Latico Basics Zip-Top Tote Bag - Leather

I had been looking at this item for awhile. It is a little small and it does not open very wide but it is just what I was looking for. I have a bigger bag when I need one and this one is perfect when I need something a little smaller and not so heavy.

The magnetic clips on the side pouches often come open on their own. The side pouches have little capacity. I will keep this bas for a year or two then get a new one. It fits well in my bottom drawer unlike my larger briefcase.

I purchased a very similar Latico tote from Sierra a couple of years ago and have received many complimentary comments about this red tote. I love it and use it every day. When I saw this new one I thought it was time for a black one, the size was right, and it seemed well thought out. Unfortunately I could not make friends with this tote. Too serious looking - maybe the burgundy one would have been a better choice. It was also the fact that the lining was quite boring, beigy/brown background checkered in black and occasional red lines. The material was not lined up straight. The inside had a chemical smell that might go away, but I would have preferred the rich smell of leather. These are very small details, and in general it is a smart tote for a professional, so I am giving it 4 stars.