This is certainly not the most flattering undergarment you've ever owned but when you're pregnant, modesty goes out and functionality comes in, without embarrassment, mind you. Now you can commiserate with your baby daddy over his jock straps and your groin bands. Another fun bonding moment - always look on the bright side! But all jokes aside, the last trimester might be exciting because it's the final stretch (in more ways than one) but as your belly grows heavier, the load starts to bear down on places that aren't used to it, like your sensitive nether regions. Starting at week 34, I needed to hold up my belly every time I stood up to relieve some of the downward pressure but what I really needed to do was support my groin. Who cares about modesty at that point, I would have done it if only I could have reach down there!! Nobody told me about this baby belly groin band. But from one sista' to another, wear this and be comfortable. Besides, nobody will see it. That is, until your nurses do when you show up to the hospital to deliver but they will be your closest pals, so close even your gyno can't compete! Belly Groin Band at Isis Maternity for $25
Special delivery! Bellini pioneers gorgeous, elaborate, and elegant baby gifts, for the occasion you want something truly memorable. The ultimate in niceties, there are no fillers to make the baskets look bigger; everything is carefully edited, better than you could have done yourself, with serious luxury in mind.
The Luxe basket, of course, is for your CEO if you're trying to make partner. You get the point: you're really trying to impress, and you will! From the big fluffy Gund or Bearington bear to the silver teething rattle to the Margery Ellen outfit and Little Giraffe blanket, this is bursting with decadent goodies. For a more realistic and moderate option, the Piccolo still delivers - the baskets have different price points but all have high-quality items; the larger baskets just have more nicer items. The Piccolo contains the basics with a few well-chosen items that are Heirloom-type keepsakes. Think great gifts you wouldn't normally buy on your own (like a super-amazing silver frame and bank).
There are baskets that range in between these prices as well. Whichever you choose (and you can between a pink, blue, or neutral basket), you will not go wrong and can be certain are giving the ultimate basket out there, one that's meticulously packaged with a presentation that's as great as the items it contains.
Piccolo Baby Gift Basket at Bellini for $250.
The Luxe Baby Gift Basket at Bellini for $1,000.
Click on the links to see detailed list of what's included in each basket.
I don't think there is a more gorgeous coat for little girls than this one. Burberry's military-inspired fall coat is almost too refined for our tots' loveably unrefined cuteness - they don't need to look this sophisticated - but, really, how can we resist? This double-breasted wool coat, in a serene blue that goes with everything, has all the details we appreciate on our own favorite jackets - easy snap closures (including ones underneath the vent in the back), buttoned epaulettes, flap pockets, and an attached three-button back belt. And, of course, it has those decorative logo buttons we surely want from Burberry. This is a true couture-tailored coat. Maybe I should just get one for myself, but somehow I know it won't be quite as adorable in my size! At Saks Fifth Avenue for $595.
Bugaoo introduces a double stroller, called The Donkey. First of all, that is not a very cute name (Cameleon and Frog had a theme going, where did Donkey come from?). It may seem that a double stroller is fitting for those who love the Bugaboo and either has twins or is welcoming another baby in the family but after having used the Bugaboo myself, and abandoning it for a lighter and simpler Maclaren, I cannot imagine this double stroller being anything but a HUGE burden. The single is already a pain with the 2 piece break down when collapsing it and it is wider than your standard stroller, enough so that it causes problems going down aisles and getting through tight spaces. So a double?? You have enough to worry about having 2 tots to tote around much less having to manage this massive stroller.
It comes in 3 variations, the first is the most nonsensical, the Bugaboo Donkey Mono Stroller for $1,199 has one seat for your tot and a big bin for your stuff. I guess this takes care of the Frog and Cameleon not having enough storage but this is ridiculous. A big huge NO-NO if you are asking for an opinion!! The Bugaboo Donkey Duo Stroller
for $1,499 is for those adding another baby to the family so one side is a bassinet (which can be converted to a seat later on) and the other is the standard seat. The Bugaboo Donkey Twin Stroller
for $1,659 is just like the Duo except that it comes with 2 bassinets, and both of course can be converted to seats.
On the bright side, the stroller does have an exceptional ride and is the only one I would consider taking on uneven terrain. If you have a car big enough and an empty garage to park the big car and this big stroller, this could still be an option as long as you don't mind the complications. Just DO NOT attempt to travel with this monster!!!
Come October 31st, when your kids' costumes have finally been perfected and all they have is heaps of candy on the brain, don't dare even consider that orange-and-black felt bag. Even the round plastic pumpkin is a Halloween has-been, not to mention NOT cute. This year, treat your little trickster to the cutest trick-or-treat bag that ever was: pale pink with a cheeky black cat says, "I'm savvy" in more ways than one.
Leave it to eco-friendly Envirosax, of the original reusable tote, to come up with a perfect holiday solution. Light as a feather and shockingly durable, this street-smart satchel ensures no ripping, plenty of room and durability for more candy than your tot's system can handle (it can fit up to 44lbs. - just don't tell them that!), and it's reusable once all that sugar wears off. So be sure to keep this stowed away for annual use, and if you happen to lose track of it, no big deal. The best part is the Buy One Get One Free deal (just enter code: blackcat2 when purchasing) - now that's a real treat! On Envirosax for $8.95.
You can always count on the Gap to get your basics for the season - and you can count on their HUGE 50% off sale. The sale is on everything, including some things for mom, too!
The Gap is my go-to place for stocking up my tots' denim ($34.95), but these very current jewel-tone cords might motivate me to change things up a bit. The "sunset plum" and "rhubarb" shades will pump up any girl's autumn wardrobe, but "fawn beige" is a twist on a neutral that will take her far (as long as she can keep them clean!). Other can't-miss items? The cable knit sweater
($44.95) in creamy vanilla, with button front and a belt tie, is comfy, chic, and versatile. Even the most casual of boys will go for the wool field jacket
($68) - it's sophisticated (but he doesn't have to know that!) yet with snap pockets and a corduroy clollar, it has a real ease about it. Speaking of casual, these graphic flight pants
($39.95) have side zips and pockets galore for a rough-and-tumble vibe.
Go ahead and indulge your little boy's Star Wars obsession with the Junk Food 2-in-1 hooded sweatshirt-tee ($26.95) with Yoda blazing the front - he's a wise and good influence! And don't forget to stock up on all cold weather accessories. There's an especially cute sequin-trim scarf ($12.95) with cuddly tassels at the ends. The sale ends 10/10, so take advantage - you can even get a jumpstart on early holiday shopping!

Channeling Baby Gaga! Here's a dress for your own daring trendsetter.
Between the delicate dotted swiss net overlay and the crazy looping hoops, what little girl wouldn't want to wear this fabulous frock by Suzanne Ermann? It's a ladylike meets kooky mix that's full of youthful spunk, but the real question is, what parent would buy it? At nearly $500, a whimsical dress like this could easily set a precedent that could be challenging - and a headache - to maintain. But it does have that darling blossom bow accent at the waist, and it is made in France...hmm. If setting the bar this high is not an issue and your tot has a special occasion coming up where she's sure to be seen, this is a unique, daring party dress for the little girl who is tired of pink and purple! And doesn't mind turning some heads! At Barneys New York for $492.
Now here are two fabulous boys' pieces representing my two favorite bands of all time - The Beatles and Duran Duran! I went to see Duran Duran just the other day, and they are still amazing! I actually wish I were old enough to have seen the Beatles; and that shows you how much I love them - I'm actually wishing to be older?! There's nothing wrong with undue musical influence from the parents, especially if the choices are as sound as these.
The Rowdy Sprout Beatles hoodie is not only cool, but also handy. It's an easy layering piece for everyday. It has a simple button-up style and two front pockets - and of course, that famous Beatles logo on the chest pocket, and the Revolution logo across the back. The Rowdy Sprout Duran Duran tee is a classic. It makes me wish I could find my original! This baseball style shirt has a long sleeve and crew neck, and feels as soft as a vintage one (like mine would feel if only....). Both of these Rowdy Sprout pieces are great, and the best part is these sale prices are as vintage as the bands they represent! Beatles Hoodie, $29.90 (from $46) and Duran Duran T Shirt: $19 (from $38) on Grom Farm.
Who says kids have to be relegated to hoodies and sweaters when it comes to frantic school mornings? You'll love the fact that she can just throw on this roomy, sweatshirt-inspired poncho over anything and everything, so there's nothing to think about and no jacket to fuss with when you're already late running out the door. She'll love the fact that Gypsy05's poncho is laid-back and cool. And let's face it, it's as comfortable as a Snuggie. Thank god it just doesn't look like one. The arm-opening is high up, so it fits like a normal sweatshirt - essential for constant movers a.k.a. all kids. The last thing they want is to feel restricted and constrained. Personally, I'm not crazy about the graphic on the back, but the "Love Life" message isn't a bad one (and it's reminiscent of grown-up sweats brand Free City). Besides, tots love that kind of "decoration." An easy poncho your girl will live in - done and done! At Axl's Closet for $72.
This is one dreamy set of wheels - even for me! What more could a little girl ask for than a pink and white and chrome sedan to cruise around in?! With the same design as the original, the American Retro Sedan car is the perfect gift for the tot who has everything (and needs something to cart it all around in). It's also the perfect purchase for the mom who has just found herself lusting after Prada's new hot rod-inspired Spring collection.
But it's not just a sight for sore eyes - it will get your girl exercising as she pedals all over the place. Of course, it's sturdy and safe, and even resistant to rust should your petite princess forget to park it in the garage. And I love that it comes ready to roll - no assembly needed. So, tiny - and probably slightly spoiled - tots, start your engines - or make that, work those legs! At Barneys New York for $285.

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