I bought my first one about 16 yrs ago in an independent shop.I had no idea what kipling was - or even the bag I bought was a kipling.I just had two small children at the time,and wanted a smallish bag with a long strap that would go across me body leaving me hands free.Strange to say,just a design seemed impossible to find at the time - but this was perfect.I also still have that bag to this day and it looks as good as new - and those "small children" are now well into their teens!
I never saw anything like it - or knew it was a kipling,until kipling came to QVC.I had long grown out of my leather bags as they made my shoulders and neck ache - and always preferred (or got used to) the cross body style.Even now I could never go back to a leather bag,because they seem so heavy after my kiplings.
So thats where my I've spent all my money since!!! To me kipling as changed over the years.They've lost some of the fun,almost quirky prints,I used to like - and a lot of their colour palette is all very similar now.I think the prices are rising and rising on QVC,but like others have said,there are lots of other places to buy kipling now.
But I do have to say I adore them - love them.Don't have any other bags in my "stash" now.