If you can't beat 'em get a Petunia Pickle Bottom Bag

I never sat at the popular girls lunch table in high school. Perhaps this is why I was so resistant to Petunia Pickle Bottom diapers bags. They were the bags that all the popular moms were carrying when I had my son. And I was a rebel. I went so far out of my way pretending not to want one, not to need one, that I bought and tossed about six other bags last year, "saving" about the cost of two or three PPB's (yes, the bag is referred to by initials, like a celeb or an institution) .

You'd think a style rebel like myself would be a tough sell for these bags. But after actually taking this diaper bag out for a spin I am falling prey to its charm. I appreciate, for instance, the way the changing pad is attached. When you zip out the front of the bag, you have an instant changing station without icky gaps where your baby's pristine flesh might come in contact with public changing surfaces. Hmmm. That's reassuring. And there are the little things, like a sturdy clip for my keys. I could have used that a few weeks ago at mommy and me. One of the other kids "hid" my unclipped keys and they are still missing.

I also like the light interior of my bag (I have the boxy backpack in velveteen, a little less common than the Asian brocade bags). I can see what is in there. I am still compulsively looking for my keys in the black hole that was the other bag. The metal hardware is nice too, nothing plastic or flimsy. It makes me feel like I am hanging out with old money. People who ride horses and such. I'm comfortable carrying the bag as both a messenger or a backpack, and it is a snap to sling it on both of my strollers. And I have to say, I have been stopped several times by people who have commented on the bag. It's like I joined a club. And I feel... popular!

I won't let it get to my head though. I now know that the PPBs are more than just a pretty bag. They are hardworking, deep and complex. They have many unexplored pockets and the ability to take on even the most undignified tasks (changing my son's diaper) with panache and aplomb. Just like... me! Ok, perhaps I could take a cue from those popular moms and get the frizz ironed out of my hair. But one thing at a time. I'm on my way to mainstream fashion recovery, and Petunia is my flotation device.

Enter the code STYLE at POUT before June 30th and you will receive free ground shipping when you order a PPB bag. And be sure to check out the PPB website for a fab virtual fashion show of their new designs.