Coveted | Gifts for the soon-to-be mom

They may not be official moms yet, but expectant mothers need plenty of gear. With an eye on the baby showers that seem to come with spring, here are a few items that are as fashionable as they are functional.

Many soon-to-be Mums spend hours searching for a diaper bag that doesn't scream "baby." This diaper tote from Chickpea fits the bill. With a waterproof vinyl body, mesh pockets, and a water-resistant liner, the "Space Blue Stylus Diaper Tote" will remind mom of her rocker days - even if she's cradleside instead of club-bound. Chickpea Baby, $104. Available at www.buyolympia.com

OK, so these pins, a.k.a. diaper-bag flair, aren't exactly functional. But they are amusing - and with childbirth on the horizon, a mom-in-training needs all the laughs she can get. $6.99, available at www.wrybaby.com

It's not just a woman's belly that swells - her feet can grow as well. That's why a pair of comfy slip-on shoes are crucial for that last trimester. While very few companies make specialty maternity shoes, Arcopedico Shoes, made by Louisiana-based Comfortable Feet, bills its Classic Light as pregnancy-friendly and oh-so-easy. $54, available at www.arcopedicoshoes.com.

Thankfully, breast-feeding is much more out in the open these days. Still, who wants to flash the world? That's why we dig the nursing covers by Bebe au Lait. They offer privacy plus a fab choice of fabrics - not to mention that celebs such as Mira Sorvino have been seen with them. $35, available at www.bebeaulait.com.

And finally, what mom doesn't love spa services? The Maternal Wellness Center in Chestnut Hill has specially designed tables with cut-outs for bellies and breasts so pregnant women can lie on their stomachs. As one expectant friend said, "Weightlessness in pregnancy cannot be underestimated!" Massages range from $55 for 30 minutes to $90 for 90 minutes. Maternal Wellness Center, 606 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, 215-713-2666, www.maternalwellness.org.