Big Buddha seems influenced by the world’s great musical genres with this Penny Lane Bucket. Unfortunately though, this bag can’t decide whether it’s a hippie folk singer or a rock star.
From the top to the center it’s all rock and roll, with its black synthetic, rebellious slouch, and heavy metal. But it all goes awry when somewhere around the middle, Big Buddha covers the bag with bohemian fringing.
These long strands of synthetic are finished off with gypsy-like rings. That unique take on fringing might not have been so bad on another bag, but it seems to come out of the blue here. I’ve seen designers take disparate elements and somehow make them work, but the Penny Lane just comes off as clumsy.
I’m not a great fan of the Penny Lane’s look, but Big Buddha never lets us down where it counts. The drawstring closure isn’t the most effective way to keep your cargo safe, but the magnetic clasp underneath gives additional peace of mind. The interior is spacious and well appointed, with a zippered pocket and pair of open slips.
The flat base helps to counteract the Penny Lane’s slouchy profile. At least it won’t become a puddle of synthetic when we set it down. The chain woven strap is very fashionable but probably not so comfortable, so I’m glad we also get a longer cross-body strap for our busiest days. Both straps are removable to give the bag a clean look, no matter which way you’re carrying it.
I don’t think this is Big Buddha’s best looking bag, but at least its price is right. At $89.95, the Penny Lane is an affordable and individual way to schlep your stuff.
More Features of This Big Buddha Fringed Bucket Bag
- A chain woven strap with a 9.5 inch drop
- An adjustable strap with a 14.5 to 26.5 inch drop
- Measures 12 x 8 x 10 inches
- Made in China
You may also be interested in:
- More Big Buddha bags on BagBunch
- The Big Buddha Ray hobo bag, a great alternative to this fringed bag.
