You know that heart melting (and slightly terrifying) moment when your baby takes those first wobbly steps? I felt it all, the joy, the pride… and, honestly, a little panic. As a mom, I want the absolute best for my little one in every little detail… especially when it comes to their tiny feet.
That’s actually how Harper & Hedgie came to life. I wanted baby shoes that weren’t just cute (though let’s be real, adorable shoes are a total must!). I wanted shoes that were safe, comfy, and actually supported healthy foot development. And since I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for, I decided to make them myself. I also love timeless, classic styles, so I infused vintage inspired designs into every pair, shoes that feel nostalgic, charming, and full of character, while still being practical for little explorers.
Along the way, I’ve learned so much about what makes the perfect first shoes and all of the love and care goes into every pair I create.
Why Baby Shoes Matter
Babies feet are soft, flexible, and growing every day. I learned the hard way that the wrong shoes can make walking harder, or even affect how their feet develop. That’s why I always choose shoes that are soft, breathable, and flexible ones that feel almost like being barefoot but still protect tiny toes as they explore.
What I Look for in Baby Shoes
Whenever I’m picking out or designing baby shoes, these are the things I find myself paying the most attention to:
1. Soft, Flexible Soles
. My babies need to feel the ground to learn balance. Our leather soles protect without restricting movement, so every step is a tiny adventure.
2. Breathable Materials
. Baby feet sweat more than ours, I’ve definitely lived through those damp socks! Genuine leather keeps feet cool, comfy, and happy.
3. Adjustable Fit
. Baby feet grow fast! Elastic or adjustable closures make sure the shoes stay on without squeezing.
4. Lightweight Design.
Heavy shoes can trip up a little walker. I love that our shoes feel almost weightless for tiny steps.
5. Slip-Resistant Soles
. Safety first, always. A lightly textured sole helps prevent slips without taking away natural movement.
And of course, I design each pair with vintage-inspired charm, classic shapes, sweet details, and timeless colors that make every pair feel like a little treasure.
When I Bought My Baby’s First Shoes
I kept my little one barefoot indoors as much as possible at first. But when we started exploring outdoors, or the weather got cooler, it was time for soft-soled shoes. For most babies, that’s usually around 9–12 months, but I always say, trust your instincts as a mom.
How I Measure Tiny Feet
Getting the right fit is key (and yes, it can be tricky with wiggly toes!):
* Place their foot on a piece of paper.
* Mark the heel and the tip of the longest toe.
* Measure and compare to our Harper & Hedgie's size chart.
It takes some patience, but I promise it’s worth it for that perfect fit.
Why I Created Harper & Hedgie
I wanted shoes I could trust for my baby, and now I get to share them with parents everywhere. Every pair is handcrafted with love, designed to keep little feet healthy and happy while still being vintage-inspired, stylish, and Instagram-worthy. I love seeing babies exploring the world in shoes that are as practical as they are charming.
At Harper & Hedgie, we believe the smallest details make the biggest memories. Our vintage inspired baby shoes and knee high socks aren’t just adorable they’re the pieces you’ll tuck into a keepsake box long after your little one has outgrown them. Thoughtfully crafted in heirloom colors and timeless designs, they turn everyday moments into something worth remembering.
Discover how to create a vintage-inspired look for your baby with timeless silhouettes, heirloom accessories, and soft, nostalgic colors. From scalloped leather baby shoes to ruffle-top knee-high socks, Harper & Hedgie offers everything you need to style your little one in classic charm. Perfect for milestone photos, special occasions, or everyday elegance.
