Cuyana System Tote

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Feb 17, 2016
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There is like nothing out there about this tote, which is super hyped on the Cuyana website. I wanted to write a quick review so people can see more info about this bag.

I ordered the black with the idea of using this as a work bag. I did not order any of the inserts because I wanted to check the bag out first.

First, it’s really smooshy:
2703E606-BA43-47DF-8F31-65BF89CC7E2B.jpeg18F5F121-867A-4303-8968-C94598A65E24.jpegD2F1EE05-C207-4FD3-B730-17F79C454282.jpegThis is not a bag that is going to stand up on its own, which surprised me a little from the stock photos. The leather smelled great and appeared to be of good quality, which I would expect from this brand.

It‘a a good size; not overly large:
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As you can see, there’s plenty of room for your shoulder. Once it has a laptop in it, though, I think the weight becomes a little unbalanced. I wonder if this would change if I was using the insert.
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Finally, I thought the stitching and the glazing seemed less than stellar. EBBE2B29-8E7C-4069-863A-A3467D9DCF15.jpeg
I didn’t like how each strap had a seam on top.

I didn’t end up keeping this. It’s $295 plus any cost for inserts. I know this pales in comparison to some of my handbags, but I have different expectations for a work tote. The lack of structure is what did it for me. I do love the aesthetic as worn and I think this would work great for someone who doesn’t need to lug around a laptop and files.

I am excited to see what seasonal colors come out. I think this would be an even better bag in a fun color for weekend shopping.

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P.s. I am working from home and couldn’t be bothered to change out of pajamas. I trust this would look way better when styled appropriately. :)
 
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I have this in the 13
Inch cappuccino. I wish there were reviews of the mini because it’s so cute! I have the same thoughts, the glazing looks like it might crack and wear with regular use but for the price point I don’t mind. I think the bags come with a 2 year warranty. At first
Glance I was confused by the leather— never seen a matte pebbled leather like this it almost looked fake and I was weirded out by the thickness. It almost felt like weird craft foam but I gave it a shot and now I absolutely love it. Not all my bags have been love at first sight! Some of my faves just grew on me. I love that it’s a tote but it looks like a handbag. The straps are thick so it’s really comfy and I’ve gotten tons of compliments on it. Now it feels super luxurious and I want it in more colors
 
I don’t have this tote but I did buy a different Cuyana tote almost 9 years ago. Mine is also floppy and is not luxurious. I’ve carried it a lot over the last several summers and have decided I’m not a shoulder tote person and even as casual as I am, I don’t want something that casual. I was ready to donate it. However, I took a look at it the other day and could not believe how well it has held up! I’m careful with my bags, but I know I haven’t been as careful with this one. The little wear and tear it has makes it look like I’ve only carried it a season or 2, not 9. I guess what I’m trying to say is that $295 isn’t much to pay for a bag that will likely hold up very well. I understand why you decided not to keep it though.
 
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