Marc Jacobs The Small Leather-Trim Traveler Tote Review

Marc Jacobs The Small Leather-Trim Traveler Tote

Tote bags are my favorite bags to buy, and Marc Jacobs' totes have been on my list every time I thought I was getting a new bag. The new Argan Oil leather tote and the Pomelo Yellow canvas tote are both on my shopping list. However, today I will discuss this unicorn tote that may be only available at Saks Fifth Avenue. Is this a Saks exclusive tote by Marc Jacobs? I don't see it mentioned in the title or description, but I haven't seen this option anywhere else so far.

Crossbody strap on Marc Jacobs The Small Traveler Tote

I got this Traveler Tote because I was given a 20% coupon code, and at the same time, Rakuten had a 10% rebate on Saks. Would I have gotten it without all the discounts and rebates? Probably not. This Marc Jacobs Traveler Tote is almost as expensive as its leather sibling if you look at the price. The primary material, though, is polyester felt instead of wool. The leather essence on this bag is gorgeous, but I don't think it justifies a high price tag compared to the canvas or denim versions. The second reason I purchased the tote was that it says the bag was made in Italy in the description. Later on, when I received my purchase, I was shocked to learn the information was false and the bag wasn't made in Italy. I do learn something new every time I buy a new bag. This time, I learned to be less trusting in terms of the listed information. Many designer bags on the website that say they are made in Italy are likely made in China, Vietnam, or Asian factories. I did give them feedback on the false product information, but I don't think Saks cares. As of now, they haven't corrected the description of the tote.

The pockets inside the tote

Leather Handles

Just like all other Marc Jacobs totes, this bag is gorgeous! I love the color combination they used when designing the bag. The black leather trim and the leather-covered handles add so much to the look of this tote. In addition, this tote came with a two tones gray crossbody strap. It is thick and soft and is very comfortable when using. Unfortunately, I couldn't find the information about the material, but I am guessing the strap was made with some cotton and polyester blend fabric. On the front of the bag, the word "THE TOTE BAG" was 3-D embroidered to the bag instead of printed. Other than that, this tote is very similar to other Marc Jacobs Traveler Totes in terms of the bag's design and structure. The main compartment is roomy, and it has a zip pocket and two slip pockets inside. The tote also features a zip flaps closure to help secure the item you carry in the bag.

3-D embroidery on the Marc Jacobs The Small Traveler Tote

Zip closure on the tote

Now, let's talk about what's not great about this tote! Before I am frank about the flaws, I have to say this tote is not for everybody. It is all about the look instead of practicality. The tote is made from polyester felt instead of wool felt. Even though polyester generally takes up to 20 years to break down, I think wool would be a much more long-lasting and more sustainable material. Let's face it, it is not likely that I would still be using this tote for more than 20 years, but I did have experience when polyester material breaks down after 5-10 years.

No lining inside the tote

Other than the primary material being polyester, the felt fabric is not thick enough to be durable. In addition, the tote doesn't have a lining or coating, so when I hold it up against any light source, it is translucent like a piece of rice paper. The touch of an uncoated felt fabric feels nice and is excellent for the Fall/Winter style, but if you have sharp nails, you could easily pull out fibers from the already thin fabric. Due to this concern, I don't suggest using this tote without a bag organizer. Imagine if you were carrying keys, a tube of hand lotion, etc.; those objects with sharp corners could poke through the bag easily! I had considered adding a base shaper, but I also need to limit the weight I am adding to the bag. Polyester felt fabric is not as strong as cotton or leather, and if I carry heavy stuff in this tote, the tote may tear or deform quickly!

You can see how light shines through the fabric

In conclusion, if you need a bag to fill your display shelf, this would be perfect, as it won't show when it starts to collect dust. However, don't expect to use it to carry a lot of stuff day-to-day; it may not hold up for a whole season. If you love the design of this tote, I highly recommend you try out its cotton or leather siblings. They are a workhorse and should last a long time without babying them.

The bag organizer I use for Marc Jacobs small traveler tote

The bottom of the bag