Quality Check: Francesca Backpack and Lacey Tote by Lodis
Lodis reached out to us, offering two of their bags for an independent review. Today, we'll be taking a close look at the Francesca Backpack and the Lacy Tote from this renowned brand. How do these bags stack up in terms of quality, design, and overall value? Let's dive in and find out.
DISCLAIMER: The mentioned brand sent this product for FREE. However, we are NOT PAID to do this review. All statements and expressions made about the products are Tanner Leatherstein’s independent review. The brand did not get to see the final video until it was published live. They also agreed to our terms and conditions that we will post our honest review about the brand and/or product and that we might disagree with the information provided in their shop or website.
Tanner Leatherstein’s reviews are not meant to be conclusive or definitive. The purpose of this video is for informational and educational purposes only. We recommend that as a consumer, you exercise your due diligence and research on the products before adopting the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein.
Francesca Backpack
First Impressions
Starting with the Francesca Backpack, our first impression was quite positive. The leather has a sophisticated, glazed marbling with a minimal finish, giving it an understated yet elegant look. The stitching is precise, and the brushed gold finish on the accessories adds a touch of refinement. However, we did notice a slight mismatch in the color assortment on the back of the bag, indicating a minor lapse in quality control. Although this isn’t a major issue since it’s on the back, it’s something that could have been avoided with more attention to detail.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Upon deconstructing the Francesca Backpack, we observed that the leather has a thin finish, which provides a glossy and marbled effect. The grain cowhide used is of high quality, with a unique and variable pattern. The minimal top layer finish, marbled effect, and gloss contribute to the overall aesthetic.
Cost Analysis
We estimated that approximately five square feet of leather should be enough to make a backpack like this. My leather estimate for this is $13. While it's not as complex as some other bags, there are many internal materials, fabrics, and accessories involved. Therefore, I estimate the assembly and hardware costs to be around $55, bringing the total to $68 for leather, labor, and hardware. Given my estimate, the price tag of $139 represents an incredible value by my standards. I'm not sure how it's possible, but since the bag is made in India, my estimates might be a bit high for the country's standards.
Lacey Tote
First Impressions
The Lacey Tote also made a strong first impression. The pebbled embossed leather feels pleasant to the touch and is tastefully done. The accessories, similar to the Francesca Backpack, have a nice brushed gold finish. However, the fabric lining seems cheap and a bit outdated, which detracts from the overall premium feel of the bag just like the Francesca Backpack and the non-dyed-through leather in the opening of the bag. Despite this, the stitching and edge paint are well-executed, with balanced edge painting and folded edges. The overall workmanship is commendable.
Quality and Craftsmanship
For the Lacey Tote, our observations were similar in terms of quality. By applying acetone, we were able to remove a minimal finish from the leather. It appears to have a semi-aniline finish with a very tasteful, thin layer that achieves the glossy red color. This method of finishing the leather is perfectly balanced and enhances its standardized quality.
Cost Analysis
This bag requires about seven square feet of leather, which should be sufficient for a project like this. I estimate the cost of the leather to be $20. Considering the extensive interior lining work, fabric with leather details, accessories, hardware, and additional lacing, I don't think it can be done for less than $70, including the hardware. Therefore, my total estimate for leather, labor, and hardware is $90 for this bag. Given this estimate, the $168 price tag represents an incredible deal by my standards. I'm not sure how they manage it, but since the bag is made in India, labor costs might be lower than my estimates.
Conclusion: Overall Verdict
After opening these two bags from Lodis, I was impressed with their leather selections. The leather is minimally and tastefully finished, which I find very appealing. On the leather side, I am completely satisfied. The craftsmanship looks quite good in both bags, with no major red flags. Both bags were made in India, and all the stitching, lining, and folding were done properly. There’s nothing concerning at this price point.
The only issue I have is with the inner lining; the fabric design looks a bit outdated, reminiscent of bags from 50 years ago, which doesn't give that premium feel. However, the hardware, with its brushed gold finish, is of high quality and feels luxurious.
Overall, most of the materials, leather, and craftsmanship are exceptionally well done, and the pricing is incredible. If the designs appeal to you, these bags offer some of the greatest value I've seen so far in my reviews.
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