What Is a Layette?

When you’re expecting a baby, it can often seem like you’re learning new terms on an almost daily basis. Some may be self-explanatory, while others are simply mystifying. (And do babies come with a dictionary? Unfortunately no.)

Here’s one baby-related vocab word that’s likely to crop up as you’re shopping for clothes and accessories for your little one: layette. You can find it on countless websites and registry checklists, but what in the world does it mean? And how does it relate to your baby?

What is a Layette?

At its most basic definition, a layette (or sometimes a “layette set”) is baby’s first set of clothes—this typically includes a matching set of a few bodysuits and/or pants, but can really be as large or small as you want. Some layettes might also include accessories like socks, mittens, hats or hair bows, or even toiletries like baby’s first shampoo and lotion set.

You’re probably aware by now that there’s no shortage of baby clothing sets out there, and they’re all considered part of the layette category. But to take it up a notch, layettes can be made extra special by bundling everything together as a gift set. Whether it’s four pieces or 14 (or more!), packaging a newborn’s first wardrobe into a box or bundle makes it a perfect baby shower or homecoming gift.

How to Build a Layette

A layette can include just about anything you want, but if you’ve never seen or gotten one before, here’s a list to give you an idea of what to include (a layette certainly doesn’t have to include everything on this list, or it could include other things we didn’t put, so consider this to be more of a guideline of what to look for in a pre-made layette or when building your own from scratch):

• Bodysuits (4-5)
• Pants (2-3)
• Socks (2-3)
• Mittens (1-2)
• Hat or bow (1-2)
• Pajamas (1-2)
• Swaddle or receiving blanket (1-3)
• Bibs (1-2)
• Burp cloths (2-3)
• Wash cloths (3-5)
• Shampoo
• Lotion
• Baby wash
• Baby powder
• Baby oil
• Diaper cream
• Cotton swabs
• Teething toy
• Stuffed animal

Ready to build baby’s first wardrobe? Here are some pre-built layettes that can go solo or get bundled together.