Buying your first luxury handbag can be super intimidating; among all of the brands, styles, fabrics and colour options out there, where do you start? To help you navigate this tricky (and expensive) arena and end up with a bag you’ll use for years to come, we’ve put together a list of 8 tips for buying your first designer handbag. Read on below!
1. RESEARCH BRANDS & PRICE POINTS
Chanel, Céline, Chloé, Fendi, Givenchy, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, YSL…with so many designer houses to choose from, where do you begin? Try starting this process off by narrowing your selection down to fashion houses that match your overall aesthetic. For example, if you’re more of a classic type of gal, you may want to go with Chanel or YSL. Or if you’re more edgy, then Gucci or Givenchy.
It’s also important to consider that price points can vary widely between different designer brands (so the same size bag by one brand could be three times the price by another). Do a bit of research to find out which bags from which brands are in the price range you’re willing to spend.
2. CONSIDER VERSATILITY
Buying a bag that can be worn in a variety of different ways with a variety of different outfits is always a great investment. For example, a Chanel wallet on a chain looks just as good worn crossbody with jeans and a tee as it does as a clutch for fancy events!
3. CONSIDER THE SIZE
If you’re used to carrying around everything but the kitchen sink, a small bag like a wallet on a chain may not be practical for you. Although bigger bags can be more pricey, it may be worth it to spend a bit more for the one you’ll get more use out of!
4. CONSIDER THE MATERIAL
When buying a leather bag, it’s important to remember that certain types of leather (like lambskin) come with the risk of scratching over time. And although the worn-in look is still nice, if you want your bag to retain its original look forever, a more durable type of leather (like grained calfskin) is the way to go.
5. DON’T FOLLOW TRENDS
Buying the new, trendy “it bag” of the season is always tempting, however, its style likely won’t stand the test of time. So in order to make a better longterm investment, try going for a more classic style that you don’t think you’ll ever get sick of wearing. Also, these type of bags has way better resale value!
6. CHOOSE THE COLOUR WISELY
Buying a bag in a funky colour or print is always fun, however, in the long run, you’ll probably get tired of it. Which is why neutral tones (specifically black and beige) are your best bet for longterm wear.
7. FIGURE OUT THE BEST PLACE TO BUY
Before splurging on your bag at the first store you see it in, you should look into seeing if there are better options available. Is it available at a department store where you could rack up purchasing points (like Nordstrom or Holts)? Or since designer bags are sometimes cheaper overseas, should you wait to get it until that upcoming trip to Europe you have booked?
If you don’t care about your bag being brand new (and want to save money!), you may even want to consider going the vintage route. Some vintage sites where you can score great deals include TheRealReal and Vestiaire Collective.
8. ENJOY YOUR BAG!
Once you’ve splurged on your first designer bag, don’t make the mistake of keeping it hidden away in your closet for special occasions only. With the amount of money you spent on it, it deserves to be shown off!
Do you have any tips for buying your first designer bag? Let us know in the comments!
Featured Image: Instagram/@ysl_lovers
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