This was perfect for what I needed.  I am going to Paris for five weeks to study French, and I will be traipsing all over town with a small netbook, a small spiral bound notebook and pen, and some cash/passport/one credit card.  I did not want a huge messenger bag to weigh me down with all of that walking.  I also wanted something that looked cute (this is Paris, after all).  This is the perfect size, plus it is retro-chic.  I love it!