In today’s installment of Closet Confessionals, we meet a young collector on the brink of 30 who has been collecting bags for a few years. She’s since grown her collection to include 9 bags, with a well-rounded array of brands.
Though she’s never returned a bag after purchasing, CC 210 has regretted a purchase once in the past after buying a bag impulsively that was on sale (relatable!). She believes in budgeting for her bags and has purchased her collection entirely on her own, aside from one bag that was a gift.
This collector dreams of one day owning a Hermès Kelly 25 in Bamboo, and with her thoughtful approach towards bag-buying, anything is possible! Read the full CC now, and don’t forget to submit your own!
Basic Bio
Your Age? 29
Your Gender Identity? Female
Where do you live? Portland, OR
What is your occupation? Partner Marketing Manager
What industry do you work in? Tech
Your annual salary? $85,000
Total Household Income? $210,000
Are you a PurseForum member? No
Onto The Bags
How many bags do you own? 9
What bags are in your collection?
- Fendi Mamma Baguette in black and White
- Prada Re-Edition 2005 Nylon in Black
- Louis Vuitton Siracusa in Damien Azur
- Goyard St. Louis Tote in Grey
- Saint Laurent quilted Toy Loulou Black w/ black hardware
- Courreges Round Bag in black
- Telfar Mini Shopping Tote in Painter Tape
- Chloé Aby Bucket Bag in grey and green
- Polène Numero Un mini in tan
How much is your collection worth? About $8,100
What is your most expensive bag? Prada Re-Edition – $1,950
Do you ever regret any of your bag purchases? If so, which ones and why? The Chloé bucket bag. It’s cute, and I love Chloé, but it’s too small and I bought it because it was on sale. I should have just waited and gotten something more spacious.
What age did you get your first designer bag, and what was it? I was 24 or 25, and I got my Louis Vuitton Siracusa bag in the Damien Azur canvas.
Is there a specific bag you are looking to purchase next? I really would love the all-black leather Dior book tote. I’m obsessed, and I made the mistake of trying it on in person. Now I can’t get it out of my head.
Do you have a ‘holy grail’ dream bag you’ve always wanted to own? The Hermès Kelly 25 in the Bamboo color. It’s GORGEOUS, and it’s my favorite color.
Any particular bag that holds a special sentimental value? My husband and I went to Paris, and it is where he proposed! The next day we waited (only for about 10 mins) outside at Goyard so I could get my St. Louis tote. It’s my most used bag and it was such an amazing experience going to the flagship.
Do you feel like your bags change people’s perceptions of you or how you’re treated? Yes. I think people assume I waste my money. People always say, “oh I choose to spend money on experiences, I don’t need fancy things.” Which I understand, but my hobby and my degree is in fashion. It’s truly what I love. Some people collect cars or coins or buy sports memorabilia. I think it’s looked down on to spend money on bags. People assume you’re materialistic.
How do you take care of your bags? The leather honey from Amazon is great for cleaning some bags. I try to buy inserts to prevent sagging, and I’m kind to them with their storage as well.
On Shopping
How often do you buy new bags? 1-2 per year.
Do you prefer shopping for bags online or in-store? Why? I like shopping in person so I can see how it feels and determine if the size is good.
Which stores do you frequent the most? Nordstrom is closest to me, but when I’m out of town, I love hitting the Dior, Loewe, Hermès etc.
Have you ever returned a bag after purchasing it? Why did you make that decision? I never have, but I might someday!
Do you ever buy second-hand bags? Where do you buy used? I have bought two second-hand bags. I love Fashionphile and Vestiaire Collective. Both provide authenticity protections for you as the buyer.
Do you sell old bags to pay for new purchases? I have sold a bag for twice what I paid for it, and I definitely used it to get a new one.
Do you ever donate or gift your old bags? If so, to whom? I haven’t, but if I did, I know my mom would absolutely love them.
Do you ever feel societal pressure to purchase more bags? Sometimes I worry that by the time I save the money for it, the bag might be out of style. I try to make purchases that will last me for years.
Do you consider your bag purchases investments? Yes 100%. I’ve seen first hand, especially with price increases, that some of my bags are becoming worth more and more.
Do you follow the latest fashion trends when deciding on your next purchase, or do you prefer classic styles? Both. I like a trend bag, like my Prada Re-Edition, but if you take off the trendy strap, it’s a classic shoulder bag. I love that I can have both.
Are sales associate relationships instrumental to your shopping? Not always. I don’t have a lot of designer stores near me, so I have to rely on out-of-state SA’s or my guy at Nordstrom. I try to do my own thing, though.
Do you enjoy shopping beyond just acquiring something new? I love shopping, but I love seeing the artistry I see in runways in the store. It’s like going to an art museum for me!
Have you ever felt you received inferior service at a store or boutique due to your appearance, ethnicity, or gender? I received inferior treatment at an Hermès store. I was dressed decently casually as I was on vacation. They just said hi and then totally ignored me the whole time. I know they probably get lots of tourists, but it felt like I was in the way when I was actually shopping! I ended up getting my shoes online instead.
What are some factors that may dissuade you from buying a bag, even if you like it? Too high of a price tag on something that isn’t good quality. Also, I won’t shell out any money for something too trendy.
Is there a brand you outright refuse to buy? Why? At the moment Balenciaga.
On Budgeting & Perceptions
Who pays for your bags? I have paid for all of my bags myself except one was a gift.
Do you set aside a budget for your bag purchases? I do, yes. I budget specifically for them.
Have you ever purchased a counterfeit because you couldn’t afford a designer item? Yes, in high school, my dad bought me a fake Chanel and I loved that thing. Once I learn the ramifications behind counterfeiting, I refuse to do it. I’d rather not spend any money.
Do you ever hide purchases from your significant other? Absolutely not. He is well aware, and we have open discussions about when is a good or bad time for us to spend.
Have your friends or family ever criticized your bag-buying habits? If so, how did you respond? My family knows it’s a hobby, and my friends are the same way. Sometimes people think I’m a snob, but anyone that really knows me knows that I just love fashion.
Have you ever made a significant sacrifice to afford a bag? If so, what was it? I haven’t. Mostly because I want to prioritize other parts of my life first before I buy.
Do you think your shopping is ever a problem? Have you ever felt like you were struggling with a shopping addiction? I don’t feel like that, but I know that it’s a real problem for some.
Let’s get personal…
Any other expensive hobbies or passions? Only shoes and bags!
What is your greatest fear? Honestly, death, but that seems cliche.
Which living person do you most admire? Zendaya she’s beautiful inside and out.
What or who is the greatest love of your life? My husband, hands down. The best person ever.
What is your favorite journey you have taken so far? Moving from Retail to a corporate job. It was a huge change, but I learned a ton. I’m grateful for all the people who taught me everything they know.
Any parting words you would like to share with our readers? Do what you want! Set yourself up for success so that you can live the way you want and enjoy the hobbies and experiences you like.
