Just as we thought we were out of the woods, yesterday New York City received a Winter reality check in the form of a snow and ice storm, transforming the streets of Manhattan into a near ghost town. As my toddler and I baked cookies, I watched the layers of freezing rain accumulate on our kitchen windows, and my mind drifted to lazy Spring afternoons in Central Park and meandering through street fairs on warm days. Although this weather is no indicator, Monday marks the official start to Spring. As the warmer weather approaches and dreams of sipping Chardonnay (I mean sparkling water, ahem) in the park become a reality, there are certain seasonal accessories that Manhattan moms should be adding to their online shopping carts.

      1. The Save My Bag Handbag 

 

The Save MY Bag handbag line was developed to provide women with stylish protective covers for their expensive designer handbags. Ingenious, really, as unpredictable weather conditions can really wreak havoc on suede, fabrics and exotic skins. Made from a spongy Lycra blend, these bags are waterproof and hand-washable with cold water. The Save My Bag designs mimic the iconic silhouettes of designer bags and are fitted with a hard removable base to support heavy contents. These bags are so classic and versatile that they’ve become a favorite among celebrities and retailers can’t keep them on the shelves. As the days get longer, the temperatures get warmer, and New York moms spend more hours outdoors and away from home. As all moms can attest, this means heavier bags stocked with an abundant supply of diapers, wipes, snacks, and other necessities, and that’s just for the babies! Not only are the Save My Bags large enough to fit all of your diaper bag contents and personal items, but they’re also affordable and weigh less than most traditional diaper bags. This Spring, be the most glamorous Mom at the playground with these trend setting totes. Buy yours at Bloomingdales or directly from the Save My Bag online shop.

      2. Flipsters Foldable Sandal

We’ve all been there – we leave our apartments dressed for comfortable Spring weather and by the end of the afternoon we’re tired, shvitzing, and wishing we could just kick off our shoes and socks. . .  Well now you can.  Introducing Flipsters, the foldable flip-flops you can conveniently tuck into your bag for these “emergency” occasions. Although available in a wide assortment of colors, I prefer the “champagne,” which most closely resembles nude and would match practically any ensemble. On weekends we often take our kids out for brunch followed by impromptu play dates in the park or fun field trips to other destinations around the city. Rather than chasing my toddler around in my red soles I slip into my Flipsters and put the Louboutins away for safe keeping. I love the convenience of always having an alternative footwear option inside my bag. On sale for $27.95, hurry up and buy yours before they’re gone. 

      3.  JJ Cole Outdoor Blanket

 

Large enough for the whole family, this multi-purpose JJ Cole outdoor blanket is the perfect companion for picnic lunches with my infant and toddler. Manufactured from water-resistant material, this blanket can be used on damp grass or muddy ground and will protect your clothes from the elements and keep them looking pristine. The blanket wipes clean and can even be machine washed should your little ones have a penchant for messy eating. In addition to picnic lunches, this lightly padded blanket also provides the perfect accommodations for you and your little ones at the many music classes held in the Upper East Side’s neighborhood parks. Easily folded and adorned with a convenient carry strap, toting this blanket is truly effortless. Theses are available in both 5′ x 5′ and 5′ x 7′ at Amazon. 

       4.  Kovot 9-Piece Wine Travel Bag

For wine enthusiasts and parents of toddlers alike, a compact wine tote is an essential component for transforming a lackluster play date in the park into a “mocktail hour” fit for even the most fabulous moms. The Kovot 9-piece wine travel bag is like having your very own wine bar right at your fingertips. The insulated wine tote is compact in design and comes fully stocked with unbreakable glasses, napkins and corkscrew. Nervous about the kiddos knocking over your drinks? No worries – the set also includes stakes that stick right into the ground and keep your glasses safe and upright. Weighing in at less than two pounds, this is a staple item in my stroller’s storage basket. Don’t wait until the next warm weekend – buy it at Amazon now. 

      5.  Evian Natural Mineral Water Facial Mist 

I was first introduced to Evian Natural Mineral Water Facial Mist in Riviera Maya, Mexico, where our resort provided individual bottles to guests on the pool deck. Evian is widely known for their bottled water, but surprisingly their facial mist has flown under the radar for years. Evian Natural Mineral Water Facial Mist rehydrates dry skin and provides an instant refreshing pick-me-up for worn-out moms everywhere. Packaged in a leak-proof canister and small enough to keep inside your purse or diaper bag, its micro-droplets are formulated to freshen up makeup throughout the day. Available at Sephora, just one little spritz of this facial mist is all you need to cool off on a warm Spring day.