Belstaff Dorset and Dorchester Satchels: I Can’t Function Like This

Sometimes a cool-looking bag is only just for looks. There’s nothing cool about a constant hassle, no matter how tempting a bag might be when it has just caught your eye. Don’t get taken! The double fold-over top on the Dorchester Signature ($2,295) and Dorset ($2,350) satchels (the only difference between the two here is waxed cotton versus goatskin leather and an obvious variation on scale) is a great twist on a classic. But can you imagine how annoying this is when you need to actually use it?

Magnetic closure keeps it shut and it’s virtually impossible to access, unless you sit it down and have two hands free. It’s also totally ruined if you leave it open; then you just have a gaping hole of a bag that’s hanging sloppily and dropping your belongings. There’s just no way to make this work. I love these satchels all closed up; too bad I’d regret putting anything in them. This is a clear pass. I no longer buy bags that don’t function, no matter how good they look.

Available for pre-order at Barneys New York (expect delivery in September).