Jen - Thank you so much for all the info! I ended up going to the FP store today and I really loved the Alexandra. The shorter straps were not a problem at all, just like you said. I was all set to buy it but then my SA brought out the new Hamptons XL hobo, and it was love. And it was in brown and I need a brown bag. I already have four silver/gray bags. However, if I get another bag for fall, it will definitely be the gunmetal Alexandra.