Gender-neutral christening gowns have a rich history, rooted in religious, social, and family traditions.
These outfits, designed to suit both girls and boys, are generally white or ivory, symbolizing the purity and newness of Christian life.
Here are some historical explanations that help understand their origin and evolution.
Religious origin of the christening gown
- Early Christianity: Baptism symbolizes purification and spiritual rebirth. In the early centuries, adults were baptized naked or with a simple white tunic, symbolizing purity.
- Evolution towards childhood: From the Middle Ages, infant baptism became the norm in the Catholic Church. Infants were then dressed in a small white gown, recalling the garment of light from Christian tradition.
The long gown, unisex and traditional
- 19th – early 20th century: Christening gowns were often long, white or ivory, and worn by both boys and girls. Gender distinction in baby clothes was not as pronounced as it is today.
- Why gender-neutral?
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- Practicality: Babies, whether girls or boys, all wore gowns because they were more practical for changing them.
- Symbolism: The long white gown symbolized purity and entry into the Christian community, regardless of the child's gender.
- Family economy: A gender-neutral gown could be passed down from one child to another, generation after generation, reinforcing its role as a family heirloom.
Transmission and heritage
- A traditional garment: Many families keep an old christening gown, worn by several generations. The gender-neutral nature reinforces this tradition, as the gown does not need to be gendered to be passed down.
- Embroidery and personalization: Sometimes, initials or the baptism date of each child were embroidered on the hem, making the gown both shared and personal.
Today: return to gender-neutral gowns
- In a contemporary context where gender neutrality is back in the spotlight, gender-neutral christening gowns are often chosen for their simplicity, elegance, and symbolic significance.
- Parents also opt for timeless, refined designs that can suit all children without distinction.