ProsDurable, Great Value, Performing as Expected, perfect for me!
I use a desk-sized organizer and keep all the details of my life inside it, but it is a pain to carry around. It cannot fit into most of my handbags without crowding everything else, and then the handbag also becomes uncomfortably heavy.
A perfect solution is my LL Bean small-sized open-top Boat and Tote. It is just large enough to carry the organizer plus a zip bag for pens and a small portfolio for extra pages. I chose the open-top Boat and Tote because I am constantly reaching for the organizer and wanted my access to be as easy as possible. In addition, because the top is open, I am not tempted to load the tote with my wallet, phone, and other valuables. In other words, the B&T is for my organizer and nothing else.
The natural B&T with black trim is perfect for me as it matches all my handbags and other accessories, which are either black or tan colored. And, as I am a smaller person (5'1"), the regular-length handles will do for me. The weather is usually warm where I live, so we don't usually need thick coats; thus, I can carry the tote in my hands or over my shoulder.
Since I have purchased this tote, my organizer is with me all the time, so I don't forget a thing!
P.S. I also like that the Boat and Tote is just about the same width at the top as it is at the bottom. Many tote bags are trapezoidally shaped, so what will fit at the top will not fit at the bottom as well.
Do not expect to be able to wash this canvas tote. I wrongly assumed that as a "Boat and Tote" this bag could get wet. Not true!! The color runs all over the off-white canvas. While I tried spot cleaning first, this type of canvas is not really conducive to getting truly clean with spot cleaning. Spots just seem to dull, giving an overall lackluster look. IMO, you can buy a washable or waterproof bag that will look nice longer.
I found this zip-tote bag to be surprisingly elegant. The crisp, stiff canvas and black trim that I ordered gives a neat, well-organized look that can be casual or chic (yes, I said chic). Even looks great with my leather jacket. I travel a lot and try not to check luggage, preferring carry-on so I can make it through the airport faster, so this bag performs well on all levels. I would give these as gifts as well.
This is a great bag that lasts forever. The only disappointment was that the color was more orange than red, a color that was indicated on the web site as a choice. The embroidered name was very nice.
