Two things have me head over heels for Orla Kiely bags: big, bold prints and easy-clean oilcloth exteriors.
I would purchase every item in Ms. Kiely’s line if I could, so when I had the opportunity to try out her Baby Changing Bag, I was thrilled (to say the least).
The bag is gorgeous. I love the bright-but-not-too-bright color scheme, which is gender-neutral and includes both brown and black (so it goes with anything). The beautiful bag can be easily wiped clean and the shoulder strap can be adjusted for wear as a shoulder bag or crossbody bag. (I usually wear it across the body, but even as a shoulder bag, the flat woven strap stays put without sliding down my arm.)
The bag is roomy, with plenty of space for diapers, wipes, burp cloths, bottles and my don’t-leave-home-without-it point-and-shoot camera. There’s a zippered compartment on the bottom (where I like to quarantine all things diaper-related) and six elasticized pockets in the main compartment (two of which are bottle sized), as well as a large zippered pocket. As for exterior storage, there are two slit pockets on one side and one large zippered pocket on the other. A bottle can be housed in one of the slit pockets when the bag isn’t full inside, but otherwise it’s best for flatter items (like those thank you cards to drop at the post office on the way to the pediatrician).
Organizational options are certainly not lacking in this lightweight bag, nor is functionality or style. My only complaint? Sometimes I wish the main compartment of the bag zipped shut. While the magnetic closer allows for quick and easy access to pacifiers and security blankets, it doesn’t prevent items from falling out when the bag tips over (or discourage pickpockets from taking my expensive baby balms … if they wanted them, that is).
The craftsmanship of the bag is really excellent, and I know it will last for years to come. Plus, the rubber feet will help keep the bag in tip-top shape—even when I drag it along with me to the park, daycare and mommy-and-me classes. It comes equipped with a changing mat, and several more coordinating accessories (and bags) can be purchased separately. I think I may have to look into the Big Zip Wallet. After all, if baby’s going to have a standout bag, mama needs a little something standout of her own to tuck inside, right?
Price: $240
To buy: orlakiely.com
