Bellroy sent me a fresh Note Sleeve for this review. Initially, I planned to write this using that particular wallet. But as luck would have it, I already owned the exact same model in Blue Steel, giving me the chance to offer a long-term review.
Rewind to the summer of 2014. I was in an office at Times City, Hanoi, browsing various sales websites for inspiration on enhancing an e-commerce project I was developing. That’s when I stumbled upon bellroy.com, the online home of an Australian wallet brand. Their sleek website, complete with detailed product descriptions and the tagline “Slim your wallet,” instantly caught my attention.
I got hooked, exploring their entire lineup of wallets. The Note Sleeve stood out. At the time, I was using a basic Guess wallet that had been with me for four years, and honestly, I’d never paid much attention to wallets before. My usual approach? Skepticism. Sales pitches never win me over easily.
But Bellroy’s product storytelling? Spot on.
Their introduction video for the Note Sleeve was as simple as it was effective.
Still, the $89.95 price tag was daunting. Six months passed before I finally caved. Just before my wedding, I decided to splurge on this as a gift to myself. What followed were weeks of anticipation, moments of doubt, and nervous waiting as shipping delays tested my patience.
And when it finally arrived? Relief. The Note Sleeve did not disappoint.
Unboxing it was an experience. I’m a sucker for good packaging, and Bellroy didn’t let me down.
Wrapped in parchment paper, the smell of fresh leather hit me as soon as I opened it.
The Blue Steel color I chose felt unique, standing apart from the typical black or brown options most wallets offer. Crafted in India, the wallet felt smooth yet sturdy, and the meticulous stitching showcased excellent craftsmanship. The contrast white thread along the edges adds a subtle highlight without overdoing it.
The Bellroy owl logo is understated, appearing discreetly in three spots inside the wallet, with just a small Bellroy text on the exterior. Perfect for those who prefer their accessories to speak through quality, not flashy branding.
After eight months of use, my Note Sleeve is holding up remarkably well. I’m not overly gentle with my wallet - I stuff it in my back pocket, toss it on rough surfaces, and expose it to daily wear. The leather has softened slightly, developing a rugged patina, as good leather should.
Some global users have reported minor issues, like edges losing color, but mine still looks great. The leather, tanned with natural tannins and free from harsh chemicals, ensures both durability and sustainability.
On the left is a brand-new Note Sleeve fresh out of the box, while on the right is the same wallet after 8 months of use. As you can see, the leather develops its own unique character over time.
The Note Sleeve strikes a balance - spacious enough for daily essentials without being bulky. Bellroy claims it holds up to 11 cards, cash, and coins. My setup includes four cards, about 20 banknotes, and a few business cards. It all fits snugly without adding excessive bulk.
However, the wallet's slimming effect depends on how much you carry rather than the wallet itself. Bellroy’s clever design trims unnecessary leather layers and uses fabric dividers, but don’t expect miracles. Compared to traditional wallets, though, the difference is clear.
Comparing the thickness of the Note Sleeve with a basic Ted Baker wallet, both holding the same number of cards, cash, and ATM cards.
Card Slots: Two vertical slots on the left hold your most-used cards. A horizontal slot on the right fits three more cards. Behind these is the main slot with a pull-tab for quick access to four additional cards - a neat touch, though not indispensable.
Hidden Pockets: A flap-covered slot on the left is perfect for stashing private items (use your imagination 😉). There’s also a nano SIM slot, ideal for travelers frequently swapping SIM cards.
The “hidden” pocket in the top left corner is secured with a leather flap.
Another pocket on the right can hold 2-3 ATM cards.
A slot for a nano SIM.
Cash Compartment: While functional, it’s not designed for large wads of cash. A divided compartment would’ve been a nice touch for organizing bills.
Over time, the leather develops character, shifting from pristine to a lived-in look. To me, that only adds to its charm.
Using the Note Sleeve is akin to navigating a well-designed app. It’s simple at first glance but reveals thoughtful nuances the more you use it. As someone with a background in UX design, I appreciate these subtleties.
The Bellroy Note Sleeve isn’t just a wallet; it’s a statement. It’s understated enough to blend in, practical enough for everyday life, and stylish enough to stand out subtly. Yes, it’s an investment, but one that pays off in durability, functionality, and that intangible satisfaction of owning something truly well-crafted.
D.H
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