J.Crew Cross-Body Bag in Hibiscus Floral

So, I was intrigued by this bag because it claimed to be all leather. With the hibiscus print on top! I had to see it for myself.

Pros: the bag is totally leather, with beautiful suede lining of the inner flap and the mouth of the bag. The strap can be removed entirely and worn as a belt, if you're a size 00 or 0! (Disclaimer: I didn't actually try it on, to say this with 100% confidence, but was excited by the idea. If you like, you can get CS to give you a measurement of the strap, so you can judge for yourself.)
                  The bag can be carried as a clutch. It is roomy enough to carry a small wallet, cellphone, make-up, Kleenex with ease, as well as allowing you to stuff in some bulky car keys on the side.  It seems to be a version of saffiano leather, but since saffiano is not claimed in the product description, my bet would be that it's a cheaper version of saffiano.

Cons: the print is not as gorgeous nor the colours as compelling on the bag as I wanted them to be. Perhaps the fault lies in the scale of the print: if it were a bit more densely printed, it might have appealed to me more.

Sizing: the strap has multiple holes and it should sit comfortably wherever you want to wear it.

Verdict: Don't get me wrong, it's still a lovely piece. But not one that I found it hard to tear myself away from. I think it's a great price on sale now and if you can get it at 50% off through a store (order from red phone), you'd do great! If you need a cross-body, go for it! (I did get mine before it went on final sale, bewarned!)

True colours.

Slit pocket on the exterior back of the bag

Texture of the leather: saffiano?

 

Suede interior trim and inner lining on flap. Note how the strap is threaded through. I didn't take the plastic off it, since I wasn't keeping it.

 

 

Black cloth dustbag.