Twofer Tumi

When you think Tumi , handbags don't come to mind quite as readily as luggage and briefcases. However, they do have a line of women's handbags which while not high fashion, are classic, and useful.

I found myself drawn to the Chatham Tote North, a preppy plaid day bag, perfect for casual Spring and Summer days.

The bag is not a particularly unique style, but the almost gingham like plaid in shades of grass green, and electric blue sets it apart. The light vachetta leather trim will only get better with age, making for a bag that will look better once it's been used a bit, and broken in. Being from a luggage company, it's no surprise that the bag has ample room for all your essentials.
Inside, there is an ingenious removable pocket, and a cheerful bright blue lining. The bag is made from cotton, and to protect the underside, it rests on metal feet.



The really amazing feature, which makes this tote great for travel (providing your wardrobe suits it) is that with a slip of the belt, the straps come off, and the bag can be turned inside out for a tote of another color...blue. The pocket can be reattached, just left off, or if you want that Coach label on the outside look, snapped onto the bag's exterior.
Tumi is known for quality products (my husband is a Tumi junkie, and with one exception, all his pieces have held up, even with an extraordinary amount of wear and tear) and considering it is not much more than a similarly sized Coach tote, it's priced fairly. The Chatham Tote North is $495 and comes in a tone on tone blue paisley with a green interior as well as a shorter East version (similar to Coach's Hampton tote in shape).
All are available from Tumi.