I like the penguin applique idea, but I like the lace idea best. With lace and or ruffles in the borders anything can look girly. I've also seen some quilts where lace was sewn down and used in the blocks. Also, what about using pleats? see
http://sewlux.blogspot.com/2012/07/t...th-pleats.html. If you make tiny pleats I think it will help disguise the fabric. I've also seen pleated stripes in quilts and that could work as a border. The pleats, lace, ruffles, etc. will all add texture, which babies love.