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Original poster

Radley bags

72 replies

SilverGlitterBaubles · 28/08/2023 09:01

Looking at a Radley bag in JL but I've heard some comments about them. I don't usually spend on bags, other than something from TK. Before I make a purchase can anyone tell me if Radley is considered naff?

OP posts:
Shudacudawuda · 28/08/2023 09:04

Mumsnet seems to consider them naff! But out of all my work bags I love my Radley the best for how well its lasted, how practical the design is and how light and comfortable it is to carry.
Mine is fairly plain though and not covered with the Radley dig design so I think it looks nice too. Honestly it's one of the best bags I've ever had.

Shudacudawuda · 28/08/2023 09:04

*dog design

Pleaseme · 28/08/2023 09:05

They used to be really popular years ago. Every time I went to the pub there was a selection on top of the tables. So fashionable they were put on display rather than underneath the table or on your chair like normal bags.

I think like most trends they became really naff afterwards and naff they remain.

LadyBird1973 · 28/08/2023 09:46

I think they make some really lovely bags. Often the designs could be from any number of brands, since they make a wide variety of styles, but MN seems to have a 'thing' about not liking them because they are Radley.
I don't think they are a fashionable brand but people should buy what they like and not be do brand driven that they won't buy something they genuinely like because of the label.

Original poster
SilverGlitterBaubles · 28/08/2023 09:46

@Shudacudawuda I am torn as the style of bag I want is the Radley one, it is not covered in dogs. I'd rather not spend money on a bag that is going to be considered naff but on the other had given my current work bag is a cheap Accessorize cheap tote who would even notice or care 🤷‍♀️

OP posts:
GolgafrinchamB · 28/08/2023 09:51

They are poorly made for the cost. I had three over the years and all three had problems with the stitching and fasteners.

One the occasions that happened in under a year, Radley were good about repairs/replacements, but beyond that 12 months, you are stuck with it.

LadyBird1973 · 28/08/2023 09:51

Just an example I pulled of eBay - to me this one looks like it could be from any number of brands, it's not like the pocket one with the dog, which were very radley specific.

Radley bags
WhereAreWeNow · 28/08/2023 09:51

I have one which I love. It's a cross body bag. No dogs. It's really good quality and has lasted well. It says Radley in small letters on one side. I tend to keep that side to my body because I don't like obvious branding.
I say if you like it, get it. It's a decent quality bag.
Having said that, I got mine heavily discounted at Brandalley. Not sure I'd pay full price but then I'm a bit tight!

ByTheSea · 28/08/2023 09:53

I've had a few (hotdog designs) and they've been well made and lasted really well.

ByTheSea · 28/08/2023 09:54

Not dog designs

Shudacudawuda · 28/08/2023 09:54

Honestly I don't think most people do notice or care!
They are really well made bags, lovely lining, well designed, not too heavy (heaviness is the issue I have with my other work bag which is a gorgeous Cambridge Satchel work bag, but so heavy with uncomfortable handles in comparison to my Radley that I don't use it as much as I'd like).
After spending more on that than the Radley I'd now choose Radley over something else based on comfort of carry and how well everything slots in to the Radley.

BeeCucumber · 28/08/2023 09:57

I love my dog covered Radley bags - I find them very hard wearing and I have never had any issues with them. I also wear Pandora bracelets which may mean I am naff and I have no sense of style.

HardcoreLadyType · 28/08/2023 10:00

IME they are good quality bags, and last really well. My current bag had a dog decoration, which I easily removed, and replaced with something else. (I have done similar with other brands - it’s not just me being snobbish about Radley!)

Embarrassingparent · 28/08/2023 10:02

I love them. They're well made and I tend to ignore people who use the word "naff". If you have seen one you like and can afford it get it.

Cyclingmummy1 · 28/08/2023 10:03

@BeeCucumber me too 😆

I have quite a few, including some of the earlier picture bags. I don't use them as much now but they are well made and, as others have said, not heavy.

MeetMyCat · 28/08/2023 10:05

I love my Radley bags, but make sure none of mine have dog-overload.

ValentinaTheVampire · 28/08/2023 10:07

Like pps I don't like the dog design ones, but there are Radley bags which could be from anywhere and they're fine.

I wouldn't buy them for the label iyswim. I like to think i wouldn't do it even if I had the money, but I would understand when people buy chanel bags or dior bags to show off a bit. But I wouldn't buy a Radley bag to show off if that makes sense and can't imagine anyone doing that really.

So it depends if you love the bag regardless, or if you're looking for a bag with a cool designer label. If it's the former then yes I'd buy it but I wouldn't if it's the latter

SleepingisanArt · 28/08/2023 10:08

I have a navy blue handbag (with additional shoulder strap). You only know its a Radley if you hold it up to the light to read the embossed 'Radley ' just under the handles. The dog is silver and inside a keyfob so is only visible when you get him out. Bag has good structure, holds everything I want ( it isn't huge - I don't need a huge bag) and is classic. I got it 18 months ago in the JL sale £43, originally £239!

I'm not a logo person so like that this bag will not date. (I have had a limited edition LV which I have used daily for 14 years and only LV staff know what it is from a distance - not traditional LV logo pattern or colour!)

Xrays · 28/08/2023 10:09

I think they’re well made good quality bags but I think they’re a sort of next step up from Next or John Lewis own brand. I don’t consider them particularly designer or a sought after brand name - which amused me when I moved to Norfolk from London as here everyone seems to consider them some sort of amazing designer bag! 🙈 There’s a whole section for them in Jarrolds in Norwich which seems not that dissimilar to the really expensive designer bags in selfridges in London or something like that.

Wavescrashingonthebeach · 28/08/2023 10:11

If you like it get it and sod what anyone thinks:)

TheYearOfSmallThings · 28/08/2023 10:14

I wouldn't buy them for the label iyswim. I like to think i wouldn't do it even if I had the money, but I would understand when people buy chanel bags or dior bags to show off a bit. But I wouldn't buy a Radley bag to show off if that makes sense and can't imagine anyone doing that really.

This sums it up. They are solidly middle aged bags with no cachet, they will carry your stuff, look respectable, and last a decent length of time.

FayCarew · 28/08/2023 10:14

Currently scouring online auction sites for a Radley bag, because of this thread. I have a couple of bags and a wallet and I find the quality OK.

mondaytosunday · 28/08/2023 10:15

Who cares? If you like a particular style go for it.
I got a small crossbody bag last year when travelling and it happens to be a Radley (no dog though). It's been the most useful thing. TK Max as it happens.

Lilsoph · 28/08/2023 10:19

Ive still got my first cross body Radley bag which I bough in JL when it first opened in Cribbs Causeway in 1998/99. Long before they started using the dog logos everywhere. Its been used regularly but well looked after and looks good as new if not better with a bit of softening of the leather through use. I think it cost £49. I would agree that MN sometimes take a dislike to some brands. If you like the bag and not into labels go for it.

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