Botkier has an uncanny knack for creating luxurious purses for far less than its contemporaries. A buttery soft lambskin tote like this Gene would easily top four figures if it came from a European design house, but Botkier has priced it as a reasonable $395.
The appeal of this tote goes beyond its bottom line. Its lambskin finish is truly stunning, and sumptuously soft. I like the traditional pebbled surface we see on this stone bag, but it’s also available in a delicate snake print.
Gorgeous leather like this needs little to spice it up, so Botkier leaves the front mercifully bare. It’s put some convenient slip pockets in the sides though, which have press-stud snaps running down the sides. These silvery circles work as an interesting alternative to studs, but their appeal doesn’t really go beyond the aesthetic. Who wants to open up the sides of their pockets after all?
These snaps extend down along the bottom of the tote, offering a little protection for that gorgeous leather base. It’s a smart design decision, especially for the stone leather bag which could easily show stains otherwise.
While the exterior has impressed me, inside the Gene leaves a bit to be desired. It’s enormous, but sadly Botkier has only offered a single zip pocket. I suppose we can use the unsecured side pockets for small items we feel will go astray, but I still expect a few vital possessions to become lost in the corners! Bags this big really are like black holes after all!
So long as you know how to stay organized, this Gene bag will serve you well for many seasons to come.
More Features of This Botkier North/South Tote
- Magnetic closure
- A single shoulder strap with a 7 inch drop
- Measures 13.5 x 5.5 x 15 inches
- Made in Indonesia
