by Joyce Slaton posted in Products & Prizes

There's no need to restrict yourself to blah baby gear if what you want are brilliant and sophisticated colors, specialty fabrics, and thoughtful design. Here are some new-and-lovely designs to feast your eyes on.

Baby Trend Hybrid LX 3-in-1 Car Seat: It's not often that bargain brands come in such high-style options, but Baby Trend has really splashed out with its latest fabric choices. Clockwise from top right: Mosaic, Lacie, Comic Pop, and Ahoy, all available at the same low price point. This car seat is called a "3-in-1" because it functions in 3 modes: as a forward-facing car seat with a harness (like a convertible, except this seat can't be used rear-facing), or a high-backed booster or backless that uses your car's seatbelt. (Target, $119.99)
Maxi-Cosi City Motif Collection: If big cities are your thing, this stunning Maxi-Cosi treatment probably will be too. With charming line drawings of buildings and street scenes and gleaming copper accents, the Mico Max 30 infant seat and the Pria 85 convertible take on an undeniable sophistication. (Mico Max 30, $269.95, Pria 85, $349.95)

Quinny Zapp Xtra South Beach Limited Edition Strollers: Strollers are frequently found in brights: crimson red, cobalt blue, daffodil yellow. Cool pastels are tougher to find. But the lightweight, compact Quinny Zapp Xtra comes in two Florida-friendly shades -- aqua and a flamingo-pink -- that will really stand out at the playgroun...