Why Do We Dress Baby Boys in Blue and Girls in Pink?

If you’ve ever shopped for baby clothes, you’ve probably noticed the classic colour divide - blue for boys, pink for girls. But have you ever wondered why? It turns out, this wasn’t always the case!  

When Did Blue and Pink Become Gendered?  

Before the early 20th century, babies were mostly dressed in white, regardless of gender. It made sense - white cotton could be easily bleached when it got dirty (which, as any parent knows, happens often!)

Around the late 1800s and early 1900s, pastel colours started becoming popular for babies, but pink and blue weren’t yet assigned to specific genders. In fact, some sources from the early 1900s suggested that pink was more suitable for boys because it was seen as a strong, bold colour, while blue was recommended for girls because it was associated with softness and delicacy.  

It wasn’t until around the 1940s that retailers and advertisers in countries like the US and UK (which influenced Australia) began strongly pushing pink for girls and blue for boys. By the 1950s, this colour coding had become the norm, and it’s stuck around ever since.  

What’s the Trend Now?  

While pink and blue are still dominant in baby clothing, many parents today are moving towards more gender-neutral options. Soft greys, earthy tones, yellows, greens, and even monochrome palettes are becoming more popular. Some parents want to avoid gender stereotypes, while others simply prefer a more modern aesthetic.  

There’s also been a rise in preloved baby clothing (something we’re passionate about!), where colour choice is less about tradition and more about practicality - parents often choose whatever is available and in good condition.  

Will Blue and Pink Stick Around?  

Fashion is always evolving, and baby clothes are no exception. While pink and blue aren’t disappearing anytime soon, we’re likely to see more variety in baby clothing colours, with a growing focus on unisex styles. This shift is being driven by changing attitudes towards gender, sustainability, and a desire for more timeless clothing that can be passed down from sibling to sibling.  

So, whether you’re a fan of traditional pastels or prefer something a little different, the good news is that there are more options than ever. And at the end of the day, the best colour for your baby is the one you love!