For the Love of Bags

Coach’s Ergo is probably one of the most classic of Coach’s designs. Now, Coach has come up with a NEW Ergo design. They are now on Coach’s site but will be only going on sale on Friday.

Here are some designs.

So, what do you think?

This is the new Francine bag by Coach and I’m not even going to bother checking it out.
First off, I don’t like the shape.

Secondly, I don’t like the design. There seems to be too much going on, with a large pocket in front and a back flat pocket. Also there is too much hardware which detracts from the line and the look. The Francine is supposed to be a handheld bag - look at the short handles. I don’t understand the need for a detachable long strap to be provided. Its redundant for me because I think it would look awful hanging from the shoulder, rather like the Balenciaga motorcycle bag that similarly came with a detachable strap - useless.

Thirdly, I hate patent leather. Patent leather is NOT leather. It is a man made material and it is prone to creasing, peeling and having its corners worn off after a spell. Besides, that shiny look makes it look cheap in my opinion. I’ve owned patent leather goods and I’ve sworn never to own them again.

Here are the specifications of the Francine Bag from Coach:

This bold new design blends a unique shape with a striking combination of brass hardware and shiny patent leather. A long, removable strap offers fashionable flair and even more versatility.
# Inside zip pocket
# Cell phone and multi-function pocket with checkbook functionality
# Ring to clip an accessory or keyfob
# Outside front pocket with turn-lock closure
# Outside open back pocket
# Patent leather
# Legacy stripe fabric lining
# Can be worn on shoulder or cross body
# 15” handle
# 5 1/2” drop
# 45” adjustable strap with dogleash clip
# 16 (L) x 11 1/2 (H) x 6 3/4 (W)

Looking at the simulation of the bag on a 5′3″ frame, I’d say it is too big. It does look better on someone 5′ 5″ or taller as it looks more proportionate then.

Retail price is US$798 (RM2,553) at Coach stores. It comes in patent leather in Teal, Mahogany, White and Purple and in Metallic leather in White. I must admit the Teal color attracts me but not even that is enough to make me like the Francine one tiny bit!

I previously wrote that I’d finally managed to see the Coach Madeline bag in person. I was very excited then because I thought I liked the shape of it. I’ve since tried it on a few more times at the Coach store, and I’m afraid I’ve decided that I don’t quite like the Madeline Tote after all.

My reasons for disliking the Madeline are:-

• The leather version is stiff. I know its meant to be stiff so it holds its shape. However, I have experience with stiff leather bags and it is prone to creasing if you aren’t careful.
• The bag doesn’t rest properly against the body. For some reason, it sticks out quite stiffly when I carry it on my shoulder. It doesn’t feel very comfortable when I’m carrying it either (and that’s without stuffing it full of my rubbish!)
• The scarf. I know its the design but no, its just not for me.
• Its too similar to the Hamptons tote. Hanging a scarf from the bag doesn’t make it a new design.
• It feels too big on my frame. I’m 5′3″ and its just a little bit too big so it makes me look a little overwhelmed. This is accentuated by the fact that its a stiff design not a slouchy one.

So yes, I raved about it 2 months ago and I’m glad I waited to see if I really wanted it. It turns out, I don’t! Hurrah!