Work Bag: Smythson North South Panama Tote

If you are interviewing me for a position, and you ask the question, "What's your greatest weakness?" my honest answer would be "work appropriate goods". This is what I mean: whenever I'm shopping, I find myself drawn to clothing, shoes, and bags which can be worn to work. Before I make any purchase, I ask myself if the item is work appropriate. If it is, I somehow justify the price and happily add it to my collection. This is all very ironic since I'm still a senior in college. If I'm not employed come June, I will suffer from being all dressed up and no where to go...which is perfect motivation for nailing interviews. 

Does anyone else feel like they are endlessly searching for the perfect work bag? Behold, the Smythson North South Panama Tote. When I was working in London this winter, one of my coworkers had this beautiful journal in rich sturdy leather that was embossed with her initials. I felt rather sophomoric next to her with my Kate Spade planner exploding with color. I noticed the journal was from a brand called Smythson, which I wasn't too familiar with. Fast forward to last weekend when I was browsing at Barney's in Chicago. They have a small section (in the corner next to their Valextra bags) dedicated to Smythson. Their Panama tote collection caught my eye. The bag below comes in two sizes: North South which is the taller shape, and the East West which is more of the traditional tote shape. Both versions retail for $995 (sales tax in Chicago is 9.25% so grand total $1087). Here's the spoiler--you can purchase it for much cheaper directly from the Smythson website. 

Smythson, being as fabulously British as it is, only lists prices in UK currency. The North South Tote is listed as £550. When you put in your address, it will recognize that the item is being shipped to a US address. This is important because it means the horrendous 20% VAT tax is deducted! Also, standard shipping (5-7 days) to US is free. You can pay an additional £35 for express shipping (2-3 days). Now do a quick conversion at the current exchange rate and the bag is equivalent to $761, saving you a grand total of $326. Good stuff. 

Beautiful gift wrapping--every order is complimentary wrapped!

Bag is well protected. There was bubble wrap on the outside of the blue box.

Structured tote. Professional looking and perfect for the office.

Tote material is crossgrain calf leather. Pocket is smooth leather.

Navy fused suede lining--hides marks very well!

Internal pouch is detachable. Same material as external pocket.

I am a huge sucker for neutral colors. Black, white, and beige are my favorite. For some reason, this is my second red tote. I have a Longchamp in red that has been used to death. I think bags are a good way to add some color into my otherwise neutral wardrobe. It is a little loud, so I'm not too sure I would be comfortable enough to bring this to an interview. It's a great structured bag and not at all overwhelming on a 5'3 frame. I placed an order for the same bag in black, but I do plan on keeping this one for when I'm feeling in need of a splash of color.