The Prada Saffiano Lux

This is hands-down my favourite bag ever - not in my collection, but ever. I am yet to find another bag that beats the Prada Saffiano Lux Medium Double-Zip Leather Satchel (its full name is a bit of a mouthful).

Of course there are more beautiful, more expensive and more practical bags out there, but when it comes to the combination of the three, I am  pretty sure this is, and will always be, my number one choice. 

There are a number of styles within the Prada Saffiano family. 'Saffiano' leather refers to a method of treating the leather by stamping, resulting in a leather that is durable, water-resistant and easy to clean. The method was said to be invented by Mario Prada himself, and Prada originally held a patent for real Saffiano leather - since then, many brands, both high end and high street, have used this method to create the signature textured look. Geniune saffiano leather is made of calf-skin, but it is also possible to have 'Saffiano-style' faux-leather made of polyurethane. 

Measurements

The bag measures approximately 33cm wide, 23cm tall and 13cm deep. The handles have an 11cm drop, and the abg comes with an adjustable shoulder strap as well. This bag isn't quite large enough for A4 documents or 13 inch laptops (though an 11 inch would fit), but it is nonetheless an extremely practical bag which will easily be able to hold all your daily necessities, for example:

• a continental style wallet
• a key pouch 
• an umbrella
• a large scarf
• a makeup bag
• a bottle of water 
• a phone
• an A5 notebook 
• a pair of sunglasses

Want to really stretch it? Add a pair of headphones. 

There are some snap closures on the side which allows you to close or expand the top of the bag. 

 

Structure and Appearance

The Prada Saffiano Lux totes are among the most structured bags out on the market: when the snap closures are open (which is how I almost always carry mine), the bag is completely rectangular, making it very easy to organise and to reach for things. 

Saffiano leather is also a very strong, durable leather, which means that this bag holds its shape much better than others of softer leather - for example the Mulberry Bayswater which I reviewed here: http://theunbearablelightnessofstyle.blogspot.com.au/2017/04/the-mulberry-bayswater.html. 

I haven't had any problem with the bottom of this bag sagging yet, but even if it does, its rectangular shape means it would be easy to find or even make a shape-holder. 

I like the simplicity of the design, which makes this one timeless bag which can take you through every season and to every occasion except for very formal ones. 

As its full name suggests, this bag has two zip compartments. I put the shoulder strap in there because I prefer to carry it as a tote at the cross of my elbow, and I wouldn't recommend putting anything more bulky in there: otherwise, it stretches the leather and makes the bag look a bit strange. Besides, with so much room inside, there really is no reason to stuff the side pockets full. 

There is also a zip compartment and three smaller, tightly-stitched leather compartments inside the bag. The bag is fully lined, but there are some controversy over the lining. Yes, it is a polyester lining rather than a leather lining like some other luxury bags, which some have argued cheapens the bag. I, however, have no problem at all with this lining. One of the key benefits of this bag over other luxury bags is how practical and easy to clean it is - and the polyester lining, in my view, adds to its practicality, especially when it can be lifted out of the bag for a more thorough clean. 

Verdict

If you're going to make just one luxury bag purchase, make it this one. 

I'm comfortable with leaving it on the floor or carrying it in the rain because the saffiano leather is so durable and practical; yet it is still one of the most beautifully-designed bags I have ever seen. It looks amazing with work wear and looks equally at home being slung over one shoulder on the weekend.