Beating the streets of NYC everyday with a 5-year old in tow has made me extremely messenger bag savvy.

Carrying one means I can fit a toy or two, a juice bottle, Palm Pilot, cell phone, a book, my notebook, a map and even a small bag from the grocery store. And alas, I can still move quickly with my filled messenger bag draped across my chest. (Trust me when I say it’s a thousand times harder to carry everything with a traditional shoulder tote.)

One of my favorite messenger bags comes from Jack&Marjorie.

Their bags are made from military surplus materials like wool blankets, parachutes, webbing, etc. They also add feminine elements like vintage lace, brocade and some darling button work.

Perfect for your city slicker, urban adventures.