I was passing by the Coach store in The Gardens Midvalley yesterday and saw the Coach Madeline Tote in the window. Was I excited? Yes, terribly so! I did not expect this new Coach handbag to arrive here in Malaysia so quickly.
On display were the red, green leather and brown canvas with white leather trim. It looks exactly as it does in the pictures. The Madeline Tote is structured, so it would look as good for work as it would on a weekend. It is large and roomy but not so large as to over power a small frame.
I am about 5′ 2″ and on my shoulder, it comes up to my waist and it doesn’t dwarf me - both very good qualities. Also, the shoulder strap is long enough to hang on the shoulder comfortably but it can also be hand held without looking awkward. The top closes with a detachable zip to give you the option of leaving it open or zipped. I like that. However, the zip does not go all the way across the bag, only in the middle section, leaving gaps at the end. I see it more as a preventive measure than for any form of safety of belongings.
There is the usual mobile phone pocket inside and inner zip pocket. The main compartment is large and looks easily accessible. On the outside, are 2 pockets, the one in front secured with a turn lock and one open one on the back. Both bags did not feel over heavy, which is useful, especially if you have a lot of thing to carry, as I do.
I don’t quite see the function of the scarf/ribbon except as an accessory. Personally, I’d take it off because I feel it makes it look too cliched. But then that would just make the Madeline look like a Hamptons Carryall (another bag I was eyeing).
The Coach Madeline Tote retails at Coach stores in Malaysia for RM2025 for the canvas and RM2175 for the leather. I’ve my heart set on the red. Its gorgeous and just right for Chinese New Year and Valentines Day! LOL
Coach has just launched a new design of totes called the Madeline Tote.
I am so taken in with this one! The 3 I picked out are my favourite designs of all available though I’m favouring the green and the red. I love colourful bags and these look awesome.
Looking at the specifications of the tote, what I’m liking is the fact of a zip-top closure. Too many Coach totes don’t have a zip-top closure which bugs me, and that stops me from buying their totes. They might have taken that into account this time. The scarf bow comes as part of the bag (a customization popularized by Coach) and I suppose you could remove it if you don’t like it. I know I would! So, if you do remove it, you get a scarf and a bag in one - not a bad deal!
It currently retails for US$428 (RM1412) but I can only expect it’ll cost more in our stores here when it arrives. I can’t wait to check it out!
This is the beauty I’m eyeing.
Its a Francesco Biasia bag, which is an Italian brand, a bag and accessories company based in Veneto, Italy. This brand isn’t like all the big Italian fashion brands we are used to seeing - Gucci, Ferragamo etc but having followed some of its designs online, I’m rather drawn to this brand.
Why? Well, because I like the way it looks. Their bags have a fashionable yet classic look that won’t go out of style. Its not like the IT bags that you see trotted out every season. Their bags are made to last through trends. And I like that they look sturdy and useable, not like something thats more for show instead of substance.
This design is from the Sunshine Collection. I’m not so taken in with this orange colour. However, I first saw a picture in the latest Isetan Kuala Lumpur newsletter. Its not yet up online but if you check in a few days, you’ll see a model holding a chocolate brown bag in the design above.
I’m absolutely freaking in love with it in chocolate!!
But not the price. Its RM2,200 and found at Isetan Kuala Lumpur along with their other designs. I’ve been to check out this brand before there. The quality of the leather is lovely - buttery soft with a quality feel. I think this is an under-rated brand.
Now let me go and shake out the couch again for any spare change. I need me that bag!
