Nikole Kennerly is the owner and operator of http://www.babykidshop.com/.
Source of Baby Christening Gowns and Baptism Christening Dress and Heirloom Christening Gowns
History of Christening Gowns
Prior to the 17th century, babies were swaddled in tight clothes and brought to the front of the church in a large piece of silk called a bearing cloth. The bearing cloth was traditionally lavishly trimmed which is how the current day christening gown originated. During the 18th century this tradition of the bearing cloth gave way to a gown that was open in the front, usually with ribbons ties as closures, with a petticoat underneath that showed through. This style was reminiscent of childrens’ clothing at the time with boys and girls wearing long slip dressing that had flowing skirts held from a short bodice,low necklines and short sleeves. This basic style has stayed the same for the traditional christening gown to this day with the only difference being the closings using either ties or buttons are now usually on the back of the garment.
During the 19th century delicate and intricate white on white embroidery known as Ayrshire was very fashionable as a decorative form on christening gowns of the time. Originally, the gowns were created from silks and satins with these fine embroideries until cotton became more accessible in the mid 1900’s. By the end of the century the skirts became more lavishly decorated with lace, elaborate embroidery and even pintucks up the center of the front panels.
Bonnets were also a major part of the christening outfit and were as lavishly decorated as the gowns, usually with a matching them of lace and embroidery work. The gowns and bonnets were made mainly by hand as the new mother was awaiting the birth of her first child. Although sewing machines were available during the mid Victorian period it was easy to transport these small gowns and bonnets from room to room or on short trips. Their size also made it easy to carefully store away after the christening to await the arrival of the next child’s christening as Victorian families were usually quite large. The result of this was the heirloom gown tradition as we know it today. Christening gowns are passed down through the generations.
A typical Christening gown of today can be turned into an heirloom whether it is brand new using some of the finest materials or custom made using part of a wedding gown. Whether you make it yourself, buy it as a ready-made gown, or have it custom made the materials should be the best that you can afford so that it can stand the test of time. Great care should also be taken in preserving the gown to ensure it will be in pristine shape as it is passed down from generation to generation.
Nikole Kennerly is the owner and operator of http://www.babykidshop.com/.
Source of Baby Keepsake Gifts and Unique Baby Gifts and Baby Gift Ideas
Baby Baptism and Christening Gifts
A Baptism or Christening is a blessed and momentous occasion in the life of a child gifts often mark these memorable events. Gifts often evoke memories of important times and special occasions. There are many different items that would not only be appreciated but memorable for the recipient and their family. Traditionally, the godparent offered gifts of religious meaning to meet the spiritual aspect of the godparent role but gifts are given by family members and close family friends as well. Many types of gifts are given to commemorate this important occasion with heirloom and keepsake gifts at the top of the list. These special gifts given to a child will be ones they cherish forever and can pass down to their children or other cherished family members as these are gifts that stand the test of time. Gifts may be the traditional silver or pewter cups, spoon & fork sets that are sometimes engraved to commemorate the event or a handmade or custom made christening outfit that is usually given by a close family member or friend. Many people give silver crosses, rosary sets, or bibles to commemorate the religious significance of the event. Whatever gift is given it is sure to be from the heart of a special individual and; therefore, cherished as an important part of a child’s life and history for years to come.
Heirloom and keepsake gifts are often the standard for christenings and baptisms. They do not necessarily have to be expensive or elaborate. A keepsake gift may be small but elegant or homey and charming. The idea is to give something that will last as the child grows and can be stored away safely as a souvenir. As mentioned above the gift can be something as elegant as the traditional sterling silver or pewter baby set that are wonderful décor for the baby’s room and stores well to stand the test of time. On the other hand, keepsake gifts can be useful as well as beautiful such as the christening outfit, a specially made layette set or a handmade quilt. Often these gifts will be personalized with embroidery to commemorate the event and make them unique to the individual but with room to add additional personalization so they may become family heirlooms to treasure. These memorable gifts can be preserved with moderate storage precautions (such as airtight bags and acid free wrapping products) and hence make wonderful family heirlooms.
