| Finding special suits for baptisms, christenings, and | | | | gown for both boys and girls. The girls' gowns may be |
| other ceremonies | | | | smocked and are typically longer and more "dress-like" |
| Religious ceremonies, celebrations, and occasions are | | | | than those worn by boys. In both cases the gown is |
| a big part of a newborn baby's life in many families. | | | | typically white, symbolizing innocence and the purity of |
| Naming ceremonies, christenings, baptisms, and | | | | the child's spirit as his parents dedicate his or her life to |
| dedications ceremonies carry a degree of importance | | | | God and promise to raise the child "in the word of |
| in the lives of followers of many different religions and | | | | God." These ceremonies are typical of many Christian |
| are generally considered to be special occasions of | | | | denominations, most notably the various forms of |
| some importance. When planning one of these events | | | | Catholicism. |
| there are many details that the parents of the child | | | | Naming Ceremonies |
| involved must consider, not the least of which is what | | | | Naming ceremonies appear in the practices of many |
| the baby should wear to the event. Some religions | | | | religions and nationalities. The practice dates to ancient |
| require that a form of traditional garb be worn by the | | | | times when a new life was considered to be a gift |
| infant while others leave the choice up to the parents. | | | | from the gods. In most modern naming ceremonies |
| In either case the occasion demands that the choice | | | | there is no specific required outfit, with the appropriate |
| of the baby's clothing be something special that | | | | attire for the child being a white or pale blue suit or |
| represents the importance of the event. | | | | gown of silk or some other fine fabric. Due to the |
| Christening | | | | delicacy, expense, and significance of these articles, |
| Christenings and baptisms typically involve a christening | | | | they are seldom worn more than the one time. |