Baby Boy Baptism Outfits

Another milestone to be celebrated after the birth of a baby is the christening. A baby’s christening ceremony is a major event that requires a lot of preparation. First, there’s a date to set, a location to settle on, godparents to choose, a reception to prepare for, and of course, a christening gown or outfit for the precious little one.

Choosing what outfit your baby boy will wear for his christening or baptism often requires a little more thought than what a baby girl would wear. Why? Because you have the option to decide between a christening gown (traditional) or a christening outfit (non-traditional) which consists mostly of a pair of pants, a top, or a romper. The christening outfit is often the most exciting decision parents will make when it comes to the baptism ceremony because the main focus of this special and solemn event is your baby. Every parent will want their baby boy to look his very best.

History of Infant Baptismal Clothing

Infant baptism was first practiced around A. D. 160 to about 220. During that period, simple swaddling bands were used for clothing when baptizing an infant, regardless of gender. These swaddling bands consisted of long strips of cloth wrapped all around the baby with the sole purpose of restricting the baby’s limbs from movement. This practice continued until the 16th century. Oftentimes, these swaddling bands would bear symbols embroidered on them. Sometimes, the swaddle would be made from the same bands used during the marriage ceremony of the married parents.

Infant baptism clothing began to change around the 17th century because of the changing baptism practices. Infants were required to be fully immersed in the holy water, therefore, the need to unclothe and clothe them quickly became important. Churches during those times were very cold, especially in winter because they were usually not heated. Removal and replacement of infant clothing during baptism became a priority in order to shield the babies from the harsh elements. Simple baptism clothes that can be easily removed and attached were favored.

Another change in baptism practices occurred during the 18th century. Full immersion was discontinued. As a result, infants are no longer required to be undressed during the baptism ceremony. Swaddling bands also started to be unpopular due to the emerging view that they were unhealthy for babies. Because of those reasons, the traditional victorian christening gowns we are familiar with today began to be widely used.

In the 19th century, popular women’s fashion largely influenced the style of christening gowns. Infants wore gowns with boat necklines, high gathered waist, and high short bodice over petticoats. They were usually made of satin or silk.

Christening gowns in the 20th century continued the same intricate patterns and tailoring with changes in the materials used. White linen or cotton gowns were used in lieu of satin or silk.

In recent years, the traditional victorian christening gown saw a resurgence in popularity because it was used during the christening of Prince George and Prince Louis, children of Duchess Catherine of Cambridge, and Prince William of Wales.

Factors to Consider in Choosing a Christening Wardrobe

Religion and Culture

Religious requirements will affect the baptism outfit of your baby. Most often, religions and cultures require certain colors and styles to be used in the ceremony because it carries an important symbolism. Some churches issue baptism wardrobe guidelines, and they can be very strict in implementing them, so inquire first before deciding.

Color and Fabric

The fabric of the christening clothing should be breathable and comfortable to the infant to avoid rashes or irritations on their skin. 100% natural fibers such as cotton, silk, and linen are great materials. Short sleeve styles are better if you are living in a hot climate or when the baptism will fall during the spring or summer months, while thicker materials or even a blanket may be useful if you are in a cold climate or if the ceremony falls in the season of winter or autumn.

Typically, baptism clothing is pure white since the color symbolizes innocence and purity. It also represents the cleansing and the sacred purpose of the christening or baptism ceremony. A rule of thumb, if the ceremony is being held at a traditional church, the traditional white color is highly recommended. However, alternatives to white such as off-white, creams, light gray, or baby blue for boys are also quite acceptable nowadays.

Personal Preference of the Parents

Of course, the parents may also choose what their baby boy will wear on his baptism. Sometimes, the parents’ fashion preferences will influence what the baby will wear. Some people want to go all out and dress to the nines, while some prefer a more casual approach.

Christening Gown Versus Christening Outfit

A traditional christening gown looks like a long dress, usually around 60 to 90 cm, with intricate embroidery and is often made of lace. The most popular examples are those worn by the royal children of Prince William and Duchess Catherine. Christening gowns will look best on baby boys under six months of age because they will fit infants better, and the voluminous fabric will be easier to handle.

Christening outfits, on the other hand, consist of bottoms and tops or a romper (coveralls). Some baby boys wear these outfits with a vest or a cute tie. You could choose from a wide assortment of baby boy baptism outfits. Typically, these outfits are divided into three main types: A simple and cute top and pants overall, a romper or coverall, which is designed specifically for baby boys baptism, and a complete formal outfit that includes a separate top, pants, tie, coat, and cap. Baby boys older than six months look better in christening outfits such as pants and shorts. Older babies are often active and can sit and crawl, making the long christening gown impractical and bulky.

Baby Boy Baptism Outfits

Here are a few classic and comfortable pieces you can check out for your baby boy outfits. Amazon offers a wide range of these outfits, whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge for your little boy’s big day.

There are plenty of options out there for your baby boy’s baptism outfit, and as a parent, you can be a bit overwhelmed. I do have one little tip for you: try to slow down and give yourself plenty of time to decide. After all, photos from your baby’s special day will be treasured and fawned upon years from now. A beautiful baptismal outfit will be a great addition to the memory.

Related Posts

• Baptism decorations