When you purchase baby clothes, it's a good idea 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're a really good idea for outerwear, since it's a lot easier to see a child wearing a bright red jacket in a busy supermarket than one wearing light pink.

Being practical is important. Babies aren't neat, so getting machine-washable clothing will be invaluable. Avoid buying those fancy outfits. First of all, they're not very comfortable at all, and second, they can interfere with your baby's movements. Clothes made of cotton and other natural fabrics are more comfortable, especially in hot weather.

Obviously, 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, you can talk to other parents and get some helpful ideas, 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. It is important not to overdress your baby, especially when there is hot weather. If you want a guide, put as many layers of clothing on the baby as you are wearing. So 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 - Buy four to six undershirts in the three- to six-month-old size. These are generally made of cotton, which has a tendency to shrink to some degree. Undershirts with side snaps are easy to put on babies, so they're popular with parents. All styles of undershirts are usually available in white, solid colors, and prints.

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 - You will need around 6 to 10 sleeping outfits initially. Stretchy, footed, or gowns all work great. Blanket sleepers, which are heavier than stretch garments, are good for colder climates. Parents like sleeping gowns because it makes diaper changing easier, 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 bedding.