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I went with the standard but wished I had gone with what some others have done and extended the handles. It fits on my shoulder fine but I think I’m used to using totes that have regular length I guess rather than closer to my armpit.
Just a thought @yellow_tulip, but as was mentioned, the handles are fully removable, so if you wanted to, you could order a new set of extended handles for the Soulmate Midi. Then you'd have the length you want :)!
 
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@BittyMonkey that is stunning!

This is my first post here - hello. I recently stumbled across the MM brand after googling which brands still make quality bags, and then finding a thread on here. I've since spent quite a while on the website and looking at the MM reference thread on here - I even emailed asking about samples because the bag I liked doesn't show colours on the website, but Marco told me that any bag can be made in pretty much any leather and I think it's time I asked for some knowledgeable help lol.

I was originally looking for a tote, but I do think I need to stick with cross body as I have a toddler and being hands free is invaluable. None of the bags jumped out at me straight away as being "the one", but I haven't had that feeling with a bag for years anyway and I'd already decided I am going to get a bag from MM. Anyway, I think I'm looking at a Diva, to be worn crossbody.

First, are there any other cross body styles I should be considering, from your experience? (I don't think I like the asymmetry of the Clio, Luna and Aurora personally, and I'm not sure on the very structured shape of the Zhoe, though I have seen people raving about it on here!)

Also, please can anyone help me narrow down the massive leather selection? I really don't know where to start. If I was to get a Diva, should I just go with nappa like Marco offers on the website, or are there better options? I do love the sound and look of Merinos, and pebbled is just gorgeous, but maybe not for a bucket bag? I wouldn't want it to be too structured or too slouchy, and it needs to be hard wearing (though seems they all are!)

Finally colour... will I regret going with basic black when so many beautiful colours are available? I don't want to hassle Marco by requesting lots of leather samples. I am trying to work out what colour would go with all my winter coats (I don't rotate my bags often, not that I have that many!)

Apologies for the massive post but I am totally overwhelmed, yet excited to order my first MM bag - I'm sure it won't be my last. Any help is greatly appreciated!
 
@BittyMonkey that is stunning!

This is my first post here - hello. I recently stumbled across the MM brand after googling which brands still make quality bags, and then finding a thread on here. I've since spent quite a while on the website and looking at the MM reference thread on here - I even emailed asking about samples because the bag I liked doesn't show colours on the website, but Marco told me that any bag can be made in pretty much any leather and I think it's time I asked for some knowledgeable help lol.

I was originally looking for a tote, but I do think I need to stick with cross body as I have a toddler and being hands free is invaluable. None of the bags jumped out at me straight away as being "the one", but I haven't had that feeling with a bag for years anyway and I'd already decided I am going to get a bag from MM. Anyway, I think I'm looking at a Diva, to be worn crossbody.

First, are there any other cross body styles I should be considering, from your experience? (I don't think I like the asymmetry of the Clio, Luna and Aurora personally, and I'm not sure on the very structured shape of the Zhoe, though I have seen people raving about it on here!)

Also, please can anyone help me narrow down the massive leather selection? I really don't know where to start. If I was to get a Diva, should I just go with nappa like Marco offers on the website, or are there better options? I do love the sound and look of Merinos, and pebbled is just gorgeous, but maybe not for a bucket bag? I wouldn't want it to be too structured or too slouchy, and it needs to be hard wearing (though seems they all are!)

Finally colour... will I regret going with basic black when so many beautiful colours are available? I don't want to hassle Marco by requesting lots of leather samples. I am trying to work out what colour would go with all my winter coats (I don't rotate my bags often, not that I have that many!)

Apologies for the massive post but I am totally overwhelmed, yet excited to order my first MM bag - I'm sure it won't be my last. Any help is greatly appreciated!
Welcome! What about the Penelope Messenger? It's more casual looking than the Zhoe since it doesn't have a flap. There's also a Grande version. Regarding leathers, it really depends on your preferences concerning weight and structure. Merinos is the lightest leather but that means it's more slouchy. Napa is also light, but structured and doesn't slouch at all. Pebbled leather is one of the heaviest, but it has a lovely texture, is very hardwearing and is halfway between slouchy and structured. Bear in mind that Marco can add extra backing to any of the leathers if you want more structure. There's a post somewhere showing the weight of the leathers, from lightest to heaviest. In terms of colour, how about navy or brown instead of black? Or introduce a little colour with a deep green or a dark red? There are so many gorgeous leathers and colours to choose from, I can understand your dilemma!
 
@BittyMonkey that is stunning!

This is my first post here - hello. I recently stumbled across the MM brand after googling which brands still make quality bags, and then finding a thread on here. I've since spent quite a while on the website and looking at the MM reference thread on here - I even emailed asking about samples because the bag I liked doesn't show colours on the website, but Marco told me that any bag can be made in pretty much any leather and I think it's time I asked for some knowledgeable help lol.

I was originally looking for a tote, but I do think I need to stick with cross body as I have a toddler and being hands free is invaluable. None of the bags jumped out at me straight away as being "the one", but I haven't had that feeling with a bag for years anyway and I'd already decided I am going to get a bag from MM. Anyway, I think I'm looking at a Diva, to be worn crossbody.

First, are there any other cross body styles I should be considering, from your experience? (I don't think I like the asymmetry of the Clio, Luna and Aurora personally, and I'm not sure on the very structured shape of the Zhoe, though I have seen people raving about it on here!)

Also, please can anyone help me narrow down the massive leather selection? I really don't know where to start. If I was to get a Diva, should I just go with nappa like Marco offers on the website, or are there better options? I do love the sound and look of Merinos, and pebbled is just gorgeous, but maybe not for a bucket bag? I wouldn't want it to be too structured or too slouchy, and it needs to be hard wearing (though seems they all are!)

Finally colour... will I regret going with basic black when so many beautiful colours are available? I don't want to hassle Marco by requesting lots of leather samples. I am trying to work out what colour would go with all my winter coats (I don't rotate my bags often, not that I have that many!)

Apologies for the massive post but I am totally overwhelmed, yet excited to order my first MM bag - I'm sure it won't be my last. Any help is greatly appreciated!
Other crossbody styles to consider are Juliet or Siena midi - they are more of a satchel type, but can be marvelous as a crossbody.
As far as color vs black, you won't regret getting Marco's blacks. Specifically, I adore his black Nappa, it's an incredibly gorgeous leather. It is a gateway drug to more colorful hues for sure though :D.
 
Oh my gosh.. another one has fallen down the rabbit hole. I won’t comment on cross-body styles because I don’t tend to “carry” that way. However on leather.. while I love merinos my absolute favorite is Verona because I use my purses and tend to not want to baby them. I love that Verona is lightweight, durable and lovely... all at the same time. Let your first bag be black... there will be plenty more in your future!
 
@BittyMonkey that is stunning!

This is my first post here - hello. I recently stumbled across the MM brand after googling which brands still make quality bags, and then finding a thread on here. I've since spent quite a while on the website and looking at the MM reference thread on here - I even emailed asking about samples because the bag I liked doesn't show colours on the website, but Marco told me that any bag can be made in pretty much any leather and I think it's time I asked for some knowledgeable help lol.

I was originally looking for a tote, but I do think I need to stick with cross body as I have a toddler and being hands free is invaluable. None of the bags jumped out at me straight away as being "the one", but I haven't had that feeling with a bag for years anyway and I'd already decided I am going to get a bag from MM. Anyway, I think I'm looking at a Diva, to be worn crossbody.

First, are there any other cross body styles I should be considering, from your experience? (I don't think I like the asymmetry of the Clio, Luna and Aurora personally, and I'm not sure on the very structured shape of the Zhoe, though I have seen people raving about it on here!)

Also, please can anyone help me narrow down the massive leather selection? I really don't know where to start. If I was to get a Diva, should I just go with nappa like Marco offers on the website, or are there better options? I do love the sound and look of Merinos, and pebbled is just gorgeous, but maybe not for a bucket bag? I wouldn't want it to be too structured or too slouchy, and it needs to be hard wearing (though seems they all are!)

Finally colour... will I regret going with basic black when so many beautiful colours are available? I don't want to hassle Marco by requesting lots of leather samples. I am trying to work out what colour would go with all my winter coats (I don't rotate my bags often, not that I have that many!)

Apologies for the massive post but I am totally overwhelmed, yet excited to order my first MM bag - I'm sure it won't be my last. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Welcome to the MM fan club! You are going to love the styles, leather, and workmanship.
Many of his styles can be worn cross body. It really depends on how much you plan to carry. A midi Minerva is a great crossbody/shoulder carry style. It has pockets in the front for organization and you can have it made with or without the center compartment. It was my first. MM bag. If you let us know how much you are thinking of carrying and features you like or dislike in a handbag style, the MM ladies can steer you to a style that works for you.
Pebbled and Verona leathers are quite durable, doesn’t show scratches, and come in beautiful colors, which will work with a toddler. If you are looking for a leather you don’t have to “baby” or worry about, you can’t go wrong with pebbled or Verona. Their texture also makes it interesting. Smooth leathers are Nappa and Pompei. As previously mentioned, Merinos is the lightest and great for less structured styles. Vachetta is beautiful but may show scratches and marks a little more than others and it’s a little heavier.
It is hard to decide on a color. If you let us know what colors you have in your wardrobe, we can make some suggestions. It can be a bit overwhelming with so many styles, leathers, and colors to choose from. I am sure you will love anything you get from Marco.
 
@BittyMonkey that is stunning!

This is my first post here - hello. I recently stumbled across the MM brand after googling which brands still make quality bags, and then finding a thread on here. I've since spent quite a while on the website and looking at the MM reference thread on here - I even emailed asking about samples because the bag I liked doesn't show colours on the website, but Marco told me that any bag can be made in pretty much any leather and I think it's time I asked for some knowledgeable help lol.

I was originally looking for a tote, but I do think I need to stick with cross body as I have a toddler and being hands free is invaluable. None of the bags jumped out at me straight away as being "the one", but I haven't had that feeling with a bag for years anyway and I'd already decided I am going to get a bag from MM. Anyway, I think I'm looking at a Diva, to be worn crossbody.

First, are there any other cross body styles I should be considering, from your experience? (I don't think I like the asymmetry of the Clio, Luna and Aurora personally, and I'm not sure on the very structured shape of the Zhoe, though I have seen people raving about it on here!)

Also, please can anyone help me narrow down the massive leather selection? I really don't know where to start. If I was to get a Diva, should I just go with nappa like Marco offers on the website, or are there better options? I do love the sound and look of Merinos, and pebbled is just gorgeous, but maybe not for a bucket bag? I wouldn't want it to be too structured or too slouchy, and it needs to be hard wearing (though seems they all are!)

Finally colour... will I regret going with basic black when so many beautiful colours are available? I don't want to hassle Marco by requesting lots of leather samples. I am trying to work out what colour would go with all my winter coats (I don't rotate my bags often, not that I have that many!)

Apologies for the massive post but I am totally overwhelmed, yet excited to order my first MM bag - I'm sure it won't be my last. Any help is greatly appreciated!
Welcome!!
I like carrying my bags cross-body style too as I like having both hands free.
I recommend the Minerva Midi/Little Minerva and the Theia/Theia Midi style.
You can go for the smaller size if you don't carry much.
I find these 2 styles the most comfortable if you carry a lot of things.
(I carry 2 water bottles, Ipad along with the usual junk)
Remember to upgrade to the wider 1.2" shoulder strap as it really makes a difference in comfort.
You can also change to the included short shoulder strap for these 2 styles so they're very versatile.
If you're looking for a smaller sized bag, I recommend the Luna, Zhoe, Mia, Juliet Midi, Grande Mia, Aura.
You may have to add an extra 3" for the strap, depending on where you want the bag to be at when carrying across body (some like it higher, some like it lower near the hip), so measure your usual bags and let Marco know what length you like.

You mentioned that Zhoe may be too structured, so I recommend trying another style for your first bag.

As for what leather to get, if weight is an issue to you, I recommend Merinos because it is the lightest. If the feel and look of the leather is important to you, then just get which leather attracts you.

As for color, do you usually go with black bags? Are you trying to get something different? You could try dark grey, dark brown, dark blue if you feel like a change.

Lastly, there are a lot of pictures on this thread, you can just search or check out the reference pictures thread:
 
@BittyMonkey that is stunning!

This is my first post here - hello. I recently stumbled across the MM brand after googling which brands still make quality bags, and then finding a thread on here. I've since spent quite a while on the website and looking at the MM reference thread on here - I even emailed asking about samples because the bag I liked doesn't show colours on the website, but Marco told me that any bag can be made in pretty much any leather and I think it's time I asked for some knowledgeable help lol.

I was originally looking for a tote, but I do think I need to stick with cross body as I have a toddler and being hands free is invaluable. None of the bags jumped out at me straight away as being "the one", but I haven't had that feeling with a bag for years anyway and I'd already decided I am going to get a bag from MM. Anyway, I think I'm looking at a Diva, to be worn crossbody.

First, are there any other cross body styles I should be considering, from your experience? (I don't think I like the asymmetry of the Clio, Luna and Aurora personally, and I'm not sure on the very structured shape of the Zhoe, though I have seen people raving about it on here!)

Also, please can anyone help me narrow down the massive leather selection? I really don't know where to start. If I was to get a Diva, should I just go with nappa like Marco offers on the website, or are there better options? I do love the sound and look of Merinos, and pebbled is just gorgeous, but maybe not for a bucket bag? I wouldn't want it to be too structured or too slouchy, and it needs to be hard wearing (though seems they all are!)

Finally colour... will I regret going with basic black when so many beautiful colours are available? I don't want to hassle Marco by requesting lots of leather samples. I am trying to work out what colour would go with all my winter coats (I don't rotate my bags often, not that I have that many!)

Apologies for the massive post but I am totally overwhelmed, yet excited to order my first MM bag - I'm sure it won't be my last. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Welcome! It can seem overwhelming at first with all the decisions. Keep in mind that when you narrow down your choices, you can always ask Marco's opinion, especially if the leather you have chosen is a good choice for the bag style. I have done that many times!

Now for bag styles: you cannot go wrong with either Soulmate Midi or Selene Midi or Selene Zip Midi. Both are slouchy and hold a lot. Those are two of his early and most popular styles. Neither one is structured.
 
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Oh wow thank you for all your replies! I am at work, but I will have another proper read through later and reply. This is starting to feel like the biggest decision of my life :lol:
Hi @Sil1986! I wanted to echo the big WELCOME to this thread and to Massaccesi! As you can tell, we love to support one another in our MM love. I think all the advice you got above is great. I wear most of my bags crossbody and most of Marco's styles do well being carried like this. I love my Diva Midi, but actually what @orchidmyst brought out was what I was thinking as well; a Theia Midi is a great, easy crossbody style and an added exterior pocket would be great for a phone. If you don't like the rounded accent, you can ask for just a plain front. I would also go with a wider strap for comfort. But if you want a smaller crossbody that is a little more structured, go with @Aminu's great suggestion of a Penelope Messenger. And like @TotinScience and @Coastal jewel said, go with your first instinct of black and you can come back for another bag in color! If you want a tote that can still be worn crossbody, @LuvNLux's suggestion of a Selene Midi / Soulmate Midi is a tote style that can also be worn crossbody.
It's totally a bag journey and we learn all the time...so feel free to ask away but also realize we may not make the perfect or right decisions 100 percent of the time, but that just means we learn and realize what we want for our next bag haha :smile:!
 
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