When we first began traveling, one of my packing mistakes was bringing the wrong bags. I packed cute but heavy bags that had my neck and shoulders aching after a few hours of sightseeing. I’ve since switched to lighter crossbody styles, and my #1 pick is the Pearl Crossbody.
What Makes It The Best Handbag For Travel…
It’s a simple, functional-but-chic crossbody bag that can convert to a clutch or wristlet, and has amazing interior organization. I can always find what I need in a flash, and every compartment closes securely. Goes from day to dinner, no need to switch bags.
There are two types of leather: the Saffiano which is more structured, and the Nappa, which is smooth and softer. Both leathers are offered in multiple colors. Currently, the Pearl is on sale for 30% off.
You don’t have to travel to appreciate this bag. It’s perfect for day-to-day wear as well, and you’ll never have to go digging for your keys or phone again.
More travel bags on sale HERE.
More Fall Sales Worth A Peek…
Chico’s – Fall Sale, extra 50% off two or more already reduced styles
Eileen Fisher – 20% off fall shoes
Everlane – Choose What You Pay (shoes, clothing, accessories)
J.Crew – up to 50% off outerwear, 30% off full-price styles, code FRIDAY
Lands’ End – 40% off full-price styles, code COLORS
Net-a-Porter – 15% off seasonal edit with code NEWNOW15
Vince – 25% off all styles with code BYINVITE19
I have 3 Pearl bags and I love them. Great organization and multi functional. Am thinking about getting number 4 !!!
I have the Pearl bag in a saffiano metallic silver with silver hardware. I love it.
I bought this bag when you carried it in Paris. I really like it and I’m using it for everyday. Thanks for the rec and the tip about the sale.
I have 3 Pearl bags now too. Totally. My favorite. So well designed. I got the one you’re showing (in this posting) just a few weeks ago. Love the color. I also got Lo and Sons overnight bag (not the largest one). Maybe should have gotten the largest but was afraid it would be too unwieldy.
Looks like you might be in Paris in these photos, you look terrific in that bright shirt under your navy topper!
I’m looking at the different leathers. The Saffiano would be more travel-friendly, I imagine. I have a Coach bag in this material and it doesn’t scratch, etc. Any additional advice for me before I choose a bag?
I have both leather types. I prefer the Nappa leather as its softer. The staffiano leather makes the bag more structured but it does stand up better to wear and tear. It’s a great bag though whichever you buy !
Author
The Saffiano is more structured and durable, and has a more weather-resistant finish. If your style is more classic/tailored/structured, you might prefer this one. The Nappa leather is smooth and softer, and works for a more casual, Boho, or minimalist style. (Reminds me of the Celine “Trio” bag.)
Such a difficult decision! Thanks for the input.
I’m considering the Nappa in the sand leather as I need a handbag that isn’t black, isn’t gray, isn’t rose and will work in the summer. On my computer “sand” looks very “yellow-gold”. Does anyone have that color? I won’t get sienna as my Coach bag is that color and I don’t need another. I don’t put a lot in a handbag (no big billfold) so not concerned about the snaps in the center. Thanks…
Author
Hi Katrinka, I haven’t seen the Sand in the Nappa leather in person, but have seen it in Saffiano. In that leather it’s definitely a yellowish-tan.
I love your blog! Been eyeing that purse so thanks for the heads up on the sale! Ordered and excited for the travels to come!
I was gifted my first Pearl bag for my birthday a few years ago. I have since acquired two more. Love them!
Beautiful look, today’s photo…colors and balance of the lines. I’ll take cooler temps all year to dress this way!
Gorgeous picture absolutely lovely outfit!
Mine are the healthy back bag, which is somewhat larger. I like to be able to pick up groceries, newspapers, etc. It is in nylon fabric – a leather one that size would be too heavy. Baggallini makes a similar bag.
Of course one could pack a nylon or other fabric bag that folds to nothing inside your bag, in case you find that book, stationery etc.
Does it stand up by itself when you set it on a table? That is one of my handbag requirements.
Author
The Nappa leather does usually, unless there’s something very heavy in one of the outside pockets. The Saffiano may or may not (the bottom is slightly rounded) depending on how it’s packed.
Yes, are you in Paris now, or is that a photo from an earlier trip?
Author
This is from an earlier trip, in October 2017.
Yes, it is obviously the same time of year.
I love the navy topper! Any suggestions on where to find something similar?
Author
Thanks! I’ll look for some options and post next week.
I also own the Pearl and like it, with qualifications. It generally doesn’t hold a longer wallet, only a folded or smaller one, and the top snap closure doesn’t seem secure, though the side pockets are zipped and work for cash, cards and phone. As we were pickpocketed in Paris last year, I might carry a completely zipped or twist-locked bag next time.
Oooh, I’ve had my eye on that bag for a while – just ordered! Thanks for the heads-up!
I didn’t even notice the bag but zeroed in on the outfit. Love it and funny that two years ago you were already tilted at your color palette. I wouldn’t have put those pieces together for color but I’m saving this photo as I will going forward. Would really like a navy bag.
I personally would not carry an open bag while traveling, and that Lo&Sons doesn’t zip in the middle, it’s one of those designs that will open *more* if you’ve got anything bulky at all in those side zip compartments. But that overall silhouette is a good one for travel; I do have a very similar bag from Levenger, but it does zip completely at the top. I already lose enough stuff when I’m traveling. I did buy another Lo&Sons, a larger carryon bag, and was actually quite disappointed with the lack of quality. I’m giving it away as we speak. I would have tried that smaller crossbody if it had a full zip.
Author
I’ve found the snaps that close the middle section are quite secure, and don’t allow any access when fastened.
Thanks Susan for the heads up on the sale. I just bought one in the black Napa leather 🙂
I wanted to purchase the black nappa with silver hardware. That one is out of stock and doesn’t show a sale price. Wah!!!
I love the navy blue blazer/jacket you are wearing in this photo. Would you please provide a source? Thank you!
Author
Hi Cindy, this blazer is a couple of years old from a Danish company called Scapa and is no longer available. Here’s one with a similar look: https://shopstyle.it/l/8O7x
I just received a FB post on a 60% off sale for a limited selection of Pearl handbags. Based on your review, I promptly ordered one in camel. I agonize every time I pack for a trip over my handbag. Hope this is the solution. I’m working hard to streamline my essentials!
I’m debating buying this one too in the saffiano leather! Just received the O.G. bag I ordered at 70% off earlier in the week. Great value! I was kind of bugged when two different black bags popped up after I’d ordered the blue-grey, but I think it’s still a pretty versatile color combination. And I’m glad I went with the larger bag – I debated and debated, but since I want it primarily for travel, I think that little bit of extra space is worth a slightly bulkier profile. Please post your thoughts on the Pearl when you receive it!