Radley takes a traditional approach to design with its Aldgate shoulder bag.
The Aldgate is a perfectly nice bag, but it seems to be lacking the playfulness of Radley’s usual designs. Its Scotch Terrier tag is still there, but the pooch seems out of place amongst that mass of tired tan leather. Its structured shape is quite nice, but Radley hasn’t done enough with it. There’s nothing wrong with a crisp, clean finish, but we need to have something to latch on to. A particularly beautiful leather, perhaps, or an eye-popping color. Instead the minimalism just appears boring.
The Aldgate is practical enough, but I’m not enamored with its design. Its slender shape ensures it doesn’t dwarf our frame, but it’s a bit too skinny to be really functional. The handles also seem far too long for the design. At least they’ll be easy to grab as we’re heading out the door in a rush, but I’d prefer something more in proportion.
As an everyday bag it functions well. It should hold everything you really need with some careful packing, and its unobtrusive design should work for any situation and with most any outfit. It’s priced reasonably at $298, and for its materials alone it’s probably worth that. It’s just a shame it doesn’t come packaged with the whimsical Radley spirit we know and love.
More Features of This Radley Leather Shoulder Bag
- Top zip closure
- Dual handles
- Measures 11.75 x 8 x 4 inches
- Also available in black
