The moment of progression to shorter dresses (for both boys and girls) was http://www.onesmallchild.com/ known as "shortcoating", which presumably coincided with the genesis of walking, which was impossible in a lanky robe. Christening gowns are habitually mythical of fine white dust ruffle or cotton fabric, and may be trimmed with tucks, lace, whitework embroidery, and other handwork. Christening gowns often have matching bonnets, and may become family heirlooms, pre-owned multiplying after generation.

Some main-stream Protestant churches method infant baptism, and thus make custom of the christening gown; while others encourage or practice absolute adult baptism