Everything you need to create a capsule wardrobe for your baby

“How much clothing do I really need for my new baby?"

It's one of the biggest questions pregnant moms ask. Baby clothes are the cutest, and picking out those teeny tiny onesies, sleepers, and socks is for sure one of the most fun parts about becoming a new mom—but it can also be confusing to anticipate what's worth buying, what to skip, and how many of each clothing item you'll actually need when the time comes.

Enter the capsule wardrobe.

If you're not familiar with this (genius) idea, we can't wait to fill you in: a capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential, classic, and versatile pieces of clothing that can all be mixed + matched together. Capsule wardrobes embrace the idea that less is more, and that buying a small group of staple items that are easily interchangeable is the best way to maximize your wardrobe and minimize your spending.

We are all about the idea of fewer, better, beautiful. We swoon over must-have minimalist baby products, and we think a toy capsule collection is genius. So when it comes to dressing baby? It's a no-brainer: a baby capsule wardrobe is the way to go.

Considering that every family's laundry situation may be different, here's our master list for a basic baby capsule wardrobe. Remember, these are the basics—you can always add on with more accessories, an extra sweater or two for colder climates, and shorts or a swimsuit for warmer ones.

What's in a baby capsule wardrobe

• 3-5 undershirts/base layers
• 4-6 sleepers
• 8-10 onesies/bodysuits (long + short sleeved)
• 4-6 pairs of pants/leggings
• 1-2 rompers/overalls
• 1-2 layering pieces (sweater or hoodie)
• 1 cap/bonnet
• 6-8 pairs of socks
• 1 pair soft shoe/moccasin

We also recommend keeping the following guidelines in mind while you're shopping:

• Keep it simple + streamlined. Stick to a few brands you love + color palette that fits your style. Capsule wardrobes are all about simplifying your life; don't overcomplicate things with too many options. Choose basic, easy pieces that all work together and can be mixed + matched with ease.
• Choose comfort + practicality over style. I know, I know—those cute little dresses and tiny little baby shoes are calling your name. But practically speaking, they're probably not the right choice for your little one, who wants soft, comfortable clothing that's easy to move around in and won't irritate sensitive newborn skin.
• Balance quality + affordability. If you're only buying a limited number of clothing items, you want to make sure they can withstand lots of wear + tear and multiple washings. (Because...spit-up.) You want to find a balance that works for you by choosing brands that fit within your budget, but also stand the test of time.

And now onto the fun part, mamas—shopping! We've pulled together our absolute favorite, gender-neutral baby basics that you'll need to build your little one's capsule wardrobe below. We can't wait to see what you choose!

Base layer bodysuits

Think of the basic white bodysuit as the (much cheaper!) little black dress of your baby's capsule wardrobe collection. It's simple, versatile, and an absolute must-have. This foundation piece is the perfect base layer when it's chilly, under either daytime clothing or as an extra layer at night.

It works with a simple pant or legging for a cute, clean look, or it can be tossed in your diaper bag as an emergency outfit change for those messy moments.

A classic baby registry item for a reason—the price and quality here simply cannot be beat. We recommend a few packs of these in every size, for the first 18 months or so of baby's life, in both the long sleeve and short sleeve styles.

4-Pack Long-Sleeve Original Bodysuits
$13.00, Carter's