A few weeks back, I shared a piece about the handbags I was debating—two very different options that tugged at me in equal measure. On one side, there was The Row NS Tote: sleek, minimal, and functional in that understated Row way. On the other, Bottega Veneta’s Wallace: compact, structured, and quietly luxurious. Both had their merits, but after a lot of back-and-forth (and maybe a little too much time daydreaming about outfits), I landed on the Wallace.
And let me tell you, I already know it was the right call.
Why Bottega Won Me Over
My history with Bottega Veneta played a big part in this decision. I already own the small Jodie, and it’s become one of my most-worn bags. The house’s intrecciato leather is what really sets them apart—it’s supple, durable, and only looks better with age. That’s important for me because, truthfully, I don’t baby my things. When I invest in a piece, I want to use it without thinking twice. If a bag requires tiptoeing around spills, scratches, or weather, it’s just not for me.
So the idea of adding another Bottega to my rotation didn’t feel repetitive. It felt practical. I know the quality is there, I know I’ll wear it, and I know it will hold up. Sometimes it’s as simple as that.
“Do I Really Need Another Black Bag?”
For a minute, I hesitated. Owning two black Bottega bags sounded a little indulgent—even redundant. Shouldn’t I be diversifying my collection? But the truth is, I like what I like. I’ve always been that person who buys the same pair of shoes in three colors or repeats the same outfit formula because it works.
The Wallace isn’t a duplicate of the Jodie—it serves a different purpose. While the Jodie feels more casual and playful, the Wallace leans versatile and polished. Its structured shape, adjustable strap, and just-right size make it suitable for everything from a coffee meeting to a cocktail party. Not with a ball gown, of course, but for most day-to-night occasions, it fits seamlessly.
Wallace vs. Jodie: A Comparison
Having owned both, I can say confidently that the Wallace has edged out the Jodie as my preference.
I once had the Jodie in a light blue shade, convinced I’d reach for it in spring and summer. But in reality? It rarely left the shelf. Eventually, I sold it. The lesson there was clear: while I love a pop of color, neutrals are what I actually carry day-to-day.
Beyond color, the Wallace wins on function. It’s roomier, easier to access, and a little more structured, which suits the way I carry my essentials (read: a lot of them). While the Jodie is charming and sculptural, the Wallace feels like a more practical workhorse—without losing any of the luxury factor.
What Fits Inside
One of my biggest surprises has been just how much the Wallace holds. On a recent dinner out, I managed to fit a small wallet (not just a cardholder), my phone, a powder compact, lip gloss, AirPods, and still had a little room left over. For a bag of its size, that’s impressive.
It strikes that perfect balance where it doesn’t look oversized, but you don’t have to agonize over what makes the cut when you’re heading out the door.
The Adjustable Strap: A Game-Changer
The Wallace’s adjustable strap is, without question, my favorite detail. It’s rare to find a luxury bag that’s this flexible in terms of wear. I love that I can carry it by hand for a more polished look, then throw it over my shoulder when I need to be practical. The adaptability makes it one of those pieces you can style endlessly without it ever feeling out of place.
Final Thoughts
After only a handful of wears, I can already tell the Wallace will become one of my most-used bags. It checks all the boxes: timeless design, functional size, durable material, and that intangible “I’ll actually reach for this” factor.
The Row NS Tote is still on my radar—it’s one of those forever-classics I could easily see myself adding down the line. But for right now, the Wallace was the bag that fit seamlessly into my lifestyle.
If you’re considering one for yourself, I highly recommend exploring purchase options through a trusted sales associate. I’ve bought several of my bags this way, including the Wallace, and the experience feels far more personal than going through a third-party sourcing service. Plus, it’s a way to support someone’s business while getting the same luxury experience.
In the end, choosing a handbag isn’t about finding the “perfect” one—it’s about finding the one that fits into your real, everyday life. And for me, right now, that bag is the Wallace.
