On a recent trip to New York my very lovely friend bought me one of these bags - I had owned one of the standard 'Little Brown Bag's' for a number of years and had wanted to get the next size up as they are simply so durable, strong and useful. This size is $35 (so approximately £20 at the current exchange rate) and is identical to the Little version, just big enough to carry over your shoulder instead.

These bags have been iconic for quite some time now and the small ones are quite often bought as souvenirs of a trip to New York as the image of them is so intrinsically linked with the store (Bloomingdales) and the City as a whole.

Just like with the small one (and there is a apparently a 'Large' version of this bag too) this bag is made of a strong plastic resin which is wipe clean and flexible whilst being very sturdy. The handles are very strong and this bag will handle quite a bit of weight - I tend to use it as a supplementary bag for work which carries my iPad, files and folders (whatever I am currently working on as I frequently am away from my desk).

It is just a nice size to hold all the bits I need to have with me and keep them in some kind of order whilst being quite stylish and durable. The measurements of this bag are as follows: width 13.5", height 12.25", depth 6". The handles are 11" long so you have plenty of room to get them over your shoulder.

I like the way this bag is slightly shiny and patent, mine has sustained a couple of marks from where it has rubbed against hard surfaces on occasion but nothing major and most things just wipe off. As all of the different sizes of bags look the same in terms of style (a beige background with 'little/medium/large brown bag' written in chocolate coloured letters) this is a very eye catching and instantly recognizable bag which for the money is a lovely piece to own and a useful item to boot.

The only downside of this item is that Bloomingdales is based in the USA, you can, however, order from their website and have them shipped although you will pay a bit more for this service. The medium bag is also available in a slightly different shape with a zip top.