Shopping for your baby's first wardrobe is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for their arrival. It's easy to fall in love with the sweet prints, smocked outfits, and special occasion pieces and you should. Those pieces are part of the fun, and chances are your baby will receive plenty of adorable outfits from friends and family too.

But before the drawers fill up with all the cute extras, it's worth making sure you've covered the essentials. 

By the way—are you already feeling ready? You can start your Poppylist registry with Quince essentials automatically added in just one click.

This isn't a list of every outfit your baby will own. It's a guide to the wardrobe staples that form the foundation of their closet. Think of it as the foundation of their closet: the pieces you'll reach for on sleepy mornings, during countless diaper changes, and every laundry cycle in between.

In partnership with Quince, we've rounded up the newborn wardrobe staples to help you prepare for those early days, along with how many you'll actually need to get started.

The first few weeks are filled with around-the-clock diaper changes, contact naps, and soaking up every newborn snuggle. A bamboo gown set makes those early days just a little easier. The knotted gown allows for quick diaper changes without fully undressing baby, while the coordinating swaddle and hat make it an easy outfit to grab for heading home from the hospital, welcoming visitors, or capturing those first photos.

A sleep bag becomes especially important once your baby starts rolling and it’s time to transition out of the swaddle. Since that milestone can happen at different times for every baby, having one on hand early is an easy way to stay prepared. It offers a safe, cozy sleep layer without loose blankets, and becomes a long-term staple well beyond the newborn stage. Made from soft, breathable bamboo, it’s designed to help regulate temperature and keep baby comfortable through the night.

3. Organic Cotton Bodysuits, 0–3M (Qty 6)

The true foundation layer. Great for wearing alone in warmer weather or under other pieces when it's cooler. Simple, soft, and endlessly practical. Parents love the envelope neckline of these bodysuits for those late-night, half-awake outfit changes that somehow always involve a little extra mess.

4. Organic Cotton Leggings, 0–3M (Qty 6)

An easy layering piece that pairs with bodysuits for a complete outfit. These organic cotton leggings are comfortable, stretchy, and designed for daily wear.

5. Organic Cotton Footie Pajamas (Qty 6)

Your everyday uniform. These cotton footie pajamas are what your baby will live in during the newborn stage for sleep, lounging, and everything in between. Soft, breathable, and easy for frequent changes.

6. Rib Hat (Qty 1, 2-pack)

Newborns lose heat quickly, and hats are especially useful in those first weeks. Having a simple set on hand makes it easy to grab one when you need it.

7. Fold-Over Socks (Qty 1, 8-pack)

Optional depending on climate and baby preference. Some babies keep them on, some immediately kick them off, but these fold-over socks are useful to have for colder days or outings.

8. Cashmere Hoodie or Sweater Set (Qty 1, optional)

A soft extra layer for winter babies or cooler climates. Not essential for everyone, but a cashmere hoodie is certianly one of those nice-to-have items for added warmth and texture during the newborn stage.

9. Sunhat (Qty 1, optional)

Since babies under six months should avoid direct sun exposure and sunscreen, a simple sunhat is helpful if you're in a warmer climate or spending time outdoors. It's an easy layer of protection for walks, errands, and time outside.

While this wardrobe focuses on newborn clothing staples, Quince can also play a larger role in building out a thoughtful baby registry. Beyond everyday essentials, we’ve rounded up our favorite Quince picks across nursery items, postpartum comfort, and maternity essentials to help complete your list. If you’re ready to explore those categories, you can find our full Quince registry edit here.

One of the things we love about Quince is that it doesn't stop at newborn essentials. Once you find the fabrics and basics you love, it's easy to continue building your child's wardrobe with the same thoughtful quality as they grow. From bamboo pajamas to everyday staples in larger sizes, Quince offers a simple way to keep dressing your baby and toddler in pieces that are soft, wearable, and made for real life. 

And if you're ready to build your Poppylist registry with Quince in one click, you can get started now.