Becoming Carmen

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What’s In My Bag: Tory Burch T-block Mini Satchel

Aesthetics

The bag was named after the subtle ‘T’ shape defined by the top fold-over flap and stitching down the front. I love its polished look that doesn’t look like it’s trying too hard. Such a shame the style ended up being seasonal because I would have gotten a larger size in black or caramel.

The green hue is very much a “true green”, like the secondary colour on the colour wheel. Rich and contemporary with a youthful streak, I tend to reach for the bag more during the warmer seasons as it reminds me of lush foliage and plants.

Outfit details

Playsuit – Zara | Bralette – aerie | Slides – Sam Edelman | Necklace – Monica Vinader

Outfit details

Usability and Functionality

The satchel has a flat top handle (might be cute to wrap a scarf to spruce it up for some vacay vibes), and also comes with a detachable and adjustable crossbody strap with quite stiff holes. I don’t recall ever adjusting it, but it already sits at a perfect hip length. For reference, I’m 5’6”. 

Like its larger counterpart, the mini satchel opens up with a fold-over flap and a magnetic snap closure. But it doesn’t come with the centre zip compartment because, frankly, it’s pretty small and more of an adorable bag than a practical one (my definition for practical bags is those that fit at least my Kindle Paperwhite).

Outfit details

Sweater – Kenzo | Caps – aerie and New Era | Watch – Olivia Burton | Phone Case – Casetify x Poketo

Quality and Construction

The leather is smooth yet stiff, which gives enough structure to the mini satchel to hold its shape.

Despite being a crossbody, the way its strap rings are concealed behind the body of the bag is what really elevates it. Usually, straps have to be attached on the sides to avoid pulling on the bag too much, but the mini satchel gets away with it as the leather is on the stiff side, and you can’t fit much into the bag anyway.

What I found, though, is that after several years of loving use, the spots where the strap swivels meet the leather has rubbed away at its top coat. It’s not a splurge-y bag, and I don’t baby it, so no, I don’t feel bad about it.

Outfit Details

Blazer – Zara | Ribbed Top – Zara | Jeans – Everlane | Sneakers – Veja | Necklace – Edge of Ember

Staying Power

Greens are here to stay, though they have mellowed out a bit since Bottega Veneta took the runway by storm in 2021. More and more brands are embracing creamy pistachio and earthy hues, making the trend more wearable.

Saturated greens can be pretty loud, so starting with a more casual silhouette you can wear outside of work is always easier. Or you could go for a muted, pastel shade and stick to a smaller size so it doesn’t crowd out the rest of your outfit.

Assuming that green may not be a colour the average person wears daily, I’ve included my handpicked favourites for some mood board inspiration. Let me know if you have a favourite!

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Photos by Justin

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