Joseph Duclos Thread

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What was the issue for you? Did the snaps stay closed the whole time? To me the bag just felt off with the wide opening (just the MM, the PM and BB no issues even with snaps open)
The MM snaps tended to come undone and the slouch over time made it even more "squashed" looking IYKWIM. The proportions on the BB were more balanced IMO.

The BB also was small but useful (I typically switch to small bags on the weekend - they have to fit the essentials including my giant phone and an extra pair of glasses). But over time I found the handle on the BB a bit less than useful - doll-sized almost.

I have always liked the option of a handle _and_ a crossbody strap, but lately a long strap seems more important and I've also become more "sensitive" to the proportions of the handle, especially on smaller bags.
 
The MM snaps tended to come undone and the slouch over time made it even more "squashed" looking IYKWIM. The proportions on the BB were more balanced IMO.

The BB also was small but useful (I typically switch to small bags on the weekend - they have to fit the essentials including my giant phone and an extra pair of glasses). But over time I found the handle on the BB a bit less than useful - doll-sized almost.

I have always liked the option of a handle _and_ a crossbody strap, but lately a long strap seems more important and I've also become more "sensitive" to the proportions of the handle, especially on smaller bags.
Yes, there was something off with the Gaby MM size! Thankfully the Fontélie doesn’t seem to have this issue, it’s on my wishlist!
 
Thank you! Size 20. You can actually order with gold hardware I think both look beautiful. I prefer phw since it feels more casual :flowers: View attachment 5757716
The ghw looks yummy… i wasnt sure since the blue cocagne is such a strong & cool shade and gold is more of a warm colour. personally I think both are beautiful paired with the blue, and you can dress it up or down depending on how you style it - with jeans, or a dress and sneakers or more formal with heels or a sharp jacket.
its one of the things I like about the Diane, and esp the L20 like you got, its very versatile and can transition from day to evening.
 
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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. :facepalm: 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.:flowers:
Congrats, it’s beautiful and I love the generous size! Great review, too.
 
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