Vintage Dooney & Bourke All Weather Leather Cavalry Body Bag in Black and British Tan
Crossbody Satchel / Messenger Bag · Dooney & Bourke (Founded by Peter Dooney and Frederic Bourke), Premium Heritage tier, reputable for Americana-inspired durability.
Collection: All Weather Leather (AWL) Collection, a permanent heritage line introduced in 1983.
Style
Crossbody Satchel / Messenger Bag
Brand
Dooney & Bourke (Founded by Peter Dooney and Frederic Bourke), Premium Heritage tier, reputable for Americana-inspired durability.
Material
Pebbled All Weather Leather (AWL) body with smooth British Tan harness leather trim. The leather is famously treated to be water-repellent. Features high-density machine stitching and burnished, painted edges.
Dimensions
Width: 10.5 inches (26.7 cm), Height: 7.5 inches (19 cm), Depth: 3 inches (7.6 cm), Strap Drop: 18-22 inches (45.7-55.9 cm) adjustable.
Description
A quintessential American classic, this Dooney & Bourke Cavalry bag showcases the brand's signature All Weather Leather, designed to develop a beautiful patina over time. The striking contrast between the black pebbled leather and the smooth tan trim creates a timeless equestrian aesthetic that is as durable as it is stylish.
Key Features
Embossed circular duck logo patch, contrasting yellow heavy-duty stitching, pebbled 'shrink-treated' leather texture, and solid brass components.
Material & Construction
Pebbled All Weather Leather (AWL) body with smooth British Tan harness leather trim. The leather is famously treated to be water-repellent. Features high-density machine stitching and burnished, painted edges.
Color & Pattern
Bi-color scheme: Black body with British Tan trim. Plain pebbled texture on the main panels without monogram patterns.
Hardware Details
Solid brass hardware with a natural patina. Includes a tongue-and-loop buckle closure, strap D-rings, and the iconic embossed duck logo leather patch on the front flap.
Interior Description
Unlined raw suede interior (the reverse side of the pebble leather), typically featuring a red, white, and blue cloth 'Made in USA' serial number tag and multi-pocket organization (zipper and slip pockets).
Closure Type
Front flap with a leather tab and brass buckle; often features a hidden magnetic or stud closure behind the decorative buckle for convenience.
Strap & Handle Details
Detachable and adjustable leather shoulder/crossbody strap in British Tan. No fixed top handle on this specific cavalry model variant.
Craftsmanship Details
Precise yellow top-stitching, reinforced base corners for longevity, and thick, vegetable-tanned leather trim that is built to withstand decades of use.
Authentication Indicators
Seven-digit serial number on the red/white/blue interior tag, high stitch count with signature yellow thread, and the heavy weight of the solid brass hardware components.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the USA. This era was characterized by American craftsmanship in Norwalk, Connecticut or other domestic factories.
Era & Period
Late 1980s to Mid-1990s Americana. Part of the 'preppy' fashion movement where functional, equestrian-inspired leather goods were status symbols.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-1995. The circular embossed leather duck seal and the specific tone of the British Tan indicate a classic 90s production period.
Cultural Significance
Represented the shift toward durable luxury for the professional woman in the 80s/90s. It remains a staple for vintage collectors seeking 'buy it for life' quality.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. The leather shows excellent structure. Minor color fading on the British Tan trim and light scuffing on corners. Brass buckle shows light oxidation consistent with age.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $120 to $225 depending on the presence of the original hanging duck fob and interior cleanliness.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Condition the British Tan trim regularly to prevent drying. Avoid heavy oils on the pebbled leather as it is already naturally treated.
Similar Handbags
Coach Court Bag (similar satchel shape but smooth leather), Mulberry Trout Bag (British version of the equestrian satchel).
Interesting Facts
The All Weather Leather was inspired by the salt-shrunk leather used by the German military, which creates a natural pebble grain that remains waterproof without chemical coatings.