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diaper bags

Summer Fashion: Petunia Pickle Bottom

July 6, 2011 By Lena

The following giveaway is open to US and CAN residents.

Shortly after Reid was born, I became obsessed with finding the perfect diaper bag. After all, I now had two sets of diapers to tote around, two sets of extra clothing, two lollipops to take as bribes … you see where I’m going with this.

But it couldn’t be just any diaper bag – it had to be roomy, practical, and above all, trendy and stylish. Like “I’m-a-yummy-mummy-and-my-bag-is-hotter-than-yours” stylish.

So it’s no surprise that I narrowed down my search to three words: Petunia Pickle Bottom. Think bold lines, daring colours and designer details. Fall in love with silk brocades, hand-woven tweeds and plush chenilles. Stay organized with spacious interiors, thoughtfully designed pockets and hands-free straps. This is PPB.

From Boxy Backpacks to Cross Town Clutches, Petunia Pickle Bottom has the right bag for you. I’ve always favoured the Boxy Backpacks for their versatility and storage space, and when given the opportunity to review one for my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide, you can believe that I whooped for joy.

Now let’s be honest – if you’re a mom, loosely follow fashion trends and have a desire to be gawked at, chances are you know all about Petunia Pickle Bottom. But for those who have yet to feast their eyes on the preferred brand of diaper bags for savvy moms everywhere, introducing the Boxy Backpack:

I chose the Blueberry Acai print because I absolutely adore the Espresso and Cornflower Blue combination – the rich and vibrant hues are chic yet romantic. My favourite features:

Hands-free straps backpack or long messenger strap
Built-in changing station with detachable changing pad (so convenient)
2 large diaper/wipes pockets
4 bottle and 2 organizational pockets
Small pacifier pocket
Detachable dirty diaper pouch (so awesome)
“No more digging” key clip
Water-resistant liner
PPB monogrammed wipes case (so posh)

See all the Boxy Packpacks designs here.

I very rarely wear the diaper bag as a backpack; I prefer a cross-shoulders messenger style instead. However, for those trips to the zoo, farm or picnicking down by the lake, it’s incredibly quick and easy to re-attach the backpack harnesses. I love the idea that I can switch between looks and that the diaper bag adapts to my lifestyle.

Inside, I stash everything from water bottles, clothes, snacks, and of course, diapers. There’s also ample room for Mommy’s goodies – you can see my sunglasses and sunscreen peeking out from the side pockets. I generally place my wallet and cell phone in the front zip pocket for easier access, but the thing I love about PPB’s boxy backpack is that there is no set place for your belongings; other than the bottle pockets, you can change up where you store items to suit your day/outing.

The boxy backpack is also incredibly ergonomic; chances are if you’re carrying a diaper bag, you’re also pushing a stroller, wearing a baby or chasing after a toddler. So you want to be sure that your bag is comfortable and distributes weight evenly across your shoulders and back. I’ve spend copious amounts of time with the backpack and it has wonderful long-wearing capabilities (which isn’t always the case with some of the more expensive lines).

Finally, there’s something you should know about Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bags. You WILL be noticed. You’ll be approached; moms will walk up to you and declare “I love your diaper bag!” Or they’ll just stare at it without saying a word – lust in their eyes as they pay homage to the chic mommy. Perhaps they’ll give it a cursory glance to see if it’s nicer than their own PPB. In short, Petunia Pickle Bottom is a lifestyle.

Fab news for fashionistas: PPB doesn’t end at diaper bags; you can check out their posh and plush infant bedding; snug and fashion-forward slings and carriers (including the NEW ERGObaby Petunia Organic Carrier); plus chic and sophisticated layette, blankets and accessories.

READ THIS! Fulton Sales, representatives of the best in baby and children’s hardware, accessories and clothing across Canada – including Petunia Pickle Bottom – will have a “party” when they reach 2,500 Facebook fans. To celebrate, they’ll be giving away tons of great prizes, including a New ERGObaby Petunia Organic Carrier! Go ahead and “Like” Fulton Sales today!


Petunia Pickle Bottom products can be purchased online (US only) or across Canada at a retailer near you.


One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win a Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack in his/her choice of fabric! (Value $170)

To enter, visit Petunia Pickle Bottom and choose your favourite Boxy Backpack style, plus your favourite feature of the backpack. Then leave a comment here, telling us what they are.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” Fulton Sales on Facebook
(5) Follow Fulton Sales on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this PPB Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on July 31st. Good luck everybody!

Check out all of my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide Giveaways Here!

Filed Under: Contests, Fashion Tagged With: diaper bags, Petunia Pickle Bottom, Summer Beauty and Fashion Guide

Dear Kate Spade…

January 9, 2011 By Lena

I’m on a budget, so I really don’t appreciate you creating a line of drop dead gorgeous diaper bags. I suppose you thought you were clever for designing stunning silhouettes complete with crinkled patent cowhide trim, ksny blind embossed signature on leather license plates and custom nassimi lining. And yes, some may think the 14-karat gold plated hardware is a nice touch. But really, Kate, did you have to make them SO DAMN SCRUMPTIOUS?
DUNGAREES SMALL COAL

SPLODGE DOT RANDI

MARIVAUX STEVIE

BARROW STREET ANABEL
(I WANT. I WANT. I GOTTA HAVE THIS ONE.)

NYLON LARGE SERENA

(Click here to view entire collection.)

Signed,
Your Eventual Customer

Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: diaper bags, Kate Spade

Diaper Bag Dilemma – Thanks Dolls!

June 7, 2010 By Lena

A HUGE thank you to all the lovely ladies who offered great advice and feedback with my diaper bag dilemma! The comments were so helpful, I thought I’d blog them for everyone to see! You guys rock :)

thesehappydays said…
When you are getting in to 2+ kids territory, I’d skip the diaper bag and get a funky, well-made backpack instead. Then you have more range of motion with your arms (i.e., can carry 2 kids if needed). Plus if you are in to baby carriers like an Ergo, a backpack counterbalances better. YMMV.

Thanks thesehappydays! I was leaning towards a backpack style, and seeing your comment reinforced the fact that I’ll need both arms (and probably more!)

Erin said…
I have a Ju-Ju-Be and LOVE IT!!!! :) Check them out..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbIvJ8TJM7o or their website http://www.ju-ju-be.com/

It’s a great bag… I like that it’s not a dark hole that you can’t find ANYTHING in… and it has storage for everything!

Oh Erin – LOVE the range of styles and patterns! And re: your lovely e-mail – you’re right, I have seen Ju-Ju-Be, Fleurville and Storksak on www.babysteals.com before (infact, Ju-Ju-Be’s were up for grabs just last week!) but with the new little guy, it’s been difficult to jump online in the first 5 minutes (because we all know that’s how long it takes to sell out!)

I’m curious to anyone who has ordered from BabySteals – aside from the shipping costs, have you paid much in duty for items over $50? Just trying to figure out the scope of the “steal” after additional charges.

Kerry said…
Lena, I have way too many diaper bags and they’re all ok but by far the best one that was given to me was one that I recently got at Nine West (in May). You can use it as a purse but it’s actually a diaper bag. It’s Fuchsia (comes in other colors) and it has so many amazing compartments (I’m still finding them). I can also hang it on my stroller with clips that I have. One of my favourite parts is at the bottom there’s a hidden compartment that has a zipper and it’s for soiled clothes/wash clothes. It’s lined in plastic so all you have to do is wipe it down. It’s genius so that when you’re rummaging through the bag for clean clothes or food you won’t have to go through the soiled items. Enough of my rambling. It’s a girl’s chicest and most practical bag I’ve seen. It was about $115. I used to take 2 bags for full day outings and now I don’t have to, it holds everything and still hangs on the stroller.

Hmmm… sounds intriguing! I wouldn’t even think to check out Nine West! I will definitely pop in today and take a looksee, thanks for the tip!

chinwhat said…
business opportunity!

Make me a bag dude…

Ingie said…
Now I have no experience with this but I know a few people that love Skiphop diaper bags…my two cents :)

Well thanks for weighing in just the same luv! I’ve seen Skiphop bags at Babies r Us, and while the price is right and they look really functional, I’m going to be a bit snobbish here and focus on a more premium (translation: overpriced) brand ;)

Josie said…
Diaper bag suggestion….I LOVE!!! LOVE!!!! LOVE!!!! my Serena and Lily ‘Un’Diaper Bag! :-D It can be worn across the body, is machine washable (what!!!) or wipeable… pockets and compartments galore and can be used as a shopper bag way after you’ll be carrying diapers around so we can continue to be environmentally friendly! It also hangs perfectly over stroller handles!

It was given to me as a gift after I had my son… and I can’t say enough about it!!! Here’s the link…check them out! I have the Prague Gypsy Tote, but it comes in other colours too…

http://www.serenaandlily.com/Baby/Must-Haves-Gypsy-Tote

Okay, straight up Josie, those bags are HOT. And since you’ve got two little ones, can I assume that it fits everything you need? For some reason it looks a little “compact” to me, and I’m worried I won’t be able to fit all the extra stuff. What’s your take on the space?

Amanda said…
If I hadn’t gotten my diaper bag as a shower gift, I would have wanted to get this Matt & Nat diaper bag for myself:
http://www.purseuing.com/bags/diaper-bags/matt-nat-paltrow-diaper-bag-020806.php

Girl, that bag is FAB-U-LOUS (snap, snap, snap). Oooh, and I’m loving the plum version. But, le sigh, I think hubby’s eyebrows would raise off his head if I spent $295+ tax on a diaper bag. Ah well, I can wish…

Sharon said…
I LOVE and recommend my Petunia Pickle Bottom bag – the Boxy backpack kind. It’s roomy, fashionable and got enough pockets for all the essentials. The best part is the built in (and removable) diaper pad. I have the “glazed” look which means that it can be wiped clean very easily. And it has a side strap available too, so you can carry it messenger bag mode. Finally, you can buy attachments that allow you to hang it on your oh-so-fab new set of wheels. MY PICK is PPB!!!!

Okay girl, the PPB boxy backpack is currently at the top of my list, because a) I’ve heard amazing things about it, b) I trust yours and Janice’s advice, and c) the patterns are fabulous. I’m glad you mentioned the glazed version because that’s the one I was leaning towards. LOVE that you can wear it as a backpack or shoulder bag! Only one question – which design? I’ve got a red stroller and a black stroller – does it matter? Should I go for the pattern/colour I like or match it to my wheels?

Jess said…
My friend has a Coach diaper bag, it’s great as a diaper bag but will also function as an oversized purse, and light travel bag in the future. I’m sure it was pricey… but it is Coach:)

Ah, Coach diaper bags. At first I was dying for one, but the combination of price and the fact that I’m all Coached-out has me craving for something different. But, I do admire your girlfriend’s style!


Janice said…

I have three PPBs, a Coach diaper bag, a Fleurville, along with a few others. I have to say I agree with Runnermama – and the PPB boxy backpack is the most convenient. If you want huge, though, Fleurville’s mothership is big. But I like the styling of the boxy backpack more. Don’t get fabric – get the glazed variety. The fabric snags too easily and doesn’t wipe clean. You don’t have to give up your Coach, though. Coach sells several diaper bags. I’ve got one that’s really pretty. The only problem, I find, with the Coach diaper bags is that they’re REALLY heavy. Too heavy to carry around without a stroller.

I haven’t tried the Ju-Ju-Be bags – but they’re cute too. But I still say my fave is the PPB. I have a touring tote (too small), an over-the-shoulder glazed bag (India Ink) and a backpack – and I find the backpack is the easiest to manage. Have fun deciding!

Girl, you don’t just have great advice – you’ve got a showroom! Over five diaper bags – wowzers! I’ll have to show your post to Mike when he moans about the number of purses in my closet, ha! Thanks for the additional recommendation on the PPB boxy backpack… just trying to decide between that one and the Ju-Ju-Be (maybe both?)

Tamara D. said…
I agree – check out JuJuBe. And if you are waiting for a good deal on a bag, babysteals.com has them quite often. You can check their RSS feed (past steals) and you might find something still available? http://www.babysteals.com/feed/atom.xml

Thanks Tamara! So I think it’s settled… I’m going to grab a Petunia Pickle Bottom boxy backpack, and I’m going to stalk babysteals.com to see when I can grab a Ju-Ju-Be at half price! Nice!

Big hugs to everyone for your awesome feedback!

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Coach, diaper bags, Fleurville, help me, JuJuBe, Nine West, Petunia Pickle Bottom, Serena and Lily

Diaper Bag Dilemma – Help Me!

June 4, 2010 By Lena

Help me please. I need a diaper bag, and I don’t know the first thing about choosing one.

I know what you’re thinking – This chick has a toddler! Surely she should know a thing or do about them. But the truth is, I simply didn’t buy a diaper bag with Ryder. Instead, I rotated my over sized Coach shoppers to cram everything from diapers to a waterproof change pad. And while that worked with one kiddo, I’m finding the duelling diapers (size 4 and newborn), two sets of wipes (Swipers and Sensitive) and the extra changes of clothes to just simply overwhelm my Coachie (not to mention Ryder’s snacks and Reid’s bottles). So I’ve decided to cave and do things properly.

Here’s the situation. If I’m going to buy one, then it’d better be pretty damn fabulous. After all, this will be on my arm instead of my coveted Coach/Prada/Ferragamo, so I have to love it.

Now through PTPA, I was given a BabyMel UK diaper bag to test (pictured left). While amazingly convenient and more than adequate, I’m just not sold on the aesthetics – basic black with orange detailing. And while some will argue that BabyMel is a hot designer label (created by the founders of even hotter Storksak), it’s just not nearly funky, modern, pretty, or colourful enough for moi.

I’ve been doing some research and have figured out that the premium brands are Petunia Pickle Bottom, OiOi, Storksak and Fleurville. So here’s my question – which one? Do you have a preference or suggestion? And, have I missed a super cool label that I should check out? I would really appreciate your advice!

I’d like to make a purchase in the next week or so, and I’ll certainly let ya’ll know what I decide!

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: babies, diaper bags, help me, Lena

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Lena Almeida

Toronto Blogger, Social Media Strategist for Listen to Lena Inc. Television & Radio Personality, Columnist and Speaker. Family Travel Expert. Star Wars Fanatic. Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion. Read More…

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