I have been using this purse for 9 months. There are no signs of wear and the smaller version holds all my stuff. I can wear it as a shoulder bag even wearing my winter coat (5'5" 135 pounds). I was willing to pay the price for this bag because of the LLBean warranty and I am not disappointed.
It is actually breaking my heart to have to return this item. The leather is gorgeous and the divided center is hard to find and exactly what I want. I would like it to be a little bigger but could make do with this size, BUT the short shoulder straps with no long strap option is a deal killer for me. It would be so easy to have clips and a strap that could be added or removed but without it, this back sadly has to go back. So sad.
I was overjoyed to receive the Leather Mini and immediately began to put all, and I stress ALL the items out of my other purse, which is a Hobo style, into it. Even my Cell phone fit. It is great to have a smaller Tote and to condense a bit. I tried and low and behold can even wear it on my shoulder, being a petite woman. The black color is perfect for me and goes with all of my clothes really well. I usually don't write many, but a few reviews, but with this outstanding purse, I just had to tell people, how great it is and how much I love it! I found the Leather Mini roomy enough for me, and I am very picky, lol!
I finally bought the black version of bag after reading the reviews for months. I commute to a large city on public transportation and thought it would work for my needs. With much regret, it is being returned to LLBean.com
There is no question that the bag is beautiful and well- made. However, it is too large for everyday use, and the "mini" version is too small for daily commuting (based on the dimensions posted on this site).
I would like to second (and third and fourth!) the numerous requests made in these reviews for a "medium" size version of this bag. A few inches narrower and smaller, with longer straps and an exterior pocket, please! I would even pay the same price for a "medium" size if it displayed the notable quality of the bag I received.
