I bought this to replace my purse which was shaped similarly. It is a bit bigger which means I tend to fill it. lol I like the padded strap and that I can switch shoulders. I put it across my body and it relieves the pain I have in my shoulders. It is easy to wear and still get into the pockets. I can organize my stuff so I can easily find it. It even has room for my paperback and a place for my water bottle. I can put my MP3 player in the strap so I can listen while walking and keep the bag zipped closed. The black doesn't show dirt. I love this for a purse. It would make a good day pack for hiking but it is too small and not built to be a school backpack.