I love both, but if you have a kelly, or you ever want one in the future, I think the Launer is more user friendly (the top handle has more of a drop, so you can wear it hand held, through your arm, cross body or shoulder carry). The opening of the launer would make it easier to rummage through on the fly, whereas things may topple out of the Grace. So the Launer might be easier to carry and hold more; and it may also be lighter and ride closer to the body. . . And it may be easier to style, as it is a classic shape; and, it can be dressed up or down. In icing pink, I think it is more feminine and graceful (pun intended)
So I voted Launer. But, I think, if you had a chance to try either in person, you would know immediately which one speaks to you (which should be the definitive test, bc to be honest, none of us, here on TPF, need another bag Lol).
I have seen variations of the cross bag (in seasonal straw and I think leather too) at decent prices at resale. I think it might be possible to get the exact icing pink Launer you want at retail and perhaps find a fun cross at a great resale price lol. I DO think the Cross would be more edgy and fashion forward and both youthful and retro/modern (depending on styling) , but that isn’t always as easy to live with lol. I could see equally see it with a comme des garçons suit or jeans. It may boil down to how many bags you already have in a top handle kelly style, and whether you are a novelty rectangular bag kind of person. It could be less serious than the launer, if that is a consideration.
I am NOT really a practical person, and I love the shape of the cross bag. But, even so, I think it could be heavy or feel like it juts out from the body. This could be cute and Audrey Hepburn like, or incredibly irritating. I myself have yearned for specific cross Grace bags, but I have always resisted due to my fear it will not get used. Also, DH, whose taste I trust, has always given it a thumbs down as too cutesy briefcase-y and a bit pointless. (This only adds to its appeal in my warped bag mind).
But, I am also aware of the fact that the cross pic is usually NOT shown crossbody on a gorgeous model, but handheld, which IMO is the most flattering but impractical way to hold a bag. Eventually, I always forget about it, until the next time it pops on my radar (like this thread). I also have to admit that I love to love the underdog bag, but at one point in my life, my bag wardrobe was filled with such bags that never saw the light of day.
You have great taste. I look forward to hearing about whatever you decide, and I hope you will post action pics so we can celebrate with you
