From Skeptic to Fan: My Experience with the Bandolier Bodie Phone Lanyard

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Lanyards for phones? I've always found them unappealing. A dangling phone, swinging with each step, seems impractical. If not in hand, my phone is typically in a bag or pocket. However, carrying around a bag is another cumbersome experience I'm not fond of—adjusting straps continually slipping off should be a sport in itself. I'm that friend who relies on others to tuck away my lip gloss and keys in their bags. Alone, everything ends up crammed into my jacket—keys, wallet, phone, and earbuds.

Could there be a third option, a better fusion of both worlds? A wearable phone case that does more than just cradle your phone, but includes storage for must-have items? Enter the innovative solution: the Bodie. It allows me to keep my pockets light while avoiding a heavy purse or backpack.

Stylishly Practical

The Bodie is a seamless blend of phone case and crossbody strap, featuring a cardholder on its back. A crucial addition is the small pouch on the strap, perfect for keys, earbuds, or a lip balm. It's far more stylish than most crossbody straps I've seen, with a focus on elegance in its design.

Bodie: A Phone Case with Extras

This accessory is compatible with newer iPhone models and comes in either a black/gold or Pastel Matcha/silver design. Limited stock initially, but availability is expected to improve around May or June. Opting for the black and gold for my iPhone felt like a versatile choice to pair with my attire.

The case integrates vegan leather on the rear and silicone edges. Slightly raised edges protect the screen and camera efficiently. The buttons click satisfyingly, with precise cutouts for ports and the iPhone's Camera Control button. Although it houses a wallet, the case maintains a slim profile.

The cardholder accommodates five cards, more spacious than typical options limited to three. Carry my necessary cards and some cash without overcrowding. A secure snap keeps everything safely tucked away, with easy access at the register.

For normal phone use, detach the strap via the hooks at the case's base. A caveat—this integrated wallet obstructs MagSafe functionality; removal of the case is required for wireless charging. While inconvenient, swapping the case when at home and outdoors is a small trade-off.

A removable wallet would have been ideal, but an alternative model, Mila, is available. It includes a larger fold-out wallet, accommodating wireless charging or MagSafe accessories, yet lacks the essential pouch for other items.

The small pouch is conveniently placed on the strap, adjustable and removable, doubling its practicality. On some days, all it contains are keys, lip balm, and AirPods, but that's precisely what I need it to do.

Unlike flimsy counterparts, Bodie's strap is akin to a high-end handbag strap, crafted from durable nylon. It can securely support even a heavier phone, with adjustable length accommodating different heights or styles.

Accessorizing with Style

For occasions requiring extra items, such as lipstick, an additional clip-on pouch neatly holds my AirPods and attaches seamlessly. Sold separately, it perfectly complements the Bodie's look with matching materials and accents.

Initially, I felt awkward with the phone hanging off my hip. Yet, it was refreshing not to be burdened by a large bag or overstuffed pockets. I relished the freedom of movement while keeping essentials within reach.

Compliments from passersby turned apprehension into confidence. Its resemblance to a chic crossbody bag, especially worn with the phone screen against me, disguised its true nature beautifully—a win-win accessory.

The design intricacies, from the strap to materials, mimic a classic handbag more than a phone case. The potential for mix-and-match accessories broadens its adaptability, providing a versatile solution to dress up or down.

Though the price point might seem steep, the Bandolier Bodie is a functional yet fashionable accessory where quality is apparent. It's more an expression of style than just a tech gadget. Following Taylor Swift's lead was a smart move.