When it comes to practicality, nothing beats a big beautiful tote bag.
Super spacious and easy to carry, tote bags usually find their way into every woman’s closet at some point or another. It could be because they’re a student or an avid traveler or maybe even a busy mom. Whatever their situation, having a tote bag becomes a lifeline that helps get them through the day.
Almost every major brand offers a tote bag in some shape or form, but there was one noteworthy bag that I previously saw become an overnight obsession: the Telfar Shopping Tote.
Even though it was originally created in 2014, the Telfar tote managed to make it to temporary ‘IT Bag’ status after it was rated as the most wanted bag of 2020. And now this “Bushwick Birkin,” as it’s been called, continues to still be seen on the arms of many major celebs and fashion influencers two years later.
I can see that it’s a simple bag offered at a pretty affordable price (at least if you were ever able to get your hands on one; it was always sold out), but despite it being ultra-popular, I personally just can’t help but consider it to also be ultra-overrated.
Now Hear Me Out…
I love the brand’s backstory and its dedication to inclusivity. As a person of color, it’s wonderful to see those who look more like myself making their mark in an industry that has historically been dominated by European designers. I’m forever grateful for the work of designers like Virgil Abloh, Brandon Blackwood, and Telfar Clemens. Their designs came at a time when certain communities were (and still are) looking for ways to deal with a harsh reality and a 24-hour news cycle that can be less than kind. Fashion functions as a type of escapism for many, even if only for a season.
But I just need more from this bag.
As much as I want to do my part by supporting the work of Telfar, I just can’t bring myself to desire a bag that is so basic. And when I say basic, I don’t mean minimalist. I mean thin, plastic-y, and uninspiring.
I just have so many questions!
Like Stella McCartney bags, I guess Telfar is great for the purse-lovers who are averse to leather but isn’t vegan leather just processed plastic? Isn’t that worse for the environment than real leather?
Also, is incorporating a brand’s logo on a product now enough to call it fashionable?
I want to hear others’ perspectives on this, so please, my fellow PurseBloggers, change my view.
- Do you have a Telfar tote? Do you like it? How has it held up?
- Is it better for daytime errands or travel?
- Are they totally cool, or am I right in thinking they’re overrated?
I responded to this on another thread but wanted to respond here as well. This is an opinion piece, the opinion of one writer. She says she thinks the bag is overrated and asks if you agree/asks you to change her mind. It’s her personal take, just as we all have personal takes on different bags and different brands. It’s what makes us all unique – to have these different opinions. We don’t all need to love the same things, and we can love what a brand/designer stands for and is out to create while not being a big fan of the product itself.
While we aim to make the blog and forum welcoming and inclusive – we have a readership that spans the globe and a very wide age range of visitors – we also mainly aim to share information and opinions on bags.
I own 4 Telfar bags – I have posted about Telfar on our site and share my bags being used pretty often on social media. I am a fan, for many reasons, and this piece doesn’t change my being a fan. I am still a fan, I love what Clemens has done and feel joy when I see these bags out on the arms of others. To have an it-bag is a major feat, especially in this post-it-bag era, and Telfar continues to work toward making its bags for the people. How rare and special to have a highly sought-after bag/brand focus on that in a time where we see constant price increases by the other fashion houses.
Just confused why PB thought this type of article was appropriate to post during BHM. Not liking Telfar bags is not a novel or controversial opinion — a lot of people have criticized the hype. Dedicating a whole article to it is overkill. So much more to potentially cover during BHM. Very disappointing. And look at the type of comments it invites (see “Louie”‘s comment about ‘virtue signalling.’) Why are y’all inviting these kind of disrespectful conversations. No one wants to talk about Hermes and Chanel being virtue signals of wealth, but a black-owned business? Surely they don’t actually deserve the credit they’re receiving! High end designers constantly churn out low quality bags / far too overpriced bag with a little finger wag, but damn, let a black business be a little regular and it’s the guillotine!
Having a black / mixed (not sure which) author write the article doesn’t make it any more okay either. Alejandra, spend your time writing different content.
For anyone that wants to disagree with me, let me start by saying I don’t care what you have to say. If you want to spend time arguing with me about why being able to hate on a black owned business during BHM is okay, reevaluate your priorities and maybe cool it on your desire to come from blackness/black things. It’s not edgy, different, or trailblazing in any way.
I’m not saying y’all have to like Telfar. I bought and sold mine bc it wasn’t fitting with my aesthetic. But honestly, just shut up. Let a brand that’s found a moment with a cult hit be successful.
To tPB owners, y’all absolutely need to do better. Man, there’s so much more y’all could be doing. Do not know why this is so hard for y’all.
I’m black and totally disagree with Ladyet’s apparently rigid “woke” opinion that takes issue with a dissenting opinion about something as trivial as a handbag. The only opinion that’s inappropriate for this forum is hers. And I hope she’ll give the seeing enemies everywhere rhetoric a rest and leave the unwarranted whinging over every little thing behavior to children. It’s tedious!
I hardly ever see PB bashing a brand. I was quite surprised to see this during BHM no less. Sometimes the call is coming from inside the building. For anyone saying it’s just a ugly bag etc. You need to understand how difficult it is for black designers to breakthrough and obtain mass appeal. It is no small feat. No it may not be Gucci or LV which has been around for decades, but it has spoken to a subculture of people. Maybe people that want to see designers of color win, what’s wrong with that? The brand is not selling coated canvas for thousands, just fun whimsical bags for a fraction of the price. If it’s not your style, move on.
For a Black person to enter the Fashion Industry as a bonafide Designer..and not a Celebrity .is Almost impossible because the Celebrity often built in fan to customer possibility……ABSOLUTELY WRONG TO HAVE THIS ISSUE about Telfar doing..BHM especially from someone that should be celebrating instead of….spewing negativity..
Can’t the author do a review of the house without you bringing the founders race into it. So would it be ok to criticize the brand during another month? Seriously, people are so extra on the internet. If you don’t like the article just move on with your life. And I agree with the author, Telfar bags are ugly.
Right on the money!! why bring the race card here? makes no sense. jesus christ!
1000% agree. 👏👏👏 So tired of race being brought into every topic.
The author also brought race into it, if you actually can read. There are countless comments explaining why this article and many of the comments are offensive. You choose to plug your ears and call valid complaints “extra.” Just admit it to yourself, Nikki; it would be so much better than your underhanded and dismissive gaslighting: you’re racist and part of the problem.
If you don’t like my comment, just move on with your life, Niki. You’re being very extra on the internet. Unfortunately for you, your personality is as ugly as you think Telfar bags are.
I totally agree with Niki. Why make it about race all the time? She just doesn’t like the quality/aesthetic of the bag. The ethnicity of the designer is irrelevant.
THIS THIS THIS
I applaud this response. It was without doubt exactly my thoughts on the matter. This article is unfortunate & for it to be written by a person of color makes it 10x worse. Not to mention the constant Gucci links throughout the article. So many fashion houses scoring millions, but yet feeling “threatened” by the potential of Telfar is why the wealth gap thrives. Purseblog.com expressed the integrity of their brand with this article. Thanks.
Thank you! Some one with sense. Your response was better written than the actual article! Bravo.
Well said and I absolutely agree with you!
I agree with you 💯%!! This is the wrong article at absolutely the WRONG TIME!!
Well said. Thank you.
I agree why during BHM, why write this period. The bag is fun, many colors, it’s a preference. If it’s not for you don’t purchase. Let me also share another black designer Olori. This is another beautifully handcrafted bag by a Black designer. I Own one of these as well and love it. Check them out.
Thank you!!! All the snaps for this comment. This article was so uncalled for and I just disagree in general.
Exactly as if black designers don’t have it hard enough as it is, to get a foot in the door
well said THEY know exactly what they doing and mad that people are supporting this brand
Where’s the like button for this comment???Very well said my thoughts exactly plus more.
You said everything I was thinking after reading this article!!
My sentiments exactly!!!
Perfectly stated! Just don’t buy it!
Couldn’t agree more, ladyet. Criticizing a wildly successful Black-owned business during BHM is beyond tone deaf. If the writer doesn’t like the look of the Telfar shopping bag, fine — but devoting an entire article to arguing that the bag is overrated and “uninspiring” when she doesn’t even own one is bizarre. Telfar bags are *supposed to be* basic. That’s the whole point of the design. It’s a rejection of (white) elitist and exclusionary luxury culture. It represents an important cultural shift in this country — how can that not be inspiring?
Also, who cares if it’s pleather? There are SO MANY ugly non-leather “it” bags made by white designers/luxury heritage brands. LV I’m looking at you. Don’t get me wrong — I own quite a few LV bags and love them. But let’s be real. We’re kidding ourselves if we think that we haven’t been conditioned to view the LV logo as beautiful and elegant rather than cluttered and ugly.
It’s really not hard to understand why people like Telfar bags. They come in so many fun colors, they’re affordable, they’re worry free, and buying them supports a Black-owned business. Isn’t that enough? Do they need to be more than that?
Why come for Telfar now, during BHM? Telfar’s popularity is not breaking news, so it’s not like this blog post is somehow timely or newsworthy. It just makes TPB seem out of touch.
Great comment with great points!
It baffles me that people are ready to tear apart a brand that seems to be honestly doing their best to act ethical, but brands that openly don’t give a s**** about decency get a pass… it’s almost like people get triggered by moral behaviour. This article’s comment section speaks volumes.
THAT PART! The accuracy in what you wrote is just…this is everything that was in my head.
I don’t know what was more offensive to me: using the “I’m a POC…” primer, citing Brandon Blackwood and Virgil, or just the overall unmitigated gall it took to publish this article during BHM.
They wanted traffic, views and comments. They’ll for sure get it.
Incoming rant but I’m sorry, I don’t buy into virtue signalling brands. I know it’s controversial in this PC world, but it goes back to the whole question of should we make choices based on the qualities of the individual and the subsequent product, or based on the group identities of the people behind the product.
I don’t think it should matter if the product is made by black, white, male, female, non-binary, rich, poor, young, old, short or tall – consumers should fundamentally buy something based on how good the product is, and in this case it misses the mark solely based on the qualities of the product, which most of you seem to agree.
I’m all for inclusion and diversity, but we got to encourage people to achieve success out of competence and not from leveraging off their group identity. It also takes away from the achievement of the individual if they know their success mostly came down to their group identity.
Black artists are dominant in some genres because they make damn good music. There’s tremendously successful sports stars who are black and they got there because they’re the best at their sport. Oprah is one of the most successful TV presenters of all time because people loved to watch her show. Obama became president because he was best political candidate at the time. Virgil Abloh was a creative genius who had the courage to push boundaries that no one else dared to. To say these people were only successful because people wanted inclusion and diversity, takes away from their skill and hard work.
To paraphrase Martin Luther King, instead of making judgments based on the colour of one’s skin, we should make judgements on the content of one’s character – and the subsequent quality of their work. I really hope Telfar can improve the quality of their products so that people really want their bags for what they are.
AMEN!!!!
i bet you dont see color either
Quoting MLK after your grandstanding about how you don’t believe in “virtue signaling” is very hilarious. You don’t even realize how stupid you sound, and I guess neither do the 20 others who liked this comment.
Just because YOU don’t believe someone is talented doesn’t make praise for their work virtue signaling.
This is an incredibly ignorant comment from start to finish. I’m not surprised, seeing how conservative PurseBlog leans. Still, it’s disappointing that this is a top comment.
I’ve really fallen out of love with TPF and PurseBlog for this very reason. There are so many levels of bias and tone-deafness in a lot of what people post, it’s insane.
hmm i can see where you’re coming from but your idea to separate the identities of the creators from the product is sensible on the outset. but when the brand bears the name of it’s creator like telfar does wouldn’t it make sense for the brand to be a reflection of the designer. not to mention u bring up the idea of not supporting virtue signaling brands. i would not say that telfar virtue signals either. i don’t think their ad campaigns or marketing give off any facades. their brand identity is authentic to me.
So I approached the brand on instagram messenger to see if they would be willing to gift me a bag for my feeding tube things because I wanted a stylish way to carry around something that keeps me alive. Company could not of been more than happy to give me the bag and even went as far as confirming measurements to make sure it fit what I needed. The conversation taking place while I was finishing up an 11 day inpatient hospital stay. Say whatever you want about the brand, the bags, Mr. Clemens himself… that right there made me a customer for life.
This comment alone speaks volumes about their brand! I applaud Telfar & despite the article’s negative connotation, I am more intrigued by the integrity & other works of this brand. Thank you for sharing.
I read all of the comments, but this one impacted me the most because it shows that they care about their customers. Would Hermes have gifted you a Birkin, Kelly or Garden Tote? Would Chanel gift a tote? LV a Neverfull? Dior a tote, etc.? Would any of these design houses have accommodated your request? I don’t really know, but I feel they wouldn’t since profits and brand recognition is important to them.
When this brand came to my attention I purchased because I believed in their mission statement. I bought the large Ugg tote and was pleasantly surprised how well it was made at a very reasonable price. I didn’t keep it because my 40 y.o. daughter saw it, fell in love and I gifted it to her.
I may/may not purchase another one because I’m retired and don’t have a need to carry many items. However, I have much respect for them and would donate money to support their benevolence to society.
I am sorry for whatever you are going through, but I wish you well. Hopefully, their gift made your life a little easier. ❤️
As a Black woman I wanted to support Telfar and the IT Bag. I couldn’t pull the trigger because up close its so cheap looking. Brilliant article for its honesty!
I purchased the Ugg/Telfar bag and it’s good quality for what it is: a $270 bag. Not particularly fond of vegan leather, which is why I steered clear of the regular line. The one I have is wearing very well, and I have no regrets.
I have the ugg/telfar n gray and i love it
I personally fell in love with the idea and bought 4 bags, 2 small, 2 medium. As Beth said the resale value is great. But honestly I could’ve done without. Bc truth be told they are like plastic. 😶🌫️
ALSO — some of y’all are funny. Telfar was a sleeper hit AND THEN everyone started to noticed and it’s grown in popularity since. Some of the comments are acting like the designer came out and announced “HELLO I AM BLACK, THIS IS MY BAG I CREATED, YOU MUST SUPPORT MY BUSINESS” and everyone fell in line without question. This bag was gaining popularity before most of y’all knew anything about it. To say “if it was a white designer, they wouldn’t be receiving the hype” is a facetious distraction. Who knows and who cares? Literally, so what? This bag made by a black person and made popular by black people — and then noticed by everyone else. Whiteness doesn’t need to enter the equation whatsoever.
So I bought purely out of support. Id seen the bag in person before I purchased via Bag Security. (I ordered In Oct 2021 and I wont get it until March 31st 2022) I got the small bc I have enough big tote bags, and I didnt like how flimsy the bigger bags looked. Im seeing everyone say they want a leather option, however, I believe Telfar isnt trying to go that route bc of his base supporters. His base doesnt seem concerned with changing up the blueprint. They want an affordable bag that they can pay for from 1 or 2 paychecks (I believe on the site they even have payment plans), and thats insanely popular. Switching to leather would drastically increase the prices and drive out his current base. Telfar does have some bags that are on the higher end of the price spectrum, but his base arent getting those. I think when we compare these bags to high end designers, its an unfair assesment. Telfar is not a luxury brand like LV or MCM and others, its a brand created to meet the need of everyday people who want a bag that will give them some street cred, without breaking the bank.
I agree with everything in your comment. Telfar is an everyday bag for everyday people. Most ppl can’t afford high end designers, and he was a genius for installing payment plans. I love my Telfar bags. If I wanted an high end leather bag I would shop high end.
Y’all really decided that THIS was the article to post during Black History Month? Come on now, if it was traffic and eyeballs needed, then you’ll get it in spades.
It’s interesting how you couched this criticism with praise for other black designers, like that was meant to mean something.
Exactly! Read the room purseblog…
THAT PART! Not just another black designer, but one that recently died that was heavily criticized for what he brought to LV. Messy. It’s 2022, we should be past this garbage.
The appreciation I have for this article is unmatched. I just can’t see myself purchasing one. I feel like its a forced bag.
“Overrated” implies that the essence of the bag (quality, design, etc.) doesn’t justify its price or popularity. The numbers seem to prove otherwise. I personally love the fact that a bag priced in the low 3-figures, affordable to a larger group of people than much of what we see on TPF or other fashion media, has been so successful in appealing to a wide audience and garnering attention for it. If you want leather, or a different design/functionality for the same price point, it’s out there, and you can vote with your wallet. I don’t understand the argument that this is somehow overrated when it’s not pretending to be anything that it’s not.
Couldn’t have said it better
I’m gonna say it… it’s honestly just a fad to show off how “inclusive and woke” you are. It’s It’s about PC culture. Nothing more. If it were made by a white designer no one would care.
Buying this bag doesn’t mean you’re woke, there are many black designers to buy from
This is the only bag that people instantly recognize because of the logo on the front and it being what it is. Other bags that are made by POC brands aren’t just a plastic tote with a giant logo. So yeah, it is about the bag.
I bought it because I like it you don’t know my life and to make these generalist comments about a whole a thousands of consumers screams of trying to down play the success of black/brown queer culture.
also so much cheap overpriced crap is made from all kinds of designers to single this designer during BHM just says for you if it ain’t white it ain’t right.
I just got a medium shopping bag in the leaf color, and I love it. It’s a great size for carrying everything I need for work, and I like that I can carry it on my shoulder, crossbody, or in the crook of my elbow (maybe I’m just a good height for that long strap; I agree that it would be nice if it were adjustable/removable!). Also, I can’t afford LV or other really high end bags, and I appreciated that Telfar gave me the opportunity to carry something practical and on trend. I’m not sure I’d buy another shopping bag as one is enough (and the small is miniature and the large far too big!), but I don’t regret getting the one I have.
I personally have zero interest in the bags … I find them ugly.
I’m going to always support black businesses! So many times we as black people support designers who’ve stated that they don’t want us to wear their designs. For example, Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Kors, and Gucci just to name a few! Even Louis Vuitton thinks that when black people wear their brand it decreases value, look at the LV Neverfull bag. This whole I don’t see color notion, only quality is delusional. Designers see color. People who esteem themselves high society see color. It amazes me how if a black woman has a Chanel bag she has to prove it’s real. Any other race can carry the exact bag and the authenticity isn’t a question. Black businesses don’t have the same financial backing as our counterparts. So maybe he starts off with plastic bags, but in time he can began to afford other materials, making better quality.
You now Virgil Abloh was a black man, right?
You should know that Gucci is inclusive of all races. Check out their website and you will see that for yourself. They aren’t discouraging “black people from wearing their designs”.
Did you see their insulting campaign a few years back?
This is a well written, opinion-based article that has a lot of truth. I learned of the Telfar bags on Facebook. I love the variety of colors that Telfar offers, and the affordability. I also questioned the material that he chose to make his bags. Despite being hesitant, partly because of the vegan leather, I purchased bags anyway. Currently I’ve purchased 6 bags, all sizes; two of which were gifts.
I was excited to receive my bags, mostly because of the hype. Once they arrived, the excitement was over immediately. The small bag is more like a super mini, my Samsung S21 Ultra will not fit AT ALL. With all the bags, the regular straps are not
long enough to put on my shoulders, and the long straps should be detachable. I’m a teacher so I like totes to use for work. The medium bag should have been small. I also have the regular Marc Jacob “The Tote Bag,” and the Telfar medium is smaller. I couldn’t use the medium Telfar for work so I got the large. The large Telfar is more like an overnight bag…it’s huge.
I bought in to the hype and I also wanted to support a black designer. I don’t think I’ll be purchasing another Telfar unless he starts using real or recycled leather, figure out the straps, and get better at accurately sizing the bags. Oh! He also needs to design a different style bag and come out with wallets, wristlets, and other accessories. In addition to the Marc Jacob tote, I also have the MCM large tote and I’m In love with both of them. I can’t even say that I like the Telfar.
Sell it! He doesn’t need your business he will be fine
Rude, Much? Why so triggered? As the owner of 6 bags, she certainly has the right to weigh in. In fact, she’s absolutely entitled to share her views. BTW, he doesn’t need YOUR angry, divisive support – he’ll be just fine 😉
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I also own “The Tote Bag” in two sizes and think it is hands down one of the greatest note bags you could own. Absolutely fantastic! I was immediately in love with the attention to details and the addition of the inner flap zipper pouch and storage pockets- not to mention the full zip closure! My only complaint is the larger size doesn’t included a crossbody strap. However, knowing that beforehand, I still bought the bag based on how great everything else is. It’s a small grievance but I have to also be honest that most other large totes don’t support crossbody use either.
I’m gonna check out the MCM totes too now.. Any particular one you’d personally suggest?
Nick, love the fact the MJ has a zip closure and inner pocket. I tried buying a stap w/o knowing the large isn’t made for it. And like you, I still love it. I bought the MCM Liz Shopper that’s a reversible tote in candy red. It doesn’t have a zipper, but it did come with a small wristlet that’s pretty roomy that I carry a lot. I use it as a multipurpose bag, for work and travel. And the straps aren’t uncomfortable on my shoulder.
Eh I think it’s ridiculous that Prada and LV sell plastic bags (nylon and PVC coating are also just, wait for it, plastic) at four figure prices, not going to hate on this.
And the idea that people are “just buying for the logo” … haha ok, like monogram?
The logo means something different…
I think that this article comes from someone who doesn’t know the history or buisness of fashion. Telfar bags were already a success before any type of movement and looking into the designers history would have definitely been smart I think it’s sick to damean a persons brand on the basis of him being a poc as if people only support and buy because he’s a poc. To be honest why not write an article about LV and Goyard and how you’re paying an obscene amount of money for bags that aren’t great quality, and made from coated canvas how about talk about how designer bags are way overpriced to maintian exclusivity and how hype keeps the prices surging. I personally like telfar bags and they’re not for everyone but it’s a nice everyday bag and even travel bag and fits within that lifestyle. It’s a bag that is for everyone and to be honest depending on the color doesn’t look “cheap” but coming from working for a major luxury retailer price doesn’t always equal quality and you would be surprised at how much your over paying for your luxury items.
Honestly, I’m I’m little put off that purse blog got a POC to write this garbage article to sound more valid and less racist. It’s this kind of elitist attitude towards fashion and luxury goods that has boosted telfars popularity. “Isn’t vegan leather processed plastic?” Yes. And? Why do we need high end materials that damage the earth in order for a luxury good to be considered truly luxurious? Who decided that? People who make money off of fashion like this blog? I remember when purseblog was a forum. The opinions were much less slanted
How convenient when a drop of the new color-way is tomorrow. Aka go to h*ll. This bag is exactly what everyday ppl with normal jobs need. Why make it more complex than what it need be? You either support and buy the bags or don’t. You don’t like the bags, purchase other accessories. But a whole dissertation on a new black designer is redundant during BHM.
I think the writer has a perfect right to express her opinion of a bag she considers inferior. The fact that this is BHM and that the designer is black should be irrelevant. Criticism of the article on that basis comes perilously close to censorship.
I don’t particularly like any of his bags but my daughter and her friends love them and have each bought a few. They’re in their mid-twenties, professionals or graduate students and live in NYC/Brooklyn. They’re not black but are mindful of the disparities and inequities prevalent in our society. They seek out and support minority businesses. But primarily they LIKE the bags and they can AFFORD them and they FEEL GOOD when they carry them.
I have bought my daughter many designer bags over the years (Chanel, LV, Hermes, Valentino, etc), but this is HER bag that she and her friends “discovered” and promoted. Ultimately how a particular purchase makes you feel is what matters.
I’ve seen this bag out in the wild on several occasions, and I haven’t been impressed. It’s a square tote. Then again, I don’t like totes.
Have you ever owned a Telfar though? I, a white 40 year old woman love nothing more than supporting black owned businesses. The thing with the Telfar is this. I became low key obsessed with getting the lavender tote. So much that I bought it second hand for nearly twice the retail price. I had bought the small and was taken aback by the size of it! But over time it breaks in. In the meantime I purchased two totes during the bag security program. A medium lavender and small green screen. They are still in their boxes. I do appreciate the resale price because they are a bit of an investment. I’m planning on sending my small lavender tote to a friend of mine who’s black. I think she’ll freak out! And I can’t wait to see her happy. As for your post I absolutely agree.
The white savior complex is draining😭 Bye, Beth.
You definitely made it a point to emphasize that your a white middle aged woman supporting a black owned business. And sending your black friend a bag. Like she can’t afford her own. Pick me much….
i always wonder what is validated by your need to identify that you are sending it to a friend, who is black.
Girl you on point!!! my same thoughts about Beth. She needed to emphasize that she’s a white woman who has black friends. Like you serious 🧐. Low key to me.
It’s black owned and it’s dope. I’m rooting for everybody black. Period.
I couldn’t agree more! I LOVE the brand mission and the story, but every time I think about purchasing, I talk myself out of buying a glorified plastic grocery bag! I am shocked that the brand hasn’t introduced a leather version, especially with all of the advancements in recycled leather. And I know that if it were leather, it would be more expensive, but I would be willing to bet it wouldn’t be over the price of an LV On the Go in leather?
Isn’t all the “vegan leather” out there some form of plastic? Even Stella McCartney sells plastic bags. For much, much more. The grocery bag shape is on purpose. It’s great.
He has a leather option in his collab with moose knuckles.
Telfar actually has made a suede version of the shopping tote as part of its collaboration with Ugg.
It reminds me of a grocery store tote
That was actually the inspiration!
I don’t see the appeal. Basic design and gigantic logo. And what is it with that not removeable strap?
I wanted(past, PAST tense) to like this bag but it’s SO BORING!!!
I’ve not heard much about this particular bag but I can’t immediately view the appeal upon first glance. I’m a huge fan of totes and oversized bags in general though. Last year I bought the largest sized “The Tote Bag” by Marc Jacobs and the green version of the dinosaur tote from the Coach x Michael B. Jordan collaboration. Both are simple but attractive and I felt each was worth their $200 price tags. I do have some friends who outright sneered at a canvas bag for that amount but I don’t think I’d part with any amount to obtain the bag pictured above. I think it’s quite ugly and have never been a fan of synthetic materials used in clothing and fashion accessories. Although that’s not a hard rule, I will support brands that use synthetics in innovative or interesting ways because the properties of such are beneficial to the artistic vision and may not have been possible or had the same impact using natural fibers; those include, for me personally: Comme des Garcons, Moschino, Helmut Lang, etc.. I don’t know why the materials decision was made for this particular bag but I think it looks like something used for medical bio-waste disposal. It also looks unreasonably heavy and uncomfortable to wear. However, I haven’t examined one up close. It’s not for me but if people like it by large- that’s their decision. I do have some opinions about items that are hip based solely on the ethnic background of the designer or company that produces it because I don’t think that fashion should be politicized or weponized within the context of/and/or for advancing cultural chicanery. We shouldn’t have to buy products that boast of our support for diversity, inclusivity, cultural understanding or political affiliation. I think you should buy things based on how they suit you. For example, I have a great love of the footwear maker “Camper.” I think they’re immensely interesting and have a great sense of identity. I wasn’t drawn to them because of their Spanish origin or to celebrate my approval of their heritage or to show solidarity with Spain or their economy. To me they look almost animated and whimsical. They have an exaggerated roundness and smoothness that is immediate and tend to use rather chunky soles giving them an oversized appearance- which is made more eye-catching by their bold, bright and sometimes peculiar color choices. They could possibly give off a faintly ambiguous reminder of their country of origin but that isn’t why Ive ever supported the company. I don’t think I’d be more inclined to purchase it based on that alone though. I tend to buy things based upon how I feel about it on a personal level. When buying most items, I look mostly for the following:
it suits a purpose (even if I might already have something that could fill that position)
it’s made from quality materials and will hold up for a reasonable timeframe
the price seems justified for the product/brand
I find it appealing aesthetically and it suits my personal tastes and style.
I’m not suggesting not to support business with ethnic identities but I don’t think that should be the first reason for patronage. Nor do I think you should feel influenced or pressured to support a particular business in light of the cultural zeitgeist or political atmosphere.
But isn’t the whole idea of buying purses, clothing etc just for the “label” the point? I have seen no obscenely priced bag that was actually worth the price point.
Sooo.. typical. We are laughing at how this article is soo wack! Then again we’re not surprised. Who gives a shit what you think. However, you are entitled to your opinion. Many women I know including myself, are obsessed with the Telfar bag and absolutely love it!
I so agree with you! I LOVE MY BAG!!! I purchased 2 before ALL the damn hype. And I’m not big on Logos on a bag but this one was perfect for me! I have given my nieces my Coach bags with the C’s on them. (All gifts). The straps on the Telfar bag were awkward at first, had to get use to them. But my medium bag is very functional. It is truly an everyday bag. Also I love that fact that I already had mine. before everyone knew about it. At the end of the day, people buy what they want. If you want it but it… if not then move on!
when ever Ive come across this tote IRL, and that hasn’t been often, I’ve recognised what I’m looking at because of this blog. That being said, I think it looks really chic and stylish and not cheap. Yes, not real leather, but has that squishy slouch . I would totally buy one .
I can’t believe that this article was even posted and during Black History Month… a whole dissertation to basically say that you hate black exclusivity and it shows ! PurseBlog get it together.
The first Telfar bag I saw seemed to be sagging a bit in the middle; I prefer a structured bag, so I passed on the purchase. That said, I would never come for them the way Pb/you have. As consumers, we ALL get to decide how to spend our coin. Agree with ladyet below: no need to trash the brand—we like what we like, and when we don’t we keep looking, but thats’s grown woman shii; clearly ain’t for everybody! You asked.
The writer is Black. We just won’t get out of our own way. Let the man be great . If you want to talk about something.. LV, Gucci and Hermes are overly priced to do so. I won’t waste cyber paper addressing this ” disrespect”. There is a time and place for everything and this is not the time nor place . Have something to say instead of always wanting to say something.
It’s sad! It be your own people. Keep your opinion to yourself and move on. Don’t down your own when you know it’s already hard enough. Make no sense.
“but isn’t vegan leather just processed plastic? Isn’t that worse for the environment than real leather?” Uuuuuhhhh… Really?!?! I thought writers would be a bit more knowledgeable here!
First, how recycled plastic is not good for environment? It’s RECYCLED! Second, have you heard of cactus, pineaple, bamboo, seaweed etc etc vegan leather used by more and more luxury brands?! Even Bentley made a car with grape leather interior! And when I say grape leather, I don’t mean leather of the color grape, I mean literally leather made out of grape. *sigh*
Whew, the rhetoric of this article is bizarre. Not only do we have an afro-latina behind on this content, but the entire connotation of this article is completely biased and nothing informative that could incite further conversation. This is blatantly bashing Telfar just because it does not fit her aesthetic, more over pushing this narrative to the public while uplifting the ironically more high-end brands such as Hermés, Chanel, Louis Vuitton. Did we forget what Gucci did a few years ago? Where’s the content on that? Or how about Chanel increasing the prices on the classic flap for a fourth time since the pandemic started yet the craftsmanship on the classic flap has delineated, not to mention their joke for an advent calendar. These high end, luxury brands could mess up for days and many of you will still uplift them just because they represent status in society. Remind me how the Hermés Birkin is anymore functional or useful than a Telfar? This article really incites anti-blackness, ironically during BHM, go figure. Furthermore, there’s nothing wrong with calling out name brands and what they can do better, but it is highly questionable to call out Telfar, when so far many have appreciated the vegan quality and room the bags provide. But to blatantly bash the bag but try to sweeten the article by uplifting and inserting brand names such as Hermés or LV, this article truly does not give the professional, inviting conversation in regards to content that it was entailed. In other words, this article was a miss and I highly recommend to refrain from inducing so much bias if there won’t be a fair, factual comparison to other handbags and suggestions on what can Telfar do better for YOU. If it’s not functional to you, then to each their own. But, make your article more credible by demonstrating the functionality of a Telfar vs. a Classic flap or a Telfar vs. LV onthego Tote. Coming from someone who is a handbag connoisseur both black-owned and the coveted bags we all love so much.
I have a Gucci Soho tote from years ago and I wonder if Telfar’s puffy logo was “inspired by” Gucci’s.
Exactly. It’s just a cheap, unattractive Gucci knockoff and I’m not even a Soho fan as I think it also looks cheap and boring.
He explained that one of his teachers in high school designed his logo. That is where the inspiration came from.
I WAS thinking about the fact that it’s puffy and centered on the tote. But now, having read all the comments, I am thinking about it being BHM and that this is a black owned brand that we were invited to criticize. Optics are bad.
I think people (Black people for the most part) are too quick to knit pick and over think products and even restauraunts when it comes to them being owned by black people. We just want to tear them down for lame reasons, but yet support of brands who products are just as “Bland”.
I understand the bag might be plain to you, but so are so many other brands. The vegan leather on the telfar bag is better than most, (Steve madden, dkny, etc are all making the same material bags) and I like it because its a light and comfortable tote.
I dont think Telfar ever advertised his bag as being the best quality bag ever, he just wanted to make an affordable bag to broaden his name and design.
It worked!
Black people should be proud of that, knowing how we get lookes over so much.
I like Telfar bags because its makes a statement
I also really like Telfar bags because people love to hate on them for whatever reason.
I dont understand why people put so much energy in complaining about black brand products and not complain about other brands thats ripping them off. People are so hypocritical..smh
I think with all the other designers that are more expensive, that white designer are getting their props! I also own three Telfar bags, I love my bag and it serve its propose for me! My daughters also buy them! If you look at Tory Burch, Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs that are In that price range, their bags are no better the Telfar! I have them all! I also like that it’s a black designer! We support all these white establishments! Why not his!!
I disagree. It’s a cheap bag, so did you expect a birkin? I’ve used it for travel. Holds a computer and other travel needs well. Also can be worn cross-body, which is a huge plus.
Do you only hold it to a higher standard because it’s hard to get? Do you just other less-expensive brands to the same standard?
I really don’t understand why everyone is freaking out about this “article” being published during BHM… As far as I know, BHM does not prohibit people from exercising their freedom of speech. What’s next?? LGBTQ+ people can do no wrong in June? Sadly, this is exactly why the far-right keeps getting elected all the time.
There are many BIPOC-owned businesses I gladly patronize because I love their products. If someone doesn’t care for Telfar, so be it. It’s a plastic bag with a logo. Some will love it, others won’t. Move on.
I have one for work in the Medium size. They’re durable and I don’t feel like I have to baby it. It’s a year old and holding up but I agree with you. It’s just a pleather tote and nothing special EXCEPT the Brand and that means something. That’s all luxury. The handful of lv and Chanel items I have post early 00 are over priced, and questionable quality for the price, ha. I do love the honesty because I’ve seen people get torn apart for stating the obvious that they’re overpriced and overhyped.
I am amazed by the number of comments here from posters who say they don’t like the bag, or functionality, or something else but have multiples and keep purchasing for themselves and purchase for gifts for others.
It’s a hard no from me. One time and don’t like it, cool, give away or sell. Keep buying? I would rather save my money for a better bag.
I love my Telfar shopping bags! They are perfect for shopping and travel because they are very sturdy and cute. Especially when going to the beach. And unlike my Louis Vuitton canvas totes I don’t feel like I have to baby them. Plus I live the brand and what it stands for. Whether you think they are totally cool or overrated is your business and not mine!🤷🏾♀️
I love my swimming pool blue in large – I’ve used it for carry on and it works out perfectly
I didn’t wanna say it but .. I AGREE. Vegan leather is … Unacceptable for an everyday item such as a tote and the design is basic. I have found other ways to support the movement behind the designer by donating and supporting the causes that our purchases fund HOWEVER I have never cut corners regarding bag, wallet and shoe quality materials bc there’s nothing for it. Vegan leather is pleather. Plain and simple. No judgement, no shade and No Thank You
I think the hype for them is slowly going down. The bag is just basic and plastic looking . I need him to make something a little more different. OK this tote has had its run in many shades of colors but time for a new design. I got the big brown tote and I didn’t think it would be so huge . Like I can put a whole pc and monitor in it. I did my support with 3 bags ….
Girl bye if you your self are basic with no substance just say that . You could’ve kept ur little article during black history month to yourself. I love ALL my telfar bags and they do everything for me hunty . Also his new designs that’s are coming out is everything but overrated. Good day .
Here is case for potentially buying the bag. What you are really looking for is quality to price ratio. The bag may be made out of plastic, but if it holds up and is easy to clean, and looks pretty good for what you are going to use it for, then it is worth the money. If it is made from recycled plastic even better. If it is comparable to other totes at that price point then supporting an independent or black run business is a good thing as long as they aren’t doing what many manufacturers do which is paying low wages in underdeveloped countries and externalizing the cost by polluting those countries so we here can enjoy a cheaper price point. Given very few brands have good resale value, we should always pick items that we plan to use a lot and that bring us pleasure.
As for the comments regarding your article, I am sure that Telfar is smiling. You have everyone reading this blog talking/thinking about their brand. Free marketing. I think you should buy one, use it, and report back how you felt about it.
Shame on you for writing this article!
I love my bag, what exactly were you expecting? It’s an affordable tote bag. And if the designer looks like you, this was a real wack article to write. To trash a black designer because you don’t desire a bag so basic?! Smfh
I find this article both helpful and honest. At times our only option is to look to insiders to provide true information on brands/products, not all products are accessible to all for our own assessments. On one hand I understand your need for sponsorships with brands, on the other it seems true criticism or praise may not always be in your best interest. I do like the articles on bags you yourself own for the most part, I really want to know the pros and cons before I shell out a fair amount of money for designer bags.
I was underwhelmed when I saw and touched a black medium Telfar for the first time last year. Plasticky is a perfect description. Yet I was drawn to the story and I wanted to get one. I bought the large purple bag and I was pleasantly surprised by its sturdiness and capacity. I prefer bags with a zip closure so I don’t lose anything, but this is a tote…easy access, so it works for me. I then ordered a small bronze bag and that was all wrong. Too tiny, didn’t work as a cross-body, etc. so I sent it to my niece and she loves it. Just ordered a medium red in Monday’s drop. Hoping I’ll like it as much as I like the purple bag. Bottom line for me: I’ve spent $$$$$ on luxury bags that I feel were overpriced, but I wanted the “it” brand/bag at the time. If I could make those purchases then, surely I can now buy a couple bags that are good value for the money and support a BOB at the same time.
The telfar bag is overrated. I have the shearling one. I was on a waiting list. Its very rumy. The thing I don’t like about it is. It doesn’t have a solid foundation.
I personally think they’re kool! I like the look. And you have to realize it’s just a shopping bag. Come on! I really think the Berkin bag is overrated, but who cares— it’s fashion. I love different kinds of skins so I have lots of Brahmin bags- I love gator, leather, etc. But PU is not bad either. Just enjoy life!!
First of all your a hater !! THAT IS ALL !!
*you’re
And you are a hater to this. That’s all
You’re joking, right?
And what is your second point, since you noted a first?
I thought this was a reasonable editorial and asked valid questions. Not hate.
I love mine. I have several in different colors. They’re great as work totes for me. I’m hard on bags and having vegan leather options make me less anxious when I carry them around. I didn’t think I’d like the longer straps on the bigger sized bags, but I love them for convenience.
My mom, the consummate shopper and not one to fall for the Okey doke, told me to return that plastic, cheap ass purse back to Amazon! I had purchased 2 – one for her and one for me, for $400. She said NOT WORTH IT. I now agree.
Btw, we are Black and support black owned businesses.
I actually looked on Amazon and they aren’t selling Telfar, but only a knock off. I’m not going to name the brand because I don’t want to give them any credibility.
Amazon??? Girl stop lying. You know damn well you didn’t buy a Telfar on Amazon. People say whatever just to join a conversation. Two bags for $400? Yeah ok.
Do your research! STOP spreading half truths, it’s still a lie. TELFAR is doing like everyone else in the game!
Michael Kors
Most MK bags are made from Polyurethane or PU, with leather trimmings. … In fact, most bags, shoes, sofa upholstery, you see on the market are in fact made from PU.Apr 1, 2018
https://ecoholique.com › 2018/04/01
8 popular handbags and what they’re made of – Sustainable
I had the small bubble gum pink. was so disappointed to see that it was made in china! and no where in there website that they mention it. I raised my concern to them and the usual answer “we make sure that the quality blah blah blah even if it is made in china” – i did not return because i know a lot of people want that color, sold it for twice the amount – lol –
it is plastic-y – it is expensive for $150 made in china purse. so yes, you are better off.
I’m very disappointed in both the Purse Blog and the author of this piece who claims to be a WOC. You are entitled to your opinion but your article lacks both research and timing. Black History Month is about highlighting the achievements of Blacks. This was the perfect opportunity to write about the history of the Brand and how he’s changing the bag game with is product drops and Telfar TV. You could’ve talked about how he’s paving the way for future Black designers. You could have said a number of positive things and saved your negative opinion for another month. How disrespectful to your Black readers. Take this down.
And why would anyone have the time and energy to change your view? Ridiculous and unnecessary article attacking a black owned company during black history month. Purse forum has gotten so racist over the years. Look at the Prince Harry and Meghan Markle thread. That is the most active hate filled thread on the forum. Sad you guys have gone down bad.
I never cared for them. Has NOTHING to do with who makes them or a back story.
I think they look cheap. Like a cosmetics summer PWP bag.
I don’t care about the color of the designer. All that matters is the bag and whether or not it fits your needs and you like it. Personally, I am not paying hundreds for a plastic purse.
i have 3 Telfar bags and i like them but i’m underwhelmed with the functionality. there are some functional issues i don’t love (the small has straps that never stay on your shoulder, so the best way to rock the small ones is to hang it on your wrist and stick your hands in your pocket) the small is Hella small and for the price it should be leather. there are no zippers so a bag spill is imminent. i actually like the minimalist look of the bag, and once i found out how to get one, i couldn’t understand why ppl say they’re so hard to get.
Hello, I agree with you and I am happy to read this because I thought maybe I’m being too critical so I’m happy that I’m not alone. I recently bought the black medium tote because I wanted to own a designer It bag and support a Black owned business and I was seeing the. Bag everywhere and a friend of mines talked about it and she has at least 2. I expressed to her the same sentiments in your article and she didnt really commment but I know she probably disagrees with me. . When I received. The bag which was packaged nicely, I thought it was basic too.I wish I would have bought a different color and maybe I would be more excited about it. I haven’t used it yet so I cannot say how it holds up but I’m looking forward to using it. I will not purchase another one but support the cause. I did my part..smile..
I have two medium sizeTelfar bags , and I agree with you. At first I was so excited to get them. I love supporting black owned and wanted to see what was the hype about. When I received the bags I wasn’t impressed. It had to grow on me. I use them for my weekend getaways and thats pretty much it. Great for carry-on.
They need to upgrade the material as it is a plastc-y basic look and feel.
Brand Blackwood and Ree Projects have way better beautiful bags.
I bought one. The medium. I agree the quality should be better. The medium doesn’t travel well for me because it doesn’t hold enough like shoes and makeup etc. I will not buy another one until the quality improves. I did by the Camel Ugg Collaboration which is a great product. No more bags until I see better quality.
In the spirit of BHM, check-out a Black female leather artisan who makes “genuine” leather tote bags and purses by hand. Although not name brand, but excellent quality, which will hold multiple pairs of shoes and your makeup. https://www.etsy.com/shop/burnishedleathers1 and https://www.instagram.com/burnishedleathers/
the audacity that this post even exists AT ALL. let alone during BHM. phew. couldn’t be me.
This article is just ridiculous. Purseforum is dead and this is what you write about? Are you catering to a certain demographic with this? Disgusting.
I love my Telfar bag. I only wish the straps weren’t so long. Its great for traveling or everday use. I have the medium one. We need to support each other, especially during these times. Its a great bag. Save the negative comments for the non leather LV neverfull bag…just saying!
In the world of fashion, there is something for everyone. “Beauty is in the eye” and such.
There is no need for convincing pro or against . I have personally always been a fan of this tote. . I love that silhouette and logo. Its a tote but not too stiff, it’s has the perfect amount of a relaxed slouch when set down. Absolutely adore it. It looks chic and not over saturated.
I don’t care who created it. If it’s a black owned company, then that’s great too.
I must say, the article seemed to single out this bag and was an unnecessary attack on the company and peoples taste
I must say that for the price of the bag I am disappointed at the quality. I bought the medium bag and it looks and feels like something I could have bought from Target for 20 bucks. The color has of the creator has nothing to do with the lack of quality. The bag has no structure, no tabs at the bottom so it’s not sitting directly on the ground, it has no floor.
i feel like the article misses the critical point behind telfar being a brand “not for you for everyone”. it’s accessibility by price point is one of its strong suits and the price point is influenced heavily by the construction and materials. i think the bag is incredible considering the incredibly low price point but desirability. yes the materials may be cheap so just buy a different bag for 10x the cost. the telfar bag remains a statement of democratizing fashion
I got mines the other day and I must say I’ve bought bags from lesser known black designers and the quality is much better…but hey who doesn’t love an IT bag
I have Telfar in 3 sizes and 3 different colors.
I guest that gives me fan status. I have not carried any of them.
Check out Brandon Blackwood!
Why use totally? It’s overrated or not overrated. Totally is teen speak from Clueless.
I couldn’t agree more! I LOVE the brand mission and the story, but every time I think about purchasing, I talk myself out of buying a glorified plastic grocery bag! I am shocked that the brand hasn’t introduced a leather version, especially with all of the advancements in recycled leather. And I know that if it were leather, it would be more expensive, but I would be willing to bet it wouldn’t be over the price of an LV On the Go in leather?
Vlad and Megs: There are a lot of opinions being expressed, with most people being upset over the publication of this article, especially during Black History month. Are you willing to address some of these concerns?
I totally agree that the bag is overrated. Check-out this “genuine” vegetable-tanned leather tote handmade with a hand-carved design, hand-crafted by a BLACK female at https://www.etsy.com/shop/burnishedleathers1
I’ve had 3 Telfar bags and sold them all off. I think I was initially drawn to the hype of it being a hot ticket item and the pandemic upping my online shopping. I also liked the price point (was able to purchase all the bags at once) and the social media drops were super intriguing. However, I got rid of them because they are really cheap looking up close and were thin the inside lining started to fray very quickly.
I don’t own own one, but at first sought, the plastic look, and the new round has a bit of a cheap appearance. Being I love round bags, I would purchase one only to support.
Please excuse the typo “at first sight” I noticed the plastic look.
Ugh thank you for this post. I couldn’t agree more. And the author is NOT bashing the designer, this man is a success either way you look at it. But that doesn’t mean you have to like something just because of his skin color…you guys are ridiculous, trying to make an issue out of everything.
As the bags are made overseas And the designer has a major backer, they are not made in Brooklyn, checked the label, I am only impressed with the filling of his bank account, I am happy for him, but don’t believe the hype.
I have a Silver Telfar tote and recently a mini Green handbag.
They are pretty. I have not carried the tote.
The green is too small and straps to short for Crossbody.
The fact he’s releasing new merchandise every week is fresh marketing tool. But, he always sells out.
Over-rated…on the fence.
But, fashion forward girls are selling knock offs. He’s stepping in line with big designers.
I’ve wanted to get my hands on one for so long! Finally I did. I got the small size. I was sooo disappointed when it arrived this week after waiting months for my bag security bag to arrive. I’m a 42 DDD and I can barely get the strap crossbody, it sits under my boobs! The straps don’t come off so if you want to use it as a small bag they just take up space in the bag. I’m so glad I only bought one at bag security and honestly may sell this one. Pretty disappointed
The Telfar bag has a great back story, but it is a tragic bag. I purchased one solely to support. I’ve used it approximately 10 times and the lining has already started to rip. I used it to hold my computer when I go into the office (so approximately 3 pounds and the charger; appx. 1.5 pounds). I have the medium bag and clearly it cannot even hold 4.5 pounds before ripping. The bag itself is very cheaply made and extremely overpriced for what you get. 1/10 would never recommend unless you just want to support.
I gotta admit the bag is bulky and ugly I was wondering why I saw so many black women with those big bags and they look cheap I don’t know it gives me that 60s vibe but without life!
This bag looks like a cheap Armani Jeans bag with a copy paste logo. Not inspiring.
The concept of a bag for everyone is amazing. However, purely looking at the bag, and comparing it to an Armani jeans bag, it almost looks the same. Even the logo seems to be a copy of the Armani jeans brand. It is really a misser opportunity…
The concept of a bag for everyone is wonderful. However, this bag looks like a copy of an Armani jeans bag. Even the logo is almost the same. This is a lost opportunity
I agree I love to support black im so proud of the designer but this bag is plastic not leather I can’t imagine paying for something that wrinkles that badly in warm environments. With leather it can be cleaned and repurposed not much you can do with pleather.
i would rather carry a walmart ban then this talfart crap
I have a telfar tote that I bought in the height of the Bushwick birkin. It’s still holding up although I admittedly haven’t used it much. You’re 💯 about the vegan leather. I also bought the telfar short uggs which I’m infinitely more impressed with
A client gifted me a bag a couple of years ago. I find that it’s not very functional for me. It’s big, but boxy. When filled up, it hurts my shoulders. I can’t secure my laptop unless I include a laptop sleeve, which makes it heavier. There is no place to separate my shoes from my snacks. And no phone or change pouch. It’s not great to travel with, nor is it useful for work. I now use it for storage.