Two iconic Celine bags—but there can only be one winner.
Find out which bag I prefer.
Ever wonder what's the difference between the uber-popular Céline Mini Luggage and the Céline Nano? Well wonder no more. Follow along as I compare these two covetable handbags from every conceivable angle including: size, material, pros, cons and more.
Mini Luggage
Dimensions: 12″H x 12″W x 7″D
Colour: Black
Made in: Italy
Material: Smooth calfskin
Interior material: Leather
Purchased: December 2011
Pros: I've owned a fair share of designer handbags and this is by-far the most stunning. The leather is smooth and luxurious and the craftsmanship is exquisite. Upon close inspection, it is impossible to find even a stitch out of place.
I have owned this bag for more than a year and it continues to surprise me with how durable ... and long-lasting ... it seems to be.
Cons: If you have ever seen a well-used Céline Mini Luggage then you know they can quickly become used and abused looking. Though extremely roomy, it is inadvisable to carry a lot of weight around for an extended period of time, as the buttery smooth leather tends to stretch and sag. To attempt to combat this I cut and insert a stiff felt liner on the inside of each of my designer handbags, which serves to keep the interior clean and also adds structure and support to the bottom and sides.
Also, the bag's straps are too short to be worn comfortably on the shoulder therefore rendering it an in-hand or in the crook of one's arm bag only.
Nano Luggage
Dimensions: 8″H x 8″W x 4″D
Colour: Red
Material: Drummed leather
Interior material: Micro suede
Purchased: March 2012
Pros: An adorable cross body bag, the Nano is ideal for someone looking for a hands-free option that's roomy yet structured. I can comfortably carry my iPhone, sunglasses case, wallet, keys and small makeup essentials. When I'm travelling, it's also not a stretch to fit a small digital camera inside as well.
The drummed, or pebbled, leather is durable and relatively scratch resistant - a nice trait for a small bag that rubs around your clothes and swings around your body most of the day.
Cons: The interior of this bag is micro suede ... MICRO SUEDE! After ordering this bag over the phone from NM Beverly Hills, I was horrified to discover the inside of the bag was not made of leather. After more research, I learned this is the norm for Nanos.
Drummed leather Nanos often have microsuede inside while smooth leather bags have cloth.
I have also learned that several newer generation Nanos now have real leather interiors, too. So, make sure to check out which interior material you want before purchasing.
Conversely, the larger luggage styles boast smooth leather inside of the smooth leather bags and genuine suede inside drummed leather.
Drummed leather Nanos often have microsuede inside while smooth leather bags have cloth.
I have also learned that several newer generation Nanos now have real leather interiors, too. So, make sure to check out which interior material you want before purchasing.
Conversely, the larger luggage styles boast smooth leather inside of the smooth leather bags and genuine suede inside drummed leather.
Have any other questions about these two handbags or want to see more comparisons? If so, leave comments below.