An Inside Look at my Handbags

Comment:  Could you do a post about your bags? You said you have a small army of them. (Anna, Very Thrifty Business) 

It's no secret that I love handbags, to date I own 31!  I've said time and time again that handbags are the ultimate accessory in elevating the status of any outfit.  Conversely, a poorly selected handbag will ruin any outfit, click here to see.  I am not a handbag snob, but it needs to be well constructed, leather, or canvas with leather trim.  To pique your interest I am going to show you some of my favorites.

Classic Everyday: Louis Vuitton Epi Speedy 25 in Black

This is the bag that many of you comment and tell me you dream of owning someday!  I bought it last summer for $1,000 after Louis Vuitton halted price increases for 2 years due to the lackluster economy.  Usually LV raises its prices 2x a year, January and June.  As soon as there were signs of an economic recovery, prices were increased to make up for lost time, this bag is now $1,200, a 20% increase within 1 year.


Pop of Colour: Gucci Calfskin Hobo in Classic Red

If you want a handbag with a pop of colour that will stand the test of time, get it in RED!  Pick any shade, tomato, cherry, burgundy, invest in it, take care of it, and years later you will still LOVE IT!  I purchased this in Fall 2007 for $1,200, can you tell it is almost 4 years old?  It provides the perfect accent to any simple outfit, and the gold Gucci horsebit accent is something you simply can't miss, yet its not obnoxious!    


Anything but Black or Brown: Ferregammo Satchel in Olive

When I want a bag that isn't black or brown to add colour to a neutral outfit I select my Olive Green Satchel.  This bag matches any outfit and the pebble leather is durable and scratch resistant!  What I love is that it is simple and understated.  Unless you really know your luxury brands, you will have to identify this bag by spotting the Salvatore Ferregammo horseshoe zipper pulls!  I got lucky and found this at the Ferregammo outlet in 2008 for $389, it was originally $1,150.

Evening Show Stopper: Swarovski Crystal Minaudiere

A true handbag aficionado's collection should have a swarovski crystal minaudiere.  When I attend corporate functions, black tie events, or a fancy dinner this little number makes an appearance.  Can you imagine the show stopping factor it adds to any simple evening gown?  I suggest adding something like this as you progress into your career and you have formal occasions to attend.  This is an investment piece that very few people will ever have!

Something New: Miu Miu Crossbody Bag

My Mom recently gave this to me from her collection!  Now are you convinced she is one stylish lady?  She purchased this at Barney's of New York in 2001, I think she's carried it 5x.  She gifted this to me last week so that I can put it to good use...and boy am I ready to this out for a spin!  This is bag #31, Thank you Mom!  The craftsmanship on this bag is amazing...it is hard framed with wood on the inside!  This is just a sneak peak, once we hit Fall...you'll see it in my posts!

Ultimate Budget Bag: Perlina Hobo $79

Yup, you read it right, $79 was what I paid and yes, it is leather!  This bag is amazing in quality and style, and the leather is so soft...it's like butter!  I found it at Marshall's right before I started Bravoe Runway and it was just the perfect Spring and Summer handbag.  I don't use it often because of the light colour but with 30 other bags to rotate I am good ;)


How I store my handbags:

All of my bags are stuffed with tissue when not in use to retain their shape.  They rest in their sleeper bags, away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity!  

What is your dream handbag?