What Size Baby Clothes Should You Buy as a Gift? A Boutique Owner's Guide
By Cass, Owner of Wild Baby
Buying baby clothes as a gift is one of my favourite things. There's something about a tiny little outfit that's almost impossible to resist.
But there's one question we hear all the time at Wild Baby:
"What size should I buy?"
Newborn? 0–3 months? 3–6 months?
It's a fair question, especially when you're shopping for a baby who hasn't even arrived yet.
The good news is that I really don't think you can go too wrong when choosing a thoughtful baby gift. But after helping customers choose baby clothing at Wild Baby, I definitely have a few recommendations.
And my number one tip might surprise you.
Still not sure what size or outfit to choose?
Let us help! Our Wild Baby Gift Concierge takes the guesswork out of baby gifting. Tell us a little about who you're shopping for, and we'll choose something thoughtful for your approval before you pay.
My Favourite Baby Gift Size? 3–6 Months.
If someone comes into Wild Baby looking for an outfit to give as a baby shower gift, I typically recommend choosing 3–6 months.
Here's why.
New babies tend to receive a LOT of clothing, especially in those smaller newborn sizes. Between baby showers, family gifts and everything parents have already purchased themselves, their tiny wardrobes can fill up pretty quickly.
Choosing 3–6 months gives parents something lovely to look forward to once their baby grows out of those first little outfits.
It's also nice for parents to have beautiful clothing ready for that next stage without needing to rush out and buy everything themselves.
Of course, every baby grows differently, and sizing varies by brand, but 3–6 months is generally my favourite place to start when shopping for a baby clothing gift.
What About 0–3 Months?
There are absolutely times when I'd recommend 0–3 months instead.
The biggest one? When you're choosing something specifically for the season.
If you fall in love with a beautiful little summer outfit for a baby arriving in June, buying 3–6 months might mean that by the time it fits, summer is practically over.
In that case, I'd be much more inclined to suggest 0–3 months.
The same goes for holiday outfits or anything that's particularly seasonal.
Think about when the baby will actually be wearing the outfit, rather than just choosing a size because it sounds right.
Sometimes a gorgeous outfit that's perfect for right now makes the most wonderful gift.
Should You Buy Newborn-Size Clothes as a Gift?
Generally speaking, I suggest skipping newborn sizing unless you have a specific reason to choose it.
It's not that newborn clothing isn't adorable. It absolutely is.
But babies grow at different rates, and some barely get a chance to wear their newborn outfits before moving into the next size.
There are two exceptions where I'd absolutely consider newborn clothing:
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The parents specifically requested newborn sizing. If they've told you what they need, that's always the best place to start.
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The parents expect a smaller baby. If you know newborn sizing is likely to be useful, a few thoughtfully chosen pieces can be lovely.
Otherwise, I usually encourage gift shoppers to choose 0–3 or 3–6 months.
Do Baby Clothing Sizes Vary Between Brands?
Definitely!
This is something worth keeping in mind, especially when you're shopping online.
Just like adult clothing, baby clothing doesn't fit exactly the same across every brand.
Two outfits labelled 3–6 months can fit quite differently.
At Wild Baby, for example, I've found that Quincy Mae tends to have a more generous fit, while Petit Lem generally fits a little more true to size.
That's not a hard-and-fast rule for every style, but it's something I've noticed with the clothing we carry.
If you're unsure, look at the brand's size chart and consider the style of the outfit. A relaxed sweatshirt set, for example, may fit differently than a more fitted sleeper.
And if you're shopping with us, we're always happy to help you compare sizes between brands.
The Best Baby Clothing Gift? I Love a Two-Piece Outfit.
If you're looking for a gift that's both adorable and practical, my personal recommendation is a beautiful two-piece outfit.
I love matching sets, but what I love even more is that parents can mix and match the pieces with other things in their baby's wardrobe.
A little sweatshirt can be worn with different leggings or pants. The matching bottoms can be paired with another top.
It gives the outfit more versatility, rather than having everything depend on one piece fitting perfectly.
I've also found that some two-piece sets can be worn longer than one-piece outfits, depending on the fit and style.
For me, that's a big win.
You're gifting something beautiful, but also something that has plenty of opportunity to be worn and enjoyed.
My Personal Favourite: A Quincy Mae Tracksuit
If I were shopping for a new baby and wanted to choose one really lovely clothing gift, I'd probably reach for a cute little Quincy Mae tracksuit.
I just love them.
They're sweet, comfortable-looking and easy to mix and match with other pieces.
And there's something especially adorable about a tiny baby in a matching sweatshirt and pants.
It's exactly the kind of gift I love giving: thoughtfully chosen, beautiful and practical enough for everyday wear.
If you're looking for something similar, you can explore our Quincy Mae collection at Wild Baby.
Does Fabric Quality Matter When Buying Baby Clothes?
Absolutely.
One thing I really encourage customers to consider is the quality of the fabric.
When possible, I love choosing pieces made with quality, organic fabrics.
Babies spend so much time in their clothing, and I think it's worth paying attention to how a fabric feels and how well a garment is made.
That doesn't mean every baby gift needs to be expensive.
I'd much rather give one thoughtfully chosen outfit in a fabric I love than several pieces I don't feel as excited about.
Look at the fabric composition and care instructions when you're shopping. Not every product within a brand uses the same materials, so it's worth checking the individual garment.
What If You Pick the Wrong Size?
Here's where I want to reassure you a little.
You really don't need to overthink it.
Baby clothing is one of those gifts where the thought behind it matters so much.
Choose something you genuinely love, that you think the family will love, and use what you know about the baby's age, the season and the brand's sizing to make your best decision.
If you're really unsure about sizing, a gift card is also a wonderful option. It gives parents the flexibility to choose exactly what they need, when they need it.
But if you've fallen in love with a beautiful little outfit? I say go for it.
Quick Guide: What Size Baby Clothes Should You Gift?
If you're still deciding, here's the advice I typically give at Wild Baby.
| Size | When I'd Choose It |
|---|---|
| Newborn | When the parents have specifically requested it, or a smaller baby is expected |
| 0–3 months | For an outfit intended to be worn soon after birth, especially something seasonal |
| 3–6 months | My go-to recommendation for most baby shower and newborn clothing gifts |
| 6–12 months | When the parents already have lots of smaller clothing, or you're buying for a baby who's a little older |
Remember that age labels are approximate. Check the brand's size chart, and consider the season when the clothing is likely to fit.
One Last Piece of Advice
If there's one thing I want you to take away from this, it's that choosing a baby clothing gift should be fun.
You don't need to find the single most practical item or figure out exactly what size a baby will be three months from now.
Find something you love.
Choose a beautiful fabric.
Think about the family's style.
And if you're stuck between sizes, 3–6 months is usually where I'd start.
Looking for something special for a new arrival? Explore our Baby Gifts collection for beautiful little outfits, thoughtful accessories and gifts chosen with love.
At Wild Baby, we love helping people choose thoughtful gifts for the little ones in their lives.
Whether it's a beautiful Quincy Mae tracksuit, a sweet Petit Lem outfit or something entirely different, there's nothing quite like picking out something special for a new baby.
Shop Baby & Kids Clothing at Wild Baby
And if you're looking for even more inspiration, read my guide to the best baby gifts new parents actually love.
With love,
Cass
Owner, Wild Baby