Dressing up the diaper bag

I know that when February rolls around I’m going to have to tuck away my clutches and purses, handbags and wristlets.  They’ll be stored in long, plastic containers under my bed and exchanged for the required accessory of all new moms – the diaper bag.  Now I’ve been told by several kid-carting ladies that a large purse would suffice, but as someone with a passion for organization I can’t wait to separate all of baby’s necessities into the countless pockets found inside diaper bags.  For its organizational convenience and carrying capacity, I was willing to sacrifice a little bit of style, but now I know better!

Over the years, bands of new moms must have united to make their voices heard and demand a more stylish way to lug around everything baby needs.  The diaper bag industry has responded with some fabulous new designs and I’m excited to carry them.  Here are three favorites that I’ll be sporting next year:

Pinnington Bags – These unique bags are designed with unexpected combinations of texture, pattern and color.  They are handmade with luxurious home decor fabric making them very durable and stylish at the same time.  When I first saw them I was immediately impressed with the pattern and color pairings – fabrics that really stood out and were so unlike most other diaper bags I had previously seen.  You can tell that a lot of attention has been paid to detail, even on the inside.  The coordinating (but of course different) fabric inside is a wipeable material that is easy to clean.  It also has several inner pockets for organization.  Pinnington Bags come in three distinct styles each with a variety of color and pattern options.  My favorite is the August Diaper Bag.  I just love the ruffles stitched in to dress up the zip closure.  Order your favorite bag by Valentine’s Day (2/14/10) and you’ll receive 30% off when you use coupon code: mommies.

timi & leslie – This collection of diaper bags is not only convertible to serve for several other functions, but it also comes with an assortment of matching accessories that all busy moms need.  The roomy bags include a removable shoulder strap, a bottle tote, stroller straps, changing pad, wristlet, and an easy access key fob.  The inside is made of a waterproof lining – a huge plus – and has several elasticized pockets so you can quickly find everything you’ve packed.  The timi & leslie diaper bag collection is designed for “the woman in every mom”.  I could easily use my Jane Bag for the office or even as a carry-on when I travel.  It has a real vintage look with the double-handle tote design and patent leather exterior; not at all what I would envision as a typical diaper bag.  timi & leslie bags can be found at retail locations nationwide.

Amy Michelle – The “Go Tote” or all in one tote serves as a purse, work bag and diaper bag in one.  Amy Michelle’s diaper bags definitely reflect today’s styles and really look more like a purse than a diaper bag.  Unless you were pushing a stroller, I really don’t think anyone would ever guess that you had a diaper bag slung over your shoulder.  In fact, I’ve even considered switcihng to my Sweet Pea as my winter puse!  For baby – the bag includes a washable changing pad, internal and external bottle pockets, pacifier holder and attaches to a stroller.  For mom – there are credit card slots, a zippered pocket and an easy to find key ring.  Use coupon code: Poppy to receive 15% off of your purchase.  As an added bonus, up to 5% of Amy Michelle’s profit goes to The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver.

Samples of these products were sent for review by MWS.