Nova Mid Volume Backpack

I have another Herschel backpack I like, a Parker, for it's durability, slim size, and laptop sleeve which is great for my daily commutes on public transit. Though I've used that bag for over 2 years, it was lacking a water bottle pocket which I could really use. So I was excited to see this Nova backpack come out with the water bottle sleeves and such a cute design. Sadly, when you put a 20 oz water bottle into the sleeve (or even a small umbrella) it cuts into space from the main portion of the bag. The water bottle sleeve is also very tight so it is a struggle to get the bottle in and out. I was also excited to see this bag came with a front pocket and key strap. Sadly the key strap is 1 inch long and to use it you have to rub up against the rough zippers of the front pocket. Why not make the key strap a few inches longer and much more usable? Also the front pocket is not very big, it doesn't even fit my normal sized wallet. Overall I like the style of the bag and the durability of Herschel products, I just wish some of the features that drew me to the bag were more functional.

Do NOT buy this bag. The first time I bought it, the zipper broke after a few months. However, I liked it so much that I returned to the store. Nordstrom was great enough to replace it for free. Only a few weeks later, the lining in the front pocket ripper off and now constantly gets caught in the front zipper. While I love this bag, it’s very poor quality and not worth your money.

I've always loved Herschel's quality and design, and when I was looking for a new backpack I wanted not only something that would look unique (no getting black backpacks confused at airports and coat checks) but that would fit my normal things, plus a book and a few groceries. This size is perfect, and the fabric interesting but also subtle enough to go with almost any outfit. My one complaint is that the zippers are a bit less than smooth, but it's not a big deal. I'd definitely continue to by Herschel in the future.