I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review.

I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review.

      At the peak of the slouchy-leather-bag trend during the summer of 2024, Coach introduced a bag that aligned with the brand's new modern phase: the Brooklyn Shoulder Bag. I anticipated it would become a must-have item when supermodel Bella Hadid was seen wearing it several times. As expected, it quickly went viral. Coach has consistently adapted to each generation since its inception in 1941, maintaining its foundational principles while evolving with the shifting fashion landscape. My household has always included Coach, as my mother would routinely grab her monogrammed hobo bag from there before stepping out. Now, the brand has effortlessly kept up with contemporary trends, and the Brooklyn Shoulder Bag exemplifies that evolution. As a typical stylish Gen Z individual in NYC, I carry nearly everything in my bags: laptop, phone, a book, notebook, disposable camera, makeup pouch, sometimes shoes, etc. I appreciate a spacious bag. In 2022, my first year in the city, totes were all the rage, but honestly, carrying all my belongings in one was neither stylish nor comfortable. The Brooklyn Shoulder Bag caught my attention upon its launch, and it has become increasingly appealing as I'm in search of a new daily bag to buy.

      Bella Hadid with a Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag (Image credit: Gotham/GC Images)

      Coach is recognized as a mid-range luxury label, offering pieces that appear high-end yet remain accessible. The Brooklyn Shoulder Bag is priced under £500. I was interested in the quality and how well it would fit into my style. Therefore, I reached out to the Coach team to see if I could test out a Brooklyn Shoulder Bag. I opted for the Merlot color in size 39 to step out of my comfort zone of black bags and to evaluate its spaciousness. Is it truly a bag worth going viral for? Is it worth the price? My honest review will address those queries.

      The Stats

      Brand: Coach

      Model: Brooklyn Shoulder Bag

      Materials: Leather

      Color: Merlot

      Hardware: Brushed gold hardware

      Measurements: 15.25in x 17.0in x 4.75in (Image credit: Kerane)

      My Review of the Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39

      The leather of this bag is sturdy and structured, featuring a flat bottom, unlike the typical soft and shapeless design of many other bags. It also feels light, primarily due to the wide, thick strap and flat base. I’m familiar with shoulder pains from other bags, so when I slung the Brooklyn bag over my shoulder filled with my belongings, I was pleasantly surprised. My walks to the train were comfortable even in the NYC heat, as the weight distribution was even. I even met some friends for a chat and we ended up walking for a long stretch. Usually, if I bring my laptop, I’d leave a bag at home before going out, but the lightweight sensation endured despite my heavier items. We strolled and talked for about an hour and a half, and I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all.

      The bag features a magnetic closure that might not be favored by everyone, especially in a big city, but I find it easier than a zipper. I like to have quick access to my items, since the pace in NYC is fast. I stored my smaller essentials—deodorant, cards, hand sanitizer, chargers, etc.—in the inside pouch secured with a gold hardware button. This was convenient for quickly accessing my metro card for subway rides or my lip gloss for touch-ups. The pouch is also spacious, which prevents me from having to dig around for smaller items.

      Riding the train with a large, structured bag is manageable when standing, but don’t expect anyone to offer your bag a seat beside you. On my lap, the bag can be somewhat awkward to sit with, particularly since I’m petite. If you’re petite (5’4” and under), it might appear a bit large on you. Trust me—I’m 5’, but I’m willing to compromise aesthetics for comfort and ease.

      Pros: Spacious, elegant, modern design, durable material, reasonable price

      Cons: May be too large for smaller shoppers (Image credit: Kerane Marcellus)

      My Final Verdict

      Aside from being potentially too big for my frame as a petite fashionista, I believe this bag is ideal for anyone on the go or commuting in a city. The bag is also available in a smaller size, 28. However, based on my experience with size 39, which accommodates everything I need daily, I don’t think the 28 would suffice for someone working in an urban environment. The sturdiness of the leather allows for easy transport around the city without shoulder strain, which was a significant benefit for me.

      I understand the reason behind the bag’s viral status; the quality-to-price ratio is outstanding. The bag’s shape is modern, looks expensive, and is chic enough

I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review. I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review. I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review. I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review. I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review. I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review. I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review. I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review.

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I Tried the Coach It Bag, Now a Classic, for 48 Hours—Here’s My Genuine Review.

Does the viral bag meet the criteria?