A Modern Momma's Diaper Bag

Style Momma

A modern Momma's
Diaper Bag

During those first critical weeks of motherhood I hauled around a thoroughly stocked and bulky diaper bag. A ton of diapers, packs of wipes, changes of clothes, a changing pad, butt creams, extra bibs, extra burp rags … the works. The diaper bag alone took up nearly the entire bottom of my stroller! The weeks went on, and I dreaded carrying this thing around knowing that I would only use a fifth of the stuff in it during any given outing. So, I streamlined my process. I noted what we actually used and what we might have to use. I packed only the absolute necessities in a small (and fashionable) bag. For emergencies I stocked a bigger bag that I left in the trunk of my car.* I told myself that if we’re without something we need, we’ll learn, improvise, and simply carry on. My personal style varies from sporty to boho to funky cool momma. These varying styles means three “diaper bag” ideas, all of contrasting styles with tips on how you can minimize the bulk, carry the essentials, and be a fashion momma while doing it!

*Important note: We all know babies grow super fast, so set reminders to restock your in-car diaper bag once baby advances to the next size diaper and clothes.

Each bag is stocked with the following toddler essentials:

Three diapers
Half a pack of baby wipes (I never put a brand new pack in. It weighs the bag down a ton. Snag a half used pack from home)
1-2 dog pee pads to be used as a changing pad
Travel sized diaper cream
One reusable nylon bib
One set of eating utensils
One pair of clean clothes (usually romper)
Baby nail clippers
Hand sanitizer

Sporty Momma

Oh the joys of parenting! Witnessing your baby or toddler take those first steps is the most heartwarming of experiences. Soon those first wobbly steps turn into consistent strides, then with the blink of an eye your toddler will be darting around like an olympian! To keep up with the swift moves of my 17 month old Sammy (and be equipped with all our toddler essentials) I use a lightweight, compact, SkipHop Easy Access Crossbody Sling. Since this bag is officially a “diaper bag,” it’s designed with several conveniently located pockets and compartments. What looks like a relatively small bag from the outside, is quite spacious on the inside. I bet you thought you’d never see “chic” and “diaper bag” in the same sentence, yet it’s minimal and clean design justifies it. This bag compliments a pretty simple outfit: a fitted long sleeve tee, nylon joggers, and tennis shoes. This look is sporty, clean, and comfy!

Similar Sporty Momma Bags

Boho Momma

Those first weeks of motherhood include a lot of comfy (large) clothing. When you’re in survival mode, minimal thought is put into your clothing choices. I call the following the evolution of the momfit! First there’s the v-neck tee with sweatpants, this soon advances into large v-neck tees with leggings, and finally transforms into large v-neck tees with stretchy jeans. I made a hard stop here. Hey, a white v-neck tee with loose fitted blue jeans is casual, it’s comfy, and it’s an undeniably a classic look. It’s a great starting point and can be spruced up by a frilly throw or kimono, espadrilles, or a beaded necklace. These are staple pieces to a boho momma, and perfectly complemented with a slouchy, distressed, leather bag. My go-to boho momma diaper bag is an embroidered Campomaggi leather bag. This medium sized bag is spacious, durable, and stylish. Since this is not your standard diaper bag, it is only designed with one zipper pocket. Here, you’ll find all the “little things.” like baby nail clippers, hand sanitizer, house keys, etc. I’ve got a LeSportSac Convertible Waist Bag (sans the strap) that houses everything needed for a quick diaper change in just one grab. That means diapers, wipes, ointments, and those handy dog pee pads I use as a makeshift changing pad. This bag is able to fit all the other baby/toddler accoutrements including an extra set of clothes for my little one that goes in a reusable wardrobe bag. It includes a removable strap, so it’s easy to convert it into a cross body or carry it around like a purse.

Similar Boho Momma bags

Funky Cool Momma

Funky. Cool. Once upon a time we were all these things before a baby came out of us. Anyone else lose a sense of self after giving birth? One of the most critical components to a sense of self is style! For me it was all about graphic tees and jeans. Who doesn’t love a fun graphic tee and a good pair of ripped boyfriend denim? Maybe some camouflage shorts? For this colorful yet relaxed everyday look I can always count on the BIMBA Y LOLA Black Bucket Bag I got in France a few months ago. The key is finding a medium sized, spacious bag with a few pockets to spare. Make the bag your own with a funky cool strap. This bag is made with lightweight, durable nylon. It’s large silver zippers make it stand out and its use of a highlighter pink rope as a fastener make it extra unique! I keep hand sanitizer in one of the front zippers for easy access and stock the other pocket with a reusable bib and cutlery for meals on-the-go. Once again you’ll find that handy LeSportSac Convertible Waist Bag stocked with baby necessities and all the other usual suspects fit just fine in this spacious purse.

Style Momma