I originally ordered the large size to replace an older version of the L.L. Bean messenger bag that finally wore out, ( I loved it!) but found the large to be HUGE and way to big for my needs. I exchanged it for the medium size. The size is good and comparable to my older bag; however, the strap when adjusted to fit me (5'2") at the proper height, leaves a "tail" of material that does not have any place to go but hang down. I wish they had designed the bag to allow the extra strap material that wasn't used when the strap length was adjusted to tuck into a pocket on the handle to allow it to be out of the way and not just hanging down. Not sure if I will keep this bag; rather disappointed with this product. I may have to just cut off the extra strap material which seems so silly! Also, one of the side pockets seems hard to zip close becuase it hits the base of the strap. With a few design changes, this could be a great product!
The dimensions given for the bag are for the flap (16" on the large). I thought it was for the entire bag, so it was larger than expected. I've had the citron large bag for a week and have used it for a day trip and for going to the gym. It looks good and is sturdy. Judging from the photo of the woman carrying the medium bag, it looked small for me. I like all the organizer zippered pockets on the outside of the bag (under the flap). I prefer to use on my shoulder than as a cross-body bag, but would like for the strap to adjust to a shorter length. I tried putting a large water bottle in a flapped pocket on the outside, but it was rather awkward and the flap had to stand up in order to do that. I thought I'd be using this every day, but it's too wide and not all that comfortable for a long walk. I had given up on backpacks because they make me sweat too much and thought this would be a good alternative.
Got this to replace an older L.L. messenger bag that is too big for my current usage. This bag, I got the medium after reading the reviews, is the perfect size for me to take to work. Fits my portfolio, water bottle, papers, pens, phone, and whatever random things I have rattling around.
I love the strap, it is so comfortable. In the passed year I've tried a few messenger bags and often times the strap was either too hard to adjust, uncomfortable, or both.
The materials are durable as always, very much like my previous L.L.Bean messenger that has lasted 5 years (not to mention the backpack I had in school before then that lasted me from 10th grade til I graduated from college).
I ordered this bag in a medium size but returned it because it was too big for what I needed. I would buy this bag if they offered a small size. Great organization - many pockets and well made. Please come out with a small one LL Bean!!!
