I keep meaning to post a review, now that I've had it for a few weeks! The short version is I love it.
The long version is this:
I get why people look at it and think it might be impractical, with the round base, but that's actually a hugely functional design feature! With the top coming together the way it does, you can carry it unzipped, and someone would have to work pretty hard to get into the bag because it stays closed by default, whether you're hand or crook carrying. But when you do open it up, the wide, round base makes it super easy to see where all your stuff is. I have never once had to dig around for the thing I need.
The bag itself is stunning and unique, but in typical BV fashion, still flies under the radar. The shoulder strap is great in a pinch, when I'm trying to get 14 bags of groceries in from the car, but it also lays nicely when I'm just carrying it around.
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(waiting while my husband tries on jeans)
The bottom does begin to slouch a bit when you put it down, so to combat that when I'm not using it, I keep it hanging on a wide coat hook. I'm sure it'll soften more over time, but I think there's enough structure that it will continue to hold the majority of its shape over time.
I haven't tried to wear it crossbody, but I don't know the shorter strap was really meant for that. It's more of a hand or crook carry, with a shoulder strap for when you need both arms. (also useful when you've suddenly found 14 things you want to try on at the shops!) I've been using it non-stop for almost a month now, and I have yet to find something about the bag I don't like. I'm sad it didn't catch on with more people, to be honest. If this review makes you think it might be a good fit for you, then snap one up when you see it! I promise you won't regret it!