Affordable Baby Basics
As a fashion lover I knew I would enjoy choosing clothes and dressing my child but I underestimated just how fun it would be! I also underestimated how quickly they would grow and how messy things would get. Prior to the birth of my daughter I picked up a variety of affordable basics in neutral colors (the gender was a surprise) and I am very glad I didn’t purchase more or opt for more expensive items. She was initially too tiny for many of the 0-3 month items I had on hand which necessitated a few quick Amazon purchases, but at two months we are now well into the 0-3 month pile. I’ve since started adding a bit more color to her wardrobe but have largely kept it to simple, classic (and affordable!) pieces within my preferred neutrals palette.
H&M has some of my favorite basics for babies and kids. The pieces wear relatively well (as soon as they start to look worn they are usually too small anyway) and the prices are great. Sometimes you have to dig a bit to get past the trendier items but you can usually find a good assortment of classic pieces in neutrals or muted tones. The knit wear in particular is well made and the wrap-over/kimono style body suits and footed leggings are perfect for newborns (pulling a normal onesie over a very delicate head is a bit nerve wracking those first weeks!).
Old Navy has some great all-around basics for babies and kids but I LOVE their pajamas in particular. Their footed onesies are great for infants. The reverse zipper is KEY for those middle-of-the-night diaper changes. They are affordable, wash well enough and come in enough non-offensive color and patterns that even this neutral lover can find something agreeable. I also really like the fleece options for cooler weather.
Primary is another favorite for great basics. I love their long sleeve onesies and leggings for little ones. Perennial favorite Zara always has a great selection of slightly dressier and more fashion-forward pieces for babies and last but not least don’t discount Amazon. I’ve found everything from great premie pajamas to nicer knit pieces to leather booties and cute one pieces on the site by digging around a bit and scouring the reviews.