When you purchase baby clothes, it's recommended to stick to one color scheme. Bright colors are the best, since they aren't easily soiled like pastels, more easily seen, and are unisex. They are also great for babies' outerwear, since a bright red jacket worn by a child can be easier to see in a busy shopping mall than a baby wearing light blue.

Be practical. Babies aren't neat, so you'll want everything to be machine washable. Fancy clothes aren't practical at all. They often interfere with movement and aren't usually comfortable. Clothes made of cotton and other natural fabrics are more comfortable, especially when the weather is hot.

Speaking of the weather, the climate where you live and the season in which your child is born determine your initial layette needs. If you're not sure what you need, get some ideas by talking to other parents, or you can also observe how the other babies are dressed. Keep in mind that most babies wear newborn sizes for only a couple of weeks. Overdressing your baby is a definite no-no, particularly when the temperature is hot. If you want a guide, just put as many layers of clothing on your baby as you are wearing. Also remember that if you're warm, then your baby is, too.

If you need more ideas about putting together your initial layette, here are some suggestions:

Underwear - Get at least 4 to 6 undershirts for 3 to 6-month old sizes. These are generally made of cotton, which has a tendency to shrink to some degree. Some parents find the undershirts with side snaps easier to put on a new baby. Undershirts typically come in white, prints, and solid colors.

Socks and Booties - 4 to 6 pairs of socks should do fine. Make sure they fit the infant's feet snugly. Get cuffed socks and booties made out of stretchy material, since babies often kick off other styles.

Sleeping Wear - Plan on six to ten sleep outfits. Stretchy, footed, or gowns all work great. Blanket sleepers, which are heavier than stretch garments, are good for colder climates. The advantage of gowns is that they allow for easier diaper changing, aside from allowing more freedom of movement for the older infant. If you select sleepwear with feet, do not also put socks on your baby. They will cause the baby's feet to become too warm, and this may cause a condition known as sweaty sock dermatitis.

Hats and Caps - Two hats or caps should suffice. They come in various styles and fabrics, lightweight cotton stretchable caps to acrylic. The type you choose depends upon the climate. Make sure hats and caps are small enough so they stay on and so you can place them well away from the baby's face, so that he won't suffocate himself when he turns his head.

Julie Vega is a researcher and writer working for http://www.gobohemian.com, where you can get all your infant and children's clothing at the best prices. Visit us for all your designer baby clothes.