Two women on a white couch; one holds a baby, the other a purse, a baby shower gift nappy bag.

Baby Shower Guide: What It Is, What to Wear & What to Gift

If you're heading to a baby shower or planning one yourself, you're in the right place. From what a baby shower actually is, to what to wear, what to expect, and baby shower gift ideas—consider this your go-to guide.

At TOTTIE, we believe style and practicality should go hand in hand—especially when it comes to parenting. So whether you’re shopping for the best baby shower gifts or looking to feel your best as the mum-to-be, we’ve got you covered

What Is a Baby Shower?

A baby shower is a celebration thrown in honour of an expecting parent—usually during the third trimester of pregnancy. It’s a chance for friends and family to shower the parent-to-be with love, gifts, advice, and a little (or a lot of) cake.

Modern baby showers range from casual backyard gatherings to chic restaurant lunches. Whether it’s co-ed, themed, or low-key, the goal is the same: to support the parents-to-be and get excited about the new arrival.

What to Wear to a Baby Shower

The vibe of the baby shower will often determine what you wear, but generally, it’s a daytime event that calls for polished casual.

For guests:

  • Think soft colours, breezy fabrics, and something that works for sitting, standing, and posing for pics.
  • Midi dresses, linen sets, or wide-leg pants with a cute top are all great options.


For the mum-to-be:

  • Comfort is key. Flowy dresses, wrap styles, or a bump-friendly jumpsuit will help you feel relaxed and radiant.
  • Don’t forget easy-to-wear shoes—you’ll likely be on your feet quite a bit!


What to Bring to a Baby Shower

Wondering what makes a great baby shower gift? The best presents are thoughtful, functional, and stylish enough to last well beyond the newborn phase.

Top Baby Shower Gift Ideas:

Woman sitting, wearing a cream top with white pants, black belt, and cream shoes, holding a black and cream nappy tote bag from Tottie.

A sleek, structured tote that doubles as a designer handbag and a practical nappy bag. Our TOTTIE best nappy bags are made with parents in mind—featuring wipeable interiors, clever compartments, and timeless style.

A portable change mat for baby in black, perfect baby shower gift

Compact, padded, and easy to clean. These make nappy changes on the go a breeze—and every parent will thank you for it.

A pair of pram clips and stroller straps fits for all travel prams, perfect baby shower gift

Small but mighty. Pram clips are the kind of genius accessory that gets used every day. Perfect for hanging a nappy bag, a shopping tote, or your go-to coffee.

  • Baby Bag Organisers & Accessories

Add a luxe wet bag, bottle holder, or matching pouch to complete your gift. These little extras make parenting life so much easier.

TIP: Wrap your gift in a reusable tote or wet bag for bonus points in style and sustainability.

What Happens at a Baby Shower?

Every baby shower is different, but most include a mix of:

  • Fun games – Think “Guess the baby food,” “What’s in the nappy bag,” or heartfelt advice cards.
  • Gift opening – A chance to oooh and ahhh over tiny clothes and thoughtful presents.
  • Food & drinks – From sweet spreads to grazing platters and mocktails, food is always a highlight.
  • Connection – The most beautiful part of a baby shower is the chance for friends and family to connect and share the joy of the upcoming arrival.

Planning a Baby Shower?

If you're hosting, here are a few quick tips:

  • Choose a theme that suits the mum-to-be (don’t overcomplicate it!)
  • Create a baby gift registry to help guests choose meaningful gifts
  • Keep it light, loving, and full of laughs


The Best Baby Shower Gifts Live Here
Looking for something truly special to gift at the next baby shower? TOTTIE's collection of baby shower-friendly essentials are as beautiful as they are useful.

Stylish nappy bags, baby change mats, pram clips, and more—everything is designed to support the new parent through babyhood and beyond.


✨Shop our baby shower gifts now →

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FAQs: About Baby Shower Gifts

Who usually pays for a baby shower?

Traditionally, the host—or hosts—cover the costs of a baby shower. This might be a close friend, sibling, cousin, or even a group of co-hosts who split expenses such as food, decorations, venue, and games. Guests are not expected to contribute financially to the event itself; their role is to attend and bring a thoughtful gift for the parents-to-be.

In modern times, however, etiquette has become more flexible. Some families choose to host the shower themselves, while others may have multiple relatives or friends share the cost. The key is that guests should never feel pressured to pay for the party, since their contribution comes in the form of celebrating and giving a gift.

What to gift for baby shower?

The best baby shower gifts are both practical and thoughtful—everyday essentials like nappies, wipes, baby clothes, swaddles, and bath items are always useful, while bigger gifts such as a stylish nappy bag, stroller, or baby monitor can make parenting easier. For a personal touch, keepsakes like a custom blanket, milestone cards, or a baby journal are meaningful options, and if you’re unsure, a versatile gift card is a safe choice. TOTTIE also offer designer nappy bags, change mats, and pram accessories that combine style and function, making them long-lasting gifts parents will truly appreciate.

How much to spend on baby shower gift?

Choosing a baby shower gift amount depends on your budget and your connection to the parents-to-be, but there are smart ways to approach it. For coworkers or casual acquaintances, $30–$50 is usually sufficient for a thoughtful, practical gift. Close friends or family might spend $100–$200, or consider pooling resources for a larger item like a designer nappy bag or stroller. If you’re unsure, gifting a useful item with personal touches—such as a custom baby blanket, milestone cards, or a nappy bag—often leaves a bigger impact than just the price. Cash or gift cards are also appreciated, especially when paired with a heartfelt note.

What to wear to a baby shower?

For a baby shower, choose an outfit that balances style, comfort, and occasion-appropriate charm. Guests can opt for breezy midi dresses, soft pastels, or chic jumpsuits, paired with comfortable shoes for mingling and photos. The mum-to-be should prioritise bump-friendly silhouettes like wrap dresses or flowy jumpsuits that allow freedom of movement while still feeling festive. Light fabrics like cotton and linen work best for daytime events, while knitwear suits cooler gatherings. Avoid overly casual or flashy attire, and skip white to keep the spotlight on the guest of honour. Thoughtful choices make you look polished while staying relaxed and ready to celebrate.

Where can I buy the best baby shower gifts?

You can find baby shower gifts online, at baby boutiques, or through major retailers—but if you’re looking for a stylish and practical option, TOTTIE is a top choice. Their designer nappy bags, portable change mats, and pram accessories are parent-approved essentials that make thoughtful, long-lasting gifts.
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