Joseph Duclos Thread

[crocodilemonkey]

I agree about the strap placement. I don’t foresee the flap torquing and stretching because of strap strain.
I appreciate the envelope-like panel stitching on the bag’s front. I think it’ll help the bag maintain its structure when the leather begins to soften. I don’t anticipate the bag will get the little pooch/puddling found in older Moynat Gabys and (clemence) H Bolides.

So good to know about the strap attachment, esp as several of us were concerned about this when the 1st images were released. Does it balance well when worn, and not tip forward because of straps being attached to the back instead of the top of the bag?

 

[Mousy]

So good to know about the strap attachment, esp as several of us were concerned about this when the 1st images were released. Does it balance well when worn, and not tip forward because of straps being attached to the back instead of the top of the bag?

My initial thoughts —

• The shoulder strap is narrow, yet still comfortable because of the pliable leather. I think if someone wears it for several hours straight, loaded with heavy things, the strap might dig a little.

• I’m no longer my teenage size, so when worn crossbody, the (straight up and down) strap flares slightly outward, where it’s attached at the base of the handle. I don’t think the strap will crease — compromising the leather and sealant. I think it flares because there is no hardware to angle the strap. I hope I explained it okay. It’s difficult to describe.

• The strap is shorter than I was told. The longest length has a 24”/~60cm shoulder drop. It’s perfect for me. The shortest drop is approximately 18-19”/46cm.

• I’m 5’10” tall and size 10/medium (American). The bag looks substantial on me as a crossbody, but I like it. It reminds me of a nice structured satchel.

•The bag will not tip over given its wide rock-hard base.

• If worn crossbody, the bag is flat against my body. Hardware would’ve ruined the aesthetic.

• If shoulder carried, the top tips outward a little, but not enough to be annoying. It reminds me of the H 24/24 bag, but with a lesser angle.

• I’ll have to get used to the handle. I’m used to two handles (Bolide/GP), so a bag w/ one handle is different — especially when it’s attached to the back of the bag. The handle is a little wonky because it tapers. It feels pliable — moves back and forth a little — but isn’t compromised by any means.

• When hand carried, if the bag is full, the bag will angle a little. It’s not annoying. It’s just different. It gives the bag a casual/carefree vibe.

• When snapped closed on the sides, the interior is secure, but you can’t reach in. I wear it unsnapped. It opens wide and is still easy-ish to close.

• I grew to dislike my Chanel Reissue because I always struggled to fit the turn-lock into its frame. I didn’t buy a 24/24 because it had similar complaints. The Fontélie’s magnetic closure is nice, but a couple of times the magnets searched for each other for a secure snap. Mind you, nothing would’ve spilled. I just need to get used to this type of closure. It takes two hands right now, but hopefully, with more practice, I’ll get it down pat.

• The leather is niiiiiiiice. It’s structured, lightweight, and matte, with a velveteen-like softness. The craftsmanship is amazing. The design is casual and roomy. Perfect for east-coast Martha’s Vineyard or Greenwich Village, to west-coast SF waterfront, Santa Monica, Americana and Grove shopping, or visiting a studio set. The Fontélie’s vibe is perfect for me.

• Would I buy the Fontélie again? Yes. Would I buy more than one? If I had infinite handbag funds — yes, the aubergine is tdf. But I don’t have a huge bag piggy bank, so I’m saving for the Diane.

I hope this helps.

 

[bagnut1]

View attachment 5755207View attachment 5755208View attachment 5755209View attachment 5755210View attachment 5755211View attachment 5755212View attachment 5755213View attachment 5755214View attachment 5755215
My initial thoughts —

• The shoulder strap is narrow, yet still comfortable because of the pliable leather. I think if someone wears it for several hours straight, loaded with heavy things, the strap might dig a little.

• I’m no longer my teenage size, so when worn crossbody, the (straight up and down) strap flares slightly outward, where it’s attached at the base of the handle. I don’t think the strap will crease — compromising the leather and sealant. I think it flares because there is no hardware to angle the strap. I hope I explained it okay. It’s difficult to describe.

• The strap is shorter than I was told. The longest length has a 24”/~60cm shoulder drop. It’s perfect for me. The shortest drop is approximately 18-19”/46cm.

• I’m 5’10” tall and size 10/medium (American). The bag looks substantial on me as a crossbody, but I like it. It reminds me of a nice structured satchel.

•The bag will not tip over given its wide rock-hard base.

• If worn crossbody, the bag is flat against my body. Hardware would’ve ruined the aesthetic.

• If shoulder carried, the top tips outward a little, but not enough to be annoying. It reminds me of the H 24/24 bag, but with a lesser angle.

• I’ll have to get used to the handle. I’m used to two handles (Bolide/GP), so a bag w/ one handle is different — especially when it’s attached to the back of the bag. The handle is a little wonky because it tapers. It feels pliable — moves back and forth a little — but isn’t compromised by any means.

• When hand carried, if the bag is full, the bag will angle a little. It’s not annoying. It’s just different. It gives the bag a casual/carefree vibe.

• When snapped closed on the sides, the interior is secure, but you can’t reach in. I wear it unsnapped. It opens wide and is still easy-ish to close.

• I grew to dislike my Chanel Reissue because I always struggled to fit the turn-lock into its frame. I didn’t buy a 24/24 because it had similar complaints. The Fontélie’s magnetic closure is nice, but a couple of times the magnets searched for each other for a secure snap. Mind you, nothing would’ve spilled. I just need to get used to this type of closure. It takes two hands right now, but hopefully, with more practice, I’ll get it down pat.

• The leather is niiiiiiiice. It’s structured, lightweight, and matte, with a velveteen-like softness. The craftsmanship is amazing. The design is casual and roomy. Perfect for Martha’s Vineyard or Greenwich Village to the SF waterfront, Santa Monica, The Americana and The Grove shopping, or visiting a studio set. The Fontélie’s vibe is perfect for me.

• Would I buy the Fontélie again? Yes. Would I buy more than one? If I had infinite handbag funds — yes, the aubergine is tdf. But I don’t have a huge bag piggy bank, so I’m saving for the Diane.

I hope this helps.

Oh wow - thank you so much for sharing - I am jealous! And so glad that the bag makes you happy! Based on your description I think I would adore it too.

Putting it on my list.

 

[textilegirl]

View attachment 5755207View attachment 5755208View attachment 5755209View attachment 5755210View attachment 5755211View attachment 5755212View attachment 5755213View attachment 5755214View attachment 5755215
My initial thoughts —

• The shoulder strap is narrow, yet still comfortable because of the pliable leather. I think if someone wears it for several hours straight, loaded with heavy things, the strap might dig a little.

• I’m no longer my teenage size, so when worn crossbody, the (straight up and down) strap flares slightly outward, where it’s attached at the base of the handle. I don’t think the strap will crease — compromising the leather and sealant. I think it flares because there is no hardware to angle the strap. I hope I explained it okay. It’s difficult to describe.

• The strap is shorter than I was told. The longest length has a 24”/~60cm shoulder drop. It’s perfect for me. The shortest drop is approximately 18-19”/46cm.

• I’m 5’10” tall and size 10/medium (American). The bag looks substantial on me as a crossbody, but I like it. It reminds me of a nice structured satchel.

•The bag will not tip over given its wide rock-hard base.

• If worn crossbody, the bag is flat against my body. Hardware would’ve ruined the aesthetic.

• If shoulder carried, the top tips outward a little, but not enough to be annoying. It reminds me of the H 24/24 bag, but with a lesser angle.

• I’ll have to get used to the handle. I’m used to two handles (Bolide/GP), so a bag w/ one handle is different — especially when it’s attached to the back of the bag. The handle is a little wonky because it tapers. It feels pliable — moves back and forth a little — but isn’t compromised by any means.

• When hand carried, if the bag is full, the bag will angle a little. It’s not annoying. It’s just different. It gives the bag a casual/carefree vibe.

• When snapped closed on the sides, the interior is secure, but you can’t reach in. I wear it unsnapped. It opens wide and is still easy-ish to close.

• I grew to dislike my Chanel Reissue because I always struggled to fit the turn-lock into its frame. I didn’t buy a 24/24 because it had similar complaints. The Fontélie’s magnetic closure is nice, but a couple of times the magnets searched for each other for a secure snap. Mind you, nothing would’ve spilled. I just need to get used to this type of closure. It takes two hands right now, but hopefully, with more practice, I’ll get it down pat.

• The leather is niiiiiiiice. It’s structured, lightweight, and matte, with a velveteen-like softness. The craftsmanship is amazing. The design is casual and roomy. Perfect for Martha’s Vineyard or Greenwich Village to the SF waterfront, Santa Monica, The Americana and The Grove shopping, or visiting a studio set. The Fontélie’s vibe is perfect for me.

• Would I buy the Fontélie again? Yes. Would I buy more than one? If I had infinite handbag funds — yes, the aubergine is tdf. But I don’t have a huge bag piggy bank, so I’m saving for the Diane.

I hope this helps.

Thanks for your thoughts, great review!

 

[Mousy]

Oh wow - thank you so much for sharing - I am jealous! And so glad that the bag makes you happy! Based on your description I think I would adore it too.

Putting it on my list.

Thanks for your thoughts, great review!

I forgot to add —

• My 10.5” iPad Pro (w/o a zippered case) fits perfectly, behind the side folds.

• If I had to choose a Fontélie or a Moynat Gabby, I’d choose the Fontélie. I like the Gabby and they’re similar, but the Fontélie is somewhat structured, and probably won’t puddle. And the handle set in the back allows for easy hand carry, if left open. Need I mention — handmade in France?

 

[crocodilemonkey]

View attachment 5755207View attachment 5755208View attachment 5755209View attachment 5755210View attachment 5755211View attachment 5755212View attachment 5755213View attachment 5755214View attachment 5755215
My initial thoughts —

• The shoulder strap is narrow, yet still comfortable because of the pliable leather. I think if someone wears it for several hours straight, loaded with heavy things, the strap might dig a little.

• I’m no longer my teenage size, so when worn crossbody, the (straight up and down) strap flares slightly outward, where it’s attached at the base of the handle. I don’t think the strap will crease — compromising the leather and sealant. I think it flares because there is no hardware to angle the strap. I hope I explained it okay. It’s difficult to describe.

• The strap is shorter than I was told. The longest length has a 24”/~60cm shoulder drop. It’s perfect for me. The shortest drop is approximately 18-19”/46cm.

• I’m 5’10” tall and size 10/medium (American). The bag looks substantial on me as a crossbody, but I like it. It reminds me of a nice structured satchel.

•The bag will not tip over given its wide rock-hard base.

• If worn crossbody, the bag is flat against my body. Hardware would’ve ruined the aesthetic.

• If shoulder carried, the top tips outward a little, but not enough to be annoying. It reminds me of the H 24/24 bag, but with a lesser angle.

• I’ll have to get used to the handle. I’m used to two handles (Bolide/GP), so a bag w/ one handle is different — especially when it’s attached to the back of the bag. The handle is a little wonky because it tapers. It feels pliable — moves back and forth a little — but isn’t compromised by any means.

• When hand carried, if the bag is full, the bag will angle a little. It’s not annoying. It’s just different. It gives the bag a casual/carefree vibe.

• When snapped closed on the sides, the interior is secure, but you can’t reach in. I wear it unsnapped. It opens wide and is still easy-ish to close.

• I grew to dislike my Chanel Reissue because I always struggled to fit the turn-lock into its frame. I didn’t buy a 24/24 because it had similar complaints. The Fontélie’s magnetic closure is nice, but a couple of times the magnets searched for each other for a secure snap. Mind you, nothing would’ve spilled. I just need to get used to this type of closure. It takes two hands right now, but hopefully, with more practice, I’ll get it down pat.

• The leather is niiiiiiiice. It’s structured, lightweight, and matte, with a velveteen-like softness. The craftsmanship is amazing. The design is casual and roomy. Perfect for east-coast Martha’s Vineyard or Greenwich Village, to west-coast SF waterfront, Santa Monica, Americana and Grove shopping, or visiting a studio set. The Fontélie’s vibe is perfect for me.

• Would I buy the Fontélie again? Yes. Would I buy more than one? If I had infinite handbag funds — yes, the aubergine is tdf. But I don’t have a huge bag piggy bank, so I’m saving for the Diane.

I hope this helps.

Wow…. So impressed with your detailed analysis very helpful, thanks a ton !
I’m planning a trip to see all the bags, and even though I still have the Saint Clair on the top of my list, your review has me seriously considering the Fontelie for no. 2 slot

 

[Cool Breeze]

View attachment 5755207View attachment 5755208View attachment 5755209View attachment 5755210View attachment 5755211View attachment 5755212View attachment 5755213View attachment 5755214View attachment 5755215
My initial thoughts —

• The shoulder strap is narrow, yet still comfortable because of the pliable leather. I think if someone wears it for several hours straight, loaded with heavy things, the strap might dig a little.

• I’m no longer my teenage size, so when worn crossbody, the (straight up and down) strap flares slightly outward, where it’s attached at the base of the handle. I don’t think the strap will crease — compromising the leather and sealant. I think it flares because there is no hardware to angle the strap. I hope I explained it okay. It’s difficult to describe.

• The strap is shorter than I was told. The longest length has a 24”/~60cm shoulder drop. It’s perfect for me. The shortest drop is approximately 18-19”/46cm.

• I’m 5’10” tall and size 10/medium (American). The bag looks substantial on me as a crossbody, but I like it. It reminds me of a nice structured satchel.

•The bag will not tip over given its wide rock-hard base.

• If worn crossbody, the bag is flat against my body. Hardware would’ve ruined the aesthetic.

• If shoulder carried, the top tips outward a little, but not enough to be annoying. It reminds me of the H 24/24 bag, but with a lesser angle.

• I’ll have to get used to the handle. I’m used to two handles (Bolide/GP), so a bag w/ one handle is different — especially when it’s attached to the back of the bag. The handle is a little wonky because it tapers. It feels pliable — moves back and forth a little — but isn’t compromised by any means.

• When hand carried, if the bag is full, the bag will angle a little. It’s not annoying. It’s just different. It gives the bag a casual/carefree vibe.

• When snapped closed on the sides, the interior is secure, but you can’t reach in. I wear it unsnapped. It opens wide and is still easy-ish to close.

• I grew to dislike my Chanel Reissue because I always struggled to fit the turn-lock into its frame. I didn’t buy a 24/24 because it had similar complaints. The Fontélie’s magnetic closure is nice, but a couple of times the magnets searched for each other for a secure snap. Mind you, nothing would’ve spilled. I just need to get used to this type of closure. It takes two hands right now, but hopefully, with more practice, I’ll get it down pat.

• The leather is niiiiiiiice. It’s structured, lightweight, and matte, with a velveteen-like softness. The craftsmanship is amazing. The design is casual and roomy. Perfect for east-coast Martha’s Vineyard or Greenwich Village, to west-coast SF waterfront, Santa Monica, Americana and Grove shopping, or visiting a studio set. The Fontélie’s vibe is perfect for me.

• Would I buy the Fontélie again? Yes. Would I buy more than one? If I had infinite handbag funds — yes, the aubergine is tdf. But I don’t have a huge bag piggy bank, so I’m saving for the Diane.

I hope this helps.

Excellent review. Thanks for taking the time to write out your informative thoughts and comments.

 

[bagnut1]

I forgot to add —

• My 10.5” iPad Pro (w/o a zippered case) fits perfectly, behind the side folds.

• If I had to choose a Fontélie or a Moynat Gabby, I’d choose the Fontélie. I like the Gabby and they’re similar, but the Fontélie is somewhat structured, and probably won’t puddle. And the handle set in the back allows for easy hand carry, if left open. Need I mention — handmade in France?

Great to know! Based on your analysis I think this bag overcomes the issues I had using the Gaby. Looking forward to trying it!

 

[BalletDream]

View attachment 5755207View attachment 5755208View attachment 5755209View attachment 5755210View attachment 5755211View attachment 5755212View attachment 5755213View attachment 5755214View attachment 5755215
My initial thoughts —

• The shoulder strap is narrow, yet still comfortable because of the pliable leather. I think if someone wears it for several hours straight, loaded with heavy things, the strap might dig a little.

• I’m no longer my teenage size, so when worn crossbody, the (straight up and down) strap flares slightly outward, where it’s attached at the base of the handle. I don’t think the strap will crease — compromising the leather and sealant. I think it flares because there is no hardware to angle the strap. I hope I explained it okay. It’s difficult to describe.

• The strap is shorter than I was told. The longest length has a 24”/~60cm shoulder drop. It’s perfect for me. The shortest drop is approximately 18-19”/46cm.

• I’m 5’10” tall and size 10/medium (American). The bag looks substantial on me as a crossbody, but I like it. It reminds me of a nice structured satchel.

•The bag will not tip over given its wide rock-hard base.

• If worn crossbody, the bag is flat against my body. Hardware would’ve ruined the aesthetic.

• If shoulder carried, the top tips outward a little, but not enough to be annoying. It reminds me of the H 24/24 bag, but with a lesser angle.

• I’ll have to get used to the handle. I’m used to two handles (Bolide/GP), so a bag w/ one handle is different — especially when it’s attached to the back of the bag. The handle is a little wonky because it tapers. It feels pliable — moves back and forth a little — but isn’t compromised by any means.

• When hand carried, if the bag is full, the bag will angle a little. It’s not annoying. It’s just different. It gives the bag a casual/carefree vibe.

• When snapped closed on the sides, the interior is secure, but you can’t reach in. I wear it unsnapped. It opens wide and is still easy-ish to close.

• I grew to dislike my Chanel Reissue because I always struggled to fit the turn-lock into its frame. I didn’t buy a 24/24 because it had similar complaints. The Fontélie’s magnetic closure is nice, but a couple of times the magnets searched for each other for a secure snap. Mind you, nothing would’ve spilled. I just need to get used to this type of closure. It takes two hands right now, but hopefully, with more practice, I’ll get it down pat.

• The leather is niiiiiiiice. It’s structured, lightweight, and matte, with a velveteen-like softness. The craftsmanship is amazing. The design is casual and roomy. Perfect for east-coast Martha’s Vineyard or Greenwich Village, to west-coast SF waterfront, Santa Monica, Americana and Grove shopping, or visiting a studio set. The Fontélie’s vibe is perfect for me.

• Would I buy the Fontélie again? Yes. Would I buy more than one? If I had infinite handbag funds — yes, the aubergine is tdf. But I don’t have a huge bag piggy bank, so I’m saving for the Diane.

I hope this helps.

Amazing review!! Thanks for sharing. I really want a Fontélie!!

 

[Loganz]

I forgot to add —

• My 10.5” iPad Pro (w/o a zippered case) fits perfectly, behind the side folds.

• If I had to choose a Fontélie or a Moynat Gabby, I’d choose the Fontélie. I like the Gabby and they’re similar, but the Fontélie is somewhat structured, and probably won’t puddle. And the handle set in the back allows for easy hand carry, if left open. Need I mention — handmade in France?

I loved reading your review, and your photos were also great!
It’s a lovely bag! Enjoy it!!

 

[BalletDream]

Great to know! Based on your analysis I think this bag overcomes the issues I had using the Gaby. Looking forward to trying it!

What size Gaby was giving you issues? I was considering a Gaby MM and noticed that the weight of my items would undo the snaps and it would lean forwards (the PM is fine with the snaps open). I think the Fontélie won’t have this issue at all, the opening looks higher so it seems that having the snaps open won’t create the problem that the Gaby MM had.

 

[Mousy]

What size Gaby was giving you issues? I was considering a Gaby MM and noticed that the weight of my items would undo the snaps and it would lean forwards (the PM is fine with the snaps open). I think the Fontélie won’t have this issue at all, the opening looks higher so it seems that having the snaps open won’t create the problem that the Gaby MM had.

Though I’m not Bagnut1, if you don’t mind, I’d like to comment on your Gaby structure observations. Yes. The Gaby’s leather seems soft and pliable. The Fontélie is deeper than the Gaby. I think the stiffer leather and front panels help to prevent the ‘lean forward’ effect.

 

[LavenderIce]

@Sourisbrune Congratulations on your beautiful Fontelie! Thank you for sharing your detailed observations about the functionality of the bag.

 

[bagnut1]

What size Gaby was giving you issues? I was considering a Gaby MM and noticed that the weight of my items would undo the snaps and it would lean forwards (the PM is fine with the snaps open). I think the Fontélie won’t have this issue at all, the opening looks higher so it seems that having the snaps open won’t create the problem that the Gaby MM had.

Though I’m not Bagnut1, if you don’t mind, I’d like to comment on your Gaby structure observations. Yes. The Gaby’s leather seems soft and pliable. The Fontélie is deeper than the Gaby. I think the stiffer leather and front panels help to prevent the ‘lean forward’ effect.

Agreed and it was the Gaby MM. I didn’t have the tilting issue so much though.

 

[BalletDream]

Though I’m not Bagnut1, if you don’t mind, I’d like to comment on your Gaby structure observations. Yes. The Gaby’s leather seems soft and pliable. The Fontélie is deeper than the Gaby. I think the stiffer leather and front panels help to prevent the ‘lean forward’ effect.

That’s really good to hear! Thanks again for the awesome review and pictures! Super helpful!