By Laura Mckenna
When it comes to finding the perfect handbag, there is something satisfyingly sumptuous about investing in an Aspinal of London style.
As a woman who owns more shoes and bags than I could ever need, some pieces in my collection go unloved for years at a time. One particular bag however is unleashed as regularly as soon as spring starts to bloom, such is my enthusiasm to bring out my Aspinal London Tote as the weather warms up.
Quintessentially British, the £695 oversized handbag oozes elegance, without feeling too stuffy or structured to wear dressed down. Large enough to carry all of my everyday essentials, as well as my laptop and more, the beautiful designer bag means so much more to me than just the sum of its parts.
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It feels unlikely that as a middle-aged mum, I would be so obsessed with a luxury leather brand adored by the likes of Kate Middleton. While I may not be royalty or an A-list celeb, this handbag has the unique ability to make me feel like one.
The buttery soft leather undulates beautifully, remaining unstructured and understated. I opted for the textured pebble finish in a rather lovely Ivory colour, with a contrasting navy blue lining.
With the capacity for a 15-inch laptop or an iPad Pro 12.9, the main compartment is separated by a central zipped pocket. There is a further zipped pocket and two mobile-sized slip pockets.
Pretty as a picture, the light colourway is an excellent choice for the summer months that seems to go well with everything despite its larger size. Measuring up at 25 x 43 x 15 cm it is slightly too big to be used as a free piece of hand luggage on a Ryanair flight, but it is still very much suitable for use on other airlines or as a Priority ticket holder.
Handcrafted from the finest full-grain leather, I am particularly fond of its two stitched 'A' panels to the sides, accented by a contrasting tan colour that looks super classy with a camel coat or throwover.
Designed to complement every outfit, the London Tote be carried by the soft top handles or worn over one shoulder. At £695 it's an investment piece, but with its high-quality construction and classic good looks I'm certain it will last me for many years to come.
For handbag lovers looking for a bargain, Aspinal has its very own online outlet section that is packed full of designer bargains.
The same size London Tote is available for just £337.50 in a stunning Taupe colourway. Fans of the brand's high shine mock croc design can also pick up a Deep Shine Brown Soft Croc Midi Tote reduced to half price at £357.50.
Elsewhere at John Lewis who also stock Aspinal of London accessories, the Ella Smooth Leather Small Pouch Purse in Tan has been reduced from £75 to £37.50 \- an excellent addition to your Aspinal London Tote bag.
