This tote was a little smaller than I expected and didn't have quite as many pockets and storage areas, but after I packed all my stuff in it I discovered it is roomier and more organized than I thought. When you lift the front flap you access a large, zippered main compartment and a smaller zippered compartment on the front of the purse, both of which are protected by the large flap when closed. The flap has a substantial metal closure on the bottom front. There is a third compartment on the back of the purse which closes partially with a 1-inch Velcro patch.
The large main compartment features a small zipper pocket -- I use it for breath mints, gum, and assorted pills. The large main compartment holds my thick wallet, makeup bag, sunglasses case and much more. Rather than getting lost in a pile on the bottom of the purse, these items are packed together snugly, so they stay put and are easy to find.
The front zippered compartment holds my tissues, coin purse, small calculator, and other assorted items, all of which are protected under the flap when it is closed. There is a nifty latch for attaching your keys so they can be found quickly.
The compartment on the rear of the purse doesn't hold quite as much since, if you put too much stuff in it, the Velcro pieces won't touch. I put my cell phone and very large set of key here so I can always find them (my husband calls them my "jail warden keys".)
The bag is well made and attractive -- I got the sand dune color with taupe initials, which looks good with the caramel-colored leather trim. The shoulder strap length can be adjusted easily -- the shortest length fits me comfortably and stays in place -- I hate it when they keep falling off. You could easily wear a lengthened strap over the head, especially if shopping in a crowded place and desiring more security.
Hope you enjoy your new purse -- I think we'll be using them for a long time to come!
I really like this bag. It is roomy, the shoulder strap is adjustable (which some are not) and the quality is great. I purchased the olive color because it may not show as much dirt, etc when outdoors (hiking, etc).
I received my bag yesterday and I absolutely love it. I was unsure about a shoulder bag as I usually carry totes or satchels, but I've got two little girls and I really needed a bag I could use as a crossover to free up my hands. I wanted a bag that is stylish (I'm a NYC girl so style is a must :) yet practical. It's a great size, I can fit a small cosmetics bag, a bottle of water, a book, a camera and my usual purse items and I've still got some room. It's perfect for a day in the city or the park. I got the sand dune color and it's a nice light tan color, not too light though so dirt won't show so easily. Great buy, I'm happy I bought it.
I bought this in the Cocoa Brown; it wasn't as dark of a brown as I thought it was going to be, but I like it none the less. It's a good size, but not too big; I like it because it's multi-use and well-made. I definitely recommend.
