Saks’ Friends & Family sale is wrapping up tomorrow (Sunday 10/19) – use code FRNFAM to take 25% off your order and FREESHIP to waive shipping. Unfortunately, the laundry list of designer sale exclusions seems to get longer each year. Some of the few designers eligible for this discount include Tory Burch, Theory, and DVF – I have to say I’ve been loving the nude DVF Zarita lace dress (see on me, altered) more with each wear! It’s fitted but demure, and the lace gets numerous compliments everytime I break it out.
From the Tory Burch selection, I’ve been liking the Robinson collection for work-to-weekend styles similar to Prada but for “less.” TB is not inexpensive by any means, but seems to be a fraction of Prada pricing these days. They make a saffiano as well but the pebbled leather is what really caught my eye. The material was softer to the touch, had plenty of texture and felt sturdy.
The more square vs. rectangular shape fully concealed my 12″ work laptop (see pic above), and bodes one of my favorite handbag features – the adjustable crossbody strap. There’s two large zipper pockets, numerous compartments inside, and little protective feet on the bottom.
I spent a few weeks hemming and hawing over whether to get black (classic and can’t go wrong) or deep berry (rich and pretty shade, but a little more “seasonal”). Black looks like the only color on Saks’ website, but they might have more colors in-store for 25% off. After a definitive vote from Nick, I ended up going for color but did not find it anywhere on sale. I tried my luck with Nordstrom’s price matching policy to get an adjustment, but they require the same color and size to be in stock at the competitor. In-store SAs might be more lenient on the color rule, though! 
Here’s the saffiano leather version of the Robinson satchel at Saks (adjustable shoulder strap tucked inside the bag). I didn’t even consider this because I own and love the Prada version, but wanted to share as an alternative for 25% off. It comes in several colors and three different sizes – mini, small, and large. I’m trying the small here and don’t think it would fully fit a regular-sized laptop. Those of you who own a Robinson tote – I’d love to hear how you care for it and how it holds up over time!
is there a tory burch saffiano multi tote bag? when was it came out? thanks
Hi Molly, yes I own the berry colored square pebbled Robinson : ) Hope they bring that color back!
Hi Jean –
I'm a long-time reader but first time commenter. I'm scouring your posts for neutral handbag inspiration (quality, timeless, elegant, daybag, caramel color). I've been clicking on most of your links for the Tory Burch bags but many aren't available b/c I'm late to the party. Just curious, you own the berry Tory Burch pebbled Robinson square bag? I'll be on the lookout for something similar.
Hi, did your robinson square tote have a funny smell when you bought it? I just got one on ebay and I'm not sure if that's normal!
Hello there, I have a question for you. How is the handbag holding up? I really wanted to purchase that bag but read several reviews online of people saying that Tory BUrch's quality is subpar? What is your experience? It would be fantastic if you could share. Thank you
Thanks!! I'll try that!
Hi there – I keep it standing up and stuff it with one or two oversized scarves!
Oh really? I never knew that! The sales associates I talk to both in-store as well as the online "live chat" associates said they would be happy to match if I found the same color on sale elsewhere, which I sadly could not. Maybe they mean designers like higher-tiered Prada, Chanel, etc.
Hi Kali! I usually google ideas based on the type of stain (ie. oil, food, makeup) and try various tricks I find on there. This bag has a nylon-like interior which I try to flip inside-out a bit and scrub with a small cloth with a bit of soap and water.
Hi Jean. I have the same bag and I was wondering what is the the best way to store it when not it use so that the shape doesn't get ruined. Would you stand it up or lay it on its side?
My shopping is heavily restricted by my lack of storage so I have to choose between shoes/boots and purses, so purses become secondary:( Same with business clothes versus coats:( Living in Boston one cant have enough coats but I try to keep only few due to space constraints and since I drive I skip it alltogether most days. Sad to make tough choices:(
I read nordies pricing policy and they said designer goods/cosmetics are not included. So Tory Burch isn't considered designer but contemporary?
Hi,
How do you clean the lining of those bags? I have a small collection of Michael Kors bags and have no idea how to proceed with small stains on the interior.
Thanks!
http://www.midnightrain.net
Hi there – congrats on starting your job at a big 4! Yes I think it's perfectly fine, as long as there's an undertank if it's in any way sheer (looks like it might be). I would bring an extra layer like a cardigan sweater or blazer just to be safe.
Got the burgundy pebbled leather : )
As much as I adore the double zipper look, I do agree the duplicate pouch calls for "fishing" sometimes! Easy for things to get forgotten in there. Isn't the burgundy shade perfect for this season?
Hi Emily – thanks for sharing! The Reena bag in yellow is super cute. Hope you enjoy the AT tote! I mentioned in my past post though that the base will probably need a shaper if you carry a laptop in it, unlike the summer version which was stiffer.
My laptop now is about 4 lbs and when I put it in there's no sagging. The base IS soft leather though, so over time it might need a shaper…I might use one anyways upfront to keep it from stretching out : )
Hi S. – I will openly admit that I'm not someone who makes purchases only because there is a "need" (if that were a case I would probably own a pair of jeans, work slacks, a skirt and blazer…). I enjoy fashion and shopping and thus make quite a few purchases for no reason other than I'm drawn to it. For the type of advice you are looking for maybe a more minimalistic blogger can provide more useful input!
For me personally, I set a rough budget each year based on a % of after tax income, considering my other expected expenditures as well. I monitor it roughly at the annual level vs. month-to-month…since some months I spend very little, and others it can be a lot if I purchase a designer bag or coat. One tip would be with each new purchase (excluding special occasion items), try it on as part of at least 5 outfits that you would happily wear, and if you're having a hard time coming up with those outfits then perhaps the item is a "return." Also, whenever I try to put together and outfit and go, "oh man I wish I had ___ to complete this ensemble" I make a mental note of what that is, and if enough mental notes accumulate then I try to shop more deliberately for that item. For me currently that list is a navy skirt and less plain black heels, just to name a few. I still buy a lot of items that I also think will be versatile but just end up not reaching for those…fashion is all about experimentation though, so if that happens I would just call it a lesson learned and donate or sell the item. Good luck refining your wardrobe!
I enjoyed your article, Joyce! I definitely agree with commuting in flats when possible and stretching/flexing feet during heel wearing.
those are so cute! did you end up getting one? 🙂
Hi Jean, off topic, but do you think this is appropriate for a Big 4 accounting firm first week outfit, paired with skinny pants? http://us.aritzia.com/product/beau-blouse/54620.html?dwvar_54620_color=3538#q=plaid&start;=14
I got the Robinson open dome TB bag and I love it. I like the one zipper pouch in the middle rather than 2 on the sides; with two I'd forget what is in which one and would have to go fishing. I got it in the burgundy color. Haven't had it too long though so would also be interested in hearing how other people care for theirs.
The Kate Spade Reena bag is also a more affordable dupe of the Prada Saffiano Tote. I have one in saffiano black – I've also seen it in yellow or white, I just wish it were available in a caramel shade.
http://www.katespade.com/charlotte-street-reena/PXRU4008,en_US,pd.html
In the meantime, I ordered one of the Ann Taylor gallery totes during this weekend's 50% off sale. Looks great and you can't beat the price!
Jemily Life
I've been seeing that bag everywhere and it totally makes me think of the Prada bag every time. It feels a bit weird to me that Tory Burch, a designer herself, would make a design so similar to an iconic Prada bag. That said, it is cute and sort of classic looking, and the under $1000 price tag is relatively refreshing.
Style by Joules
I love the berry colored bag, and a crossbody strap is always a plus! Not sure if you have had a sufficient amount of time to use the bag yet, but do you find that the base of the bag sags with your laptop in it (i.e. would this bag require a base shaper for heavier items)? Thanks 🙂
Beautiful bags
I miss your youtube videos
Do some vlogs asap please
Love
Tseene
http://tseenepage.blogspot.com.tr/
http://tseenepage.blogspot.com.tr/
http://tseenepage.blogspot.com.tr/
Nice Bag!!
http://www.nissimendes.ch
jean thanks for the info..i definitely take one of these when I saw it..for me these are classic bags
Nice bag! Could you describe your decisionmaking process a little bit – how you decided you needed another bag, how you decided what type of new bag you needed, and how you decided what the price point would be? I would find that helpful, since it's not always easy for me to pinpoint what I need to add to my wardrobe at any given time. I often end up making purchases that I think are essentials but I end up not really having any use for – while still having wardrobe needs that aren't met. That's the worst!
Love the oxblood color! Such a gorgeous handbag!
xo Tia | http://www.bigcitytyro.com
Both colours look nice but the deep berry one looks more in trend.
I love how soft and nice the leather of Tory Burch bags are, and it's a sweet deal when they are 25% off.
xx
Yvonne
http://tellmeyblog.com
The burgundy is a beauty & I think it could be worn in a number of ways for fall!
http://www.stylefile.in
Hello – I got the deep berry color that's shown in this post. This was not a sponsored post.
Thanks for sharing. I also saw other bloggers posting the same bag in the the color. I was just wondering if this is a sponsored post. And what color did you end up getting? You mentioned I "ended up going for color but did not find it anywhere on sale" but which color?
Still think the Ann Taylor Gallery Tote is the winner this year as a work bag in terms of functionality, quality (though not real leather but extremely durable) and more importantly the pricing.
Julia || Closet de Jules
Recent Post: Color Me Fall – J.Crew Keating Boy Blazer and No.2 Pencil Skirt
Such a great bag and definitely on my wish list! Thanks for sharing.
– Amanda | The Chic Counsel
Jean, the berry colored tote is gorgeous! Ever since I saw your prada saffiano though I have been convincing myself to forego the smaller purchases and really try to save up for the big one
Also, still waiting for the Zarita dress to be even more discounted, although it is so gorgeous that the price will probably never get much lower than 25% off! I remember Nordstrom had it on sale earlier this year but only in the fuschia color.
I just published a blogpost on how I tell my fashion loving patients to safely choose and wear heels, something that small gals like us need to know! Would love to hear your thoughts 🙂
Have a wonderful Saturday!
XO
Joyce
http://www.teawithMD.com
Jean, I love how you find other alternatives & let us readers know! I've been looking for a similar style like this! Thanks for the post!
These are great bags and definitely investment pieces for may years to come. Thank you for sharing some insight! Very helpful before pulling the trigger 🙂
Red Reticule
Can't go wrong with either color!
http://www.eyelikefashion.com