Are you seeing mommy and me dresses popping up everywhere? As beautiful fashions come out for the Easter weekend and summer season, you’ll see mommy and me dresses online, in stores and adorably modeled by moms and tots. Interested in getting in on this trend? Here are some things to consider before you buy your first mommy and me outfits together.

Honor your child’s sense of style

They may be small, but your toddler has a will of her own! You probably already know this, since one of the earliest words kids seem to master is “no!” So, if you want to have a picture-perfect moment in mommy and me dresses, be sure to honor your child’s sense of style. If your tot loves super frilly dresses but you don’t, compromise with a frill or two on the look. If you love a lacy Easter dress and want mommy and me dresses for your family dinner – but your tot is more of a tomboy – compromise with some lace elements but don’t expect them to flourish in flounces.

Pics before play

You know you’ll be reaching for the camera to light up your Facebook or Instagram feed with pictures of you two in your mommy and me dresses – so keep timing in mind. Kids like to play. Kids are messy when they eat. Kids get into… well… everything! Schedule your photo time right after the two of you don your dresses so you both look picture-perfect for social media. If you want kiddo’s outfit to shine in family photos, consider dressing her up after dinner, or bringing along a very large bib.

Make it a bonding moment

Lots of little girls want to be just like mom. Capitalize on this moment by shopping together for mommy and me dresses! As she ages and seeks out her own independence, style, and personality, you’ll find her veering away from the ways you used to bond. Set that foundation now so she remembers the good and close times when it comes time for her to find her own way. A full day of dress shopping, getting dolled up, taking pictures, and maybe even a fancy tea party to cap off the day is the ultimate mommy and me dresses experience. Repeat often.

Surprise!

Does your little one have a budding love of fashion? Mommy and me dresses are a lovely birthday or Easter surprise gift. You can also surprise your little one with mommy and me dresses on occasions they may feel a little left out. For example, if big sister is getting all the attention on graduating from middle school, attending the event in mommy and me dresses with your younger daughter can help prevent a tantrum. If there is a sad event to dress up for, such as a memorial service, mommy and me dresses can help her feel close to her ultimate support – you.

It’s not just about them

Okay, be honest. When you found out you were having a girl, did your heart do a little happy dance as you dreamed of dressing her up in the most adorable outfits? There is no shame in that! Just as many women spend hours daydreaming about their ultimate wedding dress, we also spend a lot of time daydreaming about the cute clothes we can dress up our daughters in. Mommy and me dresses have plenty of benefits for kids, but they are for moms too! Create special moments and go ahead and play dress up with your daughter. It’s a fun bonding experience for the both of you.

Where to find mommy and me dresses?

Mommy and me dresses are popular during the spring and summer months. Consider shopping online from a place that supports local initiatives, treats everyone in the supply chain (fabric sources, seamstresses, etc.) fairly, and supports affordable but high-quality garments. Fast fashion that winds up in the landfill after exploiting workers hurts everyone, including the end user. Look for mommy and me dresses that you can feel good about wearing and look back on fondly when you go over the photos for years to come.