Is this the best tan leather handbag for 2011?

A great everyday handbag is hard to find.  It has to tick so many boxes from a functional point of view and yet not look like something you're going trekking with.  Alongside the normal phone, diary, makeup, keys requirements, it also needs to be able to accommodate the wealth of paraphernalia associated with small children for the days I am ‘mummy' as well as be versatile and smart enough for the office on ‘work' days.

So, to summarize, I need a bag which is all things to all people.

The Lucia is a worthy contender.  Designed by British based etailers, Peony & Moore, it certainly looks the part.  On initial inspection it has soft grainy leather, the type you just want to sit and smell.  It's squishy to the touch, yet the leather feels thick and robust.  I am looking at the new tan version, although it also comes in a lovely light camel, a Navy and a classic black.  A colour for every eventuality I think.  The tan is a lovely rich colour, not orangery as so many are.  It looks like it would go with everything in my wardrobe without causing too much fuss.

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The style is a relaxed satchel, hobo shape, with a pair of longish shoulder straps which fit very comfortably over the shoulder.  Its not packed tightly under my arm, but rather sits against my side.  From the front view it has 2 large pockets.  I like this, and more importantly although they look tricky to unclasp, the designers have thought ahead and they are simply on a magnet closure so easy to whip open.  Both pockets are lined which is a rare and nice touch, and both would easily fit a phone, lipstick, pen, diary.

The sides of this practical bag have adjustable buckles so you can change the size to accommodate your day. Perfect, large for ‘mummy' days, smaller for ‘me' days.  On the base are four lovely brass coloured feet to protect the bottom from dirt when placing it down.

The lovely oval buckle on the front gives a very luxe feel and the lock opens with a satisfying snap.  The leather flap covers the bag opening, so although it has no zip closure this bag is still as secure as if it had.  Inside is a lovely surprise, the bag is fully lined with a grey and white striped cotton, which makes it so light and easy to delve into. Bliss.  As well as a zip compartment for keys etc, it also has three little pockets on the inside lining for phone/diary/pens.  So let me refresh, that's 2 large pockets, 1 zip pocket plus 3 smaller pockets.  I am a pocket addict, and this fulfills my addiction perfectly!

I've not yet mentioned the classic silhouette and timeless shape.  It looks like the type of bag which you would have no styling ‘issues' with.  You're never going to hear yourself muttering that you need to change your bag today as it's just not right for your outfit.  It's contemporary, but not trendy.

I would now be assuming that as its ticked most of my boxes that it's going to also have a designer price tag.  Again, it's a lovely surprise to see that at £199 it's refreshingly affordable.  This bag will last more than a season; in fact it will carry you through from year to year as the wardrobe staple which just keeps on going and looking great.

My search is over.  The Lucia is definitely the best tan handbag for 2011.

Small leather designer handbag with small gold accents and cow print design. Email gm@thechicagopurse.com or call 815-582-4300 for details. Visit www.chicagopurse.com.
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