Look for a distinctive color and logo to coordinate with each other. T-Shirt slogans can also be a great way of sharing a unified look.
Some children's brands have size ranges that go large enough for some moms to wear. They may be cheaper than adult brands too. You can find kids wear tops in different styles but the same fabric for a coordinated, rather than identical, look.
Special occasions call for a special outfit. This is when it might be worth investing a little more in making mommy and me outfit ideas a reality. Weddings, birthdays, and parties of all kinds are perfect for showing off a little.
If you would wear a special dress then why not have a matching mommy and me outfit. Each dress might have to be age appropriate but share fabric, themes, and motifs. If you can make a dress or have one made, make another one for your daughter.
When the weather dictates a warm coat or a raincoat you have the ideal opportunity for mommy and me fashion. Matching trench coats are an obvious idea because the trench coat is such an enduring fashion item you are sure to find one for both of you. Pair the trench coat with matching hats, scarves, and gloves and you have an integrated look.
You don't have to stop with a trench coat combo. What about leather jackets, bomber jackets or denim jackets. These are all common enough items for adults and kids that you will be able to find a match.
Everybody wears sportswear. Here's a chance for moms and kids to share the sports and the clothes too. Doing an activity with your kid is fun and healthy, too.
Look for sweatshirts and sweatpants in colorfully coordinated styles that are not too figure hugging. They are forgiving and comfortable. For the more body confident, the choice of Lycra tops and bottoms is huge and includes all sizes.
Changing hairstyles and adding hair accessories is a fun way of creating a distinctive new look. If you and your daughter do this at the same time, you can have double the fun. Almost anything you do has an impact because you are both doing it.
Tie it back, put it in bunches, hide it under a beanie. Add a neat bow or a colorful hair slide. Introduce some curls or a glittery cap.
Bedtime routines are really important for children. They help create the security they need and prepare them for restful sleep. This is important for moms too as any weary new mother will tell you.
What your child wears for bed is part of that bedtime routine. Finding comfortable clothing that you both like is not always easy. Here's an opportunity for mommy and me enthusiasts.
Matching pajamas and onesies are a great way of sharing a look without taking it out into the street. Look for comfort and practicality first and foremost. You won't want to go to bed without them. Here are our baby onesies.
8. What About the Boys?
How can you share the mommy and me outfit fashion with your son? Surely this is just something for mothers and daughters. Well, you'd be wrong.
There are many ways in which the mommy and me concept works for boys, too. Try wearing matching sports team shirts. More masculine styles such as camouflage and construction worker wear are cool for moms and sons.
Match shades and caps. Pair up wristbands. Scarves and gloves are winter pairing opportunities.
If pictures of mommy and me in coordinated outfits make you wonder about where dad is when the fun is happening, don't despair. Dads should be part of the childcare.
Several of these ideas work for dads, too. Coordinated sweat tops and sports gear are obvious ideas. How about matching denim shirts, cargo shorts, and logo T-shirts?
Choosing accessories to go with a new look can make a nice outfit into an amazing one. They also offer the more reluctant moms a way into the mommy and me outfit fashion without being too obvious. The options are as plentiful as the types of accessories out there.
Wearing matching jewelry can be subtle and personal. A heart-shaped locket containing matching photographs of you and your child can be a treasured belonging forever. The chain length can be adjusted as your child grows.
Even if the rest of the outfit doesn't match exactly, try matching shoes such as sneakers or sandals. If the overall style is coordinated, matching shoes can bring the pairing together.
Every girl love dresses up with mom! A matching tutu skirt can be fancy, fun, or playful! Perfect for a photo session, or just having fun together. We have all sorts of colors when it comes to tutu skirts:
- Red tutu
Dressing up and fashion is all about having fun. Mommy and me clothing ideas are a way of sharing an interest in fashion. Have fun together.
For more mommy and me outfit ideas, visit our mommy and me outfits!
And Halloween is RIGHT around the corner, be sure to check out our Halloween outfits and Mommy & me tops!
And to read more mommy & me, click here.
]]>7 Ways Your Daughter Can Express Herself Through Tutus
The average American family spends $1,700 on clothes each year. Tutus are a great way for your daughter to have fun with fashion.
The United States apparel industry is worth over $12 billion. The tutu is making a comeback you'll want to be a part of.
With tutus, the possibilities are endless. Here are 7 ways you can wear tutus:
A birthday party is the perfect time to wear a tutu, especially if it's your daughter's own birthday. Birthdays are days of celebration and tutus add to the festive atmosphere of a party. Nothing says "party time" quite like a tutu.
Tutus tend to have this princess vibe you can't shake. Adding a tiara or hair bow to a tutu outfit will make your daughter look even more like a princess. Every girl wants to feel like a princess on her birthday.
Truthfully, your daughter can wear a tutu at any party and still look festive. There's nothing like dancing in a tutu.
Tutus are easy to incorporate into Halloween costumes. A tutu is a dramatic piece of clothing that adds flare to any outfit. This is especially useful for costumes.
Your daughter can be whatever she wants to be on Halloween. The only limit is the imagination. Regardless of whether the costume is scary or non-scary, you can work a tutu into the mix and get amazing results.
Does your daughter feel like being a ballerina or a spooky clown on Halloween? A tutu works perfectly for both costumes.
If your daughter loves the idea of dressing up, she'll love this next idea:
If your daughter likes Disney, she can dress up like a Disney princess with a tutu. A lot of Disney princesses have dramatic, puffy dresses. There are Disney tutu dresses that look just like those of the Disney princesses.
Who's your daughter's favorite Disney princess? There's a tutu outfit for every Disney princess out there. If you don't find one you like, you can create a Disney tutu dress of your own.
Don't limit your daughter to Disney princesses. If your daughter's got a soft spot for Disney villains, she could also wear a tutu to replicate the dress of a Disney villain.
Tutus for girls come in a variety of colors, not just pink. The color of your daughter's tutu will tell others about her.
The classic pink tutu will show off your daughter's feminine side. This tutu carries vibes of playfulness, tenderness, and cuteness. The color pink is also calming.
If your daughter wears a blue tutu, that tells others she is wise, loyal, and trustworthy. A blue tutu will make her seem more confident and intelligent.
Black tutus are associated with elegance, power, and formality. Your daughter should wear one if she's trying to make a strong impression on someone.
Wearing a white tutu gives off vibes of purity, innocence, and safety. White tutus are perfect for Christenings and weddings.
Your daughter can dress up like a superhero with a tutu. Even if the superhero is originally a man, she can put her own spin on the character and wear a feminine version of his outfit.
There are tutu dresses available for all kinds of superheroes. You can even make your own with DIY superhero tutu dresses.
Let your daughter transform into Wonder Woman with a blue tutu. It'll be another interpretation of this inspiring character.
Research different superhero tutu dresses and see what you can come up with.
If your daughter wants to get everyday use out of her tutu skirt, she can wear it with leggings.
A tutu transforms any outfit into something spectacular. Wearing one turns a mundane day into something more exciting.
You don't need an occasion or an excuse to wear a tutu with leggings. Why not feel like a princess while lounging around the house or running errands?
The tutu and leggings combination is also perfect for going out and about. People will see your daughter and assume she's doing something great if she's in a tutu.
If it's cold out, make sure your daughter wears flannel leggings for warmth. Speaking of the cold:
Don't worry if it's cold out - your daughter can still wear a tutu. She'll just have to wear a sweater with it. It's not a last resort because the look is absolutely flawless.
The tutu and sweater match combines the whimsy of a tutu with the dependability, warmth, and chic style of a sweater.
Because the tutu is a statement piece, it goes well with less dramatic sweaters. For instance, a black sweater is a perfect match for a tutu, especially if it's pink.
Sure, your daughter can wear sweaters with dramatic styles and bold prints. It's not against the law. However, the outfit might be too much for others to handle.
It's her call.
Make sure the sweater is form-fitting and not too long. You don't want to hide that tutu from the world. A form-fitting sweater makes the tutu stand out more.
Around 87% of youths believe clothes don't matter. Tutus make too big of a difference in your daughter's life to ignore. This isn't any ordinary piece of clothing we're talking about.
This is a statement piece of clothing that transforms entire outfits.
Around 60% of teens admit they wear certain labels not because they liked them, but because they saw these brands in the media. Your daughter will be starting her own trend with tutus.
Give your daughter a gift that keeps on giving and shop for tutus now. It's the best fashion investment you'll ever make.
]]>Taking care of a baby comes with all sorts of challenges, especially when it comes to clothes. But we're here to help. In this guide, we'll show you how to buy baby clothes without breaking the bank.
Shopping for cute baby girl clothes shouldn't be stressful!
New parents have a lot on their minds when they're preparing for the arrival of their baby.
So many questions need to be answered. Who is going to be handling night feeding/changing, and how long do they have to do it? How much time do the new parents want to take off of work?
When you're thinking about critical care decisions for your child, the last thing you need to think about is how to buy baby clothes.
Every parent wants their baby to be comfortable and stylish. Luckily, we're here to help you make the right buying decisions you need.
Essential Tips To Help Parents Buy Girl's Boutique Clothing
There's a lot to think about when it comes to getting newborn outfits. You have to think about comfort, style, and materials when you're shopping.
Everybody has different personal preferences, but our advice is universal for new parents.
If you're ready to start shopping for baby clothes, make sure you follow these tips when you're out shopping.
Think About Seasonality
You may be having your baby in the summer or winter, but eventually, they're going to need clothes for all seasons.
When you're buying baby clothes think ahead to the future. Stocking up on a lot of light cotton clothes may seem like a good idea now, but you'll be scrambling for heavier fabrics once the seasons change.
Anticipate new seasons and be prepared for them so you don't have to rush to accommodate them later. Focus on the first few months of life, but don't forget about getting clothes for later.
Look For Inspiration
You aren't the only parent that wants their baby to look its best at all times. There are plenty of other fashion-forward parents that plan on making sure their baby is dressed to nines whenever they're out.
If you want your baby to have fashionable clothes but don't know where to start, look to other people that are experts in the latest fashion trends for infants and toddlers.
The parenting magazines you get aren't just full of helpful advice. Plenty have information on the latest fashion trends for kids. Pick up a magazine or two the next time you're out and see what other people are talking about.
Blogs are also an excellent resource for fashion ideas and help. Check out ours to see what we think about the latest baby fashion trends.
Think About Events
The first year of your baby's life is going to full of personal milestones, but don't forget about the larger events happening in your family's life.
You could easily find yourself at an anniversary party, wedding, or religious event during the first year of your baby's life. You'll want to make sure that you have outfits prepared for every event your newborn will be attending.
Nobody is going to expect an infant to adhere to a strict dress code, but you'll want to make sure that your baby looks adorable and ready for any event your family attends.
Take a little time to look at the events you have coming up for the next year. See if you have any formal affairs coming up and if your baby will need a nice dress. We have an amazing selection of cute toddler dresses!
If you don't feel like your baby is ready for full-on formal attire, don't worry. You can easily use a cute sparkly hairbow or other accessories to give your baby a little flair.
Don't Forget About Shoes
It's going to take a while for your baby to walk, but they're still going to need shoes to protect their feet.
Baby shoes can be difficult to shop for because they grow so fast. The adorable pair of shoes you purchased for a party a month ago may not fit when it's time to attend the event.
Some people find that it's easier to go up a size or two for baby shoes to ensure that they fit.
After all, until they start standing and walking shoes are more about protection and fashion than they are for function. Buying shoes that will cover their feet and can match outfits can be more important than having a perfect fit.
When you're shopping for baby shoes take the actual dressing of your baby into consideration.
Some shoes may look nice, but can be difficult to easily put on your baby. Shoes like slippers and moccasins can go with almost any baby outfit, and they're also very easy to put on.
Go for fashionable baby shoes that are easy to slip on and off. When they get older you may want to consider shoes with laces and complicated buckles, but for now, you want things to be as easy as possible.
Stock Up On Onesies
You're going to want to have some adorable dresses tutus, and accessories ready for your baby, but overall you're going to want to some basic clothes you can easily dress them in.
When you're shopping for baby clothes be sure to get plenty of cute onesies.
There's a reason why so many retailers carry baby onesies. They're easy to slip on and off, and since most are made of cotton or a cotton blend so that they're comfortable and easy to wash.
Don't Forget About Hats
Hats are a very underrated baby clothing item.
Hats don't just look adorable on babies, they can also help keep them warm or protect them from harsh sunlight and UV rays.
When you're shopping for your baby, add a hat or two for each season. Look for a warm knit cap for the colder months and a simple sun or baseball cap for the summer.
Accessories & Bows Make the Outfit!
Don't forget the accessories! For little ones who don't have much hair yet, a bow headband makes a perfect add on to any outfit. Hair bow headbands are comfortable any available with a variety of band types and hair bow styles. Headbands with bows make styling easy, but you can also choose you hair bows and headbands indivually and pair them together for mix and match looks.
Hair bows for babies are available in a variety of sizes and styles, many can be paired with a headband, or clipped directly to baby's hair.
Next Steps
Now that you know the right way to buy baby clothes, you're ready to go to the next level of baby fashion. The Hair Bow Company has a huge selection of boutique baby clothes, including rompers, dresses, accessories and more!
Do you love fashion and DIY projects? Our blog is full of a ton of fun fashionable DIY projects for baby clothes. Check out our posts on DIY tutu dresses so you can make fashionable infant girl clothes and accessories.
And remember, we're here to help you with anything you need. If you are trying to find baby boutiques online, The Hair Bow Company is here for you! Be sure to contact us so we can answer any important questions you may have.
]]>Back to school season may be a welcome time of relief for parents, but it comes with a price: it means some clothing shopping is in order.
Considering the average American household spends over $500 on back to school clothing, you want to make sure your money is going towards clothes that your daughter will actually wear. Kids outgrow clothes so fast, so how do you know how many of each piece to buy?
While you want your daughter to feel her best and stylin' when she hops on the school bus, you also can't let her call all the shots when it comes to picking out school clothing. The struggle is real.
We've pulled together the ultimate back to school clothes shopping list to make this annual chore a little easier for you. Read on to find out what you should be buying for your child to feel their best at school while keeping your sanity.
Before we even get into the list, it may be a good idea to establish some ground rules with your daughter before venturing to the mall. Any clothing that she wears to school should, for the most part, be practical, functional, and age-appropriate.
That means clothing should never expose anything nor feel tight/constricting. Think of the physical activity your little one enjoys at recess or while at home in the yard. She needs clothing that she can run, play, jump, and maybe do the occasional cartwheel in that won't restrict her movements.
Likewise, shoes should also be comfortable, especially when worn outside for recess.
When it comes to your child wanting to express her own style choices, you may want to agree on an 80/20 rule with her. That means 80% of the clothing you buy for back to school will be more conservative while 20% can be made up the of graphic tees or flashy leggings and accessories that she loves. It's a good compromise that makes both parents and kids happy.
One key here is to pick articles of clothing that will mix and match and create outfits. That is why sticking to solid colors and more classic styles will give your daughter more flexibility and she can have fun choosing what to wear and coordinating pieces together in new ways.
Keep in mind this list will obviously vary depending upon what region of the country you live in. If there is existing clothing in your child's closet that still fits them then you can also adjust these quantities.
It's good to get a variety of short and long-sleeved tops and sweaters. Layering is important when autumn and spring bring a variety of weather fluctuations in many parts of the country. Also, if your household only does laundry once a week you need to make sure you have enough clean items on hand to get you through Friday.
You can never buy too many socks and undergarments because you never know when you might have to skip doing laundry.
While you're out checking off the school clothing list, you may want to pick up a few school supplies as well. These will vary depending on what grade your child is in and the teacher's list, but at a here are some great basics to stock up on:
Once you've completed your back to school clothes shopping list and you've brought your daughter's new wardrobe home, resist the temptation to place the items in any random drawer or mix them with her other clothing.
Organize them by groups of like items (tops, pants, etc.) and hang them in the closet. Better yet, group them by so you have some corresponding outfits ready to go for that first big week of school.
Most of all, don't forget to have fun! End your shopping excursion by taking your little BFF to lunch so you can both celebrate getting your back to school shopping done.
Visit our girls boutique for fashionable items to wear to school, for playtime, and for special occasions. We carry 100's of styles of adorable and affordable girls boutique clothing!
]]>We're living in a culture where women and girls are finding strength and beauty in their femininity, and what better way to showcase this than by using fashion and our own personal style to do so!
Hair bows have always been a symbol of sweetness, child-like spirit and all things feminine. It makes sense that these bows have recently started trending again, as women become more and more empowered and secure in their identity.
This trend isn't just for our little girls, though there are many adorable ways to add bows into your daughter's hair. Women of Hollywood and other fashion influencers are showing us that hair bows for adults are a style that should and will be represented.
Want to know how you can hop aboard this sweet trend? Keep reading to find out a few simple ways you (and your little girl) can wear this feminine look.
Arguably the most simple style, a hair bow or bow-tied ribbon that rests on top of a ponytail is an age-old classic.
For a more chic and understated look, go for a simple and thin ribbon that adds just a hint of playfulness to your updo.
Long ribbon bows that hang down the sides of the ponytail can dress up what might otherwise be a half-hearted attempt at keeping the hair off your back.
Make it easy on yourself and try bow headbands made for girls. Want to keep those pesky strands from flying in your face? Sweep them back with hair bow headbands for a delicate and sweet look.
Try it on your little girl too!
This look is perfect for a casual and relaxed vibe. Whether you're running errands or picking your daughter up from school, the bow will bring a little bit of flair to an easygoing style.
Looking for something more elegant and graceful? Go for this ballerina-inspired look! Just wrap a ribbon around your bun and tie it into a bow, or simply just clip one on!
It will be sure to add charm to a sophisticated hairstyle.
A popular fashion among young girls and babies, the oversized hair bow can look good on you and your daughter!
If you want big bows, Texas size bows are the way to go! Want to incorporate a look that brings back your spirit and childlike wonder? Oversized bows are the way to go.
It's not just little girls anymore who get to enjoy this sweet hair accessory, and even though all of those styles would look fabulous on your daughter, don't think that you can't incorporate them into your wardrobe as well.
Of course, bows aren't just for toddler girls and older girls, babies look adorable in petite sized baby bows! We also carry an entire line of baby girl clothes, boutique girls clothing and mommy & me to wear with those bows!
Don't be afraid to play around with different styles and bow materials. This trend is all about exhibiting your womanly identity, so make it look like YOU!
If you want to find out more inspiration for this new bow centered movement, as well as DIY hair tutorials, visit our website at The Hair Bow Company! We can't wait to see you in your new hair bows!
]]>Caitlin from An Enchanted Box on Etsy has created another darling tutu dress for us and is back on the blog this week! This Candy Cane Princess Tutu Dress is amazingly fluffy and will make someone's CHristmas very bright! The tutu dress was created with The Hair Bow Company supplies below, but if you aren't a DIY'er yourself, you can find a selection of tutus available ready to go at An Enchanted Box!
DIY Candy Cane Tutu Gown
Christmas is coming! Are you looking to make your little princess something special for the
holiday season? Then this Candy Cane gown is for you! It’s perfect for holiday pictures and will
bring such joy when she opens it on Christmas morning. All you need are these directions and
supplies from The Hair Bow Company a cup of hot chocolate and you are good to go!
Materials:
Red 7” Lined Crochet Tutu Top*
Tulle*:
3 rolls of White
2 rolls of Shimmer White
5 rolls of Glitter Red
Embellishments:
3/8” Chevron Print Ribbon in White
Additional Items:
Scissors
Recommended:
Crochet Hook
Safety Pin
Fray Check or Lighter
Cardboard or something thin that measures 12” in length and 2.5” respectively
* NOTE: This dress is designed to fit the average one or two-year- old. For children unusually
sized for that age range or those who are older, you may need to change the size of the lined tutu
top. Consider using a lined 8” tutu top for children three to four and a 10” tutu top for children
five and up. Check out The Hair Bow Company’s website for details regarding dimensions and
adjust your tulle material accordingly.
Step One: Cutting the Tulle
You will begin by cutting the white, shimmer white, and glitter red tulle into 24” strips. You will
save considerable time if you can find something that’s 12” long and simply wrap the tulle
around that and cut once. Perhaps a cookie sheet, box, cardboard or something else that you can
scavenge from around your home. Before you start cutting you will want to count the number of
holes around the bottom of your bodice to figure out how many strips you will need to cut. My
bodice had thirty-six holes around the bottom. I then divided that number by two as we will be
alternating between the white and red every hole. That gives us eighteen. Now, we will be
making three rows in total and for the red glitter we will be using two strips per hole. So, 18 x 6
= 108 so we will need 108 strips of glitter red. For white, we will use three strips for each hole of
the first row, then one for each hole of the second, and then two for each row of the third. Thus
18 x 6 = 108 strips of white. Finally, for the shimmer white, we won’t use any for the first row
but then we’ll use two per hole for the second and then one per hole for the third. This gives us
18 x 3 = 54 shimmer white strips will need to be cut.
Step Two: The Skirt Pattern
You will be making three rows of tulle around the bodice. I recommend completing the entire
first row of the skirt before moving on to the second as this will help keep your rows even
following this pattern:
Row one: 3 strips of white, 2 strips of glitter red, 3 strips of white, 2 strips of red, etc.
Row two: 2 strips of shimmer white & 1 strip of white, 2 strips of glitter red, 2 strips of shimmer
white & 1 strip of white, 2 strips of glitter red, etc.
Row three: 1 strip of shimmer white & 2 strips of white, 2 strips of glitter red, 1 strip of shimmer
white & 2 strips of white, 2 strips of glitter red, etc.
Step Three: Attaching the Skirt
Always be sure that you are tying your knots in the right holes. There should be a solid square
between the knot and the lining. Take the two or three strips of tulle that you will be threading
into the hole, layer them on top of each other and then fold the strips in half to find the center
thus making the strip 12” in length. To attach the tulle of the skirt to the bodice you will
implement a basic Larks Head knot. Don’t worry, it’s not a complicated knot! All you do is take
the crochet hook and go up under the hole and out the other side. Then, grab your double strip of
tulle where you folded it at the center with the crochet hook and pull a couple of inches through
to create a loop. Take the tails of your tulle and pull them all the way through the loop you made,
and viola!, you have yourself a Larks Head knot. You’re just going to repeat that in the color
pattern all the way around to attach your skirt. After you’ve completed the first row, move up to
the second by going to the square immediately above the first row. After you complete the
second row, then move up to the square immediately above that one to then do the third row.
TIP: to get a cleaner look to your Larks Head knot, roll the tulle between your fingers just before
tightening it as this will keep all the fibers close together.
Step Four: Ribbon Straps
Once you have finished the skirt, it is time to move on to the bodice. First, count how many
squares are around the top of bodice in order to locate the middle of the front. I recommend that
you very gently slip a safety pin in the hole one or two spaces below that middle square so that
you don’t lose track of it but it is not in the way. Just as with the bottom of the skirt, be sure you
are working on the row that has a solid square between it and the edge. Count out twelve squares
along the front. Take your crochet hook and go under those twelve squares between the bodice
and the liner. Cut two 55” long strips of your white chevron ribbon. TIP: seal the cut ribbon ends
with either Fray Check or sear the edges quickly with the flame from a lighter. Do NOT use a
candle as that will leave a soot mark on the ribbon. Hook the ribbon and gently pull it through
and, ta-da!, you have the front part of the straps!
Step Five: The Back of the Ribbon Straps
On the back of the dress, count three rows down along the seam (which should be in the center
back), then, count four holes to the left. Now, take your crochet hook and go under the two
furthest holes and pull the ribbon through so that it comes out toward the seam but there are still
two holes between where the ribbon comes out and the seam. Do the same on the other side then
tie a bow and your straps are done!
Step Six: The Second Ribbon Straps
Spin your dress back around so you are looking at the front. Now, you’re going to go one row
below your first set of ribbon straps using the holes directly diagonal from where your ribbon
straps came out the first time making them ever so slightly wider. Simply repeat what you did the
first time by taking your crochet hook and going under those squares between the bodice and the
liner and pulling your ribbon through. Because you’re going in and out diagonal from the first
straps, you should have one extra square in between them. So if your first ribbon straps were
twelve squares wide then your second set will be thirteen squares wide.
Step Seven: The Back of the Second Ribbon Straps
You will secure the back of your second set of ribbon straps just like you did the first. The only
difference is that you will go two rows lower than where you tied your first set. I recommend
tying small knots in the bottom of all four ends as this will make it hard for the ribbon to slip out
of the dress should your little one take it off in a hurry. This way you’re not trying to funnel it
back through again.
Step Eight: The Fringe
You’re almost there! All that’s left to do is the fringe. Now take your red glitter tulle and cut
twelve strips each about 5” long. Again, if you can find something that’s 2.5” then you only have
to cut once! Then cut six strips of the white and six of the shimmer white also at 5” long each.
Make sure you have a solid square between the lining and the square to which you are attaching
your fringe. I usually make the fringe as wide as I did the ribbon straps but you can make them
narrower if you would like or a little wider. Take your crochet hook and go under the chosen
square along the top of the bodice and make another Larks Head knot to attach the fringe. Once
you have them all on, you will want to go back through and trim them to make sure they are all
the same length and you don’t have any stragglers. If your little one is particularly small, then
you can cut the fringe shorter as needed.
Step Nine: You Did It!
Way to go! You are on your way to becoming one of Santa’s little helpers having created this fun
Christmas dress for your little one!
Resources:
Process photos, DIY & Crafting Expertise courtesy Caitlin of An Enchanted Box
Model Photography by Ava K Photography
You can find tulle here at The Hair Bow Company.
You can find crochet headbands here at The Hair Bow Company.
We also carry an entire collection of Christmas outfits for Girls to keep your little one trendy for the whole Christmas season!
Shop Caitlin's ready made tutu dresses here at An Enchanted Box.
]]>We are so excited to welcome back guest blogger Caitlin of An Enchanted Box on Etsy, where you can find her charming tutus & tutu dresses, including darling dog tutus! Caitlin created a troll tutu dress and headband for us in the past, and now she's got the Halloween spirit with this sweet Candy Corn Troll! (You can now see the troll hair headband DIY here!) The tutu dress was created with The Hair Bow Company supplies below, but if you aren't a DIY'er yourself, you can find a selection of tutus available ready to go at An Enchanted Box!
DIY Candy Corn Tutu Gown
Looking for a unique Halloween costume for your little one? Consider doing this Candy Corn
dress with the matching headband! All you need are some materials from The Hairbow
Company, plus these easy directions, you’re ready to create your child’s costume!
Materials:
Orange 7” Lined Crochet Tutu Top*
Tulle*:
4 rolls of Lemon Yellow
1 roll of shimmer white
Embellishments:
7/8” Peach Grosgrain Ribbon
Additional Items:
Scissors
Recommended:
Crochet Hook
Hot Glue Gun and Glue
Safety Pin
Fray Check or Lighter
Fairy Wings (optional)
Cardboard or something thin that measures 12” in length and 2.5” respectively
* NOTE: This dress is designed to fit the average one or two-year- old. For children unusually
sized for that age range or those who are older, you may need to change the size of the lined tutu
top. Consider using a lined 8” tutu top for children three to four and a 10” tutu top for children
five and up. Check out The Hair Bow Company’s website for details regarding dimensions and
adjust your tulle material accordingly.
Step One: Cutting the Tulle
You will begin by cutting the yellow tulle into 24” strips. You will save considerable time if you
can find something that’s 12” long and simply wrap the tulle around that and cut once. Perhaps a
cookie sheet, box, cardboard or something else that you can scavenge from around your home.
Step Two: The Skirt Pattern
You will be making two rows of tulle around the bodice. I recommend completing the entire first
row of the skirt before moving on to the second as this will help keep your rows even.
You will use two strips of tulle for each hole on the first row and one strip of tulle for each hole
on the second row.
Step Three: Attaching the Skirt
Always be sure that you are tying your knots in the right holes. There should be a solid square
between the knot and the lining. Take the two strips of tulle that you will be threading into the
hole, layer them on top of each other and then fold the double strip in half to find the center thus
making the strip 12” in length. To attach the tulle of the skirt to the bodice you will implement a
basic Larks Head knot. Don’t worry, it’s not a complicated knot! All you do is take the crochet
hook and go up under the hole and out the other side. Then, grab your double strip of tulle where
you folded it at the center with the crochet hook and pull a couple of inches through to create a
loop. Take the tails of your tulle and pull them all the way through the loop you made, and, ta-
da!, you have yourself a Larks Head knot. You’re just going to repeat that in the color pattern all
the way around to attach your skirt. After you’ve completed the first row, move up to the second
by going to the square immediately above the first row. TIP: to get a cleaner look to your Larks
Head knot, roll the tulle between your fingers just before tightening it as this will keep all the
fibers close together.
Step Four: Ribbon Straps
Once you have finished the skirt, it is time to move on to the bodice. First, count how many holes
are around the top of bodice in order to locate the middle of the front. I recommend that you very
gently slip a safety pin in the hole one or two spaces below that middle square so that you don’t
lose track of it but it is not in the way. Just as with the bottom of the skirt, be sure you are
working on the row that has a solid square between it and the edge. Count out six holes to the
left, then six to the right of middle, for a total of thirteen holes in the row. Take your crochet
hook and go under those thirteen holes between the bodice and the liner. Cut 55” of your peach
ribbon. TIP: seal the cut ribbon ends with either Fray Check or sear the edges quickly with the
flame from a lighter. Do NOT use a candle as that will leave a soot mark on the ribbon. Hook the
ribbon and gently pull it through and, viola!, you have the front part of the straps!
Step Five: The Back of the Ribbon Straps
On the back of the dress, count three rows down along the seam (which should be in the center
back), then, count three holes to the left. Now, take your crochet hook and go under the two
furthest holes and pull the ribbon through so that it comes out toward the seam but there is still a
hole between where the ribbon comes out and the seam. Do the same on the other side then tie a
bow and your straps are done!
Step Six: White Fringe
You’re almost there! All that’s left to do is the fringe. Now take your white tulle and cut thirteen
strips of white each about 5” long. Again, if you can find something that’s 2.5” then you only
have to cut once! Make sure you have a solid square between the lining and the square to which
you are attaching your fringe. I usually make the fringe as wide as I did the ribbon straps but you
can make them narrower if you would like or a little wider. Take your crochet hook and go under
the chosen square along the top of the bodice and make another Larks Head knot to attach the
fringe but this time going the opposite direction (top to bottom) so that the fringe will naturally
stick straight up. Once you have them all on, you will want to go back through and trim them to
make sure they are all the same length and you don’t have any stragglers. If your little one is
particularly small, then you can cut the fringe shorter as needed. I also recommend taking your
hot glue gun and gently tacking down each knot so that the fringe stays sticking straight up.
Step Seven: You Did It!
Way to go! You are a fairy godmother in the making, having created this dress for your little
princess.
Resources:
Process photos, DIY & Crafting Expertise courtesy Caitlin of An Enchanted Box
Model Photography by Ava K Photography
You can find tulle here at The Hair Bow Company.
You can find crochet headbands here at The Hair Bow Company.
Shop Caitlin's ready made tutu dresses here at An Enchanted Box.
Fairy Wings (optional)
]]>