Prior to having given birth myself, I was often at a loss as to what to purchase for those around me about to cross the threshold into mum and dad land. I would receive the invite to a gender reveal party or baby shower and have to Google what would be appropriate for a tiny human but also second as a nice present. I quickly discovered, as an expectant parent, that there is a whole laundry list of things you will require. Outside of the obvious essentials, here are some darling baby shower gift ideas to elevate you to godparent tier.
Tiffany & Co. piggy bank
Traditional gifts like a piggy bank will never lead you wrong. This classic item by Tiffany & Co. will mean baby’s beginnings will commence with investment, albeit loose change. This high end piggy bank will look gorgeous adorning a mantelpiece or chest of drawers alongside picture frames and other brick-a-brack. It comes in various colours, including earthenware with soft pink or blue accents and even the brand’s iconic robin’s-egg blue shade. It need not just be a piggy either—bunny banks and elephant banks are also available. Little one’s first savings account has never looked so cute.
Cuddle + Kind hand-knit dolls
A Cuddle + Kind doll not only nurtures a newborn as a cuddly companion, but also provides children in need with nutrition. For every piece sold, 10 meals go out to less fortunate children all around the world. So far, the company has assisted in providing over 13 million meals with their lovingly made, hand-knit and hand-loomed dolls made by female artisans in Peru, who are compensated with a fair-trade wage. From ‘Violet the Fawn’ to ‘Henry the Bunny’, a variety of animals can be chosen, all made from premium 100% cotton yarn. The new ‘Baby Animal Collection’ features collectable tiny friends like baby lions and lambs which can be purchased in a kit of three. Supporting a good cause with a perfect contribution to a new family? A win-win.
Cartier baby tumbler
Nothing says celebration like an item from Cartier. This tumbler comes in sterling silver, featuring the Maison’s motif while incorporating animals like a fox, panda, butterfly, mouse and rabbit to give it that playful and whimsical touch. Animals have been visible in Cartier’s story dating back to the turn of the 20th Century. The epitome of class, the brand offers heritage pieces—gifting at the height of savoir-faire. If a tumbler isn’t your thing, a Cartier baby egg cup and spoon or blanket in merino wool and cashmere are fine alternatives.
Raph & Remy personalised gifts
Local label Raph & Remy specialises in prestigious baby and toddler products made with purpose. What started out as seven essential items have quickly expanded into over fifty beautifully crafted apparel pieces that are safe, eco-friendly and sustainable. Not only that, the Singapore-based brand works with The Red Pencil (Singapore) Humanitarian Mission, a non-profit organisation that assists low-income families through the power of art therapy. Our picks would include anything from the personalised range, including an ‘organic bamboo cloud cooling blanket’, ‘plush pond pal mascot’ or ‘premium bamboo knotted gowns’. Don’t know the baby’s name yet? The ‘teddy & me romper gift set’ or ‘sweet dreams gift set’ are equally sweet.
Gucci kids wool baby blanket
A newborn’s comfort is paramount, but what if comfort could be complemented with chic? The Gucci GG pattern wool blanket is as cozy as it is debonair. Made in Italy with superb craftsmanship, the House’s signature monogram logo is unmistakable yet muted and soft. This is a wholesome, heart-warming and practical present that snuggles right up to baby, and is also an item parents can also enjoy; a warm swaddle enveloping mum while breastfeeding or bottle moments in the rocking chair with dad. It can also be used as a decorative throw to elevate any nursery.
Momiji kids rattan Colette toy pram
Many parents receive an influx of gifts once the newborn arrives, but sometimes it can be thoughtful to plan ahead. A perfect benefaction that can be used as a charming piece of furniture or ornamental accessory in a playroom is Momiji’s Colette toy pram. It is available in soft pastel hues like white, dusty rose, yellow and mint, and made using water-based, eco-friendly, non-toxic paint. When not being pushed around by a tiny tot, this rattan piece made by handicraftsmen in Indonesia using traditional techniques can second as a stylish storage of soft toys and books. If you’re seeking something immediately age-appropriate, hand-woven rattan bassinets and moses baskets using hypoallergenic foam mattresses are great picks.
Burberry kids baby nest
Since the parents-to-be have already nested, why not provide a little designer nest by Burberry? Synonymous with quality English outfitting and with history in woven cotton and gabardine, the fashion house accommodates for even the smallest of fashionistas. The iconic, archival vintage check nest is diamond-quilted with the outer and inner lining in organic cotton, making it a pleasant place for baby to rest. A tucked away side zip reveals easy access for those inevitable and persistent nappy changes. Softly padded and snug, infants will be off to dreamland in an instant. Sleeping stylish from an early age indeed.
Boss kidswear bottles and pacifier set
Taking the concept of ‘Boss Baby’ quite literally, the Boss kidswear bottle and pacifier set will have any baby showing you who’s in charge. The 4-piece pack in gender-neutral white includes a pacifier decorated in the logo-print, a pacifier clip (essential for the easily lost item) and two bottles with lids. Utilitarian and trendy, it is the perfect kit for a day out on the town. Who said feeding time couldn’t make a fashion statement?
