Looking for recommendations on a functional leather crossbody bag
September 24, 2015 8:05 PM Subscribe
I like bags and purses that have organization details and pockets galore, but I am also prone to carrying unnecessary weight if the bag is too large. To spare my shoulder and back, I've been downsizing to smaller crossbody bags. I've enjoyed using Travelon purses, but the most recent one is wearing out on me and I'm looking at a future replacement.
I like bags and purses that have organization details and pockets galore, but I am also prone to carrying unnecessary weight if the bag is too large. To spare my shoulder and back, I've been downsizing to smaller crossbody bags. I've enjoyed using Travelon purses, but the most recent one is wearing out on me and I'm looking at a future replacement.
Ideally I'd like a functional (i.e. can hold essentials like wallet and keys but also has designated spots for cards, pens, phone, toiletries, and possibly small tablet) but professional looking mid-size crossbody purse that can go from day to night -- I hate changing purses and will basically use one until it wears out.
One thing I'd like to consider is leather, which I'd written off before because of the weight and perceived lack of function. Now I've seen some awesome functional purses like Lo & Sons The Pearl and these two from Knomo, and I'd love to know of other, similar examples. Any other recommendations or thoughts on the above bags?
I like bags and purses that have organization details and pockets galore, but I am also prone to carrying unnecessary weight if the bag is too large. To spare my shoulder and back, I've been downsizing to smaller crossbody bags. I've enjoyed using Travelon purses, but the most recent one is wearing out on me and I'm looking at a future replacement.
Ideally I'd like a functional (i.e. can hold essentials like wallet and keys but also has designated spots for cards, pens, phone, toiletries, and possibly small tablet) but professional looking mid-size crossbody purse that can go from day to night -- I hate changing purses and will basically use one until it wears out.
One thing I'd like to consider is leather, which I'd written off before because of the weight and perceived lack of function. Now I've seen some awesome functional purses like Lo & Sons The Pearl and these two from Knomo, and I'd love to know of other, similar examples. Any other recommendations or thoughts on the above bags?
For another kind of bag, I knew what I wanted, and it didn't exist. I found a company online that sounded like they would do custom work affordably, and I sent them notes and pictures of what I wanted (pictures cobbling together elements from other bags, especially products from their own lines so they could see exactly what I wanted in terms of things they already understood how to make). There was some email back and fourth to clarify things, select materials, etc. They made it to spec and I loved the results. And if I ever want another... they have the design on file :)
So if you know exactly what you want but are having trouble finding anything like it... this offers another option.
posted by anonymisc at 2:31 PM on September 25, 2015
So if you know exactly what you want but are having trouble finding anything like it... this offers another option.
posted by anonymisc at 2:31 PM on September 25, 2015
Timbuk2. Love them, I just got the FEMME Messenger and it is the best.
posted by lunastellasol at 4:27 PM on September 25, 2015
posted by lunastellasol at 4:27 PM on September 25, 2015
Best answer: Durable leather construction, light weight, pockets galore: pick two. Unfortunately your requirements are somewhat at odds with each other, because sturdy leather is heavy, and organizational features add weight. I don't see the weights for the Knomo bags but they look like they'd be heavy, especially the one with the built-in battery.
If you are willing to ditch your wallet, that will help lighten your load. Here is a Fossil bag with two main compartments, a smaller outside pocket, and credit card slots (along with a few other organizers) sewn into the lining. Coach also used to make bags with built-in card slots.
I had the Lo & Sons Pearl and totally agree with evoque's warning. One of the major issues I had with the bag (along with overall quality complaints) is that the leather is too thin for the bag's structured shape. Unless I had the center compartment stuffed pretty full, the shape of the bag would distort; it looked pretty bad.
If you find a crossbody you like except that it lacks the organizing features you want, you can use an organizer insert. These drop into the main compartment of the bag and have tons of little pockets inside and out. Etsy is brimming with them, and you can have them customized to fit the bag you buy and the items you carry. (Here is an example from a seller I've heard good things about, but never ordered from.) These help shape the bag as well as organize it.
posted by mama casserole at 10:45 AM on September 26, 2015
If you are willing to ditch your wallet, that will help lighten your load. Here is a Fossil bag with two main compartments, a smaller outside pocket, and credit card slots (along with a few other organizers) sewn into the lining. Coach also used to make bags with built-in card slots.
I had the Lo & Sons Pearl and totally agree with evoque's warning. One of the major issues I had with the bag (along with overall quality complaints) is that the leather is too thin for the bag's structured shape. Unless I had the center compartment stuffed pretty full, the shape of the bag would distort; it looked pretty bad.
If you find a crossbody you like except that it lacks the organizing features you want, you can use an organizer insert. These drop into the main compartment of the bag and have tons of little pockets inside and out. Etsy is brimming with them, and you can have them customized to fit the bag you buy and the items you carry. (Here is an example from a seller I've heard good things about, but never ordered from.) These help shape the bag as well as organize it.
posted by mama casserole at 10:45 AM on September 26, 2015
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I wouldn't write nylon off completely, since MZ Wallace's Bedford line is fantastically sturdy while staying stylish. There are also a few bags done in leather, like the Pippa, that would meet your requirements.
posted by evoque at 10:12 AM on September 25, 2015