Kathy Van Zeeland Private Eye Shopper | Patchwork Patent Tote

Posted on: May 8

We have all probably, at some point, dreamt of being a detective. Mainly as a kid in a flight of tweed fancy, playing with magnifying glasses, flat caps and imaginary sniffer dogs. My whole childhood was spent in imaginary play, which is perhaps what attracted me to this bag.

Its catchy name is the "Private Eye" shopper, and the shiny black/brown faux leather wouldn't look out of place in a Sherlock Holmes novel. It's chunky, with strong attractive handles and metal hardware. There are even enough compartments to house all of your crime-busting bits and pieces, from your lie-o-meter to your Polaroid!

Unfortunately, as you peer close in true mystery-solving style, you start to notice the flaws. It's from a bargain basement brand, and the cheap fabrics and glossy sheen start to look a little noticeable. Even worse, the initial glance makes the patchwork design look endearing, but you could easily tire of the dangerous and controversial combination of shades.

It is a roomy, multi-purpose shopper. You won't have any trouble filling it, and the space is undeniable. It even has great handles and pockets. Unfortunately a real detective would have no trouble spotting the problem features, the fabric and the pattern that gets old fast. Great for a season's fun, but probably not going to last you a lifetime.