As pictured here, many of our heirloom christening gowns feature an ‘heirloom-style open back’, meaning the back edges of the skirt are hemmed and buttons are placed part-way down the skirt to allow for flexibility in how you want the gown to be worn.

At times, it can be tricky to hold on to that darling baby amidst an abundance of christening finery…especially when some of those layers are slippery! The open back makes it possible to get a better grip on your baby, without bunching up the gown. It also allows you to drape the skirt more graciously in portraiture. And there you have it: open backs are, in this case, very convenient things!