Botkier James Satchel

The more I see of them, the more I like Botkier bags. I’m not usually a big fan of blue bags, especially navy bags. I’m not sure why. They just don’t appeal to me. They look kinda like grandma handbags to me, I guess. I’m more into the lighter, brighter colors. But Botkier does blue in a beautiful way. I thought so at first with their Botkier Venice Satchel, and now with this Botkier James Satchel. They’re both dreamy blues, the kind that remind you of cool, calm water, or clear, cloudless skies. Gorgeous. Of course Botkier bags come in other colors besides blue, but I’m drawn to the blue ones, and apparently, a lot of other people are, too.

The Botkier James Satchel offers classic styling and beauty. It’s a little big for a satchel, at 16 inches wide and 10 inches high, but that just gives you more space to carry more things. You could conceivably turn it into a weekend getaway bag if you traveled lightly enough. The interior is lined with logoed fabric, and offers extra pockets for the little essentials. There are also two exterior zip pockets that are sort of camouflaged by the pleated leather, and only stand out because of their long, leather pulls. The top zips closed, and dual handles are attached to the bag with brushed silver-tone hardware. There’s also a detachable shoulder strap which will allow you to turn it into either a shoulder or cross-body bag. This color is called washed denim. Up close, it looks almost as if the color was sponged onto the leather. I love it. The James usually costs $595, but you can get it right now for $510.14 at Endless.com. Hurry. There are only two left!

Budget Saving Alternative 1

This one is really more my speed. The DKNY Glazed Leather Classics East/West Satchel is blazing in dark pink smooth leather so dark, it’s almost red. It has a sort of classic ’50s look to it, but its sleek lines make it a contemporary addition to your wardrobe. The bottom is flat to keep it upright when it’s set down, and the top has a zip closure to keep everything secure. Inside, the lining is a silky black fabric, with a back wall zip pocket, and a slip pocket as well. Dual handles give the bag a 6.5-inch drop, so I don’t think they would be conducive to shoulder carrying. But it’s just as roomy as the James satchel, measuring 16 inches wide by 8.25 inches high. It also comes in opal, an almost-navy blue. The DKNY satchel is on sale, down from $299 to just $153 at Zappos.com.

Budget Saving Alternative 2

Speaking of grandma handbags, check out this Jessica Simpson Karma Satchel. What was she thinking with this fabric?! It’s hideous. I like the design of the bag itself. It has a neat angle to it, drawn down in the center by a strap and a turn-lock clasp. There are zip pockets on either side of the exterior, and a back wall zip pocket inside, along with the fuchsia polyester lining. All the trim is synthetic, so if you’re avoiding leather, this might be a good option for you, if you can get past the awful, multi-colored floral print that looks like Martha Stewart vomited all over the bag. And what’s with the HUGE logo medallion hanging off the bag? Ok, we get it, Jessica. It’s your bag. Tone it down a little, please. There’s plenty of room in this bag, too. Now if only you could hide the bag in itself. The Karma satchel goes for $98 at Endless.com.