What is a messenger bag and where did it come from?

The convenience of a messenger bag  was initially for those working in high and uncomfortable places.  In fact, the original design of the messenger can be traced back to the utility lineman’s bag from the 1950′s,  constructed by De Martini Globe Canvas Company.  The necessity of keeping their hands free is exactly the reason that it has incorporated itself so easily into everyday use.  Made from a heavy durable canvas – the style has transformed into fashion statement and some of the most notable designs, with space for iPads, Smartphones and Kindles are made from genuine Italian leather.  The idea of being able to keep your necessities close by – yet giving you free movement makes this the ideal accessory.

A style that has practical origins has made it self into a fashion statement for both men and women. Originally conceived for bike messengers and postal workers, this leather bag is normally characterized with an adjustable cross body shoulder strap that allows for the bag to rest comfortably on ones lower back or side while handling a bicycle.

Though handbags are often considered just a women’s accessory, one can not deny that with a “hands free bag”  works just as well for men and the things won’t fit into jacket and pant pockets.  Campomaggi for example has turned this functional bag into a washed leather accessory and though their designs typically cater towards the men these Campomaggi bags have funneled there way into many a ladies heart. These Campomaggi bags use washed leather to give them a rugged, almost country look. The cross body characteristic of the messenger bag is what made it so innovative when it first appeared on the market half a century ago and is what keeps it so functional in today’s world. Change the size of the bag, hang it on your back or on your side, or even more positioned towards the front – but as long as it has that cross body strap it will be considered a off spring of the ever famous messenger bags.

There are also the Toscanella leather messenger bags for men and women which utilizes 7 different colors of vegetable tanned leather. Each and everyone of these bags are handcrafted in Florence Italy with genuine leather. The unisex messenger bags offer several options like an adjustable leather or canvas strap, the possibility of customization and monogramming and cotton lining. In addition, these quality Italian leather bags all come with their own protective cloth bag for storage purposes.

Campomaggi Messenger Bag Product Review from Pierotucci.com

In all its washed leather glory, Campomaggi once again provides us with a cross body messenger bag meant to impress. Perhaps the size says it all, not too large so you won’t confuse it with a business bag yet with a decorative buckle and strap which adds a touch of casual class. The bag highlights all the “natural” imperfections which come along with the trademark Campomaggi washed leather such as uneven coloring and distorted sizing but these are characteristics that add to the personality of the bag – and perhaps distinguish it as a one of a kind.  However if size is important, always ask the sales staff for the precise measurements of the bag you are receiving because the variation in size can vary from 2 -3 cm from bag to bag.

All in all, what’s not to like about this bag, weighing in at less than one kilo? This cross body bag is a comfortable carry with the adjustable all leather shoulder strap. The details with the Campomaggi bag snaps and hardware in an antique brass color are the perfect match to the deep earthy shades of Italian washed leather. Available in varying shades of cognac leather or dark brown leather. If color is important, it would always be best to speak directly to the sales staff – have them send a photo of one of the Italian leather bags.

Don’t be fooled by the front buckle, the flap actually closes securely with a magnetic snap. The inside of the bag is all cotton lined making it easy to keep clean. The interior compartment has one secure zipped pocket with a pull tab and the phone pocket will comfortably hold a Smart phone or iPhone – tested right here in the shop, the phone will easily slip in and just as easily retrieved.

What’s different? Compare to many other Campomaggi messenger bag, this particular bags has contrast stitching on the external seams including the darts at the base which give the bag it’s depth. The external seams add to the slimness of the bag accenting the fact that the bag is intended for casual wear and not as a heavy duty tote.

What’s there to like? There is an easy to get to back pocket, with a secure zip closure and a long pull tab for quick open and close action. This pocket is lined in the characteristic brown cotton and the soft texture of the material is definitely a plus for keeping your electrical – technological gadgets.

What would could be different? The front buckle, definitely a signature of the Campomaggi bags is a bit awkward and the prong of the buckle sticks out at a strange angle. If the bag isn’t filled, it has a tendency to “flop” around and look a bit unsightly. Easily rectified once you throw in your wallet, phone, (make-up … or smokes).

When  compared to other Campomaggi bags, the price is right for its size and if you mentioned that you saw this review – we will guarantee free shipping on the bag.

leaving on a jet plane, don’t know where I’ll be landing

Always loved the idea of packing an overnight bag.

Then showing up at the airport and buying the next flight out.

A weekend – that is three days – of surprises, surprises and more surprises.

Campomaggi overnight travel bag, would be the perfect accessory since it converts well from a pieces of hand luggage to a walk around town travel tote.

First stop … Prague, maybe. how about you?

Savage, jungle-like, and camouflage . . .

Savage, jungle-like, and camouflage is what’s in this Fall for Caterina Lucchi. Meet one of our new handbag arrivals for the changing of the season. With a drastic color change, from bright and colorful for Summer to dark and mysterious for the beginning of a cooler climate this bag is definitely unique and one-of-a-kind. I’m particularly fond of the six external pockets to hold all your accessories, so nothing gets lost in that endless sea of handbag I so adore to carry. Not to mention some of the pockets are decorated in a very soft, light green colored shearling and you can’t get any more outrageously sheik than that. With shearling pockets to the reptile like texture throughout, it really is all about texture this season. Plus, this bag is extremely spacey, so if you’re like me, and love to fill your handbag with your life than this is definitely a contender for this seasons “oh-so-in” look.

Back to school with a Campomaggi washed leather tote

I am already a fan of the washed leather look from Campomaggi so when they showed me this north south tote bag with a few special features and lots of Italian appeal – it was as the Italians would say, sfondere una porta aperta, in other words using a battering ramp to on an open door.  

What was there not to like?  The size is ideal for carrying the iPad, Netbook or laptop as well a some notebooks or text books.  There are handy internal organizing pockets for pens, pencils, Smart phone or iPod and a soft cotton lining to protect all my electronic accessories.

Practical yet aesthetically appealing are the layered external pockets with flap topa and buckles to keep them securely closed. The pockets add to the rugged country charm, yet give it a busy look. Especially convenient is the adjustable  shoulder strap that can be clipped on with the heavy duty antique brass colored metal clip. The rolled leather handle comfortably fits on the shoulder, but it is a comfortable alternative to be able to wear it as a cross body bag, especially on the long haul. 

Perhaps the detail that truly caught my attention was the unique zip security latch. I can easy see this bag as the perfect companion on campus but I wouldn’t exclude this Campomaggi tote bag as an ideal travel companion and with this chain and hook to secure a closed zip makes it safe for not losing bits and pieces along the route.

Even though Campomaggi bags have a tendency to be on the heavy side, I would say that this bag is not excessive for its size and won’t wear you out carrying it from one side of the campus to the other or from one end of the airport to another.

The only downer is that Campomaggi has been running a back log of orders, and if you don’t find it in stock – you need to wait for the next delivery. In fact, Pierotucci offers a waiting list if the selected Campomaggi is not immediately available – along with free shipping on almost all of their Campomaggi bags – this one is no exception.

This bag has made it to my wish list -and even if it does arrive in time for the class bell, I will be just as enthusiastic to find it under the Christmas tree. 

Can’t Find the Man of Your Dreams?

Well, at least let us help you find the handbag of your dreams. Check out these bags for every occasion, each with their individual style and furthermore all very versatile.

Anytime Leather Handbags by lisbethusala featuring messenger tote bags

Messenger tote bag
pierotucci.com

Nylon travel bag
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Messenger Bags Women Italian Leather Business Bags | Campomaggi Bag |…
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Travel & Luggage Women Tucci Nylon and Leather Travel Backpack | Nylon…
$335 - pierotucci.com

Evening Bags Women Cosci Evening Bag with Rigid Frame in beige colored…
$285 - pierotucci.com

Evening Bags Women Cosci Evening Bag with Rigid Frame in beige colored…
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Fortunata Collection Women Italian Leather Tote Bag, Limited Edition
$255 - pierotucci.com

Fortunata Collection Women Italian Leather Tote Bag, Limited Edition
$255 - pierotucci.com

Battle of the Sexes, Campomaggi vs Caterina Lucchi

In one corner we have Italian designer Marco Campomaggi, in the opposing corner we have Italian designer Caterina Lucchi. Yes, it’s true, not only are these two very talented Italian handbag designers but they’re also husband and wife. While their handbags do share some similarities, for the most part, they each have a very distictive style that can’t be mistaken. So who do you prefer, Campomaggi, a vintage looking collection that uses washed leather and natural colors, typically more unisex in style or Caterina Lucchi, a handbag line unmistakably feminine that combines washed leather in an array of unique colors?

Campomaggi

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Caterina Lucchi

The Wonderful World of Campomaggi in Color

Campomaggi is breaking into color with a new style of bags that combine a vintage look with a touch of edge. Stepping out into the wild world of color, this new line up consists of vibrant and  less common shades but still reminiscent of Campomaggi’s unique and unrecognizable style.

Check out this tote for example. In comes in a grass green and an earthy wine color with a worn, vintage look and studded detailing along the top edge of the bag. Fashion forward, vintage yet modern and in fantastic colors, this bag is without a doubt the tote of the season.

Sunsets, Everglades and Campomaggi all seem to have

a feeling of comfortable relax or at least that is how I see it when I put them together.  When I came to Pierotucci in Italy from my home in Florida, if anyone ever asked me if I missed the beach I had to say not really – beaches you can find anywhere . . . maybe not all as beautiful as those in Miami and the Caribbean but….

If I were to pinpoint what I missed the most (besides my fantastic family  )it would be the sunsets and the Everglades.  We would always laugh in my family because even if we just came out of one of South Florida’s infamous afternoon thunderstorms, you could always count on a sunset.

And as many times as I have been to the Everglades, I always found it fascinating  . . . well except for the enormous mosquitoes, they were just plain annoying!  Those huge expanses of sawgrass reeds and the wooden board walks that were made to carry you into the depths of alligator land, I always found it to be quite unique and relaxing.

And when I think of  the Campomaggi bags, with their washed leather and distinct vintage look I get the same relaxed feeling.

A walk in the wilderness by naturalitalianwoman featuring a Campomaggi Cross Body with adjustable strap and exterior pockets

Band of Outsiders check shirt / Cuffed pants / n.d.c. n.d.c shoes / Beauty product / Campomaggi Cross Body with adjustable strap and exterior pockets / Toscanella Cuoio Leather Belt with silver colored buckle, 4 cm wide / Nomination Bracelet, style BOND stainless steel with geometric charms

No matter what they say, Campomaggi isn’t just for men anymore!

And we got the washed Italian leather bags to prove it!

Out of the five new models that have been added to the Pierotucci Campomaggi Collection, there is one of them that would definitely stand out in a crowd ladies.  This versatile clutch bag has an adjustable / removeable shoulder strap that can be shorten to three different lengths – without a buckle.  Marco Campomaggi was ingenious with this clip that makes up part of the design of the bag yet is functional as well.

But the pièce de résistance would be the decoractive semi polished stone securely embedded to on the front flap.  The texture and contour of the stone compliment the rugged washed leather, yet seem to soften it and give it just the right amount of a woman’s touch.

Not too large and heavy, like many of the Campomaggi bags, this cross body clutch will be just enough to carry the essentials while travelling, going out at night or even a casual event.  There is a secure magnetic snap closure plus a top zip so even if you are the adventurous or active type, you won’t have to worry about losing your “stuff” along the way.

Give us some feed back, what do you think of our newest addition?