Stylish from the start: Building baby’s wardrobe

There's nothing in the world that comes close to the pure perfection of a baby. The velvet skin, the powdery sweet scent, and the bright eyes looking adoringly at you - your bundle of joy naturally comes with these adornments. But, of course, you'll need to wrap your bundle of joy up in clothing that is every bit as sweet as she is.

Shopping for baby is one of the delights of becoming a parent - and you'll find that others are equally excited to welcome your little one with a bounty of gifts. Whether you're planning out a registry or adding to your baby's wardrobe after she's arrived, there are number of essentials that you'll need.

Taking a practical approach to shopping for baby clothes is necessary - and it will pay off in being equipped to handle all weather conditions and ready to attend any event - but it's only natural to want to be a little indulgent as well. Even when shopping for the basics, look for the finest fabrics, the softest textures and the sweetest styles - in other words, items that are worthy of your baby.

* Coming home: You'll want to bring the newest member of your family home in style - but also in comfort. Opt for a classic layette set and a receiving blanket in delicate pastels - choose pink for a girl, blue for your boy or classic white if you don't yet know whether you're having a boy or a girl - made of soft, breathable textiles, such as fine cotton. This is an outfit you'll want to preserve for posterity to remind you of the day your life as a family began.

* The basics: Naturally, your needs will depend on when your baby arrives and in which climate you live, but there are some certainties. For your daily routine, you'll need bodysuits (select long- and short-sleeve versions), leggings, socks, hats and booties, bibs and blankets. A kimono-style bodysuit is a sweet way to dress up baby just a bit for receiving the many visitors who will certainly want to come and meet your new addition. Look for fabrics that will be gentle to baby's sensitive, delicate skin. Fabrics of better quality will stand up to the inevitable rounds of laundering.

* Adornments: Additions to your baby's basic wardrobe are also a necessity. A sweater will help keep baby warm, but a jacket can serve as an extra layer as well - over a sweater or alone. Selecting a sweater made of soft cashmere or cotton, and in an intricate knit pattern, will not only look beautiful on your baby, but it will make a lovely keepsake and heirloom. A bonnet will help keep the sun from your baby's face in classic style. If you prefer something more modern, you'll find everything from baseball caps to sunbonnets, sized perfectly for your newborn.

* Dressing up: It's only natural that your family and friends will want to meet baby. Whether you receive guests or take baby to a gathering away from home, an ensemble that goes beyond the everyday bodysuit-and-leggings combination is not only appropriate - it's a wonderful opportunity to dress baby up for the first time. A handsome sweater and trousers is good option for boys, while there are endless options for girls' dresses. Add a pair of shoes to finish off the look and keep baby's toes warm.

From the start, you want to give your child the very best. Building a wardrobe of quality items that will not only withstand the stresses of the first months, but also pamper your baby is the best way to ensure that you're giving her a stylish start.