Givenchy Bambi Antigona tote bag | Review

Givenchy Bambi Antigona tote bag
(click for larger / see below)

After six months of carefully eyeing up different variations of this bag, in a moment of spontaneity, I took the plunge. Dropping £590 on a bag is not something I can afford to do on a regular basis, and I viewed this as in investment that would last me many years to come. An agonising 3-5 working days later, it arrived in all its glory, eliminating any doubts as to whether this was going to be worth it. THANK YOU Riccardo Tisci for your vision.

I'll set the scene; about 18 months ago I ended up with one of the Michael Kors jet set saffiano totes, as I needed something large, sturdy, and versatile for university. Don't get me wrong, it served me well, but I felt they'd become a bit too ubiquitous. Thus, the search for a new and improved replacement began. 

The Givenchy Bambi design has been seen on celebrities such as Beyonce and even little North West, and it's uniqueness is something that I think is really appealing. It's a fusion of Disney favourite Bambi and, if I'm honest... god knows what the other side is. But don't let that put you off. If, like me, you're still a lowly student with limited funds, looking to invest in something special, this bag bridges the gap perfectly between a statement piece and something you can wear daily. 

In my opinion it is the perfect size for an everyday outing - large enough to comfortably fit all the essentials (purse, makeup bag, umbrella etc.) with plenty of room to spare, and the attached pouch is incredibly convenient for storing your house keys / phone / oyster card. The pouches are sold separately for as much as £270, and although there's a tiny difference between those and the ones that come within a tote, if you're interested in that sort of thing, you're getting a great deal by buying the tote and pouch combo. This wasn't really a factor in my decision, but it is a nice bonus.

This bag is definitely designed to be carried in the crook of your arm. The lengths of the strap are long enough to allow carrying over the shoulder, but this only really an option if you leave the bag quite empty. If you're more inclined to overpacking and prefer the shoulder, this is probably not the one for you.

I'm far from an expert, but the quality of the leather is something that I think sets this bag apart from other totes on the market. You really can tell a world of difference between this and something you might find on the high street. The material is the sort which not only helps the bag keep its shape, but will protect itself from everyday wear and tear better than cheaper alternatives. It oozes luxury, despite being a reasonably simple bag, and this is where its appeal lies. 

For me, there is only one real downside to this bag - the lack of interior pockets. I love a good pocket,  and the Givenchy tote is simply one compartment, so this is the one area in which my old Michael Kors bag wins. However, given the pouch, I'm willing to let that slide. 

Bottom line: if you're interested in this bag, you won't regret it.

To buy, click here