baby & child

[December 5th, 2001]

Kids grow up quickly--and so does their sense of fashion. But don't stress out over what li'l Mikey and young Miss Molly should be wearing. They're more than happy to tell you exactly what they want...and want...and want.... So get the jump on these junior shoppers and show 'em how it's done. MINI ME

Dr. Evil was onto something with his identical-sidekick shtick. Turn your little one into a small version of the more fashionable you by ignoring cheesy kids' shoes and opting instead for a pair of Dr. Martens ($59 and up, Dr. Martens, 616 SW Broadway, 552-9000). Baby versions of big Docs come in a variety of styles, from the classic 5 Eyelet Derby Boot to the new Velcro Strap Gusset Slip-on. Plus (you big show-off) you can tell the other 'rents that you got them at the only Docs store in the U.S.

NO AUTOGRAPHS, PLEASE
This winter, dress your baby girl in the style and sophistication of Grace Kelly or Audrey Hepburn with her very own faux shearling jacket ($49.50, Baby Gap, Pioneer Place, 700 SW 5th Ave., 228-8115, and other locations). A fuzzy, warm, furry inside and super-smooth suede outside make this coat a cozy addition to any savvy baby's wardrobe. Teach her to say "Hello, dahling!" and she'll be the star of every holiday gig.

IRISH EYES ARE SMILING
Some things just never go out of style. Among them are hand-knit woolens from the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland. An Aran knit hat and mittens set will keep the wee one on your list warm all winter long ($32, Kathleen's of Dublin, 860 SW Broadway, 224-4869). Traditional patterns come in creamy, colored wool, and the knitter's signature makes this a unique and extra special gift.

WHATEVER PRINCESS WANTS...
Is there a newborn on your list too precious for just any old baby blanket? Buy the little nipper a creation that would make Cleopatra envious. Luxurious baby blankets by Ya Ya, crafted with fine silks and satins in an array of deep hues, will be treasured for a lifetime ($95, haggis mcbaggis, 6802 SE Milwaukie Blvd., 234-0849).

RIDE ON, BABY
The Hell's Angels won't have room to spit once you outfit your babes in their very own head-to-toe Harley Davidson basic skins leather ensemble ($375 for three-piece set, Latus Motors-Harley Davidson, 7421 NE Beech St., 249-8653). Each matching vest, jacket and chaps combo, in the classic Harley cut and style, will not only make them look cool on a cycle, but is sure to rev up the gang at the local sandbox.

ST. ELVESWEAR
Turn Junior into a walking, (almost) talking version of Santa's little helper with a very merry candy-striped, one-piece pajama outfit ($34, Hanna Andersson, 327 NW 10th Ave., 321-5275). Fun and festive, these PJs are made of 100-percent-cotton Swedish interlock for softness and durability. Best (or worst) of all, this sleepytime garb is available in sizes for the entire family. Yikes!

WESTERN HO, HO, HO!
And who's the most stylish pardner of all? Deputize your young sheriff in an ultra-hip reversible fringed suede jacket ($78, Bee & Thistle, 2328 NW Westover Road, 222-3397). Able to turn into a soft flannel jacket (with an Old West map motif) lickety-split, this cool cover is sure to be a hit while roping dogies.

AIN'T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH
If your little one can't wait to hit the slopes, don't miss Gymboree's adorable winter sweater ($28, Gymboree, Pioneer Place, 700 SW 5th Ave., 224-2075, and other locations). These striped sweaters come in a variety of bright colors, and each one sports modern mountain graphics and snowflakes to match. Make your little guy feel like one of the big guys.

CLOSE ATTACHMENTS
You and your baby will love the convenience and closeness you'll have with a Baby Bjorn carrier ($88, Hanna Andersson, 327 NW 10th Ave., 321-5275). Not only is this nap-sack ergonomically correct, but the little passenger can either face you or face out, depending on how involved the kiddo wants to be in all the action. A must for every mom or pop.