A hundred bucks isn’t anything to sneeze at, but for an all-leather bag, it’s a steal. Materials and labor to make a leather bag have certain price floors, which means that, after markup, there aren’t many options of any sort below $100, and below $200, the pickings are slim. That’s what makes the Madewell Transport Tote, a perennial Brooklyn favorite, stand out, and it’s also what made me take notice of the line’s new addition, the Madewell Mini Pocket Transport Tote.
At $128, this simple, casual little bag is a versatile option. It comes in five neutral colors, and at 7.75″ wide and 8″ tall, it can easily fit any cell phone, a slim sunglasses case, small wallet, your keys and one or two other essentials. For most people, that’s all you need to run errands or go out with some friends, and the bag’s crossbody strap will keep you hands-free while the small top handles offer a second carry option.
The inside of the bag is open, with one generously sized zip pocket on the rear wall to hold smaller items or valuables. The only top closure is the Drawstring, but because of the bag’s small size, it’s unlikely you’d have much inside to escape that couldn’t be held back by that or the zipper pocket. The interior is line in tonal leather, which is a great touch for bag at this price point.
You can pick up the Madewell Mini Pocket Transport Tote for $128 via Nordstrom.
