Dressing baby from birth
A newborn doesn't need multiple layers: what's needed are light pieces that can be added or removed depending on temperature. The merino wool baby waistcoat plays this role: it covers the chest and arms without constricting, is worn over a bodysuit or sleepsuit, and naturally finds its place in the hospital bag.
The waistcoat is worn from the first days. The cardigan takes over as baby grows: its front opening allows it to be put on without going over the head, buttoned or left open, then removed if the temperature rises. The sweater then completes the wardrobe through the first months.
This collection brings together five house designs: Baby waistcoat - Zouzou, Baby waistcoat - Zazou, Baby waistcoat - Dadou, Baby cardigan - Tichat and Baby sweater - Patou. All are knitted in France in fine, soft and supple merino wool, suited to baby's delicate skin.
A fine, soft and breathable merino wool
Mistricotine's merino wool is spun by the French mill Fonty, based in the Creuse since the 19th century and labelled Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant.
Naturally temperature-regulating, it helps baby retain warmth when it's cool while letting air circulate. It also absorbs moisture and helps limit that clammy feeling. These properties make it particularly suited to newborn essentials and clothing.
The Superwash treatment allows machine washing at 30°C maximum, on a wool or delicate cycle, ideally in a laundry bag. Dry flat, away from a heat source and never in a tumble dryer. Ironing is generally unnecessary.
Manufacturing traced from the Creuse to Île-de-France
Every Mistricotine waistcoat, cardigan and sweater is made in France, from spinning to the last button. Knitting and making-up are carried out in Île-de-France by workshops specialising in knitwear.
Hats and booties are hand-knitted.
Building an evolving set
Newborn essentials don't have to be in a single size. Baby grows fast: planning two sizes spreads the use of clothing from the maternity stay through the first months.
The waistcoat naturally finds its place in the hospital bag: light and easy to put on, it adds an extra layer without weighing down the outfit. The cardigan then completes a jumpsuit, trousers or a romper. The sweater accompanies baby as they grow, depending on the season and temperature.
The collection's colours — ecru, pink, blue, green, beige — pair easily with each other and with the rest of the layette. They suit both a set prepared by parents and a birth gift.
Which size to choose?
Mistricotine sizes follow height in centimetres and weight in kilograms. For a full-term birth, size 1 month corresponds to approximately 54 cm and 4 kg. Size 3 months corresponds to approximately 60 cm and 5 to 6 kg.
For a premature baby, preemie size 00 corresponds to approximately 40 to 45 cm and 1.8 to 2.5 kg. Designs are offered in proportions suited to small sizes.
The size guide details the full correspondences. If in doubt, refer to baby's height and weight to choose the most suitable size.
Giving a waistcoat or cardigan as a gift
Giving a waistcoat or cardigan means choosing a piece that will truly accompany the first months. Worn, washed and cared for properly, it can then be kept and, when its story allows, passed on to another child.
The gift box is offered from €90 of purchase and delivery in France is free. Any order placed before noon is shipped the same day, excluding weekends and public holidays. To put together a more complete gift, our sets bring together several coordinated pieces.
To learn more about the layette tradition and its role in the first days, discover our page Newborn essentials, a tradition.