Simple or Swank

When it's time to put baby to bed, parents loving the mod look may choose a white lacquer and wood crib. The contemporary piece pairs well with bold or neutral bedding to create a nursery that can easily be updated as the tot grows. Check out a couple of our favorite options!

Simple: Argington's sleek, modular Sahara Crib ($490) features a platform rim around its base and converts into a toddler bed.
Swank: Following last year's acquisition of modern nursery design giant Netto Collection by stroller giant Maclaren, it is no surprise that the two are introducing their first collaboration. The Louis Crib ($1200) combines traditional nursery style with a modern twist. Which do you prefer?

Nobody ever said having a baby was an inexpensive proposition. From everyday necessities like diapers and wipes to nursery gear, clothing, and food, the expenses add up — and they do so quickly! Trying to keep a new mama away from the adorable onesies or miniature shoes can be like keeping a caffeine fiend from a coffee shop. Though there are less expensive options for many of the popular products out there, some moms just feel the need to splurge on certain items.

While I stock my nursery with warehouse club-brand wipes and buy my children's pajamas at outlet stores, I can't help but use the savings on gorgeous sweaters that they most certainly don't need (and one actually refuses to wear for more than three minutes).

What do you splurge on for your lil one?

Budding artists need room to practice their craft. Painting, coloring, and gluing can make a mess, so having a specific area to conduct these activities will help a mama keep the rest of the home neat and tidy. Easels might have done the job in the past, but today's tots often look for a more contemporary twist on the painting platform.

Simple: P'Kolino's square chalk table and benches ($80) work for art projects, as well as tea parties and board game marathons. The set's reversible table top can convert from a chalk cover to a plain one for different activities, while providing a storage compartment beneath it.
Swank: The round Offi chalk table ($400) provides more surface area for drawing and a center bowl for storing chalk and erasers, but does not come with seating.

Which do you prefer?

Everything is coming up ruffled this Spring, and the trend is working its way down to junior fashionistas as well. Unlike adults who often look like little girls when they overdo the look, ruffles look perfectly sophisticated and girly on pint-sized clothing.

Simple: Land's End has moved a bit more stylish this season borrowing some designs from their more fashionable competitors. Their all cotton Ruffle Cardigan ($30) would look perfect on its own, or layered over a Spring dress or t-shirt.
Swank: Crewcuts Classroom Cardigan ($54) looks just like a sized-down version of mama's favorite sweater. This version adds a silk ruffle to a cotton knit sweater.

Which do you prefer?

Expectant mamas looking for fashion and comfort fill their wardrobe with maternity leggings. The versatile, soft, and supportive garments can be paired with sweaters, tunics, and button downs to vary a pregnant woman's look day-after-day.

Simple: Momzee's faux leather leggings ($52) are sure to add some oomph to a maternity wardrobe with their hip, downtown look.
Swank: Heidi Klum's new line of maternity clothes includes a pair of real leather leggings that certainly live up to their Lavish name at $550!

Which do you prefer?

Shoes may make an outfit, but when it comes to children's feet, function often takes precedence. Some of mama's favorite designers are shrinking down their styles to make lil ones' feet as fashionable as adult footwear.

Simple: Puma's Speeder Mesh Sneaker ($38) has been a popular shoe among the toddler set for some time. Its all mesh design, with hook and loop Velcro closures, makes it lightweight and easy for lil ones to dash off in.

Swank: Prada's Sport Sneaker ($195) fuses silver mesh with red patent leather to create a stylish set of kicks that stand out in the preschool pack. Which do you prefer?

Well made wooden highchairs are back in style . . . only this time they grow with child! The chair's neutral tone that blend with the rest of the family's dining set and their ability to fit snugly under the table make them a smart choice for mamas desiring a streamlined kitchen area.

Simple: The natural wood Keekaroo high chair ($149) features an adjustable seat that can be used for children from six months old on up.

Swank: The Stokke Tripp Trapp ($249) started the "grow-with-me" high-chair phenomenon with its adjustable height and footrest and the ease with which it can be pulled right up to the table. Which do you prefer?

Mobiles are eye candy for babes! The visual decorations help aid baby's growth and development. While some feature colors and patterns, others just add a touch of design to a nursery.

Simple: Ikea's Barnslig Mobile ($8) features four downward facing plush animals to stimulate a tot's curiosity and keep them occupied while in the crib.
Swank: The McKenzie Musical Mobile ($50) also uses four plush animals to entertain tots, but for an additional $42 adds the soothing sounds of Brahm's lullaby to help ease them to sleep. Which do you prefer?

Though newborns don't need shoes to keep their feet safe, many new mamas can't resist an adorable pair to top off an outfit and keep babe's tootsies warm. The beauty of booties is they are all about fashion so function isn't an issue. Simple: Designer's Touch has crafted an all leather Infant Ballet Slipper ($28) with shiny ribbon running through its top to form a large bow. The flexible shoe radiates style while allowing the toes to bend and stretch.
Swank: Baby fashionistas can get a head start on their designer footwear with Chloe's Leather Ballerina ($113). Just like its simple cousin, the all leather shoe gathers at the sole and has a ribbon through its top, but its designer label adds an additional $85 to the price.

Which do you prefer?