I purchased this good looking, perfectly sized, highly functional bag knowing I would have to do a little "tweaking" to make the wonderfully cavernous interior work for me in a more organized way. First, the quality is very high; I love that the top has a zipper-much more secure. This bag will last for years as my everyday, go-everywhere, carry-all. My tweaks include the creation and hand-sewing in the interior of pockets of similar fabric that will fit my phone, small camera, pens and a small notepad. I think I will be able to squeeze in my tablet in a pinch. Many travel bags have these organizers on the interior. Honestly, I knew I would have to do this, so no marks against L.L. Bean, but I would have paid more if even some of this functionality had been part of the interior, my only reason for 4 out of 5 stars. Otherwise, great bag and a good value.
When I first received this bag I thought I would be sending it back because of the size. I did look at the measurements prior to purchase, but when it arrived it seemed a bit tiny for all my things. However, I absolutely love this purse! It fits everything I normally carry and then some. It has just the right amount of pockets: the back one for my keys, the front zippered one for receipts and other papers, and the interior one for miscellaneous smaller things. It keeps its shape well. The strap is just the right length, as I do not like crossbody bags and do not need a longer strap. I do find that it sort of slips off my shoulder now and then, but I think that has to do with whatever fabric my blouse is made of. I did not find anything cheaply made about it, the fabric is nice, leather is beautiful, clasps and zippers are perfect. For the money, this purse is a great buy. I even got a stain on the front leather strap and it came off with a sponging of regular water. I would love another, maybe the brown. My only recommendation is that it be made in black or navy. I ordered the khaki which seems to go with a lot, but I find that I need a black purse now and then. Please make one in black or navy! I'd buy both!
I love this purse. It is roomy (large enough to hold a book along with all my other daily necessities) and attractive and the handle is plenty long to wear cross body (I'm 5'8"). I think that it is something that I can use all year round.
For day trips and travel, I wanted something discrete, rugged, stylish, smaller than a messenger bag but spacious enough hold my iPad and compact camera system (micro-four thirds camera and a few lenses). This bag checks all the boxes and then some.
The bag is small but surprisingly roomy. I can easily fit my iPad, small camera, and three small lenses. In fact, there's room left over for a second iPad, Kindle, or standard-size book. Tickets, passports, and keys can also be tucked into the pockets.
The shoulder strap allows the bag to be worn comfortably over the shoulder. I can also wear the bag cross body (though the strap may be a little short for that if you're closer to 6').
The canvas is rugged but doesn't appear cheap. The leather accent is a nice touch. This is the kind of bag that will age nicely, and would go well with jeans or khakis.
The bag suits my needs as a day tripper, traveler, and amateur photographer. It is discrete enough not to attract attention (it does not advertise: "iPad" or "expensive camera" inside), but very useful and looks nice.
