Anyone use the Chelsea as a business tote?

scrapperevenstar · ‎08-29-2010

Hello ladies,

I recently ordered the Dillon Chelsea in black with the brown trim/handles. I am a huge Dooney fan so I'm sure I will love the bag. I was wondering if anyone here uses this bag as a work tote? I have to fly for business frequently and have to bring a very small laptop computer (12 in) with me. I am hoping when my Chelsea arrives, my little laptop will fit nicely inside. I plan to use one side for business, keep my wallet in the zippered compartment and carry a small make up bag, hand sanitizer and lotion in the other side. Every time I try to downsize my bag, I regret it. Flying limits me to a carry on and one additional piece and so I want this Chelsea bag to act as my purse and tote when I need to carry my laptop.

tough_kitty · ‎04-22-2014

I think you should be fine. Lucky you - you have a smaller laptop. My laptop is 15.6" and I travel for work a lot so I have to check in my suitcase because I carry a laptop bag + a handbag. There is no way I can get away with a small bag inside my laptop bag.... oh well, maybe I'll change jobs and stop traveling..... I have the Chelsea bag too and I like it, but due to unprotected opening, you should be careful, so no one pulls out your laptop out of your bag when you are not paying attention....

scrapperevenstar · ‎08-29-2010

thanks tough kitty! I received my bag today and of course I immediately had to change purses and carry it. My laptop fits nicely and not to heavy to still carry comfortably. You make a valid point about being careful since it doesn't zip shut. Normally I carry a Vera Bradly laptop tote that has a little toggle closure with the small frannie bag tucked inside for essentials when going out after work. I have the same issue with needing to be careful that nothing falls out or is lifted without my knowledge. I like traveling for work, and now have my essentials sized down to where I can manage easier. I leave my charging cable and accessories in my carry on suitcase. My boarding pass, phone, wallet, and minimal make-up are all that go in my tote/purse. The Chelsea will fit nicely under the seat on the plane and because I got the Dillen leather, it should hold up nicely. I am really looking forward to my next trip now!

tough_kitty · ‎04-22-2014

Glad you like it!

Nice tips on the packing... I should think of the way to merge my bags too! Would definitely save me time if I can avoid checking my bag!!! Please, come back with a review after your trip