Kipling Rylie Backpack

I love how versatile this bag is! Its a great size as a crossbody/messenger type bag. Then when you remove the strap and either clip or zip-up the sides, you have a smaller cute and convenient tote bag. I do wish I had purchased it in a darker color because the yellow stains easily, and I havent figured out an effective way to remove the stains - thats on me for ordering a light color though.

A general upgrade to my usual Kipling purse (Alenya, Aisling, Izellah are my standbys). It's an elegant shade of gray with elevated silver metal zipper pulls and such. The shoulder strap is a smooth nylon, think seatbelt material, and the buckle doesn't loosen during the course of a day like the standard cotton straps might. I carry a lot of stuff in my purse and everything fits in the Oswin. Where my usual styles are wide, this bag is tall, and there's room to spare once I pile everything in it. As someone who wears her bag on her left shoulder, the interior pocket placement can be tricky. Also, with cellphones varying in size, the size of that interior cell pocket can be a dealbreaker. Thankfully, the size and placement are just right for me on the Oswin. (I had to abandon the Alenya style for this reason when I upgraded phones a couple years ago.) If I could give half-stars, this is actually a 4.5 star review for 2 minor issues. Again, as a person who wears her purse on her left shoulder, the excess strap hangs towards the front of the bag, which isn't great aesthetically. Also, I feel the absence of a rear or side pocket or two. The back exterior panel is so tall and bare without a slip or zip pocket. Everyone loves pockets! Side note: there is no key fob/clip.