Kipling Elysia Medium Shoulder Bag in Black
Shoulder / Crossbody Bag; specifically a multi-compartment satchel style with rounded top handles and a trapezoidal silhouette. · Kipling (owned by VF Corporation). This is a 'Contemporary' or 'Accessible Luxury' brand known for durable, functional, and casual lifestyle bags.
Collection: Kipling Basic Collection (Permanent Line). The Elysia is one of the brand's best-selling silhouette designs due to its organizational capabilities.
Style
Shoulder / Crossbody Bag; specifically a multi-compartment satchel style with rounded top handles and a trapezoidal silhouette.
Brand
Kipling (owned by VF Corporation). This is a 'Contemporary' or 'Accessible Luxury' brand known for durable, functional, and casual lifestyle bags.
Material
Crinkle nylon (polyamide) signature body fabric with polyester lining. Top handles are likely synthetic leather (PU) or smooth leather trim. Construction is machine-stitched with piped edges and reinforced handle chaps.
Dimensions
29.5 cm Width x 23 cm Height x 12.5 cm Depth. Handle drop approx 20 cm.
Description
The Kipling Elysia is a masterclass in daily organization, blending a sleek black aesthetic with a highly functional multi-pocket design. Its signature crinkled nylon provides a lightweight feel and water-resistant durability, while the gold-tone hardware adds a touch of sophistication to a traditionally casual brand.
Key Features
Triple-entry compartment system, front horizontal zip pocket, signature metal monkey charm, and the contrast interior lining to help locate items at the bottom of the bag.
Material & Construction
Crinkle nylon (polyamide) signature body fabric with polyester lining. Top handles are likely synthetic leather (PU) or smooth leather trim. Construction is machine-stitched with piped edges and reinforced handle chaps.
Color & Pattern
Black (standard permanent color). Features a solid monochrome exterior with a pop of electric blue in the interior lining.
Hardware Details
Gold-tone metal hardware including chunky zippers, rectangular handle rings, and a signature black metal logo plaque. Includes a decorative monkey charm with a marbleized heart pendant.
Interior Description
Cobalt blue fabric lining. Triple compartment layout with a central zip section, two magnetic outer sections, an internal zip pocket, slip pockets for phone/pens, and a key leash.
Closure Type
Combination: The main central compartment features a zippered closure, while the two oversized side compartments are secured by magnetic snaps.
Strap & Handle Details
Dual rolled top handles for hand or shoulder carry. It typically includes a removable, adjustable webbing crossbody strap (not shown in photo but attachment D-rings are visible).
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial-grade reinforced stitching at stress points (handles), clean piping, and precise alignment of the front zipper. The nylon is high-density to prevent snagging.
Authentication Indicators
Kipling-branded zipper pulls, the specific shield-shaped metal logo plaque, high-quality heavy-duty nylon weave, and consistent machine-stitching on the handle tabs.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in Belgium; manufactured in China or Cambodia according to VF Corporation's global manufacturing standards for the Kipling brand.
Era & Period
Contemporary Functional/Utility era (c. 2010s-2020s). The design focuses on the 'It-bag' functionality of the modern commuter and busy professional.
Age Estimate
Circa 2018-2022. This specific logo plaque style and the metallic monkey keychain (replacement for the traditional plush monkey) indicate a more modern production cycle.
Cultural Significance
Kipling bags became a global cult phenomenon in the 1990s as the ultimate 'school and travel' bag. The Elysia represents the brand's evolution into more mature, lifestyle-oriented fashion for the modern woman.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent condition. The nylon shows no significant stains or fraying; hardware retains high shine with minimal scratching; handles appear sturdy with no cracking.
Value Estimate
Retail: $100-$120. Resale value: $35-$60 depending on the market and completeness of the strap set.
Care & Maintenance
Nylon can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid dry cleaning or machine washing to preserve the coating of the nylon. Store in a cool, dry place.
Similar Handbags
Longchamp Le Pliage (similar nylon utility but less organized); Baggallini Everywhere Bag (similar focus on compartments); MZ Wallace Metro Tote.
Interesting Facts
The brand is named after Rudyard Kipling, author of 'The Jungle Book,' which is why every bag comes with its own monkey mascot—each originally named after a Kipling employee.