Bunad or party dress? Wool base layers or a cotton bodysuit? And what do you do when the forecast swings from 8 to 22 degrees just hours before the parade starts? The outfit question is often the most stressful part of preparing for May 17 with small children. The good news is that there is a simple formula that works whether your child is a newborn or a three-year-old: start with a plan, dress in layers, and have a backup.
This guide walks you through the bunad decision, realistic alternatives to bunad, the layering principle for unpredictable May weather, and the small details that make the difference between a good day and a bad one: shoes, headwear, and rosettes. For more on the celebration itself, see our main guide to May 17 with babies and toddlers.
Bunad or not: the big decision
Many parents think bunad is a given on May 17, but it is not. A children’s bunad is an investment that requires an honest conversation about finances, practical use, and tradition before you pull out Vipps.
Arguments for bunad:
- Tradition and aesthetics. A children’s bunad is beautiful and marks the day in a way few other outfits do.
- Reuse between siblings. If you plan to have more children, the cost is spread over several years.
- Can be passed down. Good children’s bunads can last for generations with proper care.
- Room-to-grow potential. If the bunad is sewn with generous seam allowances, it can be worn for many years and adjusted as the child grows.
Arguments against bunad:
- Cost. A children’s bunad is a significant expense that not all families prioritize.
- Comfort. Many children find bunads stiff, heavy, or warm. A restless two-year-old in an unfamiliar outfit is not a winning combination.
- Practicality. Bunad does not handle spills well and often needs dry cleaning after use.
- Weather dependent. At 25 degrees and sunshine, it gets hot. In rain, you end up carrying home a wet, heavy garment.
In conclusion, for most families with young children, bunad is lovely but not required. A nice party dress or a white shirt with red accessories marks the day more than well enough.
