How To Shop For A Designer Handbag

A question I often get asked is if I was going to invest in a designer bag, which one would it be?

It’s a bit like being asked to pick your favourite child but there are certain brands you can rely on and designs worth investing in.

1.The most important thing is to avoid anything too “trendy”

This is always the first thing I’ll advise against. Whilst the latest “it” bag of the moment might be tempting, they are often the ones most at risk of looking dated in a couple of years time. To get the best longevity and investment out of your purchase opt for styles that are more classic and timeless in style. They’ll also retain their value and in some cases even make money over the years.

2. Consider Practicality

I’m taking it the purchase of the bag is to be used. You want to get as much wear out of it as possible, so you’ll need to consider the practicality of the bag working for your individual lifestyle.

Do you need something large you can fit a laptop or is a hands free cross body better for running errands? As much as I love a top handle bag, I can’t see me getting mum use out of it if I’m ever lucky enough to have a family. Think about the function this bag needs to serve, not just style.

3. Create a shirt list of the ones you love with pros and cons for each one

You may have just one bag your heart is set on, or you may be wanting to start your collection and have a couple of styles in mind. It’s worth understanding every detail of your potential investment piece. If you’re splashing serious cash, you need to be absolutely sure this bag is going to work hard for you, that might mean an adjustable strap, interior zip compartments, a pickpocket-safe fastening and hardwearing leather. If you’re spending good money on a bag it should be something you absolutely adore, so make sure it looks and feels really special. You must also never buy it online. This experience needs to happen in-store. Touching and feeling the bag, holding it up against you and your outfit. I guarantee you’ll know “the one”. As much as online shopping is super easy and convenient, a special purchase like this needs a special memory and feeling you just can’t get online.

4. Consider Pre loved or Vintage

This is something I’m massively passionate about and have personally done on numerous occasions. There’s nothing better than getting your hands on a bag you’ve always coveted at a reduced price. And if you’re after something a little more unique, vintage could be the way forward for you.

There are certain factors that do need to be considered though if you do end up going down this route. Firstly the condition, I’m an absolute stickler for this! I personally wouldn’t ever buy something that didn’t look like new. This is obviously not easy if it’s a vintage piece and has worn with age but take into context the price and rarity.

Secondly… only shop from authenticated online destinations. The easiest way to avoid fakes is to shop on sites that offer authentication services and are experts in their field. My personal favourites are Sellier, Luxury Promise, Parisian Sweet, Designer Exchange and Vestiaire. That way, you can be sure you aren’t wasting money on counterfeit goods.

5. Don’t be seduced by price 

Everyone loves a bargain and something that’s reduced on sale but keep saving and buy the bag you LOVE.

6. Opt for brands that hold their value 

Some handbags really are an investment in the truest sense, either holding their value or in some cases, increasing in value if they’re looked after correctly. Chanel and Hermès without question, the brands to go for. Hermes, for example, release so few bags each year that the demand always outweighs availability, meaning their bags increase in value. They are the safest bet in my eyes of what to invest in. You may never want to sell her but if you do you’ll get the best return for your money. They are my kind of stocks and shares!

Happy handbag shopping!