Baby Sailor Outfit Guide - How To Perfect the Nautical Look!

Whether you have a baby boy or a baby girl (or both), you can’t go wrong with an adorable sailor outfit. For years, babies have worn sailor suits for family photos, birthdays, and even just casual, everyday use. Regardless of the occasion, there’s no denying that a sailor outfit can help your little one look cute and stylish!

But why should you consider a baby sailor outfit? Are there baby boy and baby girl sailor outfits? When did parents first start dressing their babies in nautical-themed clothing? Finally, where can you find high-quality baby sailor outfits at affordable prices?

In today’s guide, we will answer all of these questions and more, but first, let’s look at a brief history of nautical outfits for young children:

The History Of Baby Sailor Outfits

Baby sailor outfits have a long and storied history, and most fashion historians agree that their existence dates all the way back to Victorian England. When Queen Victoria ruled over the country, she actually requested one of the first-known examples of a baby boy sailor outfit for her son, Prince Edward (who would later become king). At the time, Queen Victoria wanted to surprise her husband, Prince Albert, with a fun, nautical outfit for the young boy. As it turned out, Prince Albert was elated with the creation and even commissioned a painting of his son wearing it. This painting would become one of the most famous depictions of a young royal, and the suit remains on display in the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich to this day.

According to Queen Victoria’s own recollection of the events, the same man who created the suit also designed the uniforms used by sailors in the British Navy. The Queen even organized a special event to show the young boy wearing the suit on a ship. And, by all accounts, the sailors onboard cheered for the whimsical display provided by the royal family.

Like many other fashion trends started by European royals, the baby sailor suit caught on rather quickly. Within months, elites from all across European were commissioning similar suits for their own children and grandchildren. It also remained a tradition within the Windsor family, as both King George VI and King Edward VIII wore hand-made sailor suits years before ascending to the throne.

Fast-forwarding to more recent times, the sailor suit has become a staple of fashion for young boys and, to a lesser extent, young girls, particularly in the United States and the U.K. Notably, the royal family still continues the tradition it set so many years ago, as Prince William wore a sailor suit in the 1980s, and his son, Prince George, has worn several different versions of the sailor suit since his birth in 2013.

Why Nautical-Themed Outfits Are Popular For Children

It goes without saying that the popularity of nautical children’s outfits is largely attributable to the British royal family. European royals have established various fashion trends over the centuries, and the baby sailor suit happens to be one that stood the test of time. However, it’s not just the royal seal of approval that makes these nautical outfits so special and popular.

To some degree, the popularity of children’s clothes is often a reflection of the popularity of clothes worn by adults. In many cases, children’s clothing reflects the most popular attire worn by people from past generations. The sailor outfit is a perfect example. After the royals established the fashion trend, it continued to gain popularity among fashionistas in the early 20th century. Most famously, Coco Chanel designed various nautical-themed outfits for women. A few decades later, celebrities like James Dean, Audrey Hepburn, and Paul Newman all offered their own versions of the sailor look.

Setting aside the popularity among the rich and famous, sailor suits also have a unique appeal when worn by children. By definition, sailor suits are meant to be worn by servicemen and women in the Navy. When worn by children, they look equally dashing, albeit in a more endearing way.

Sailor suits for children are also quite practical. The designs work well for both formal and informal occasions, while the fits are particularly breathable in warmer climates. This way, your little ones can look great and feel comfortable at the same time!

Baby Sailor Outfits in the 21st Century

While styles often evolve over time, the classic look of the baby sailor suit has remained largely untouched in modern times. That said, there are certain variations that have come about in the 21st century. Most notably, the baby girl sailor outfit has become an increasingly popular look.

Other changes include different versions of the nautical style to suit different needs. For example, sailor-style rompers are now a thing, even though they didn’t exist in Queen Victoria’s time. Similarly, the sailor style has branched out into a wide range of designs for children of varying sizes and ages, from tiny diaper sets to XL bobby suits!

Feltman Brothers Baby Sailor Outfits

When it comes to classic and heirloom clothing for babies and young children, Feltman Brothers is among the best in the business. If you're currently searching for high-quality sailor suits for your infant, toddler, or young child, we’ve got you covered. Here are just a few of our most popular sailor outfits:

• Sailor Bobby Suit - The Sailor Bobby Suit is reminiscent of the first children’s sailor suits of the 19th century. They look just as precious now as they did back then!
• Sailor Dress - Looking for a way to help your little girl join the nautical fun? The Feltman Brother’s Sailor Dress is the answer!
• Sailor Knit Cardigan - Unlike many baby sailor outfits that are designed for spring and summer, the Sailor Knit Cardigan from Feltman Brothers is the perfect way to keep your baby boy or girl cozy throughout the winter months!
• Knit Sailor Romper - Are you looking for a one-piece sailor outfit that can fit babies and toddlers up to 24 months old? If so, the Knit Sailor Romper is the perfect solution for you!
• Sailor Creeper - When you’ve got a baby under 9 months old, it can be difficult to find nautical attire that fits. Fortunately, the Sailor Creeper from Feltman Brothers provides an airy, comfortable fit for young baby boys!
• Boys’ Sailor Hat - Even if you’re unsure about getting an entire outfit, our Boys’ Sailor Hat gives you the perfect way to compliment just about any style with an adorable nautical accessory!

Additionally, be sure to check out some of the other items in our nautical collection, including:

• 2-Piece Nautical Shortall - Whether you’re planning a family trip to the beach or a coordinated photo shoot, our 2-Piece Nautical Shortall combines a casual style with a splash of nautical whimsy!
• Boys Knit Striped Romper - It may not be a sailor suit, but this fun striped outfit recalls the classing swimming trunks of decades past!
• Doll Sailor Bobby Suit With Hat - If you’re in need of a sailor outfit for a baby doll, look no further! This is a great fit for any of the boy dolls in our collection.
• Sailor Doll Dress With Hat - And don’t think we forgot about girl dolls! This beautiful sailor dress and hat combo is the perfect outfit for classic dolls.

Do you want to find high-quality baby sailor outfits for your son, daughter, or grandchild? If so, be sure to check out the beautiful items available at Feltman Brothers today!