I have to say, I was not really a BV fan until very recently. Mostly because I associated the brand with slouchy hobos, a style that doesn’t work for me. But they’ve come out with some styles that are really different and fabulous. I know you’re planning on looking at the Chain Tote. Check out the Piazza bag too while you’re at it — it’s like a Kelly, but the details are amazing.
I think you have to actually put your hands on a BV bag to “get” the quality. Funny story: I said to my DH yesterday that I know he doesn’t really like my new Chain Tote — he hadn’t commented on it and I know his preference is for smaller, more structured bags (eg, Chanel flaps and H Kellys). He said, “Well, it’s growing on me. At least it’s not a a shapeless sack!” I told him to go feel the bag up, especially the suede lining. He put his hand inside the bag, smiled, and said, “It feels like a bunny’s nose!” Lol!