Fashionistas who shove raisins up their nose?

I have found a haute couture line for toddlers that can elevate them from juice stained onesies to whimsical pinafores. The Spring Line for ZeBird and Krickett has just been launched from the serene Outer Banks of North Carolina. The designer, Becca Hughes, has combined her love for sewing with the necessity to keep her daughter clothed. I admit this independent seamstress is a friend of mine, but nonetheless ZeBird and Krickett (www.zebirdandkrickett.com) is interesting. I am a sucker for any do-it-yourselfers out there who are providing a living for their family with art. Before becoming a mama, Becca was an amazing artist who impressed me with her choice of color and design on surfaces ranging from canvas to walls. You may still be able to find her tag on dumpsters in Norfolk, Va.

The skirts, pants, pinafores and tees from the Spring 2007 collection are dainty and playful. The juxtaposition of eccentric patterns set against the azure calm of denim bring the pieces a comfortable sophistication. Oversized and jauntily placed shapes give the clothes a signature touch. The pinafore is reversible which makes the price two for one. The pants remind me of Little BoPeep undergarments perfect for everyday wear or playing dress up.

I can imagine that the arduous task of dressing your child in the morning would become a cinch when they have clothes to wear that are made with their imagination in mind. The prices may be higher than the cutesy-pie clothes at Target, but I believe that these made by hand pieces of art are well worth it.