Vera Bradley Bags, Purses and More {Review}

If you had asked me one year ago if I was a Vera Bradley fan, I probably would have asked if she was an actress. A singer, perhaps?

I'm sure I had heard the name before, but, for some reason, I just wasn't familiar with who or what Vera Bradley was.

What in the world was wrong with me?

How was I missing out on so many amazing items?

Founded by Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller in 1982, Vera Bradley sells handbags, accessories, luggage, and paper and gift items through specialty stores, Vera Bradley Stores, Vera Bradley Outlet Stores and online.

And they're gorgeous!

My initial introduction was through a gift I received, one that I now carry with me almost every single day:

I love my Very Berry Paisley Tote. Absolutely love it. It is the perfect size for grabbing for nearly anywhere that I'm going and has just the right amount of room without being too large. Did I mention that I love it? I do.

However, on the recent vacation that I took with Big Sister E, I found that my Tote was actually a little bit too small to use as my carry-on purse. Considering that I had snacks and water bottles and books and all sorts of other things to keep both my daughter and I occupied, I could have used something with more room.

It was the first time that I had thought that and, strangely, I felt a little guilty about it. I mean, I love this Tote, how could I wish for something else? And what was it that I was looking for that would have the same style, quality, and durability that I am used to but in an expanded version?

Oh, Vera Bradley, I never doubted you.

The Vera Bradley Miller Bag in the new Viva la Vera print is everything that I could want in a travel bag and more. This festive design includes purple, hot pink, sunny yellow and bright green in a swirl of flowers that is sure to make anyone look twice and definitely adds a shot of fun to the otherwise same old black bags that are seen everywhere.

There is a single handy pocket on the outside for slipping things in quickly and there are six roomy interior pockets completely lining the edge for organizing nearly everything and anything that you need to carry.

I love that this bag zips closed so I won't have to worry that my belongings will fall out when I slide it under the seat in front of me on an airplane and the sturdy removable base is a great addition to keep it standing upright when I need it. Even better, that base can easily be removed and then the whole bag can go right in the washing machine - talk about convenience!

To go along with this awesome Miller Bag, the Tech Case (also in the fun Viva la Vera colors) is the perfect thing to keep my digital devices safe and accessible when I'm hanging out around town or traveling across the country.

Just the right size for cameras, PDAs, mp3 players, iPhones... you name it, this Tech Case will keep it where you need it and will prevent scratches or damage from just being thrown into a purse or bag. There is even a separate small pocket on the inside for any wires, adapters or batteries that come along.

I love the 6" strap for using this as a wristlet and the smart trigger clasp can actually be removed and attached directly to the case itself so that I can clip it right on where I need it. This is the perfect accessory for me to protect my camera when I go to the zoo, store my phone in when I travel or many more. I currently have it right inside my Miller Bag and am ready to hop on a plane with them both this weekend!

With purses, handbags, luggage, accessories and so much more in a huge array of bright colors and fun patterns, Vera Bradley knows what women want when they travel. Retailing for $84 for the Miller Bag and $22 for the Tech Case, I have no doubt that I will be using these items for years to come!

For more information and to browse their incredible selection, visit Vera Bradley online... and be prepared to want to stay a while. To never miss a beat with their new designs or upcoming events, follow Vera Bradley on Twitter and Like them on Facebook as well. Want to hear more about these stylish pieces? Check out the Vera Bradley review on The Life of Rylie... and Bryce, too!

(Other than the Miller Bag and Tech Case that I received from Vera Bradley to facilitate my review, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this company and their fantastic products.)