I love Alex Marshall’s charming tot collection. This Northern Californian artist creates all sorts of ceramics, but she seems to have the tone of tot-friendly pieces down pat. A perfect balance has been struck between the cuteness of babyhood and a level of sophistication that elevates the style to that of a truly snobby nursery. The ceramics all have an heirloom feel and are made from quality earthenware clay. Generally, this is great for dishes and cups, but I hesitate to buy such delicate breakables knowing that mealtimes tend to involve throwing and dropping until way past toddlerhood. Skip on these altogether and go for the decorations. Molded into a cute car picture frame ($52), the clay is perfect, painted like a pastel watercolor. Put a photo of your tot inside, and he’ll get the pleasure of driving his first car well before 16! The giraffe lamp ($264) would be another precious edition to your child’s room. With all of the animals in Marshall’s collection, you could really build a zoo. And what tot doesn’t want that? Available at Barneys New York.
