I’ve been on the hunt for a more ‘adult’ weekender duffle bag for some time. Something classic, one that would stand the test of time. My wardrobe can be considered a mish-mesh of things, so I needed a bag that would go with a lot of different style. Again and again, my eye kept wandering towards Madewell’s “The Essential Overnight Bag” in supple brown leather.
The price is on the steep side, retailing at $258, but knowing the company, I knew it would be made well (I’m sure they haven’t heard that before). I was not disappointed in the quality of the bag. The leather is beautifully made, though a shade darker than pictured on their website. The zippers feel significant, if that makes sense, and they added details such as gold feet at the bottom, a leather tag attached to the handle, and a few pockets inside to make organization a little easier.
I’ve read reviewers complaining that the strap is canvas and not leather, but I found it a relief. Too much leather is too heavy.
I brought this bag for the first time on my Japan trip and was able to fit three outfits, an extra pair of shoes, and my beauty bag. Perfect for a weekend trip. It’s spacious, especially if you’re packing for a summer getaway where nothing is too bulky.
I did try to overstuff the bag and the zipper did not agree with it, misaligning itself, and let me tell you, it’s a pain to realign. In fact, I doubt it would ever be the same. So be warned – do not overstuff.
As for the leather, after one week of being as careful as I could while stuffing it on overhead bins, transporting it in the trunks of cars, and just sitting it on top of rolling suitcases, it still managed to get scratches that seems irreparable. The leather is beautiful and soft, but it is prone to scratches. Because of this, I may only take the bag on relaxing weekend trips rather than rugged weeks-long adventures where it gets transferred to many locations.
If you fancy the structure of the bag but not the sensitivity of the leather, Madewell has canvas options that are built for a more carefree traveler.
Final verdict: this leather weekender bag is a great addition to a traveler’s luggage arsenal who appreciates beautiful aesthetics.
oh my gooooodness, what a gorgeous bag! It looks so high quality (also, I love your photography) xx
mia // https://beautiful-inspiring-creative-life.com
Author
It really is! And thanks so much, Mia 🙂
That’s such a gorgeous bag! I love the color. This makes me want to take a weekend trip somewhere.
Author
Yes! Weekend trips are the best!
love this! Sometimes it’s better to invest in a higher quality product that buy something cheap and it breaks so you end up replacing it and spending more money anyway. not always the case – however, you don’t want a strap or something to break on the bag whilst you are out and about haha!
hayley || hayleyxmartin
Author
Oh gosh, a strap breaking during trip sounds awful! Yes, I’m definitely in the mindset that buying higher quality is also better for the environment as that means you’re putting less things in the landfill.
That bag looks gorgeous! It’s a shame about the scratches but I guess that’s common with softer leather. It does look like a beautiful option for casual weekends though x
Sophie
Author
Yes, I may have to look into perhaps a leather buffer? In some ways, it adds a bit of grit to the bag, haha.
This weekender bag is too cute! I love how luxe it looks and that leather seems so soft and sturdy. A great bag to travel with!
xoxo,
Christine
https://dailykongfidence.com/
Author
I think it definitely adds quite a bit of luxe to traveling!
Awww, what a gergous bag! Perfect for a travel!!
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I go on a lot of shorter, weekend or mid-week trips and this would be absolutely perfect for me!
Author
Same! And yes, I think it would be perfect!
THAT BAG !! sooo good i need it
shy – https://www.shyyshianne.com/
Absolutely gorgeous bag! I think I would prefer the canvas strap as well, I find leather straps uncomfortable. It does suck about the scratches. That’s the thing about soft leather it scratches easily. It’s still a beautiful bag though!
Kadie The Great Canadian Housewife & A Story About A Girl
Author
Thanks! Yes, I think I just have to baby it just a bit more to prevent further scratches!
This leather bag is so chic! I totally love it.
xx Simone
Little Glittery Box
Oh such a beautiful leather bag !
It looks perfect for a week end bag.
I love it !
xx
Margot
https://troughthepasturesofthesky.com
It’s such a cute yet classy bag. You can wear it elegant and bohemian traveller style, which I love. I am quite of a adventurer and a Parisian Lady all in one. Plus I think, it will get more beautiful with sign of wear!
Have a wonderful week, Bisou from Berlin.
http://www.missvoguevoyage.com
Wow what a lovely bag. It looks really well made and your photos of it are lovely.
Lauren | https://www.laurenyloves.co.uk/
Love it! Nice quality and so versatile
XX Angelica
https://eraenvogue.com
What a beautiful weekend bag. I can see why you kept coming back to it, this classic style will definitely go with a lot of different styles and outfits. Shame about the scratches – I hate when that kind of thing happens!
I just love how spacious and chic that bag is!
Stay safe! 🙂
xoxo,
SHAIRA
Blog: http://www.missdream-girl.blogspot.com
For a price like that, I’m glad it is a quality made. I like how soft the leather is.
https://missymayification.co.uk
This bag is so nice and lovely
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