Blugenie, I have been "rolling" and "squishing" the Edith to work some of the stiffness out of the leather. I think in time it will become very soft like the Paddington. Mine is getting MUCH slouchier now, and when I took it in and set it back on the shelf it slouched down quite a bit. Why not work with yours a bit and see if it loosens up?
SerenitySue and Georgiegirl, I am still on the fence about the blanc. When I pick it up, I am not sure...but just looking at it, it is stunning. The weight and size are the two problem issues. It is a better size than the big pocket (which got a wonderful new home with Murasaki!), but it is still a bit large and doesn't stay on my shoulder and it's a bit heavy for a "crook of the arm" bag. I am BAD with decisions. Hate making them!