Ode to the Carson

As you may know, the new love in my life is the Carson Shoulder Bag. Don't let the name fool you, this is also a crossbody bag. I've been carrying the Carson for a few weeks. Shamelessly, I went from zero Carsons to six withing a few weeks (Lilac Medallion, Cactus Green, Hawthorn Rose, Charcoal, Heirloom Paisley, and Winter Berry) Without further ado, here are the pros and cons of this new bag by Vera Bradley:

Pros

1. Like the Saddle Up – Yes! I have been waiting YEARS for Vera Bradley to make a bag similar to the Saddle Up! I have tried other brands but this one is the closest to the older Saddle Up yet. When I threw it on, all loaded up, my body had an “Ahhhh” moment. I missed carrying that weight at my side like I did the Saddle Up.

2. Pocket Organization – The Carson has two front pockets, under the flap, a large back exterior pocket, and the interior has a zippered and two slip-in pockets. Again, much like the Saddle Up! I knew right where to put my phone and keys, and no worries about them falling out.

3. Roomy – Overall this is a roomy bag! I consider it medium sized. I can comfortably put a full size packet of wipes, a diaper, a few toys and snacks, and still have room for my wallet, keys, and phone.

4. Detachable Straps – As you guys know, I don't like bag that are convertible crossbodies. I don't like wearing a bag cross body and then having the handles flop around and get in the way. Both the shoulder strap and the crossbody strap are detachable.

5. Interior Lining – Hello gorgeous interior lining! Long time no see! Wow! It's also nylon, which is fine since it's easier to clean. The lining material change didn't bother me, the lack of interior pattern bothered me. This bag is as beautiful inside as it is outside. Both patterns make me happy!

6. Holds Its Shape – Despite not having a sturdy base, the Carson holds its shape nicely and stands up on its own with only a few things in it. I've seen complaints that the Carson doesn't hold its shape and bends easily, but I don't find that to be true.

7. Back Magnet – The hidden magnet on the back of the purse, to close the slip-in exterior pocket, is strong! I have attached silverware to it easily. However, since it's strong, it keeps whatever is in the pocket in place. It's a great second place to carry your cell phone. I have even put my cell phone in it vertically, turned the bag upside down, shook it, and the phone didn't even come close to falling out!

Cons

1. Front Magnet – As much as I like the back magnet, I don't care for the front magnet under the flap as much. I wish it was hidden, instead of being attached to the faux leather strap. I am careful how I open the flap, otherwise it could tear the fabric. That said, I haven't had any issues, but others have.

2. Shoulder Strap – I love the crossbody strap, I hate the shoulder strap. It's nylon and short; it has a short strap drop. That could deter plus-sized ladies in carrying it. It does slip off my shoulder easily. I have purchased a couple of the embellished straps and will try these to alleviate the problem. There are occasions where crossbody wear is too casual, I really want the Carson to also work as a shoulder bag.

3. Cactus Green Straps – The Cactus Green Carson Shoulder Bag is gorgeous and a higher price point that the fabric and microfiber ones. The material is waxed cotton and it does have more a upscale front that the others. So naturally I expected the straps to be more upscale. Wrong. Both the crossbody and shoulder strap are nylon! I purchased the black embellished strap (the beaded one) to make the bag look more upscale. I pray the beads are sturdy!

4. Sharp Zipper – The Carson Shoulder Bag's only zipper is sturdy, but sharp. I've scraped my fingers on it several times, usually when I'm in a hurry and blindly grabbing whatever I need in the bag. I do like the look of the zipper, but be careful!

Even with these few complaints, I love this bag. I want to get other patterns in it in the future, especially when the pattern goes in retirement (here's looking at you Snow Lotus). If they make an appearance at the Annual Sale, I'd like to get it in Denim, Navy, and Black, too. I hope in the future Vera Bradley makes it in the Lighten Up material. Many of my Vera Bradley friends love the Carson too, so hopefully it stays around for a long time! Please, Vera Bradley gods, keep this style around longer than the Saddle Up!