Tusk Chelsea Shopper | Retro Black Leather Topstitched Handbag

Posted on: Jun 27

Tusk Chelsea Shopper Tusk injects a bit of retro flair into a wardrobe staple with this Chelsea shopper.

In many ways this is a fairly traditional shopper, with its clean trapezoidal shape and black pebbled leather. But the devil's in the details, the tan topstitching and complementary leather rings at the base of the straps. These accents give the Chelsea a cool mod vibe which ensures it doesn't just blend into the background.

Tusk calls it a small shopper, but I think that's a bit of a misrepresentation. It really does have enough space for all but the most serious packrats. The purple plainweave lining gives a fun pop of color that's practical too. The fabric is tough, and as it's so bright it makes it easy to locate the items you're carrying inside.

Considering the quality of its materials, and its easy blend of classic and contemporary styling, I think the Chelsea is a great buy at $190. It doesn't have some of those little touches we enjoy on more luxurious bags; the pockets aren't reinforced with leather, and there are no metal feet to protect the base. But for this price I still see value.