Inside The Row Margaux: 10 vs 12 Shoulder/EW
Two sizes, two styles, one icon — Explore which size fits your style?
The Row’s Margaux has become a modern yet quietly understated icon. Even within this one design family, subtle variations change the entire bag experience. The Soft Margaux 10 and the Margaux Shoulder 12 differ in how they move, feel, and function in everyday life with both being fabulous to wear, one being more handheld and nimble, and the other more elongated and modern. Here’s how they compare.
The Row Margaux 10 in pebbled leather
The Row Margaux 10 -
A chic, hesitation-free day-to-night bag
Color: Black | Material: Matte Grained Calfskin Leather
10 x 7 x 7.5 in. with a 5 in. handle drop
The Row Margaux Shoulder 12 in pebbled leather
The Row Margaux Shoulder 12 -
A sophisticated way to gracefully shoulder it all
Color: Deep Brown | Material: Matte Grained Calfskin Leather
14.75 x 9 x 5 in. with a ~10 in. handle drop
Size & Structure
The Soft Margaux 10 measures roughly 10 inches across, currently making it the smallest version of the Margaux line. Its softly structured body and belted gussets give just enough shape to stand gracefully when placed down, while remaining light and easy to carry. The Margaux Shoulder 12, at nearly 15 inches wide, introduces an elongated and more architectural silhouette that holds more and is easier to carry.
Carry & Comfort: In-Hand vs On-Shoulder Luxury
The Soft Margaux 10 feels natural in hand — a classic top-handle style that sits comfortably in the crook of your arm. It’s petite but structured with balanced weight that makes it an easy all-day companion. By contrast, the Margaux Shoulder 12 was built for the shoulder. The strap drop is generous enough for a relaxed fit, and the wider base allows it to drape naturally against the body. For a larger size Margaux, I like the shoulder version because it doesn’t get too heavy on the arm and I don’t like the placement and feel of the shoulder strap on the standard Margaux 12. If the 10 is refined and polished, the Shoulder 12 is modern and more casual.
Material & Lining: Texture, Touch, and Craft
Both bags pictured are crafted from matte grained calfskin, one of The Row’s signature leathers. It’s soft but semi-structured, with just the right amount of grain to make it tactile and resilient so you don’t worry about wearing it every day. The bags also come in a smooth calf skin leather that is supposed to be beautiful but easily scratched. All the Margaux bags have feet on the bottom which I think is a must for a bag of this price tag. Where these two pebbled leather bags diverge is on the inside. The Soft Margaux 10 is canvas-lined, keeping the bag light and practical, with a minimalist card slot and open interior with a toggle closure that nods to everyday use. The Margaux Shoulder 12, however, is fully lined in lambskin leather, which is a nice indulgent touch that you notice every time you use it. I do not find it adds a lot of extra weight to the bag.
Canvas lined Margaux 10
Lambskin lined Shoulder Margaux 12
Capacity & What Fits Inside
Soft Margaux 10 — For Minimal carry and simplicity
This smaller version comfortably fits daily essentials: phone, compact wallet, keys, small cosmetics case, sunglasses, and perhaps a slim notebook or Kindle. It’s best suited for light days or evenings when you want practicality without bulk.
Margaux Shoulder 12 — Functionality without sacrificing elegance
The increased depth and width of the Shoulder 12 easily accommodate a 13-inch laptop or tablet, along with a notebook and a cosmetic pouch. Despite the added capacity, the shoulder carry keeps it balanced and refined—never heavy or cumbersome.
Which One to Choose
Choose the Soft Margaux 10 if you want something compact, effortlessly chic, and easy to carry day-to-night. Its canvas lining makes it lightweight and approachable, and the size ensures it’s never overwhelming. Opt for the Margaux Shoulder 12 if you’re drawn to shoulder wear with a bolder, more sculptural shape and a luxurious interior. The elongated proportions are ideal for those who want a shoulder bag that can hold a lot and still look elegant at dinner.
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