I've seen quite a few mums talking about Pink Lining bags over the past year or so, and I've even seen a few out and about on my travels, but I have yet to own one for myself. To me, Pink Lining bags are the ultimate yummy mummy baby bag, but I'm more of a tummy-mummy, more of a 'is-that-The-Boy's-snot-on-my-dry-clean-only-Winter-coat' mummy. I need a practical bag which can take a beating. I've certainly never been feminine enough to own something as pretty as the Pink Lining bags I've admired from afar.
That was until they invited me to review a bag from their new season's collection and better still I got to choose for myself. There were a few bags that I uhmed and aahed over, but in the end I plummed for one of their bigger bags: the Queensdale Tote. At 35×32.5x30cm, it's not a small handbag, but that's perfect for me in the forthcoming Spring and Summer months. As a mum of a toilet-trained pre-schooler, I might not be carrying nappies around anymore but I do have to carry spare pants (his not mine!), a change of clothes, a hat, cardigan and snacks for him (and possibly me). I need a larger bag, and I've always favoured the oversize fashion.
The colourway that I chose is 'Blue Butterflies' as I'm far more of a blue girl than a pink one, however it comes in three other colourways as well: Pink Butterflies, Thistle and Dragonfly (purple), and Bluebirds and Bows (green). I love the design over the pockets on the front of the bag; two stripey beach huts, bunting and a bucket and spade. This reminds me of the 1950s Darling Buds of May era, and will be perfect for me to use on the beach or in the park during the Spring and Summer.
Inside are the characteristic pocket arrangement; two drinks holders, two large pockets, a phone holder, a key loop, a zipped section for your discrete bits, and a detachable mirror. Combine the zipped removable plastic bag (for first aid bits, suntan lotion and creams) with the large space in the main bag itself which is great for holding a change of clothes for him (or a towel and his swimsuit), and you've got a perfect bag for a mum of a toddler. (There's also a padded changemat which is nice and large.)
Extra bits that I like include the different ways that the handles clip on and off and can be rearranged to make it easier for carrying or slinging over a pushchair, and the linking strap to hold the ends together on the inside and stop it gaping or losing shape. I'm sure there's a proper name for it, but it escapes me at the moment. I personally like a zip on my handbags; I always worry about something falling out or being stolen, along with not wanting to show the world my belongings. However this inner strap and the firm clasp make the bag stay in shape very well.
I really like this bag, I can't wait to take it out on a sunny Spring day and have it draw admiring glances. And while the inside might contain a bright blue pair of Thomas the Tank Engine underpants, the outside is all about mummy!
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I was given this bag for the purpose of this review. My opinion is honest and unbiased.
that bag is truly scrumptious! i don't know what else to say except LUCKY you for having one!!
Oh, that is lovely! I think I want one 🙂
Absolutely beautiful! I need one.
I'm thinking of getting a queensdale too. I was wondering if I'd be able to fit bottles for my toddler and preschooler to drink out if in the front pockets? Thank you for your review. I'm much like yourself. I love pretty things too, but am not the ultimate girly girl. This bag really appeals to me for that reason. Is it huge? I'm worried it might drown me, lol. Thanks
You probably could, but there are two drinks pouches inside for bottles? It is a big bag but as I'm not a fan of oversized bags (and would never use one) I find it a good size.