When I look at the Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Percy Cross Body Bag ($198) that Naomi Clark is carrying all I can think is – Wow, MJ is a genius. The man can slap his name on ANYTHING and it will sell! It’s true that $198 doesn’t buy you all that much these days when it comes to handbags, but the quality of this piece is pure slob even for the price and to boot there’s not even an original or exciting design that could make-up for the lack of care that went into creating this piece. The only person I could see wanting this bag is someone who is just dying to get their hands on something MJ, but doesn’t want to spend the money to buy something that will last (it may be a tiny bag, but the Marc by Marc Jacobs name is sprinkled anywhere and everywhere that it could fit including on all the hardware and all over the inner lining), because seriously if it’s not the name you’re after go to Canal Street I guarantee you can find something similar for a lot less! What do you think about this Marc bag? Snob or Slob?
Wow, you guys really seem to hate Marc Jacobs. I’ve seen Steal bags with a lot less design touted on this site. Sure, this isn’t a standout bag, but I don’t see that it deserves such a ribbingl. What lack of care in design? It’s a simple bag that’s functional and, I think, thoughtful enough – with two outer pockets that have closures to prevent spill-out and a removable cross-body strap; it’s also designed in line with the rest of the Totally Turnlock series. I love this site, but the ragging on Marc Jacobs has gotten a bit ridiculous, I think. He can do no right in your eyes: he either throws everything-but-the-kitchen-sink on his bags or else they lack design. Puh-lease, give the man a break.
I actually like this bag and considering it is 200 dollars cheaper then the Lulu cat bag thing that this site seemed to love. Mind you I’m not the biggest fan of Marc Jacobs but this is actually kinda cute.
I’m all about simple designs, my peeve with M by MJ is more the quality..I just wish he would charge a bit more and not have his bags constructed so cheaply. Same with his clothes..I just got a wool scarf from him and it won’t stop piling!
yeah i mean i know for some people MBMJ is “high school” but i think the line is still cute, affordable, and functional. i own a larger MBMJ bag and i think the quality is OK. this is a cute going out bag that keeps you hands free! (so you can hold more drinks)
Ditto. Poor construction? Have you even inspected the bag in person? I’d love to know what constitutes “poor construction” in your book. Does the stitching come off easily? Does the hardware (zippers, fasteners, locks) function properly? Is the leather cheap looking? The answer to all of these questions is no. Those would be the complaints of a poorly constructed bag. This isn’t the most interesting design, but the merciless rag on it is based on nothing. I’d understand if the post ragged on style and design, but not construction. For $200, this is a good option for women who can’t afford more. For the record, it makes absolutely no sense to extol the virtues of a bag with a cat face on it, which is a ridiculous choice for an woman of any age, then turn around and rip MJ for putting his logo on the hardware and inner lining as if he’d committed a mortal sin. I’m very sorry to say this, but this post makes no valid points whatsoever.
I disagree with you again. I like this purse because it’s simple and functional. I can see myself sporting this thing when running errands or when traveling. Love that it has a cross body strap and the two outer pockets for easy access. I agree with the previous poster, this coming from someone that loved that horrid hello kitty wanna be over priced purse? Are you kidding me?
I agree completely with Ursula. Sharon, just because you have been unhappy with some MbMJ products does not mean that this particular purse is constructed poorly. I mean fine, your MbMJ scarf is pilling, but that has nothing to do with this bag. I have a couple MbMJ bags and their construction is definitely reasonable for the price: the leather is soft, the straps aren’t flimsy, the hardware is sturdy, they are fully lined, they have a couple nice and functional extra’s. It would be one thing if you had actually tried out this bag and found it wanting, but it seems like you are just grasping at straws here and decided to extrapolate your experience with other MbMJ products to this bag because you needed a post. From these other comments I realize you did the post on the Lulu Guinness Kooky Eyed Cat Clutch. There, you claimed that the price for Guinness’ bag wasn’t “bad” even though it’s, “not something you’d wear more than 2 or 3 times probably,” whereas this MbMJ bag is totally utile and would probably get a lot more use for LESS money. So, oddly you decide to claim that Marc Jacobs is a genius for selling anything (ie, crap) because it has his name on it? I’m sorry, but you’re being a bit ridiculous.
I feel bad pointing this out in such a public forum, but you don’t seeming to be learning from any of your earlier mistakes – and it irks when you’re being given the opportunity to work on such a lovely well-respected site and are dropping the ball so consistently.
I actually have seen this bag in person at Bloomingdale’s in NYC so I know what the strap looks like and how the leather feels and both don’t do MJ justice. I think someone who buys the Lulu cat bag is someone who owns a lot of bags already and is looking for a fun piece they can wear a handful of times (like that fanny pack Rihanna wore from Spring 2010 LV).
As for this bag it’s much more functional and I imagine would appeal to a lot more people many of whom do not own dozens upon dozens of bags and for that person who is looking for something versatile and durable I think they could get something better for their money. This opinion however has nothing to do with any sort of categorical dislike for MJ!
But yes I agree at least it’s fully lined…but for $198 I don’t think that’s that impressive…
Well, then I certainly hope that one of your future posts will feature a $198 bag that has better attributes than this Marc by Marc Jacobs bag. In neither your post, nor your continuing comments, have you given any real description as to what it is that makes this particular bag cheap. In response to my comment you said that the leather and straps, “don’t do MJ justice.” That is very vague – pretty much a non-answer. I, like Ursula, would then like to know what this poor construction you are talking about is? Also, from your first comment it does, actually, appear you have a “categorical” dislike for MJ, since you said, “my peeve with M by MJ is more the quality..I just wish he would charge a bit more and not have his bags constructed so cheaply. Same with his clothes.” Now Marc by Marc Jacobs does offer accessories and shoes, but with that comment you have lumped all his bags and clothes into a category.
I own the original Marc by Marc Jacobs Softy Percy Cross Body Bag, which is a bit smaller and, I think, cuter, and happily use it as a pencil case (I bought it because it’s good for use at street markets and state fairs) for school. I also own dozens upon dozens of bags (including some lower-end pieces, but mostly focused in the higher-end spectrum) and like fun pieces, but would never buy that Lulu Guinness bag.
Actually stay tuned..I’m working on some frugal bag stories about lesser known designers that make some cute finds, most of which are under $200.
As for MJ I have issues with the quality sometimes it’s true, but there are a number of designs that are great and in those cases I look the other way. For example, I could tell the scarf I bought was going to pill, but I bought it anyway because I thought it was unique and that I wouldn’t find anything similar and better quality unless I paid substantially more..As for shoes I own two pairs of M by MJ flats..one green pair with rhinestones and the silver mouse flats both leave me with too many blisters to wear..Still though I would not be averse to trying others if I liked the design and they didn’t appear painful. As for bags while the only M by MJ ones I’ve bought are from when the line first came-out, his designs are all over the place so naturally I see them often and think there is too big a premium paid for his pieces. The hardware is so flimsy it appeared that if you removed the strap a few times it might not be able to open and close anymore and the leather isn’t smooth; it will likely get crinkles very quickly if you don’t store it properly. The strap too, perhabs because it’s thin, monochromatic, and very very long doesn’t look that chic and it’s sort of awkward-looking when you actually try it on.
That said if you like something you can make it work with confidence, especially paired with the right outfit, as Naomi Clark makes it work. My point was just that while there may be some items from MJ worth paying a premium for even if the quality isn’t great, this piece does not strike me as original enough to make it worth it…I never mean to offend anyone!
I’m not offended and I appreciate you sticking it out and explaining your view. I understand where you’re coming from and I actually agree about the hit-or-miss quality of MbMJ products, especially since he started having his products made in China, but I don’t agree in re: this particular bag. Again, thanks for your answers to my ongoing comments and I’m glad you’ll be doing some frugal bag stories, which I’ll definitely be interested in!
The reason MBMJ gets bad reviews from BS!!! Is because his bags are sub par and I would love to believe that a bag with his name would carry more weight!!! The bags are sub par and its actually hurting him that he is making bags with such shotty construction.
I understand that he is trying to make a lower end collection, but I would prefer his lower end collection to carry the impact and such that comes along from his High End Lines!!! Is that asking to much!!!
the bag is simple and functional. it’s not creative. there’s nothing special about it. there is nothing wrong with his bag. however, everyone needs to stop claiming that they would buy this bag purely cz of its aesthetics. you can get something similar at macys for 75% less. the only reason you buy this one is cz of the brand. and that’s the truth. you honestly are going to say you paid $198 for this simple leather crossbody bag just cz you think the design was worth it? pleaseee. you paid for the design PLUS the brand name. cz hon, that’s the only good reason you should have to buy this. and that’s fine. brand names are totally fine. just dont lie to yourself and claim that the bag design is great and that the quality is superb. cz like i said before, u can find something like this for a whole lot less elsewhere.
Linda, I don’t know if you’re referring to me, when you say “hon,” but I never said that the bag design was “great,” that the quality was “superb,” or that those were the reason’s I bought my MbMJ bag. In fact, you are the only person on this page who has used those two words (aside from Sharon using “great” in a different context). Of course, it being Marc by Marc Jacobs’ brand was a factor in my purchase. The same can be said of many of the bags featured on Bag Snob. So, really, don’t “hon”, “honestly’, or “pleaseee” me; it’s both condescending and incorrect.
I never comment on blogs but I just had to jump in and give my two cents. I actually received this bag in black as a gift and it has gotten more use than some of my other “higher quality” bags. I am that person that has dozens and dozens of bags.
I think in terms of design it isn’t all that bad. I mainly use it for travel as it packs away nicely and it’s convenient to wear cross body when browsing the flea markets, then remove the strap and use as a super casual clutch. I also take this bag to concerts. I have to agree that there is nothing exciting about this bag but in my opinion / experience it’s more of a functional piece. And also agree with the previous poster that this does fit with the turnlock series.
While the commentary on this bag has completely warranted criticisms, I think the tone of the post comes off as a bit spiteful.
The $198 price tag, that I don’t know. It’s not a bag that I would see in the store and gravitate toward and need / want to buy. But it’s come in so handy, I’d say it’s totally worth it when it goes on sale.
I was given this bag as a gift and honestly if I could I would return it. The hardware is quite flimsy, apart from it being MBMJ I never would have guessed it goes for $198.
I honestly think some of BS comments are really mean towards Marc Jacobs. When he designs something outrageous you slam him, when he designs something simple as this bag you slam him yet again.Marc is a pure genius and sure some may say his hardware is flimsy ladeda…. at the end of the day so are the other 2nd line labels out there.DKNY, D&G, emporio armani…and the list goes on. Be nice and BS writers think before you slam. Happy holidays
If a person hates Marc Jacobs, that’s her/his prerogative. I am a big fan and a happy owner of many of his bags. My best friend owns this particular bag (a gift from me for Christmas, as a matter of fact) and she loves it. The leather is soft, the stitching is straight, lining is thick, the scrambled letter fabric interior is a cute touch, and there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong the with hardware. If there were issues, I’d know by now. Bless her, but the bff is more than rough with her possessions. If MBMJ can withstand her, well then, it can withstand nuclear winter.
The debate is interesting. I completely and utterly agree with Jennifer A. and Ursula. There’s a lot of MJ hate on bagsnob sometimes and it does piss me off now and then. Oh, well. I still like what I like, and I’m the final arbiter in how I choose to spend my money snob approved or not. To me, it comes down to this: I’d rather pay $200 for a boring bag I would use everyday then shell out so much as $20 for an “interesting” bag just to have it take up space in my closet.
I think this bag is adorable and a great going out bag. I wish she would have worn it cross body though. I think the Marc by MJ bags are cute and the leather on the turnlock line is very nice. I do not have one, but I have several friends that do and I really like them. I think the price point is ok but you are paying a bit more for the name. Isn’t that the case with ALL designer bags!
Wow, you guys really seem to hate Marc Jacobs. I’ve seen Steal bags with a lot less design touted on this site. Sure, this isn’t a standout bag, but I don’t see that it deserves such a ribbingl. What lack of care in design? It’s a simple bag that’s functional and, I think, thoughtful enough – with two outer pockets that have closures to prevent spill-out and a removable cross-body strap; it’s also designed in line with the rest of the Totally Turnlock series. I love this site, but the ragging on Marc Jacobs has gotten a bit ridiculous, I think. He can do no right in your eyes: he either throws everything-but-the-kitchen-sink on his bags or else they lack design. Puh-lease, give the man a break.
I actually like this bag and considering it is 200 dollars cheaper then the Lulu cat bag thing that this site seemed to love. Mind you I’m not the biggest fan of Marc Jacobs but this is actually kinda cute.
I’m all about simple designs, my peeve with M by MJ is more the quality..I just wish he would charge a bit more and not have his bags constructed so cheaply. Same with his clothes..I just got a wool scarf from him and it won’t stop piling!
yeah i mean i know for some people MBMJ is “high school” but i think the line is still cute, affordable, and functional. i own a larger MBMJ bag and i think the quality is OK. this is a cute going out bag that keeps you hands free! (so you can hold more drinks)
Ditto. Poor construction? Have you even inspected the bag in person? I’d love to know what constitutes “poor construction” in your book. Does the stitching come off easily? Does the hardware (zippers, fasteners, locks) function properly? Is the leather cheap looking? The answer to all of these questions is no. Those would be the complaints of a poorly constructed bag. This isn’t the most interesting design, but the merciless rag on it is based on nothing. I’d understand if the post ragged on style and design, but not construction. For $200, this is a good option for women who can’t afford more. For the record, it makes absolutely no sense to extol the virtues of a bag with a cat face on it, which is a ridiculous choice for an woman of any age, then turn around and rip MJ for putting his logo on the hardware and inner lining as if he’d committed a mortal sin. I’m very sorry to say this, but this post makes no valid points whatsoever.
I disagree with you again. I like this purse because it’s simple and functional. I can see myself sporting this thing when running errands or when traveling. Love that it has a cross body strap and the two outer pockets for easy access. I agree with the previous poster, this coming from someone that loved that horrid hello kitty wanna be over priced purse? Are you kidding me?
I agree completely with Ursula. Sharon, just because you have been unhappy with some MbMJ products does not mean that this particular purse is constructed poorly. I mean fine, your MbMJ scarf is pilling, but that has nothing to do with this bag. I have a couple MbMJ bags and their construction is definitely reasonable for the price: the leather is soft, the straps aren’t flimsy, the hardware is sturdy, they are fully lined, they have a couple nice and functional extra’s. It would be one thing if you had actually tried out this bag and found it wanting, but it seems like you are just grasping at straws here and decided to extrapolate your experience with other MbMJ products to this bag because you needed a post. From these other comments I realize you did the post on the Lulu Guinness Kooky Eyed Cat Clutch. There, you claimed that the price for Guinness’ bag wasn’t “bad” even though it’s, “not something you’d wear more than 2 or 3 times probably,” whereas this MbMJ bag is totally utile and would probably get a lot more use for LESS money. So, oddly you decide to claim that Marc Jacobs is a genius for selling anything (ie, crap) because it has his name on it? I’m sorry, but you’re being a bit ridiculous.
I feel bad pointing this out in such a public forum, but you don’t seeming to be learning from any of your earlier mistakes – and it irks when you’re being given the opportunity to work on such a lovely well-respected site and are dropping the ball so consistently.
I actually have seen this bag in person at Bloomingdale’s in NYC so I know what the strap looks like and how the leather feels and both don’t do MJ justice. I think someone who buys the Lulu cat bag is someone who owns a lot of bags already and is looking for a fun piece they can wear a handful of times (like that fanny pack Rihanna wore from Spring 2010 LV).
As for this bag it’s much more functional and I imagine would appeal to a lot more people many of whom do not own dozens upon dozens of bags and for that person who is looking for something versatile and durable I think they could get something better for their money. This opinion however has nothing to do with any sort of categorical dislike for MJ!
But yes I agree at least it’s fully lined…but for $198 I don’t think that’s that impressive…
Well, then I certainly hope that one of your future posts will feature a $198 bag that has better attributes than this Marc by Marc Jacobs bag. In neither your post, nor your continuing comments, have you given any real description as to what it is that makes this particular bag cheap. In response to my comment you said that the leather and straps, “don’t do MJ justice.” That is very vague – pretty much a non-answer. I, like Ursula, would then like to know what this poor construction you are talking about is? Also, from your first comment it does, actually, appear you have a “categorical” dislike for MJ, since you said, “my peeve with M by MJ is more the quality..I just wish he would charge a bit more and not have his bags constructed so cheaply. Same with his clothes.” Now Marc by Marc Jacobs does offer accessories and shoes, but with that comment you have lumped all his bags and clothes into a category.
I own the original Marc by Marc Jacobs Softy Percy Cross Body Bag, which is a bit smaller and, I think, cuter, and happily use it as a pencil case (I bought it because it’s good for use at street markets and state fairs) for school. I also own dozens upon dozens of bags (including some lower-end pieces, but mostly focused in the higher-end spectrum) and like fun pieces, but would never buy that Lulu Guinness bag.
Actually stay tuned..I’m working on some frugal bag stories about lesser known designers that make some cute finds, most of which are under $200.
As for MJ I have issues with the quality sometimes it’s true, but there are a number of designs that are great and in those cases I look the other way. For example, I could tell the scarf I bought was going to pill, but I bought it anyway because I thought it was unique and that I wouldn’t find anything similar and better quality unless I paid substantially more..As for shoes I own two pairs of M by MJ flats..one green pair with rhinestones and the silver mouse flats both leave me with too many blisters to wear..Still though I would not be averse to trying others if I liked the design and they didn’t appear painful. As for bags while the only M by MJ ones I’ve bought are from when the line first came-out, his designs are all over the place so naturally I see them often and think there is too big a premium paid for his pieces. The hardware is so flimsy it appeared that if you removed the strap a few times it might not be able to open and close anymore and the leather isn’t smooth; it will likely get crinkles very quickly if you don’t store it properly. The strap too, perhabs because it’s thin, monochromatic, and very very long doesn’t look that chic and it’s sort of awkward-looking when you actually try it on.
That said if you like something you can make it work with confidence, especially paired with the right outfit, as Naomi Clark makes it work. My point was just that while there may be some items from MJ worth paying a premium for even if the quality isn’t great, this piece does not strike me as original enough to make it worth it…I never mean to offend anyone!
I’m not offended and I appreciate you sticking it out and explaining your view. I understand where you’re coming from and I actually agree about the hit-or-miss quality of MbMJ products, especially since he started having his products made in China, but I don’t agree in re: this particular bag. Again, thanks for your answers to my ongoing comments and I’m glad you’ll be doing some frugal bag stories, which I’ll definitely be interested in!
The reason MBMJ gets bad reviews from BS!!! Is because his bags are sub par and I would love to believe that a bag with his name would carry more weight!!! The bags are sub par and its actually hurting him that he is making bags with such shotty construction.
I understand that he is trying to make a lower end collection, but I would prefer his lower end collection to carry the impact and such that comes along from his High End Lines!!! Is that asking to much!!!
the bag is simple and functional. it’s not creative. there’s nothing special about it. there is nothing wrong with his bag. however, everyone needs to stop claiming that they would buy this bag purely cz of its aesthetics. you can get something similar at macys for 75% less. the only reason you buy this one is cz of the brand. and that’s the truth. you honestly are going to say you paid $198 for this simple leather crossbody bag just cz you think the design was worth it? pleaseee. you paid for the design PLUS the brand name. cz hon, that’s the only good reason you should have to buy this. and that’s fine. brand names are totally fine. just dont lie to yourself and claim that the bag design is great and that the quality is superb. cz like i said before, u can find something like this for a whole lot less elsewhere.
Linda, I don’t know if you’re referring to me, when you say “hon,” but I never said that the bag design was “great,” that the quality was “superb,” or that those were the reason’s I bought my MbMJ bag. In fact, you are the only person on this page who has used those two words (aside from Sharon using “great” in a different context). Of course, it being Marc by Marc Jacobs’ brand was a factor in my purchase. The same can be said of many of the bags featured on Bag Snob. So, really, don’t “hon”, “honestly’, or “pleaseee” me; it’s both condescending and incorrect.
I never comment on blogs but I just had to jump in and give my two cents. I actually received this bag in black as a gift and it has gotten more use than some of my other “higher quality” bags. I am that person that has dozens and dozens of bags.
I think in terms of design it isn’t all that bad. I mainly use it for travel as it packs away nicely and it’s convenient to wear cross body when browsing the flea markets, then remove the strap and use as a super casual clutch. I also take this bag to concerts. I have to agree that there is nothing exciting about this bag but in my opinion / experience it’s more of a functional piece. And also agree with the previous poster that this does fit with the turnlock series.
While the commentary on this bag has completely warranted criticisms, I think the tone of the post comes off as a bit spiteful.
The $198 price tag, that I don’t know. It’s not a bag that I would see in the store and gravitate toward and need / want to buy. But it’s come in so handy, I’d say it’s totally worth it when it goes on sale.
I was given this bag as a gift and honestly if I could I would return it. The hardware is quite flimsy, apart from it being MBMJ I never would have guessed it goes for $198.
I honestly think some of BS comments are really mean towards Marc Jacobs. When he designs something outrageous you slam him, when he designs something simple as this bag you slam him yet again.Marc is a pure genius and sure some may say his hardware is flimsy ladeda…. at the end of the day so are the other 2nd line labels out there.DKNY, D&G, emporio armani…and the list goes on. Be nice and BS writers think before you slam. Happy holidays
Does anyone know who makes the white dress that Naomi is wearing?
If a person hates Marc Jacobs, that’s her/his prerogative. I am a big fan and a happy owner of many of his bags. My best friend owns this particular bag (a gift from me for Christmas, as a matter of fact) and she loves it. The leather is soft, the stitching is straight, lining is thick, the scrambled letter fabric interior is a cute touch, and there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong the with hardware. If there were issues, I’d know by now. Bless her, but the bff is more than rough with her possessions. If MBMJ can withstand her, well then, it can withstand nuclear winter.
The debate is interesting. I completely and utterly agree with Jennifer A. and Ursula. There’s a lot of MJ hate on bagsnob sometimes and it does piss me off now and then. Oh, well. I still like what I like, and I’m the final arbiter in how I choose to spend my money snob approved or not. To me, it comes down to this: I’d rather pay $200 for a boring bag I would use everyday then shell out so much as $20 for an “interesting” bag just to have it take up space in my closet.
I think this bag is adorable and a great going out bag. I wish she would have worn it cross body though. I think the Marc by MJ bags are cute and the leather on the turnlock line is very nice. I do not have one, but I have several friends that do and I really like them. I think the price point is ok but you are paying a bit more for the name. Isn’t that the case with ALL designer bags!
nope, i wasn’t referring to you at all.
when i said you, i didnt mean you or anyone in particular. just you, as in you in general.