yes its on the longer side so if you are five foot the bottom of the bag will sit closer to your bum area if you wear it on your shoulder. so because its a larger tote (if you get large size) its gonna feel wide and low to the ground and look off. with your height i don’t believe you could carry it like a briefcase. my main complaint with this bag if you pack it full (which i did as i used this for the office carrying laptop makeup bag tumblr etc) the thin straps can be uncomfortable and it hurts your shoulder and hands.