Unisex Style for Baby Gear - Yes or No?

Recently, I had booths at two local Seattle-based shows. (The Northwest Flower & Garden Show and the Seattle Green Show.) Every once in a while someone would say, “They/We don’t know if it’s a boy or a girl yet”, and ask for something unisex.

The Best Baby Bibs on the Planet Debut at the Flower Show in Seattle

In my experience unisex clothing for babies - especially as a gift - is challenging at best, and a mistake at worst. Why? Because many parents rely on the color and style of clothing to specifically show off their little baby as a boy or girl.

Personally, I never cared if people asked “What’s his name?” about my bald, newborn daughters. And to this day, my son will happily wear pink hand-me-downs and ballet outfits from his sisters. But I know I’m in the minority here.

Some parents actually prefer the idea of traditional “boy” colors on girls, either because they like to break stereotypes, or maybe even so they can use them for the next baby too. But, again, I have found people intentionally putting boy styles on girls to be in a small minority.

Instead, when looking for unisex baby gear, people tend to choose white or yellow, hoping the color will work both ways. And inevitably, once the baby is born, those white or yellow items end up at the bottom of the pile, used only when all the pink or blue outfits are in the laundry, if ever.

Here's one baby bib in the line that sells well for both boys & girls

So unless the customer knows the family’s tastes very well, I almost always advise them to wait. (Yes, I know this goes against all marketing wisdom. But I figure if they need an amazing baby bib, they’ll remember me and come back.) Once the baby is born, there is plenty of time to stock up on your favorite styles.

So I ask you, what do you think? Should I be developing more unisex styles? Should anyone in the baby biz?