Updated review 7/2017
So, the bag was a really good bag. I really liked. However, around May 2017, one of the the little buckles fell off, causing the strap to break. I managed to get the strap reattached by stitching it directly to the bag. Unfortunately, that didn't help. Mostly because another one of the little buckles fell off. Most of the time the items I carried were my wallet, iPad, Nook, personal planner, and small pen pouch. I have a water bottle, but decided to carry it in my hand because it is a larger bottle. The other items were not particularly heavy. But I guess the weight of these small items together was too heavy for the tote. I'm now giving this three stars instead of five because the inner zippered section was awesome and the style of the bag was just what I like. The stitching of the handles and how they are placed on the tote needs a lot of work. My original review stated I may purchase again in the future. I'm not so sure this time. Although the price is currently half of what I originally paid, a tote bag should last a lot longer than nine months before having to be replaced.

Original review
I really like this bag. I was a little concerned when I read some of the reviews stating that there was a strong odor coming from the bag (I'm sensitive to certain scents) and that the bag had a permanent crease in it from the way it was packaged. However I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the box!

The tote bag was packaged inside a box that held a large bag with the company name. The first thing I noticed was that the odor was very faint; nothing that sitting in front of an open window for a few hours couldn't handle. The next thing I noticed, no permanent fold mark! Although the bag was flat in the box, I think because there was some extra paper in the box for support.

The bag is a very nice size. I tested to see if it could hold up to the abuse of a teacher carrying tons of school stuff. So far it can hold a personal size planner, an iPad, a pen pouch filled with pens, a Nook tablet, and a water bottle...with room to spare! I can put a light sweater/jacket or light scarf in there as well when the weather gets cooler.

I like the feel of the bag. I was concerned that it was going to be on the flimsy side. However, it isn't. It's well made and it looks great. I will admit that it is just a tiny bit "glossy" from the wax used on it. But I know that will fade over time and this bag will continue to look great.

I'm very happy with this purchase and may buy one again in the future if ever there is a need to replace the tote bag.