Like everything in fashion, the look and feel of prams and baby gear has evolved. Function is still key, but these days, form is getting a well-deserved spotlight. Your everyday gear doesn’t just have to work, it can work for you stylistically, and be something you enjoy wearing/pushing. We think of prams, carriers and slings as “baby gear”, here Liv Brown of Rattle Style poses: What if we started thinking of them as an extension of your outfit?`
“With my first baby, Gus, I lived in the carrier. Honestly, it became part of my outfit — and sometimes, it was my outfit,” says Liv, “Who needs a cute top when your carrier is the statement piece? When I had my second, Otis, I was lucky enough to be given a deep cherry red Bugaboo, and I adore it. We spend hours pushing the pram and wearing the carrier, so why not choose one that actually complements your style? It sounds superficial, but it makes a difference. When you feel confident and pulled together — even just a little — it can be a real mood booster in the early days of parenthood.”
Neutral vs bold — what’s better?
“The classic debate. Is it better to go for something neutral that blends in? Or something bold that makes a statement? I’ll always choose bold over neutral. Always. But it really depends on your personal style and lifestyle. A neutral pram is versatile and timeless — and if you’re someone who loves a capsule wardrobe, it’ll slot in seamlessly. But if you’re like me and love patterns, colour and a bit of fun, don’t hold back. A colourful pram can add personality to even the most tired school-run outfit. Let’s just say, I’m very biased — but the good kind of biased.”
What if multiple people are using the carrier?
“This is a great question — and something to consider if you're sharing the load with a partner, grandparent or carer. But if you’re the one wearing it the most, I say the choice should be yours. That said, if your husband or father-in-law isn’t exactly excited to wear a pink leopard print carrier, there are ways to meet in the middle. A black-and-white zebra? Still fun, but a bit more universally wearable.”
Do we really need to stick to traditional gender colours?
“Nooo. Please no. I hate this narrative. I dress my boys in every colour and never think twice about it. Gus had a pink play mat and toy basket — not because I was trying to make a statement, but because it matched the aesthetic of our house. To me, prams and carriers are accessories for the parent using them — not the baby. And spoiler alert: your baby does not care what colour they’re in.”
Favourite colours and prints?
“I’m a sucker for animal print. If there was an animal print pram, I’d be all over it. I have a zebra-print carrier and I’ve worn it for four years without ever getting sick of it — it works with everything. I also have the blue butterfly special-edition Kip&Co. X Portier Limitless Carrier, which is just so cute. If we end up having a third baby, I think I’ll be treating myself to another bold, bright carrier. Why not?”
