Review: Aurora (by Christine)

When you order from Massaccesi, the fun journey begins with choosing from a myriad of possibilities! Start with exploring a style, then the leather, color, hardware, lining, and any additional customization you desire. Communicating with Marco is always pleasant, he is beyond nice, answers your questions, and never makes you feel pressured. Once you confirm and pay the PayPal invoice he sends, the waiting begins. But good things come to those who wait, and quality cannot be rushed!

From payment to delivery (including the travel through customs from Italy to America), it took some weeks until I received my big white box.

This package can withstand snow, rain, even an animal with sharp claws...in fact, it is a feat to get through the hardy wrapping. Then the wonderful smell of Italian leather breaks through to reward you...There, in the second layer of my box, waiting to be released from her dust bag, was my Aurora.

Oh the cuoio vacchetta, the structured style with the curved handle and boxy interior, the classy lock closure in the light gunmetal (he offers FOUR choices of hardware metal), the navy blue lining I chose, and the exterior slip pocket I asked to be added...all these details took my breath away. I don't mind having the clasps for the long strap attach to the handle, but you could customize and change that placement when you order if you'd like.

I like to wear my bags crossbody, on my right side, so the design actually makes it very easy for me to open the pushlock. It is a little tricky to close her back up, but I will get used to that. I am looking forward to the vacchetta gaining more character over time and watching the leather age. What a luxurious feeling premium leather.

For the interior, there is a zippered pocket on the back wall and opposite that there is a small slip pocket with 3 card slots attached to the front of the slip pocket. That eliminates the need for a wallet if desired! The inside is roomy and I love Marco's navy blue lining. I have it in several of my Massaccesi's.

Aurora's bag journey continues with mine, but I thank her maker so very much! She is such a unique take on the style of a flap bag; she will be with me for all my life and after that I am sure my daughters will fight over her. Grazie per tutto Marco!