As I get older my first requirement for a bag is comfort. Then I look at the style. Is the bag itself so heavy that it hurts my shoulder? Do the straps or handles dig into my hands or shoulder? Does it have hard corners that bang into my hip when I walk?

I'm also a one realllly good bag person so pressure points probably matter less when you switch bags often.

I like the Gucci with tortoise handles.

This post is killing me....I'm trying to put myself on a handbag moratorium because I have no more room....[insert temper tantrum here]

Longchamp has several, no bamboo handles but here's one

https://us.longchamp.com/products/roseau/tote-bag-l/l1681871239

Nice, simple lines, Arapaho.

1929, I have the same issue. Finally decided summer bags would go in my basement storage. I don't do any seasonal switching of clothes normally, since I have enough room, but purses ...

I tell myself it is ok because I don't care about jewelry anymore, which is far far pricier. In fact I have a strong preference for costume jewelry.

D_gw, I am very sorry, but you will need to start your own thread to discuss such concerns. This thread is about prettiness!! ; ) JK JK

If only we had a basement.....trying to convince DH to give up his office so I can turn my office into a girly-closet-palace. Not going to happen.....

Oh c'mon, what good is an office compared to a girly-closet-palace!!

We are lucky, the PO put in all these built in floor to ceiling cabinets in the basement. It's crazy, it almost looks like a locker room.

I hate you.....(heeheehee)

I guess I am boring, I like 5.

Eandhl, I’m really boring. I have mostly used the same Dasein convertible faux leather backpack/shoulder sling bag in Camel for more years than I can remember. It’s great for traveling as well. I went to buy another before they no longer make them but they are sold out. I have to admit that there is a bit of cheese in the selections but also a few acceptable’s. While on the site I found this for those without unlimited budgets.

$42.00 Dasein Business Satchel

15.7 w X 10.8 h X 5”d

https://www.daseinbags.com/products/dasein-slim-briefcase-with-matching-wallet?variant=34270697540

Or this $39

Here’s my boring convertible bag I always wear with its new handmade charm inspired by my fav bag Mtn Posted. This Dasein is still going strong. My last one lasted four years of nearly daily use.

Edited: If anyone orders any of the above be warned that I think the model used to show scale Is very small.

Following... Lovely eyecandy! I like #1 and #7 in the original list. #7, because it's brown which matches my favorite clogs and high heeled mules. 1929Spanish, you are welcome to use any part of my home for your overflow handbag storage...

6 does look a little large. I‘m assuming you saw the inside. Is there some pockets and separation or is it a giant hole? Of course they do make those organizer inserts but I don’t always like to add them.

ETA Side note: I never bought anything from Mark & Graham but was looking at their Terminal 1 luggage a few days ago and was considering buying a piece because I think it's gorgeous and I do need a new suitcase but the reviews for the company and products were really bad. As in 1 star out of around 60 reviews. People complained of crooked monograms, unresponsive, poor quality, etc. I was surprised since I believe they're a sister store with PB and WS.

(Wanted the white but probably would have ordered navy because of showing dirt. monogrammed-terminal-1-checked-spinner-luggage)

The very first bag, the white one - for me that is the wowzer. Beautiful and not overdesigned. Next would be that darling black Prada, #5. I prefer bags that are wider horizontally than with vertical height.

#3

Sheeisback, I've purchased a few items from Mark & Graham and was disappointed in the quality. I cannot recommend them.

Number 1 and the two black ones.

I don’t know how I glazed over the black Prada bag but I really like that one too. Will you switch the bag for the season? The #3 Burberry and black Prada I would use in fall and winter. 1 and 6 would lean spring and summer for me.

Fun- That’s a shame about the store. And it wasn’t even a few poor random reviews here and there, it was all of them. :(

Okay, here is where I am.

The Burberry plaids are all out because I have a Burberry plaid purse already and none of these was just right except the one I did not even show because I think it is particularly crazily priced.

Also, I think I am swayed by the onset of spring and not feeling like the darker colors. That killed off all the black bags too. I also am not sure if I like that one giant check bag having a diff design on one side.

I like the first bag a lot, but TBH I like it best when customized, and that customized bag is $1000 and a 6+ week wait. I would not have guessed you could spend that on a Coach and if I were spending that I would sooner get a different brand. And no promo codes apply!

I really like the vintage metallic straw Gucci a LOT but it is vintage and for that I would want either "like new" or "excellent" condition. There is only one avail and it is not returnable and it has some supposedly minor condition issues so no-go. Spark of sadness there.

Carol and Funky sold me on (tasteful) metallics and it seems we all really like bamboo. Plus, I have never owned Gucci so that will spark joy. The rectangular shape tote-like one is the perfect shape and size but I don't see it anywhere (it is vintage too... dumb bunnies at Gucci have no more bamboo on offer in any of their new stuff). I don't even see it many places listed as sold.

I am down to the larger metallic bamboo Gucci tote (#9 still the vote leader I think), and Mini tote I saw in the same line. Try not to laugh at the shoe (shown to indicate size)

So my only choices in the brand and size I like are one that is Too Big and one that is Too Small. I think I will go with the former.

I like that bag!

Question: what size tote do you find that’s the most useful? I’m talking a tote that can double as a purse if need be. It would also be used for fresh fruit, cheese, bread and maybe a bottle of wine...a light grocery shop or vacation bits. Keep in mind I’m a few inches shorter.

I can't imagine a bag I'd use for both a purse AND for light grocery shopping and wine, etc. There are so many great reasonably priced totes for market/picnic that I wouldn't want to try to do double duty.. but that's just me. I will be curious to see what others come up with.

ETA I do use a work tote for dual duty though-- as I don't want to carry two bags.

Well, I was thinking something like these vegan bags. I’m just not used to a tote as my normal go to is a shoulder sling/backpack.

Both picks are in the camel tan.

https://www.daseinbags.com/products/dasein-medium-classic-tote-bag-with-front-crosshatch-patch-and-round-gold-trim-handle?variant=32626362308

https://www.daseinbags.com/products/dasein-faux-leather-checkered-plaid-designed-tote-with-bucket-bag-inside-handbag-shoulder-bag-medium-bag?variant=36928171524

You think these couldn’t do double duty? I like double duty stuff. My hub this year will be a remodeled apartment in Old Town Nice for two weeks. Of course I’ll take the shoulder sling/ backpack but I want another double duty that I could use for shopping or smart casual evenings.

I think Mtn probably has close to a hundred totes and can solve this mystery.

Edited: never mind, I think I’m going to do the first one above. I like most of the 2nd one better but as I will most likely use the shoulder strap I think the handles would be bothersome with #2?

Well, someone else may have a different view-- but I don't normally carry a tote size bag unless I am .. well.. toting something. My every day bags are smaller. Even still, I wouldn't want to carry cheese or green onions and tomatoes from the market in the same bag where I carry my makeup and wallet.

There are such great, compactable market bags-- often available for less than $20 (sometimes MUCH less). That's my preference for carrying food stuffs.

Oh you are probably right Funk. I always seem to spend a ridiculous amount of time trying to find things that can multi purpose. I have a history of expecting a lot from a single item. The 2nd tote comes with a little bag to put in the tote for separation of makeup and such but I don’t think it will work anyway because those handles are big if one were to use the shoulder strap. However, as you mentioned another minus is the little bag might get onion-y. Ewww!

#9!

#1 & #9 were my original fav’s. Of course I like #9 because it goes with more stuff which equals multi purpose in my book.

Jterri,

Oooh, Nice (long "e")! Nice (long "i")! Doesn't Gooster have a place there?

If I need a tote to do double duty, I use something like one of the midsize Mar y Sol totes (since they are so lightweight) and then within that I have a smaller bag that is my defacto "purse", (ie a zippered bag that i put my makeup and wallet into).

One thing, make sure you get a "lined" bag from Mar Y Sol. I had a really pretty one but it drove me crazy because it was an unlined open weave, and my pen would stick out.

If I am travelling, on the outbound, the bag would be full to the gills with say, my makeup and wallet, sunglasses, a book, maybe a pair of yoga pants to change into on the plane, and a bag with a few pieces of fruit and nuts let's say.

When we arrive and are out for the day, it might have nothing but my passport, 1 credit card, my phone, a lipstick, and maybe a bottle of water. If we shop, I have room. Unless I had a formal event, I would carry it to dinner as well. If I wanted to dress it up, I would tile a silk scarf around the handle.

Someone here on GW turned me on to this brand. They have a ton of styles but for travel, if I am only taking one bag, i like the plain one. A scarf looks really pretty with it. Or you can buy key rings (even at your destination) to add a little zing.

Oh I really like that tote! Never heard of that brand. I had so many great totes before the flood! I have one black leather now. I figured a black leather was a good choice for anything.

I am off now to look at that website!

Yes-- that tote is a perfect market bag! Still, I wouldn't use it as a purse. I am not uptight about many things but I just wouldn't put food in my purse (other than a piece of sealed fruit-- which I admit, I do often). If I carried the market tote, I'd wear a crossbody for my cc, keys and lipgloss

Funky, even if the food was in its own plastic bag tho?

BTW someone here recommended Mar Y Sol, IDK who. Thank you GW person!

To add some more interesting leather bags to the mix, these are from Karama, made in Africa. Most are unlined I think but still nice leather. Karama is a non-profit and the funds support Young Life Africa teen camps. A friend is on their Board. I often order interesting things from their website.

http://shop.karamacollection.com/shop/Leather/Circle-Clutch.html

Thanks outside, love the color of this tote

No, not fresh veggies from the market. Definitely not cheese. Those smells get into leather.

I am a little amused … because I am so not all that particular... but this one really kind of icks me out. I had to carry an EMPTY and rinsed yeti coffee tumbler in my leather bag the other day and it really bothered me!

Here you go Mtn, the Mini Le Chiquito--if we're not concerned with function

https://www.popbuzz.com/style/fashion/jacquemus-bag-mini-le-chiquito/

Mtn & Outside, thanks for the inspiration you generated with the Addis Tote. I found a tote at Matt & Nat that I like a lot. I’m keen on vegan bags for traveling as they are waterproof and easy to clean (I’m not very responsible with bags). The insides are even made of recycled plastic bottles. I love this site as there are so many minimalist items and also minimal with a twist bags.

I think this is a good size for my size. 18 x 13 x 6.5

https://mattandnat.com/shop/handbags/schlepp-frappe/

Oh, and, this little 8 x 8 bag is too cute! If I like the quality of the big bag I’m going to order this. My big bag can have a baby. Or, I could just wear on it’s own.

What a wonderful organization Karama is. Thanks for the link, Outside.

Well I’m off the Matt & Nat above after reading about their customer service.

Mtn, would you wear this? It’s from a company called Corkor - made of cork , scratch and water resistant.

https://www.corkor.com/collections/cork-handbags-women/products/vegan-satchel-bag-db?variant=12133108973668

I really like it but wonder if it’s a little too campy for a “between” pick.

Or, there is this one from Rok Cork, pricey but nice. Water resistant & scratchproof? This one doesn’t say and it’s one of my priorities for travel.

https://rokcork.com/?variant=16053041627170

I bought this very large hobo bag from Banana Republic at a steep discount over the holidays. I was planning to give it as a gift but the leather was soooo thin and unsubstantial that I opted not to give it as a gift.. I use it when I am ubering about for errands and don't want to carry a lot of little bags.

It IS very light and very roomy -- no compartments. I would call it more like a satchel, I guess. I think it could work as a tote/purse/market bag especially because it weighs so little compare to most leather totes.

It isn't available in store anymore but I saw some on poshmark and ebay if you like this kind of style.

I bought this very large hobo bag from Banana Republic at a steep discount over the holidays. I was planning to give it as a gift but the leather was soooo thin and unsubstantial that I opted not to give it as a gift.. I use it when I am ubering about for errands and don't want to carry a lot of little bags.

It IS very light and very roomy -- no compartments. I would call it more like a satchel, I guess. I think it could work as a tote/purse/market bag especially because it weighs so little compare to most leather totes.

It isn't available in store anymore but I saw some on poshmark and ebay if you like this kind of style.

Jterri, that cork is so interesting. I still prefer Mar Y sol, to me that is timeless, summery, and I love that it weighs nothing. I hate a bag that is heavy empty.

Not for your use, but this cork bag shows off the cork more imHO.

These are very cool, too, Jterri -- for those of us who want briefcase-y bags.

Thanks Funky!

Mtn, I would love to have your bag and I can’t wait to see the real life photo. I wonder...could that bag go to dinner , sit in a damp boat, ride on a horse and carry cheese and wine lol. See how impossible I am?

No, but the Mar Y sol can! That's what I'd take. : )

Justterri, I have a black. Kipling backpack that I often bring on vacation that could probably fill all those needs.

...and even though I have not one, but three totes from this etsy artist (and I love them all)

...I have just added a Mar Y Sol bag to my amazon cart and it’s mtn’s fault.

Thank you for your help all. I bought this Thacker leather bag on LastCall. I had a promo code that could be used on top of the sale price. It’s 15 x 15 x 5.5. I figure I might not plow as many people down with this as it’s not as sticky-outy.

I’m sick of looking. If I need something bigger I’ll get some big cheapy sack.

cute bag

Thank you Mtn! I don’t enjoy shopping. I think I need therapy.

After seeing another heartbreaking news report on hunger, I remembered this website and thought I'd put it out there- Feed Projects - Bags & Totes

"Looking for enablers" . . . and reeling in all of us hopeless handbag addicts, too (LOL)! Oh my gosh, there are so many seriously wonderful handbags on this thread! My handbag storage is as crammed as Spanish's, if not more! And I passed along my addiction on to my sweet DD. Her birthday is later this month and what does she want for gifts from us? More handbags! And so, I've just bought her a gorgeous rolling tote bag, and now a beautiful dress purse from Karl Lagerfeld. It was honestly very hard not to keep them both for myself! Hmmm, but my Summer bag is getting a bit shabby, so perhaps I'll take another stroll through this bad boy thread (LOL)!

The bag I’ve been carrying for awhile is made of cork. I bought it in Portugal. I loads of compliments on it. Sadly it’s looking pretty beat up now and I’ve been looking for a replacement.

Dedtired, if my Thacker bag doesn’t work out I’m going to seriously consider the Rok Cork tote I posted above. Or if the one I ordered does work maybe I’ll still look for cork when I get to France.

Arapaho, those are so nice! I have one from that line that is a collapsible grocery tote.