Product Review: Metallic Beacon Purse

Metallic Beacon Purse
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Item 23189
Regular: $168.00

When this bag arrived online, all I could think was pretty, pretty, pretty bag. J.Crew describes this Collection bag as the following:

This metallic-leather purse has a sporty-chic twist that we're coveting for spring. Impeccable detailing includes the extra-long strap (so it can be worn either flat across the body or over the shoulder), polished gold hardware and a reverse-metallic finish. With enough luxe touches to take you from the conference room to cocktails. (We see it slung across a little black dress.) An interior back-wall zip pocket keeps your lipstick and cell phone in line. Leather handles. Top flap with turn-lock closure. Cotton twill lining.

A big "thanks!" to DinDin who shared her review of the Beacon Purse, as well as some real-life images. Just click on any of her images to view larger. The following is her review:

I think this purse is shinier in person than in the photo on the website. One photo is of the bag compared next to my tv remote so you can see the size comparison. This purse will hold an iphone, a wallet (on the slimmer side), and maybe a few small things like a couple lipglosses.

If you put anything that is round or thick into the bag it will pull at the top flap. This is because the bag is very slim. There is no width at all actually.

I'm short, 5'2". When worn cross body the top of the bag hits at the top of my hips. When I put it over one shoulder, it dropped below my hips. (please excuse my mirror/camera, i don't know what that smudge is.)

The strap is removable, although it would look slightly off with those two gold rings attached to the bag. The bag itself is very light which is a plus if you're going to use this bag for a "going out" bag. As far as the strap, it is studded, little pyramids on one side and flat rounds on the other side.

The inside is lined in plain cotton, beige in color. As for the feel of the leather, it's not particularly smooth, obviously because it is metallic.

Overall, I'm not sure what I think of it. Maybe 3.5 stars out of 5.

"Thanks!" again to DinDin for her great review of this bag! I, along with many other JCAs, had been curious about the size of the Beacon— especially since J.Crew did not offer any additional photos of the purse.

What are your thoughts on the Metallic Beacon Purse? Have you seen or own this bag? If so, what is your review of the size & style? Would you recommend it to another fellow JCA?