I wish I had read the other reviews before purchasing. I saw the madras print in the catalog and had to have it for my new beach bag. As other reviewers have noted, the straps are very short which makes it difficult to pack the bag full with towels, etc and still fit over the shoulder. The lack of any sort of interior pocket was very disappointing. Even a small pocket for keys and a phone would have been nice. I still like the print but am not a huge fan of the bag.
First of all, I loved this bag. However, the short handles on it really limits it functionality. The madras is great and the bag is made very well. I would never purchase or recommend it in the future due to the handles. PLEASE, the longer handles are essential. I always put my totes on my shoulder along with my purse, etc.
I love this bag! The pink plaid is super cute, and its a great size--big enough to toss in a water bottle, sweater, and whatever else you might need for a summer adventure! Biggest complaints would be: 1) the length of the straps (not quite long enough to put over my shoulder if the bag has a lot in it) 2) the lack of interior pockets (its one big pouch) 3) the lack of a zippered-top option (being able to put so much in it, it would be nice to make sure things don't fall out!). I knew that those features were like that when I bought it, though, so I wasn't disappointed or surprised.
This is a beautiful tote, but be aware that it is probably too large to use as a purse. It's a great tote-sized bag. I ended up ordering the "mini" version of this to use as a purse after I received this size. This size is big enough to hold a wallet, a hooded sweatshirt, some sunglasses, and a bottle of water; I know because that's what I carried in it this weekend. It would make a great gift for a teacher because it could be used to carry home papers and such.
