7.15.19

A Review of My Go To Bag

Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody Review

shirt: j crew // jeans: citizens of humanity // shoes: m gemi // bag: madewell // sunglasses: warby parker // necklace: maya brenner // bracelets: david yurman (here, here and here) // rings: david yurman and catbird nyc

After four years of carrying a combination of diapers, wipes, extra clothes, water bottles, snacks and anything else that would fit in my bag, I was more than ready to downsize. I took my time researching a bag that would fit my lifestyle best.

The Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody kept coming to the top of my list, but I couldn’t find one review on it other than those on brand sites. After purchasing and using the bag for two months, I wanted to dedicate a post to my review of it. UPDATE: I’ve now owned and used the Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody for over a year and still love it.

Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody Review

Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody Bag Review

A few of my girlfriends have the Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody bag in black. None of them had a bad thing to say about it, which is always a good sign. Below are a few things I considered before purchasing the Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody bag.

Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody Review

Style

The crossbody style was my highest priority when shopping for a new bag. With two kids that no longer sit in a stroller, I need both hands available to them.

There are times when I fly with both of them on my own. I’ve found bringing a backpack is the best bet for lugging our stuff through the airport. I also wanted a bag to keep my wallet and phone handy. Another vote for the crossbody style.

Price

Since it was going to be my everyday bag, I didn’t want to spend too much that I’d constantly be worried about ruining it while balancing it with a desire to invest in quality pieces. The Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody is $148. Since owning and using the bag for two months, I’d say it’s definitely worth the price, especially if you get it on sale (I used a $20 rewards card when I bought it).

Size

I am on the petite side (5’3″ tall) and didn’t want the bag to overwhelm me. I did a lot of research comparing the Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody to other Madewell options, as well as Cuyana’s crossbody options (I liked the small carryall tote, but thought it was going to be too big).

The shoulder strap is probably an inch too long for my height. It should be an easy fix to have another hole punched in the strap.

Another consideration on the size for me was the ability to put it in a backpack when traveling to get around those pesky carryon rules. You know, when you put a bag away for 1 minute to walk through the gate agent and then pull it back out again?? I haven’t tried it yet, but I’m certain it’s small enough to work.

Color

While my girlfriends all have the Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody in True Black, I couldn’t get the English Saddle colorway out of my head. When I travel I generally wear a lot of black clothing, which swayed me towards True Black. Ultimately, I went with my gut and bought the English Saddle. I’m so glad I did! It works great with all of my spring and summer clothing. I think it will still look great with darker colors, including black, come fall and winter.

Would I Buy It Again?

A resounding yes! I love the Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody bag and have been raving about it to all that will listen.

My only critique of the bag is I have noticed some discoloring at the four corners of the bottom of the bag. I have not treated this bag with any protective spray (thinking now maybe I should?) and throw it around a lot so it’s not too surprising. I’ll update this review if it worsens and affects my love of the bag.

White Eyelet Top

White Eyelet Top for Summer

Madewell Zip Top Transport Crossbody Review

You may also like my 10 day summer packing list and investment pieces.

photos by ana of rosemary & rye

Leave a Comment