Today’s post is a belated review of the Prada Saffiano Double Zip tote bag. I recorded this video a while back in a rush, and scrapped it due to fluctuating lighting and choppy content. Since several readers have been asking questions about this bag, I figured I’d post anyways in hopes of answering some of those questions.
As a preface, this bag was probably my most mulled-over purchase to date. I’d like to think that every one of my larger purchases are carefully-considered, but unfortunately, some of them could’ve used more thought and research on alternatives. I’ve been trying to shop more deliberately, which starts with discovering what the biggest “voids” are in my closet. I realized early this year that many of my work and casual outfits could use a simple brown, medium-sized bag. I needed one that was durable, lightweight, and preferably weather-resistant. I fell in love with Prada’s Saffiano tote, and spent half a year trying on all the options, scouring the pre-owned market, and looking for any small ways to save. There was no rush to buy, and ultimately I ended up with something that I am in love with and do not regret (so far, anyways).
Material
What exactly is “Saffiano” leather? I couldn’t find any authorized information directly from Prada, but this thread on The Purse Forum contains some member opinions that sound right. Based on that thread and a few other articles, Saffiano leather is treated for increased durability, scratch-resistance, and water-resistance. Several other handbag designers use it as well.
Sizes There are so many sizes and variations of this bag that I often get confused, but the sizes that I have tried on include..
**Prices are as of 9/2012 and will probably change**
Mini Double Zip w/ strap – 7″ x 10″ x 4.15″ – $1520
Small Double Zip w/ strap – 8.25″ x 11.5″ x 5″ – 1730
Medium Double Zip w/ strap – 9″x 15″ x 5.5″ – $1810
Medium Double Zip no strap – 10″ x 14.5″ x 6″ – $1960
Large Double Zip no strap – 12″ x 15.75″ x 6.75″ – $2100
Open Tote no strap– I’ve seen a range of online measurements and don’t know exactly which one is right…approximate size is 10″ x 14″ x 7″ – $1730
The open tote easily fits a 15″ laptop, small makeup bag, wallet, plus baggie for shoes:
Where to Buy
After I decided on the size/style/color combo, I combed eBay for a pre-owned bag that fit the bill. There are so many options available with this tote that it was hard to find the exact one on the secondhand market. I am also not an expert in gauging Prada authenticity via photos, and was worried about purchasing a counterfeit. The similar ones I watched on eBay went for about $1,200-$1,400, so it was a lot to pay for the risk of unauthentic merchandise, plus not getting the exact bag sought. I ended up buying mine from Neiman Marcus at full price, choosing them over the Prada boutique because I trust their customer service and return policy more.
Relatively Lower-Priced Alternative
Ever since I started looking at Prada’s Double Zip Tote, a few readers have suggested Tory Burch’s rendition. This bag is also made of Saffiano leather and comes in a variety of colors, including “luggage” brown. At 10″ x 16″ x 5.5,” it is approximately comparable to Prada’s larger medium size but has a detachable strap, and has the same inside compartments.
Wow! I love handbags and your collection is just wonderful. I can smell it that how wonderful the feeling would be to collect stylish handbags in your wardrobe. Well, i also have bought handbag from tradesy where Coach Discount was available. I liked it too.
LOVE your blog! As a petite asian girl myself, I find my self struggling with sun glasses and handbag issues. I wont go into getting bracelets for my super thin tiny wrists! I am planning to get the prada bag you reviewed, can you please let me know the exact specifics of your bag? Thank you!!!
I have the same problem here!!!
Hi,
I got this one in black and I absolutely love it. The difference with this one is that it has straps whereas the other does not. And, it is slightly smaller than the one without straps. I prefer having straps. Happy Hunting 🙂
http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306439461&PRODUCT;%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446621557&R;=8054411788646&P;_name=Prada&N;=4294912360+306439461&bmUID;=k6DDul1
I love it. I finally got one. I got the BN2274 (Medium Double Zip w/ strap – 9"x 15" x 5.5") in black. The price is now $1995 plus tax. It does get heavy when there are a lot of things inside. I did purchase the base shaper as advised and I absolutely love it even more, no bag sag yay! I am so glad that I read about "not cleaning your purse with an alcohol based solution" whew! So far, I've been wiping it with a wet towel. Thank You for this post and all the information in it.
Such a beautiful photos!
http://prada.lllbag.com/
Just got it in red, oh my god I'm amazed, love it!
Does anyone know the difference between the Lux medium double zip and the double zip tote?
http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306439461&PRODUCT;%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446636909&R;=8033991421839&P;_name=Prada&N;=4294912360+306439461&bmUID;=k6DDulN
http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306439461&PRODUCT;%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446621557&R;=8054411788646&P;_name=Prada&N;=4294912360+306439461&bmUID;=k6DDul1
Hi!!! Heard that cameo colour can get stained easily even on a pair of jeans. Is it true? How to take care the light colour bag from this especially casual wear. Tq
hi! may i know how did u make the shoulder strap shorten? i'm also 5ft tall. if i used the strap, the bag will be way below my hip. for me the strap is too long for me. did you add extra hole to it? thank you
These are some nice bags! Love the bag!
http://www.jetsetmichaelkors.com/
Hi, what is the code for your medium size saffiano with strap, love the size.