Review on Vera Bradley Carson Shoulder Bag by Tory Richardson

I bought this Carson bag in gray denim. The pattern is beautiful and I really like the denim material. I didn't know if I would do it. The material is stiff but this is good for bags as it gives structure to the bag. Many of the new VB bags are flexible and shapeless because they no longer have a solid bottom. This material is hard, but this hardness causes problems with the belt. The long strap is heavy and difficult to convert. The long strap is also very thin and cheap. The bag itself is heavy and I don't see the strap being strong. The short strap is too wide and too short. I can barely throw it over my shoulder and wear a size 12 shirt. Another problem with the bag is the metal zipper. It's very sharp and freezes when I close it. It also doesn't open wide, so I have to be careful not to scratch myself when I reach into the pocket. I've tried supporting VB with their new changes, but I can't waste my time and money on their products anymore. I used to buy a VB bag and didn't bat an eyelid. Bags used to be custom-fit, comfortable and very functional. Since the introduction of the "iconic" line, I've seen nothing but a parade of cheap, poorly made, and thoughtfully "upgraded" old styles. I can only assume that these changes are aimed at reducing costs and it shows. I am returning this bag for two reasons. First, cheap useless straps, and second, ugly metal zippers that have no place on cotton/denim products.