Small Transport Leather Crossbody Tote

Nice lightweight leather. The black leather was gorgeous and I really appreciated the simplicity of th Small Transport. It would have been a good size (for me) on days where I would have multiple quick-stop errands. Hoewever, it was the few bad features that caused me to return it. First, no secondary leather loop on the adjustable crossbody strap, such a oversight is just careless. I am not one that can handle a flapping or curling strap that could have easily been prevented. Second, there should have been a zip pocket on the interior wall where the Madewell logo is sewn. The logo could have gone on the pocket or above it. Lastly, I found the zipper to be a pain. If the bag was completely unzipped, I found the zipper too difficult to close one handed because of the way it was designed.

I've been wanting to buy this purse for a few years. They had one left in the Dark Cabernet color and I went for it. The color & quality are great. The leather is stiff, which I like. The zipper is not so great. It sticks easily while opening and closing when the end of the zipper is tucked inside. If you don't tuck the zipper back in, it sticks out of the bag and looks awkward. The older version of this bag had a better zipper construction that was seamless and allowed you to fully open it without a piece of leather on either side obstructing your view. The older version also had a softer, less structured leather which could be why the construction of the zipper has changed. If this bag had stiff leather with a better constructed top zipper I'd give it five stars but thats just not what it is.

I've never tried this brand before but the faded rust multi color that was on display in the store caught my eye and I had to try it. This is a great size bag to wear crossbody because it's not too big but can still handle more than just a wallet and keys. The fabric crossbody strap is wide (which fits well on the shoulder) and soft material, it's also in a fun color scheme. There is an alternative leather strap, which I don't plan to ever use because it is thin and feels cheap. The top handles on the bag are the same material and again feel thin and cheap. The bag itself is leather, but this is not a high quality leather bag, so the leather is not super thick. Of course, the advantage of it being thinner leather is this bag is super lightweight (thick leather bags are heavy, usually 1-2lbs before you add anything inside) and this bag is very comfortable when worn as a crossbody. I would pass on this bag if it were full price but at the Anniversary sale price it's a nice casual bag.