I needed a large work bag that could fit my laptop, heels, wallet, and other miscellaneous things. I was between this and the system tote - the system came in the color I wanted and had a cross body strap option, which I wanted, but this had the width and side pockets that could fit a water bottle or coffee thermos. I also didn’t love that I would need to buy all sorts of add-ons for the System.
I bought this in the chestnut color — so far, I’ve carried it twice and am very happy. It looks great and fits everything and the wide strap makes it comfortable to carry. My only issue is that it is next to impossible to pull anything out of it while it’s on your shoulder because of how the shoulder strap connects to the bag, but I knew that would be an issue when I bought it so can’t really complain. I also bought the system flap pouch, which adds some extra organization when I need it. The photos aren’t super glamorous, but here it is holding my Microsoft surface, phones, long wallet, zip pouch, water bottle, coffee thermos, keys, and a pair of heels. Time will tell how it holds up (especially the stitching on the straps!) but so far VERY happy!