Which came first, the outfit or the theme? In most cases it’s the theme, leaving parents with the question “But what should they wear??”
Over the years I’ve worked with hundreds of babies in my studio, learning what photographs well and what doesn’t. Today I’m going to share with you my checklist of dos and don’ts when putting together your little one’s cake smash outfit.
If you’re taking part in my full signature smash experience, then you’ll need two outfits for baby:
- A simple outfit for a classic portrait
- A cake smash outfit
The simple smash session is just the cake smash and bath splash, so only one outfit for baby to smash in is necessary. Be sure to choose something that you don’t mind getting (hopefully) covered in cake!
Things to consider when choosing a cake smash outfit
Avoid clothing with words or logos
It’s common for families to want to use customized onesies with their little ones name or a fun quote, but I typically advise against this. Shirts tend to wrinkle easily (especially on a moving baby), which can make it look messy and cause the words to be unreadable.
This also applies to diaper covers with words on the back. Baby will be sitting for the majority of the session so we won’t actually see anything that is on the bottom of the diaper cover.
Skip the shoes!
If your little one is mobile we’re most likely to see the bottoms of their shoes when they’re sitting, which doesn’t make for a nice wall portrait. On the other hand, baby toes are always cute!
Be careful with sizing
It’s important to try all outfits on before session day. I’ve had families arrive to the studio with their outfits still in the packaging or with tags on, only to find out that they don’t fit!
We want baby’s outfit to fit comfortably but snug. Outfits that are too big or baggy can look sloppy.
Don’t forget to accessorize
This mostly applies to the girls, as I’ve had quite a few Mamas forget to bring a headband. If you can’t find something you love, I do have plenty of floral headbands in studio that you are welcome to use.
If you’re bringing a birthday crown we’ll do a simple photo with it before we bring out the cake, because the weight of the crown can make it tip over once baby brings their head down to look at the cake. This also applies to most hats… assuming your little one will even keep a headpiece on at this age!
For the boys
My favorite look for little boys is a simple, solid-colored romper or diaper cover. Overalls or blue jeans with no shirt are really cute too! I have a variety of rompers in studio that you are welcome to use.
You can also accessorize their look with a small tie, bow tie, or suspenders.
For the girls
There are so many cute options for girls that it can make your head spin! I personally love a cute romper or small tutu skirt. (Not too puffy!) If you’re using a dress, make sure that it’s not too stiff and is comfortable for your little one to sit in. Avoid itchy fabrics. Knee-length dresses are ideal because they won’t get tangled in baby’s feet if she tries to stand up or crawl away.
My client closet is always growing, and I do have some beautiful outfits that you are welcome to use for your little girl’s smash.
You can go as simple or as themed as you’d like!
Where to find cake smash outfits
- Amazon
- Cat & Jack brand at Target
- Lamaze organic line at Target
- Carters
- Baby Gap
I hope you’ve found this post to be helpful as you start planning your baby’s cake smash session! If you have booked a session with me we will go over outfit options during the design process.
Interested in a session? Head over to the cake smash page to learn more!
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filed under:
Baby Tips & Inspiration, Cake Smash