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We’ve officially entered the summer season, which means you’re no doubt busy filling up your shopping carts with raffia, straw and woven handbags galore. But fashion never sleeps, and before you know it, you’re going to be needing something a bit…cozier. That’s why I’m going to let you in on a little secret: The best suede bag I’ve ever had the pleasure of owning (thank you, J.Crew!) is currently on sale for nearly 50% off, and you’re going to want to snag it before fall rolls around.
Dubbed the J.Crew Berkley shoulder bag, this top-rated style is just the right amount of, well, everything. The oversized crescent shape makes for the perfect size for carrying your lot: I can comfortably fit a book, a pair of flip-flops, sunglasses, a Kindle, a tank top, my phone, a pair of nipple covers, an eye shadow palette and a tube of lotion in here with room to spare. (I tested it!) That said, it’s not so big that it overwhelms my 5-foot 2-inch frame—a common issue I tend to have with other shoulder bags.
The rich, chocolatey brown Cocoa Berry hue is right on trend (Marie Claire said so), and the detailing on this piece is absolutely stunning—fashion historians will appreciate the special nod the brand gave to its roots with the oar-shaped details at the base of the handles, which harken back to J.Crew’s ’80s and ’90s labels.
Inside, you’ll find a large back pocket (your Kindle can fit inside) and a roomy card holder—a dream for all my fellow type As.
It’s even just the right price. Unlike the similarly shaped Ralph Lauren Polo ID suede bag, which will run you a cool $848 (in this economy? No ma’am!), this one is far more affordable at its original price of $148. Factor in the currently 43 percent discount, and you can get it for just $85. (And newsflash? For real suede with leather detailing, that’s an absolute bargain!)
I have but two gripes about this bag, and I’m so in love with every other aspect of it, I’m overwilling to overlook both.
The first is that the gold buckle, while plenty heavy duty, takes a bit of effort to snap. Not because it’s too tight to fit the button clasp or anything that’s *actually* problematic, but because despite being magnetic, it doesn’t always line up properly on its own—I have to really stop and look at it to guide the two closure pieces together.
The second is that the bottom isn’t super structured, which can make it hard to stand the bag up when it’s empty. As such, I’ve taken to hanging it on a hanger instead of keeping it upright on a shelf.
All in all, however, it’s a very small price to pay for having such a beautiful piece at my disposal.
I highly recommend snatching this baby up—before it sells out.
What do you think of the J.Crew Berkeley? Weigh in in the comments below?
