Valerie Leather Mini Tote Bag
Regular price $248.00
We exclusively purchase hides from L.W.G. Gold Certified tanneries. This is our guarantee, and yours, that each hide comes from tanneries that demonstrate environmental best practices and performance in all areas of leather production. Learn more.
Travel here, there, and everywhere in peak comfort and style with Yukon’s new perfectly proportioned Valerie Mini Tote Bag. Vintage styling, flawless craftsmanship, and top-quality materials are combined to create this chic, versatile tote. A detachable shoulder strap and thick, comfortable carrying handles make this smaller-sized tote a breeze to carry. A built-in keyring holder and an inner and outer pocket keep you effortlessly organized throughout a busy day. Crafted of authentic crazy horse leather with antiqued brass accents and a sturdy YKK zipper, this multipurpose tote bag is the right size to tackle any job. Sophisticated enough for work and rugged enough for a wilderness adventure, the Mini tote is right for any setting. Use this handy tote for a diaper bag, a work tote, or a day of shopping. This all-purpose tote easily holds everything you need without weighing you down.
Dimensions:
- 9" x 8.6" x 3.9" - 23 cm x 22 cm x 10 cm
- Front pocket: 6.1" x 8.2" - 15.5 cm x 21 cm
- Strap Drop Length: 3.9" - 10 cm
- Interior Open Pocket: 4.5" x 8.2" - 11.5 cm x 21 cm
- Detachable Straps - Extended: 45" - 114 cm Shortened: 37" - 94 cm
Weight:
- 1.6 lbs - 0.75 kgs with detachable straps
- 1.75 lbs - 0.79 kgs without detachable straps
Features:
- Made of full-grain cowhide crazy horse leather
- Handcrafted
- YKK Zipper
- It comes with a dust bag
- Interior pocket: One large compartment and one open pocket.
- Exterior pocket: One front pocket
- Detachable and adjustable leather strap
- Built-in keychain holder
- The unique color-changing ability that only crazy horse leather provides guarantees that each bag is one-of-a-kind
| Model name | Valerie |
| Leather | 100% Full Grain Leather |
| Colors | Camel, Tan |
| Length | 9" (23 cm) |
| Width | 3.9" (10 cm) |
| Height | 8.6" (22 cm) |
| Weight |
|
| Front pocket | 6.1" x 8.2" (15.5 cm x 21 cm) |
| Interior Open Pocket | 4.5" x 8.2" (11.5 cm x 21 cm) |
| Straps |
|
| Strap Drop Length | 3.9" ( 10 cm ) |
Materials & Build
- Leather: Full-grain cowhide Crazy Horse leather with pull-up character that develops patina.
- Hardware: Antiqued brass accents.
- Closure: Top YKK zipper.
- Carry: Thick top handles + detachable, adjustable leather shoulder strap.
- Organization: One main compartment, one interior open pocket, one exterior front pocket, built-in keychain holder.
- Included: Dust bag.
Will the Valerie Mini Tote fit a 13-inch laptop?
No. Valerie is a compact mini tote (9" H x 8.6" W x 3.9" D), so a 13" laptop is a hard no. It’s built for daily essentials and small tablets.
What fits inside, realistically?
Phone, keys, sunglasses, small wallet or cardholder, lipstick/makeup pouch, compact notebook, and similar daily-carry items. You also get a built-in keychain holder to keep keys from disappearing into the abyss.
What are the exact dimensions?
Bag: 9" x 8.6" x 3.9" (23 x 22 x 10 cm). Front pocket: 6.1" x 8.2" (15.5 x 21 cm). Interior open pocket: 4.5" x 8.2" (11.5 x 21 cm). Handle drop: 3.9" (10 cm).
Does it have a top closure?
Yes. Valerie uses a sturdy YKK zipper, so your essentials stay secured during commutes, travel, and daily movement.
Does it come with a crossbody strap?
Yes. It includes a detachable, adjustable leather strap, plus top handles for hand carry.
How long is the strap?
Detachable strap length range: 37" to 45" (94 to 114 cm). Handle drop is 3.9" (10 cm).
How many pockets does it have?
One exterior front pocket, one interior open pocket, and one main compartment.
Can I use it as a mini work bag?
Yes, for notebook, phone, small accessories, and compact daily essentials. If your “work essentials” start with a 13" laptop, you’ll want a larger tote category instead.
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 1.6 to 1.75 lbs (0.75 to 0.79 kg), depending on configuration.
Does it have a zipper closure?
Yes. We know security is crucial. Unlike many open-top totes, the Valerie features a smooth, heavy-duty YKK top zipper to keep your belongings secure from spills or pickpockets during your commute.
Can I wear it crossbody?
Absolutely. The Valerie is versatile. It features sturdy top handles for a classic hand-carry look, but also comes with a detachable and adjustable full-grain leather strap. You can clip it on to wear the bag crossbody or over the shoulder for hands-free convenience.
Does the bag stand up on its own?
Yes. Thanks to the structured nature of Crazy Horse leather and the reinforced flat bottom, the Valerie sits upright when you place it on a table or floor. It won't puddle or fall over, making it easy to load and unload.
Is it heavy?
Full-grain leather is naturally sturdier than synthetic materials, but the Valerie is designed to be lightweight for its class. It strikes the perfect balance between durability and all-day carry comfort.
Is it real leather or “genuine leather” marketing?
Real. Valerie is made from full-grain cowhide Crazy Horse leather and handcrafted.
The leather has marks on it. Is it damaged?
No, this is the signature of authentic Crazy Horse Leather. We treat the full-grain cowhide with natural waxes. The marks and tonal shifts you see are natural characteristics (the "pull-up" effect). Over time, these marks will blend into a rich, glossy patina that makes your bag unique.
Will the color rub off on my clothes?
Because we use high-quality, oil-rich leather, there is a small chance of color transfer (bleeding) during the first few weeks, especially in hot or humid weather or if rubbed against white fabrics. We recommend wearing it with darker clothing until the leather naturally seals itself.
Is it waterproof or water-resistant?
It is water-resistant. The natural wax coating repels light rain and splashes. However, it is not waterproof. If you get caught in a downpour, wipe the bag dry and let it air dry naturally (away from heaters) to protect the leather.
Is it real full-grain leather or “genuine leather”?
Real. We use full-grain cowhide Crazy Horse leather.
Does Crazy Horse leather scratch easily?
Yes, light marks are normal and part of the pull-up character. Those “wear signals” are what turn into patina, not product failure.
How do I maintain and clean the leather?
Crazy Horse leather is low maintenance.
Weekly: Wipe dust off with a dry, soft cloth.
Yearly: Apply a high-quality leather conditioner (like a wax or balm) to keep the leather supple and hydrated. Avoid chemical detergents or soap.
Can I add a monogram? Are personalized items returnable?
We offer monogramming. Personalized items are not eligible for returns or exchanges, so confirm initials and placement before checkout.
Are personalized items returnable?
No. Personalized items are not eligible for returns or exchanges, so confirm text and placement before checkout.
Is there a warranty?
Yes, your product is covered by a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship (stitching, hardware, zipper, lining).
Color notes for crazy-horse leather
Natural pull-up leather shows tonal variations and develops a unique patina with use—no two bags are exactly the same.
Caring for Your Crazy Horse Leather Bag - Crazy Horse Leather Care Guide
We are proud of the quality and craftsmanship of our bags. Every Yukon bag is designed to be tough enough to survive even the most rugged terrains while retaining their timeless beauty. Each bag must undergo a special process to earn the status of the Crazy Horse label. Bumps, bangs, and scratches intensify the bag’s vintage look and beauty. The quality craftsmanship allows the bag to carry a heavy load while still retaining shape. With proper care, your Yukon bag will hold up to decades of service.
IF YOUR YUKON CRAZY HORSE LEATHER BAG GETS WET:
- Simply wipe dry with a soft leather cloth.
- Do not store your bag while wet.
- Wipe off any moisture before storing to prevent mold or mildew.
- After drying bag: Hang to dry or turn bag inside-out.
- Do not use a hairdryer or any type of heat to dry your bag. Applying heat can cause the leather to crack or harden.
FOR SPILLS:
- Wipe spills off with a slightly dampened cloth.
- Do NOT use detergents or cleansers on your Crazy Horse leather bag – this will discolor the leather and can destroy the beauty of the bag.
- If necessary: Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub away any stains.
Yukon Crazy Horse leather bags are designed to take a beating and still retain their luxurious antique leather look. Scratches and bumps help to increase the beauty of the bag and add to its unique vintage look.
TO ELIMINATE UNWANTED SCRATCHES:
- Using a soft dry cloth – rub scratch in a circular motion to redistribute wax coating.
- For a deep scratch - leather wax can be applied to bring the leather back to its previous condition.
- Leather cream or wax should be applied periodically to preserve softness and luster.
SPECIAL CARE FOR YOUR YUKON CRAZY HORSE LEATHER BAG:
Your Yukon Crazy Horse leather bag can last a lifetime when properly cared for. Each bag has been designed to age beautifully – as it is 100% natural cowhide, the leather will change hue with every scratch and bump, adding to the striking vintage look our bags are famous for. This ability to change hue and retain the stunning antique luster is exclusive to Crazy Horse leather bags. Wear and tear will increase the bag’s beauty - however, we recommend periodically treating your bag with leather cream or wax to preserve its softness and sheen.
To ensure your bag’s ability to retain its shape, luster, and beauty for a lifetime of use we recommend:
TO AVOID STRETCHING THE LEATHER:
- Limit the number of items stored in the bag over long periods.
- Limit storing heavy items for long periods.
- Avoid over-stuffing pockets.
TO KEEP YOUR CRAZY HORSE LEATHER SOFT AND SUPPLE:
- TEST a small patch before coating entire bag. Some products can change the color of the leather.
- Apply a THIN, even layer of leather balm or leather wax to your bag with a soft, clean sponge.
- Wipe off any excess balm (or wax) with a soft, dry, leather cloth.
We strongly recommend periodically treating your Yukon Bag to a coating of leather balm or wax to prevent the leather from becoming dry or cracked.
Caution: Overuse of products designed to keep leather soft can result in too much softening and may result in the bag losing its shape.
STORING YOUR CRAZY HOUSE LEATHER BAG:
- Protect your Yukon bag by storing it in a clean, dry space.
- Wipe away any moisture before storing your bag.
- Be sure the bag is completely DRY before storing it.
- For optimal results in maintaining the bag’s shape – empty bag before storing.
- For long periods of storage, we recommend keeping the bag in a soft cotton pillowcase. This will prevent discoloration from dust or infestation by insects (always check for them after a hike!).
- If you plan for your bag to stay in storage for an extended length of time, inspect it every 3-4 weeks. If you store the bag without emptying it first, check every 1-2 weeks to avoid stretching or mold.
We designed Yukon bags with durability, functionality, and beauty in mind. Our craftsmanship and materials are of the highest quality. Please follow our recommended care guide to keep your Crazy Horse leather bag in optimal condition, year after year. With proper care, your Yukon bag will last for decades of use.
Customer Reviews
I really love these products. I own this mini tote as well as a backpack from them. Their products are so well-made and sturdy, and it's a really good price point.
The mini-tote is the perfect size for me. I'm only 5'0" so bags often look too big on me, but small bags often don't have enough space for my things. If I want to carry around a book and my sunglasses forget it! This bag though is the absolute perfect size.
The quality of this product (and my other Yukon bag, the Harper leather backpack) is extraordinary. It feels like the right price point, too. The leather and the hardware are so much nicer than other more expensive fancy brands.
On top of that, the company has such excellent customer service, seriously. (Original shipment is lost in a UPS warehouse somewhere but the company shipped me a replacement bag).
I am really happy with this product and with the company.
I have been looking for a leather mini tote for a while now and this one is perfect! The leather on my chestnut colored bag is soft and I know it will wear well with age. The size is perfect and love the cross body strap. The top zip is key. Also bought the Shea leather wallet which is perfect size for the mini! I am a big fan of Yukon bags, I own a Morley tote which I use mainly for work and Hinton backpack I use for travel. The mini will be my daily bag.
It’s a great size and color is gorgeous in tan, I also got monogram which adds uniqueness to the bag. The leather is soft and so beautiful. I plan to purchase the makeup pouch in tan to hold smaller items inside! Great customer service too responded promptly to questions I had about the tote.
