i may have had my maternity style all figured out, but even after two years with adam, i never quite figured out the most important of all baby accessories: the diaper bag. i’ve used a few different bags and backpacks, but i’ve never actually settled on anything i love. somehow, my diaper bags has always been more of an afterthought, even though it’s such a crucial item to have with me when i leave the house! so now that i have two kids to contend with, i’m thinking i might finally need to up by game and ditch that canvas tote for something a bit more grownup. granted, only one of my top picks was actually designed as a diaper bag, but i really don’t want anything that screams baby. i’m not one for puffy-sided totes or juvenile prints, and i really want something that can also be used for years to come, even after my kids are potty trained.

the julien backpack diaper bag by leader bag co. this is the only pack on my list that was truly designed as an actual diaper bag. it’s got all of the bells and whistles: it’s very chic and comes in a variety of neutral colorways, it has detachable stroller straps so you can keep it handy while walking baby, and you can buy it in a bundle with a matching change pouch and mat, so you can keep all of your diapering essentials right at hand. and it’s handmade in nyc.

the harvest backpack by kika ny. while not designed solely for the purpose of carrying baby things, the sleek and simple all-leather design of this backpack makes me swoon. it’s essentially a leather tote with a zipper top, but instead of shoulder straps, it’s got backpack straps. it does come with a divider and large pocket on the inside, as well as a small zipper pocket on the outside. the leather is vegetable-tanned and water resistant, and i love that it will come in handy long after the toddler years as a regular backpack. it’s also hand-made in nyc.

the mini bike to beach bag by alite designs. this simple canvas and leather bag is both a tote and a backpack. i like the minimal design and easy-access to all of the things inside. the straps across the front of the bag can actually be adjusted so you can secure a rolled up a blanket or jacket, so it’s got a bit of sneaky extra storage. and it’s made in san francisco.

the clare v.messenger tote and flat clutch. i actually already own this classic design from one of my favorite handbag designers, but i was recently thinking that it might be a great contender. as you can tell, i definitely prefer backpacks, but this messenger tote can be comfortably worn cross-body so you don’t have to worry about dropping it off your shoulder while trying to manage a newborn and a toddler. simply add some zippered pouches to keep everything compartmentalized, and you’re ready to go.

so what do you think? do you have any favorites? any seasoned mamas have a few words of wisdom to impart?