The Louis Vuitton Multicolore Lodge really does make me think of the newly introduced Manhattan bags.

I know - effectively they ARE different bags - but I still can't shake that "This is a Manhattan in the Multicolore range" feeling.

But don't get me wrong, please - the Louis Vuitton Multicolore Lodge is a very good bag, very practical and is going to become a work horse for anyone who buys one.

When people talk about a City Bag - this should be their example piece!

The practicality of the Louis Vuitton Lodge is evident from just a casual glance. The two features that stand out each time for me are the optional adjustable shoulder strap and the wide, easy access top opening.

Readers of this site and some of my reviews will know how much I dislike buckle fastenings on handbags. Sure they look okay and they are more secure than a clasp or catch - but they are a total pain when trying to open on the move! I don't know about you but I don't want to stop everytime I need to get into my bag. I can do more than one thing at once and walking whilst routing around inside my bag is so easy. Trying to refasten a buckle and strap - isn't!

But I'm actually going to cut LV some slack on this bag and it's buckles - because it's a shoulder based carry position, which means greater control whilst opening and closing buckles, even whilst on the move!

The Louis Vuitton Lodge comes in a couple of sizes, the PM at $1,170 (now $1,320 as at March 2007) and measuring 11 inches long, 6.6 inches high and 4.1 inches deep and the GM, which costs $1,570 and measures 13 inches long, 9.2 inches high and 5.9 inches wide.

The only other difference between the two being the GM has a cell phone pocket inside as well as the more common patch pocket found in both size bags.

Both bags share the trademark Multicolore touches, such as the raspberry red alcantara lining, the yellow top stitching and the golden brass hardware on natural cowhide trim.

The bags are both roomy, easily accessible and secure. Top closure is a large tabbed zip and the shoulder strap can be adjusted to upto a 28 inch drop.

The Louis Vuitton Lodge is well built (naturally) and well thought out. It's very user friendly and still oozes a bit of style. Whether you are in manhattan or not - this bag is a good buy!