After giving birth, most women are still several sizes away from their pre-pregnancy figure which makes the whole ‘fashion’ aspect of things a little difficult. During those first few months accessories are a fantastic solution because you never have to worry about sizing – one size always fits all. My favorite ‘mama’ accessory believe it or not is a really fabulous diaper bag. You would be amazed at how something as simple as a chic bag can make such a world of a difference with they way you feel!

Before I had my first child, the term “diaper bag” conjured up visuals of cutesy teddy bear covered vinyl and pale pink and blue shoulder bags that just screamed “baby.” Thankfully, those bags have nearly long been phased out by much classier and fashionable styles and companies are now designing versions that rival some of the hottest designer handbags out there.

For the last couple of seasons, we’ve seen quite a few classy designs that are real head turners, but in my opinion Fall 2011 is turning out to be the best season yet!

Angelina Jolie’s Diaper Bag Brand Of Choice (Yes, she’s a fan of Storksak!)
Even though they are known as one of the more elite brands, Storksak’s diaper bags are just as practical and smart as they are chic and stylish. Designed for the modern mom they are equipped with everything you need.

Storksak’s Olivia is a fantastic choice for those looking for a lighter solution with a ton of classy, style and functionality. Made from nylon satin, decked out with gold zippers and hardware and trimmed in a faux leather, this is one diaper bag that will turns heads! Olivia was just released in grey (one of the hottest colors for fall this year) and comes complete with roomy pockets, a portable changing mat, thermo-insulated bottle holder, adjustable shoulder straps and wipe-clean interiors.

Organic and Original
Looking for something with a real punch of color and pizazz? Petunia Picklebottom’s bags have everyone’s tongues wagging this Fall, thanks to the recently introduced line-up. My personal favorite, the organic canvas Sashay Satchel is very original and comes in a variety of gorgeous prints.

Not only do they come with a wipe-able changing pad and cute monogrammed wipe case, these earth friendly bags can be used as a satchel, shoulder bag or backpack. Again, this is a really hot item and I had to wait two weeks before receiving mine in Positively Plaid, so if you see a design you like I wouldn’t recommend waiting too long as they are sure to go fast (especially with the holidays just around the corner).

Suitable For Practical Days and Chic Evenings
Skip Hop’s Versa offers a neat expandable option with the cute middle zipper. Instead of using regular hardware, Skip Hop has added some gold-toned ‘bling’ that adds just the right amount of class with a bit of an edge. Add in a multitude of compartments and insulated pockets and you have a toteable storage system for your kids’ stuff.

Marc by Marc Jacobs (Need I Say More?)
Yes, it’s true! Even Marc Jacobs has designed his own diaper bag. Known as the Eliz-A-Baby, this quilted nylon tote gets reinvented every season with new prints. Things are kept very simple in terms of design (adore the cute knotted detail at the base of the handles). Haven’t been too fond of the print variations until this season’s Black Multi Print and Magic Violet Multi Print were introduced (Love!).

The Creme de la Creme
The prices may not be rational for some, but if you are looking for a real splurge, Not Rational’s diaper bags are positively scrumptious. Everything from the bag to the changing pad are made from buttery soft leather and a matching baby bottle and pacifier are included. You won’t find these in just any store as they are quite hard to come by.

Nadia’s Tips For Choosing a Designer Diaper Bag

1. Know your budget. As you can see from my picks above, diaper bags come in a very wide price range. In today’s market you can find baby bags priced anywhere from $39-$1099, so it is important that you make a budget and stick to it!
2. If you are sharing the bag with your partner consider their color preference. This may not seem like a big “tip” but if your husband is fussy about “prints and colors” you may want to consider his color preference before making the big splurge. There are plenty of lovely neutral options out there.
3. Make sure it is easy to clean. It doesn’t matter how careful you are, accidents, spills and splashes are always bound to happen, so look for a bag that is either made of or lined with a fabric that can be wiped down or spot-cleaned.
4. Consider your lifestyle. Do you need something that will transition from a work/office bag to diaper bag? Are you planning on traveling a lot or taking many day trips with the baby? Will you require insulated bottle warmers? Be sure to take the size, style and included accessories into account before making a purchase.