Another severe arthritis sufferer! I made plans today to get my left shoulder replaced today.100% AGREE .. but, you and I have been "collectors" for many years!!! Another reason why I love them so much is the WEIGHT!!! When you have severe arthritis like I do, the weight of a bag (w/out any items in it) .. is a big plus! I loved the Celine bags (the styles) .. but OMG, heavy as hell .. and it only took 1 day for me to say "no way .. can't do this"! While I have pared down the "stuff" I need to carry significantly (since I had to carry a lot of work-related 'stuff' too), the fact that the majority of the Bal bags & leather are lightweight is a huge plus to me!
The greatest feature of the Bals is how lightweight they are, not to mention all the great colors. While I loved the look of the Celine luggage tote is was like carrying a suitcase.