How to dress your baby in summer: the essentials for a cool and stylish season

Whether it’s your baby’s first summer or not, dressing them while they are little is always a challenge. Especially since the weather gets more unpredictable every year. One thing is certain: no matter what the sky says, choosing the right clothes for your baby in summer is important. Kids Around, an expert in high-end children’s fashion, guides you here to combine comfort, protection, and elegance (of course!).

The basic principles for dressing your baby in summer

In summer or in overheated environments, a baby can quickly become too hot without being able to effectively dissipate heat. This can lead to risks of dehydration, heatstroke, or even sunstroke.

That’s why lightweight clothes are preferred (but covering enough to also protect their delicate skin from the sun), along with natural materials (cotton, linen, or bamboo) that are soft and breathable, and light colors that absorb less heat and feel more summery.

Avoid synthetic fabrics and excessive layering; while babies usually wear one more layer than adults in winter, in summer it’s one layer less.

Moreover, the best sun protection comes from appropriate clothing that provides a physical barrier against UV rays. Unlike sunscreen, which must be applied and reapplied frequently, clothing offers continuous protection. While lightweight and airy fabrics are preferred, ensure the weave is tight enough to block UV rays.

Finally, it’s important to choose cuts and designs that promote air circulation and allow the skin to breathe. This helps prevent overheating and skin irritation while ensuring optimal comfort. Unsurprisingly, loose bottoms and sleeveless bodysuits or t-shirts and tank tops are recommended.

The essentials of a baby's summer wardrobe

Let’s start with the daytime essentials:

- Short-sleeved bodysuits (or sleeveless ones for very hot days)

- Lightweight rompers: easy one-piece outfits, perfect for summer

- Cotton shorts and t-shirts

- Light dresses, even cuter with matching bloomers!

- Short overalls: stylish and practical

Now for nighttime must-haves:

- Lightweight cotton pajamas (one-piece or two-piece, depending on the temperature)

- Summer sleep sack (or light “turbulette,” TOG 0.5 or less)

- In very hot weather: just a bodysuit or even just a diaper (adjust based on room temperature)

As for accessories, we combine style and sun protection:

- Wide-brimmed hat or cotton bucket hat

- Baby sunglasses (CE certified, UV400 protection)

- Lightweight socks (if needed)

- Summer blanket or muslin cloth for cooler moments or outdoor naps

Finally, when it comes to style, embrace floral, tropical, nautical, or pastel prints — perfect for mini-me outfits or simply adorable mini looks! And don’t hesitate to accessorize with cute bandana bibs, chic hats, or trendy little round sunglasses!

Tips for dressing your baby in summer based on different situations

Beach day, city stroll, or special event — here’s our guide to dressing your baby for every occasion.

For a typical beach day, plan for:

- Lightweight long-sleeved UV-protection T-shirt (UPF 50+)

- UV-protection swim diaper or swim shorts

- Bucket hat or wide-brimmed sun hat with neck coverage (check out all our baby hats)

- Baby sunglasses (CE certified, UV400 protection)

- Soft water sandals or bare feet, depending on age

- Terrycloth poncho or hooded towel for quick drying

If you’re spending summer in the city, opt for:

- Sleeveless bodysuit or a light cotton blouse; for boys, a polo or short-sleeved T-shirt

- Bloomers or loose, flowy elastic-waist shorts (browse all our baby shorts here)

- Soft sandals or lightweight leather booties

- Soft cotton or linen hat and sunglasses

For a special event (birthday, christening, garden party), go for a chic yet breathable outfit:

For girls:

- Light cotton dress — liberty print, ruffled, or linen (explore all our baby dresses here)

- Matching bloomer or diaper cover

- Dressy sandals or soft ballerina flats

- Headband or dainty event hat

- Lightweight cardigan (for evening parties)

For boys:

- Linen shirt or collared bodysuit

- Suspender shorts or Bermuda shorts

- Baby leather sandals or soft loafers

- Straw hat

- Light jacket for a polished look

Safety and comfort: key things to watch out for

We can’t stress it enough: sun protection for babies (UV-protective clothing, hats) is absolutely ESSENTIAL!

A baby’s skin is much thinner and more sensitive than an adult’s. It contains less melanin, making it more vulnerable to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. The first few years of life are especially important — a baby’s skin is still developing, and sun damage at a young age can have long-term effects on skin health.

Another key point: thermoregulation.

To keep your baby comfortable, choose appropriate clothing, maintain a room temperature of around 20–22°C (68–72°F) in their bedroom, and make sure to keep them well hydrated.

Check the back of your baby’s neck — it’s the best indicator of whether they’re too hot or too cold. The skin there should feel warm, not sweaty or cold. Be alert for signs that your baby might be overheating: flushed cheeks, clammy skin, rapid breathing, fussiness, or excessive crying.

Lastly, skin allergies and irritations are common in babies, especially in summer when heat, humidity, and sweat can worsen skin sensitivity. Summer clothing, if not well chosen, can become a source of discomfort or skin issues.

Opt for soft, breathable, hypoallergenic fabrics and keep an eye on your baby’s skin throughout the day.

Conclusion

- Dressing a baby in summer requires the right balance between style, comfort, and protection.

- Sun protection is key, with UV-protective clothing and hats—some garments are specially designed to offer enhanced sun safety.

- Be mindful of overheating, allergies, and skin irritations by choosing soft, non-synthetic, breathable fabrics. And don’t hesitate to let baby sleep in just a diaper on hot nights.

- Remember, hydration and clothing go hand in hand for babies in summer — both influence body temperature, sweating, and water needs.

- And since fashion is our thing, we say: why not style your baby according to your summer plans? Whether you’re in the city or at the beach, going casual or dressy, Kids around has everything you need to match their wardrobe to your lifestyle.

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