Agree with bmoney on the nice clothes being unnecessary for the most part.
It sucks that you don't get into your parenting routine until after the shower and gifts because, at least in our experience, you don't really know what you do and don't need until you actually start parenting. For us, one of the most important things was a white noise machine/toy, because it seemed to calm him and help him sleep. But I'm sure that wouldn't work for everyone. Agree there are basic necessities, like a crib, diapers, sheets, blankets, etc.
The other things that we loved were the Bjorn, Moby baby wrap, etc. If you've got a baby that wants to be snuggled, those things can make it still possible to get a few things done around the house while still having him/her close to you.
It sucks that you don't get into your parenting routine until after the shower and gifts because, at least in our experience, you don't really know what you do and don't need until you actually start parenting. For us, one of the most important things was a white noise machine/toy, because it seemed to calm him and help him sleep. But I'm sure that wouldn't work for everyone. Agree there are basic necessities, like a crib, diapers, sheets, blankets, etc.
The other things that we loved were the Bjorn, Moby baby wrap, etc. If you've got a baby that wants to be snuggled, those things can make it still possible to get a few things done around the house while still having him/her close to you.