Frye Women's Melissa Hobo Handbag, Stylish Bag with Adjustable Strap & Pockets

I had been going back and forth about this bag for months. I saw it in the store & would try it on and think it was way too huge (and expensive) but I still had been wanting a nice crossbody and kept thinking about it and stalking it. I saw this drop under $200 and bought it with intentions of returning. Figured once I got it home & tried it out with my things I’d find a reason to return it. Well, it got it in smooth black and it’s soooo beautiful and versatile that I kept it. I justified my I’m investment knowing it’s a quality brand and it’s basic enough to use for years without being out of style. I had bought the Melissa satchel on eBay and resold because it was heavy and bulky. I feel this Melissa hobo does not have that problem. It forms to your body as you wear it and can be worn on shoulder or crossbody. The long strap is removable. I either tuck the handle down in front or against my hip and haven’t had an issue. Only downside is there is no key fob inside which means I have to use one of the only 3 pockets for keys. This particular color also has black lining but that hasn’t been an issue as I use a pouch for cosmetics/chapstick/hair ties and have a large accordion wallet that’s easy to find. I also own the Melissa shoulder bag which is also a great “mom” bag and carries a ton. I posted a pic for size comparison. I feel these are better made than PVC bags from Kate spade or MK etc. Also since I got the black smooth leather it doesn’t show scratches like the others but my shoulder bag is brown (and 2yrs old) and the scratches kind of blend in so it doesn’t bother me either way..just thought I’d mention the smooth may not show as much.

I first ordered the beige color, based on the photographs, not on the color name. I really disliked that color when it arrived. It was very muddy looking. I sent it back and got the cognac which is just perfect. The purse holds a lot. I like that it has two strap options. It is a classic bag that will last for years. My other Frye bag is 15 years old and is still just beautiful. I love the character it has developed.

I searched for a long time for a bag that would be the ideal size and weight for everyday use. I love the look of leather but I often switch to synthetics because they're lighter. However, this bag is so un-cumbersome and light that it really fits the bill.First, I love the style and color. Second, the convertible shoulder/crossbody features are excellent. I like the ease of tossing it over my shoulder when I get out of the car or whatever, but then the crossbody strap comes in handy when I need my hands free. I keep both straps attached and switch based on what I'm doing at a given time.Third, I love the size. I was worried it would be too big for everyday running around, but because it's so light, it doesn't feel large. I can fit everything I need (basics like large wallet, small cosmetics case with phone charger, snacks, etc.) and some larger items like a water bottle. Also, I can fit a 13" MacBook Air, which is excellent. It sticks out the top a little, but still super easy to tote it along when I need to. This is good for general daily use, but big enough that it can accommodate some extras for a day trip.I am very particular about bags, and preferences are very personal, but I have no regrets about this one.

Love this bag! It’s the perfect size, with good interior pockets, and I use both my long strap and the hand strap all the time. Both fit over my shoulder comfortably!I got it in cognac and the color is perfect too! I also the matching Melissa wallet, and love it as well! Great job Frye on a perfect pairing!

Pros: Perfect sized bag - truly - I've been looking for a hobo with the right kind of shoulder strap AND crossbody strap, that will hold what I want, without looking like I'm trying to carry out the store, if you know what I mean! My 13" Macbook fits well, with plenty of room for my large wallet, phone, small make-up bag, etc.Weight is really good - not too heavy, but clearly a quality, leather itemSmell: like a tack room. That's a good thing - if you're looking for leather!Packaging: Exceedingly good shipping/packaging. Bag was uber protected, inside and out, came with dust cover, filled with paper to maintain shape, and Every. Single. Inch. including the handle, was wrapped to prevent any scratching during shipping.Snap closure: while zippers are more secure, I actually really like this feature and hope it holds out!Cons: Cost prohibitive. I'm not brand-name obsessed, and looked around for similar bags, but the size was always off, so I came back to this one. Jealous of those that wrote reviews mentioning they got this bag in the $200 range - that seems a much more fair price, honestly.Cognac Color: I wish it was just a tiny bit lighter, but it's still very classy and shiny and will weather well. I plan to keep it conditioned.Lining: Not the cute striped pattern as advertised - just plain grey. Which is fine, but I feel like if you're paying nearly $400 for a bag, you should deliver what is described.Overall, given I feel this bag will last and I can use it for many purposes, and it will look great forever, I will justify the price and keep it.

Great size - fits everything I need for a busy day, including my laptop and notebook for work days. The color is gorgeous and great for the fall season. Unique shape makes it a bag that gets noticed, lots of compliments. The quality is superb. It's everything I've come to expect from Frye.

You know the dilemma, you want as nice purse but the money....it is hard to justify over one hundred dollars for a purse you are going to overfill, plop under your desk and carry everyday. There are so many lookalikes that are cheaper and if they they fall apart, well no matter. I needed a new purse and I wanted it to be bigger and sturdy and classic. This Frye hobo style bag had been discounted and it was a classic shape. The leather is supple and the lilac color is actually more pluming. It is sturdy and simple and goes with almost everything I own. It was well worth the money and I cannot wait to see if I can shove all my books into it. Great buy!