This tote is the perfect size to use as a handbag.  The shoulder strap and fit is perfect where it does not slide off of your shoulder--it tucks perfectly under your arm.  My cellphone actually didn't fit in the cellphone holder section, but even better there is a little pocket in the front pocket that it fit in great.  So far I haven't found a use for the side pockets, I found like other reviewers that my water bottle wasn't skinny enough to fit in them.  But everything else is wonderful--really great quality item for the price.