Hey, Mrs. Postman

I've never liked messenger bags nor the utilitarian look. I didn't like how it falls on my hips and thought it was not flattering for my built. But now that I'm a mom, my style philosophy is "function before form," hence my passion for flats.

When it comes to bags, I have to make sure that the bag I wear is easy to carry (forget the LV Speedy and other handheld bags). I need both hands free since I have to either carry baby or push the pram, among other things. My bag should also have several compartments for baby's bottle, food, nappy, etc.

I've mentioned many times that I don't like diaper bags and use totes instead. Since I am getting bored with my totes and need an excuse to buy another bag, I am thinking of getting a messenger bag. Messengers are more stylish nowadays and have two handles so you can either wear them on your shoulder (when with baby) or on your arm (when baby is not around). And since it's spring, I am opting for a natural color that I can wear with jeans or just about anything.

Here are my top 5 messenger bags:

For some reason, celebrities like Hilary Duff love Linea Pelle, especially the folding tote. It's not cheap at US$775. I'm not sure it's worth it...

Next in line is Foley and Corinna, the bag featured in Gossip Girl. I actually ordered the eggplant color last fall but didn't like it in person so I returned it to Shopbop. I saw this basketweave version at Harvey Nichols recently and the shape is definitely better. For sale at US$444 at Bloomingdales (cheaper than Harvey Nichols).

And then there's the ol' Mulberry. What I like about this is when you unzip the bag, it becomes a lot bigger and can be worn two ways. I'm don't like the patent leather but it's easier to clean and manage. This Mitzy messenger costs around 4000 HKD. Their store at Elements Mall offers huge discounts.

Coach is not my favorite brand, but they have a couple of lines that are pretty cute. I like the Madison collection but this Parker large convertible hippie is pretty cool too for only US$358.

Last but not the least is my favorite, the Provence Sacca Media from Tod's. Gwyneth Paltrow looks so classy wearing it in their ad campaign! It's definitely the most expensive among all but the leather is definitely of best quality. I'm just lucky I can get discount at Tod's.