Capturing a current fashion trend is another way to create an up-to-the-minute baby shower theme. For the mother-to-be who is a trend-setter herself, this method will be a match made in Hollywood. Creating a theme based on fashion is as easy as a trip to the video store. The Devil Wears Prada quickly becomes The Devil Wears Diapers.

Trends in fashion can be a cache of ideas for the shower-throwing chic. Watch the Style network and peruse fashion magazines for the pivotal piece of inspiration. Here are some ideas for the fashion-themed shower:

• The Thoroughly Modern Mamma Shower. The invitations feature a belly-bursting fashionista ready to take on life and baby couture. Choose bold patterns and colors and mix it up with black, aluminum, or stainless steel for a contemporary edge. Décor is all about repeated pattern against a minimal backdrop of white or black.

  Keep the lines clean—centerpieces can consist of a row of single Gerber daisies in small square vases interspersed with martini glasses filled with white jelly beans. An Asian chicken salad, Sour Apple “mock-tini,” and wontons with chocolate dipping compliment this modern theme.

Essential

Hobbies, special interests, and specific locations are also sources for a terrific theme. If the parents-to-be are avid bocce ball players, bowlers, or golfers, you can use this interest to spark some theme ideas. Knitting, crafting, rowing, cooking—these hobbies can also prompt a slew of shower ideas.

• The Project Bellybump Shower. Take a cue from Project Runway for a shower with a fashion challenge: Bringing up baby with a strong sense of fashion! Project Bellybump: A Baby Shoe-er is a call for baby shoes—fun, fabulous, and fashionable! Project Bellybump: Recycled! offers a fashion booster shot for mommy-to-be’s maternity wardrobe. Guests are encouraged to give fashion accessories, recycled maternity wear, or trendy baby clothes.

  The shower concept is fashion forward and fun. Use bracelets for napkin rings; drape a chandelier with pearl necklaces. Keep the menu simple—serve wine (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) and cheese. Fashion magazines can play two roles, décor and favors.