It’s all about simplicity these days. Minimalism—the practice of intentionally paring down one’s belongings in order to live simply— has recently resurrected. Darling of Pinterest and Instagram, the practice of “living more with less” has worked its way into our homes and wardrobes, freeing us to live fuller lives focused on what really matters. Now is the time to parade the art of minimalism into the nursery, right where it belongs.
Thankfully, decluttering your home to culminate a focused aesthetic is both practical and sustainable while wrangling raging children. When you build your baby’s wardrobe with simple, predictable pieces he or she really loves, you’ll finally have time to stop and relish in what really matters: the scent of sour milk caked between your child’s skin folds and the melodious cries of your teething toddler in the backseat, for example.
The simplified baby capsule wardrobe ideally consists of ten pieces: four pajamas, two onesies, two dress-up items, two accessories not including undergarments and bodily fluids, and an optional novelty piece.
The Essentials
-Four sets of footie pajamas, preferably with loud, clashing colors. When it comes to night-time blowouts, remember: zippers are your best friend. And save yourself the pain of buying tiny shoes your baby will soon outgrow—studies show footie pajamas contain ample support and grip for new walkers.
-Two onesies, one short-sleeved and one long-sleeved, because it’s better to be safe than sorry in compromising weather situations. Keep onesies versatile by choosing neutral pieces with timeless catchphrases that will grow right along with your child, like “Daddy’s Little All-Star” or “Party in my Crib, 2 AM.”
-Two dress-up items to slap on over the footie pajamas on your way out the door to a special occasion. We chose an oversized tweed blazer and a navy V-neck sweater with elbow patches, because dressing your baby like an elderly man is an innovative, whimsical concept. And also the key to generating compliments from adoring strangers in the grocery store.
-Two accessories. The options are limitless, but our go-to is a pacifier with a clip. Use creative freedom here to express your baby’s personal aesthetic—for strong-willed or “spirited” children, choose a bold statement clip in plaid or even mustache print. If nipple confusion is your nemesis, opt for a gingham bow-tie, a headband with a flower the size of a dinner plate, or another item your child will surely not attempt to tear off his or her body.
-Complete your capsule with one optional novelty item for your own entertainment, because you deserve it. This is your opportunity to use your child as an instrument for showcasing your own personality and preferences, so choose wisely. Remember, the key is to keep it practical—try rigid, high top basketball shoes your child can’t walk in or a bejeweled chambray snowsuit. Bonus points for posing your newborn in a wicker basket in a hand-knit zebra costume. Because if you’re going to birth and raise a child, you may as well get a few Instagram “likes” along the way.
