Of the three kinds of bags from The Row that I’ve owned thus far (the Margaux, the Park tote, and this Sofia crossbody), the Sofia seems to be the least popular. And I can see why. It’s the smallest of the bags but almost as pricey as the Margaux 10 (current retail for this Sofia is $3390!). Luckily I got mine secondhand (from Brandear) and paid about a third of that price. So do I think it’s worth it?
No, not for the retail price though maybe for the used price I got it for. As much as this is a well made bag, almost $4k (with tax) does not make sense for a bag like this. Even $1k for this bag seems steep for me, though honestly all bags from The Row seem to be priced higher than they’re worth (except for the Park tote IMHO since the yummy leather and utility are worth it to me). Or maybe I’m just stuck in the old days when the best luxury bags were priced around the $2k mark.
Anyway the good things about the bag include the meticulous make and design, with perfect stitching and edging. The leather used is also a beautiful leather, though somewhat delicate (it came with two scratches and I added a couple more). The hardware is sturdy and unique. And the inside is lined with an equally beautiful leather, and even though it’s leather-lined the bag is not heavy at all. But honestly these things alone can’t make it worth almost $4k.
The negatives for me about this bag include the delicate smooth calfskin leather and the small and stiff compartment that makes it difficult to carry more than the bare essentials. I can fit a compact wallet/card case, sunglasses (sans case), and my phone; and that’s about it. There’s no give so the bag can’t be stuffed. Oh also the clasp isn’t the easiest to use. Yes it can be closed with one hand but the clasp will misalign if closed carelessly or in a rush (though it’s not nearly as finicky as the Toteme T-lock clutch). I think if you were to close it like normal you shouldn’t have any trouble with the clasp.
As far as I can tell the 8.75 size is the second to smallest (though there’s now an East West Sofia that looks to be smaller). There’s also a 10 size that’s bigger that comes as either a top handle or crossbody bag. I think the 8.75 bag looks like the right size for me (I’m 5’4”) but if you’re taller then the Sofia 10 might be a better option.
Honestly I would say don’t get this bag unless you’re just head over heels in love with it (in which case you probably don’t need a review to help you decide whether or not to get this bag). Sure if you find one for a good deal it can be worth it, but the Sofia bag seems to be way overpriced for what it is. If you’re looking for a great structured crossbody, there are a ton of other nondescript ones like this one on the market (I feel like Mansur Gavriel and APC make ones with the same vibe). Though I guess this is the ultimate IYKYK bag from The Row since it’s a classic they’ve been making for years but it’s one that hasn’t really taken off.