What your baby sees may surprise you…


Surround babies with black and white, and watch their eyes light up!

There is more to just a “black and white” color scheme especially when it comes to babies. Sure, color contrasting clothes and designs look cool and stylish but did you know that high contrasting colors enhance a baby’s development?

Research shows that the best way to stimulate baby’s vision, especially 0-4 months, is by using black and white patterns or high contrast patterns. Since black and white is 100% high contrast, it's the color combination we stand behind. 

Sight is one of the most underdeveloped senses when a baby is born. Their retina which allows them to see color hasn’t fully matured. Early stimulation can have profound effects on a child’s nervous system and the colors black and white are the easiest for babies to see. These colors can increase concentration skills, curiosity, soothe and relax, and stimulate the brain.

Consumer Affairs research shows that newborn babies see primarily in shades of black, white, and gray. For this reason, parents may want to reign in their desire to splash color on the walls — at least during a baby’s first three months.

According to Essential Baby, "A monochrome color scheme filled with contrasting patterns and shapes provides a newborn with the best form of visual stimulation.”

Even a nursery or kid’s room with black and white décor is always a safe a bet. By starting off with a monochrome color scheme, it’s easy to add ANY pop of color as the child grows and gives them freedom to personalize their own style. Any color goes great with black and white.

There are some amazing black and white blankets and swaddles on our site HERE! They are great for babies, kids, and adults too! There are so many uses for these blankets and can grow with the child.

“I personally believe children may benefit from high contrast designs beyond that timeframe. At 9 months and 2.5 years old, children remain captivated by black and white patterns. They've held their attention longer than pastel and primary color patterns and noticeably encouraged learning.”  

Visual play for you and your baby
According to Ask Dr Sears, here are some fun and creative ways you can stimulate your newborn’s vision:

  • Surround your baby’s bed with stripes – buy sheets, blankets, crib bumpers, pillowcases and wallpaper that have dark and light stripes.

  • Black and white or light and dark contrasting toys – mobiles, rattles, the first teddy bear, and other favorite toys will grab your baby’s attention better if they’re the right colors. Resist the pretty pale blue and green rattle and go for the black, white and red one!

  • Dress the part – for those who want to take visual stimulation seriously, try to wear striped shirts as often as you can. Your baby’s eyes will thank you.


So the next time you want to dress your baby in brights think about them and their development.

Check out Cookie Couture for cool clothing options that engage your baby and everyone else around them!

Be happy,

Brandi and Cookie


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