Today, we’re heading back to Colorado, where we meet another collector hailing from Denver by way of Southern California. CC 260 has been collecting bags for two decades, graduating from Coach and building a collection of some of the handbag world’s most coveted styles.
Her collection includes favorites like the Prada Cleo, Prada Galleria, Louis Vuitton Capucines, and more. CC 260 loves bags not just for the joy and creativity they bring to her life but how they make her feel. Plus, each represents certain milestones in her life, reminding her of how far she’s come and the work it’s taken to get there.
CC 260 is a thoughtful, insightful look into the collecting journey of a fellow bag lover. It is not to be missed! Read the full CC below, and don’t forget to share your own!
Basic Bio
Your Age? 42
Your Gender Identity? Female
Where do you live? Denver, CO
What is your occupation? Community Relations
What industry do you work in? Banking
What is your annual salary range? Total household income? $235,000
Are you a PurseForum member? Yes
Onto The Bags
How many bags do you own? 32
What bags are in your collection?
- Louis Vuitton Capucines BB– Python Handle
- Louis Vuitton Monogram Macassar Porte Documents Voyage PM
- Louis Vuitton Pochette Felicie – Mono
- Louis Vuitton Pochette Felicie – Empreinte
- Michael Kors Mercer Tote– Tile Blue
- Michael Kors Sloan Select Mix and Match– Silver hardware
- Michael Kors Sloan Select Mix and Match– Gold hardware
- Michael Kors Sloan Small Quilted Leather Crossbody Bag– Black
- Michael Kors Sloan Small Quilted Leather Crossbody Bag– Cherry
- Prada Galleria Saffiano medium leather tote – Black
- Prada Galleria Saffiano Medium leather tote – Tan
- Prada Galleria Spazzolato Medium leather tote – Red
- Prada Cuir Medium Double Tote – Gray
- Prada Vernice Medium Dome tote – Black
- Prada Saffiano Small Camera bag – Black
- Prada Saffiano Small Camera bag – Rosso
- Prada Mirage Camera Bag – Black
- Prada Mirage Dome Tote in Citycalf – Black
- Prada Cleo in Spazzolato – Black
- Prada Cleo Shoulder Bag Saffiano – Black
- Prada Mini Shoulder Bag – Black Saffiano
- Prada Re-Edition 2005 – Black Saffiano
- Saint Laurent Cassandra Top Handle – Black Grain De Poudre
- Saint Laurent Cassandra Top Handle – Cherry Grain De Poudre
- Saint Laurent Cassandra Top Handle – Python Embossed Black
- Saint Laurent Le 5 À 7 Leather Hobo Smooth Calf – Black
- Saint Laurent Small Uptown Tote in Smooth Calf – Burgundy
- Saint Laurent Small Uptown Tote in Smooth Calf – Black
- Saint Laurent Medium Uptown Tote in Smooth Calf – Black
- Saint Laurent Medium Uptown Tote – Gray Grain De Poudre
- Saint Laurent Medium Uptown Tote – Tan Grain De Poudre
How much is your collection worth? $50,000
What is your most expensive bag? Louis Vuitton Python Handle Capucines BB
Do you ever experience buyer’s remorse after purchasing a bag? If so, how do you deal with it? Yes, I have! If I ever experience buyer’s remorse after purchasing a bag, I usually try to return it if possible. If a return isn’t an option, I’ll resell it on platforms like The RealReal (TRR), Fashionphile, or Rebag. I might also list it myself on Poshmark to recoup some of my funds.
Do you feel a desire to downsize your collection? If so, what factors are driving that decision? I have many redundant bags in my collection, but each one holds a special memory for me, which makes it difficult to downsize. I also love having a variety of brands, and most of my bags serve a different purpose—whether it’s for date night, afterhours work events, a day bag or a daily tote for work.
What age did you get your first designer bag, and what was it? My first designer first designer bag was my Coach Signature Stripe Hobo Bag when I was 23. It holds so many great memories, especially since it represents the start of my career in banking. I still own it for this reason. Some bags are more than just fashion pieces; they’re sentimental keepsakes that mark important milestones in life.
Is there a specific bag you are looking to purchase next? Nothing in particular, although I am always looking and get a ton of inspiration from PurseBlog!
Do you have a ‘holy grail’ dream bag you’ve always wanted to own? Yes! I had been looking for the LV Python Handled Capucines BB for a few years before I finally caught it at the price and condition I was looking for. I love it so much that I’ll honestly take it out of the bag just to admire it. It sounds silly, but some bags are just that special!
Any particular bag that holds a special sentimental value? Aside from my Coach Signature Stripe Hobo Bag, I have a deep sentimental attachment to my Prada Cleo. It was a bag I had admired for a long time, and finally adding it to my collection felt like a personal milestone. The sleek, timeless design makes it my go-to for so many occasions, but beyond that, it represents a phase in my life where I truly embraced my confidence in my career. Every time I carry it, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come in life and am grateful for the moments that shaped me along the way.
Do you feel like your bags change people’s perceptions of you or how you’re treated? Yes! In my career, I’m constantly meeting with CEOs and executives of various organizations, and I feel like my bags give me a leg up in making a polished and confident impression. With my friends, they always admire my handbags, and in the office, I’m definitely known for them!
How do you take care of your bags? For the most part, my handbags are displayed on open shelves in my home office as part of the décor. I love being able to see my collection, and they serve as a prominent design feature that enhances my office’s aesthetic. To keep them in great condition, I regularly condition and protect them with Apple Brand products and always handle them with care when I’m out and about.
On Shopping
How often do you buy new bags? I go through phases where I’ll buy several bags and then take a break from buying altogether, depending on what catches my eye at the time.
How has your bag collection changed during the past few years, and why? Over the past few years, my bag collection has shifted from heavily logoed items to more demure pieces. I used to enjoy bold, logo-heavy bags, but now I gravitate toward styles that aren’t as flashy and don’t look as expensive unless a fellow purse collector knows what they’re looking at. It feels like a more refined, understated approach to my collection.
Do you prefer shopping for bags online or in-store? Why? I shop exclusively online and exclusively pre-owned. In Denver, there are limited stores that sell the handbags I’m interested in, which means a special trip, dealing with mall traffic, and other hassles just to see them in person. Online shopping gives me the convenience of browsing a wider selection, with better prices, from the comfort of my home.
Which stores do you frequent the most? Fashionphile, Rebag, The RealReal (TRR), and, on occasion, Poshmark.
Have you ever returned a bag after purchasing it? Why did you make that decision? Yes, I have returned a bag after purchasing it due to authenticity concerns. I always use at least two online authenticators if I have doubts, and in a few instances, the items were determined to be counterfeit. Fortunately, the retailers worked with me to get refunds, even though one purchase was made more than a year later! That’s why it’s so helpful to shop at reputable companies—you can have more peace of mind knowing they stand behind their products.
Do you ever buy second-hand bags? Where do you buy used? I exclusively shop for second-hand bags to get a better deal and give them a second life. It sounds funny, but I’d be terrified of scratching the hardware on a new bag, whereas with a pre-owned one, it’s not as jarring of an experience, if that makes sense. I usually shop at TRR, Fashionphile, Rebag, and sometimes Poshmark for my used bags.
Do you ever donate or gift your old bags? If so, to whom? I have not! I will resell them in order to have the cash to add to my collection.
Do you feel that social media or influencer culture pressures you to buy more bags or certain brands? I don’t feel pressured, but when a certain handbag catches my eye, I’ll literally spend hours researching, and watching bag reviews from influencers on YouTube before making a purchase decision.
Do you consider your bag purchases financial or emotional investments? I consider my bag purchases both financial and emotional investments. For example, when I bought my LV Python Handled Capucines BB, it was a financial decision because I carefully researched the price and condition to ensure I was getting the best deal. At the same time, it was an emotional investment because it represented a personal milestone, and I still get a sense of pride every time I carry it. It’s not just about the value of the bag itself, but also the memories and significance it holds for me.
Do you follow the latest fashion trends when deciding on your next purchase, or do you prefer classic styles? I prefer classic styles. They have a timeless appeal and are versatile enough to stay relevant season after season. Classic bags don’t feel tied to trends that can fade quickly, and I appreciate that they can easily be paired with different outfits and still look stylish. Plus, they tend to hold their value better over time.
Are sales associate relationships instrumental to your shopping? Because I shop online, I have not yet developed a Sales Associate relationship.
Do you enjoy shopping beyond just acquiring something new? Yes, I love to peruse and see what’s out there. It’s not just about acquiring something new; I enjoy browsing and getting inspiration from different styles, trends, and collections. It’s fun to discover what catches my eye and explore new possibilities.
Have you ever felt you received inferior service at a store or boutique due to your appearance, ethnicity, or gender? No, I haven’t experienced that myself, but my heart goes out to those who have. It’s important for everyone to feel respected and valued, no matter their appearance, ethnicity or gender.
What factors may dissuade you from buying a bag, even if you like it? Price and budget are definitely factors that may dissuade me from buying a bag, even if I really like it. If it’s outside of what I’m comfortable spending or doesn’t fit within my current budget, I’ll have to pass, no matter how much I’m drawn to it.
Is there a brand you outright refuse to buy? Why? I would say Hermès. The exclusivity and the difficulty of being able to purchase a bag directly from the store are big turn-offs for me. It sets a negative precedence and limits access, which I’m not a fan of. I’d prefer a brand where I can easily buy what I want without jumping through hoops.
Do you ever rent designer bags? If so, from where? I have not, although I have looked through the inventory at Bag Borrow or Steal.
How do you feel about the concept of “quiet luxury” vs. “loud luxury”? While I’m not really into quiet luxury, I do prefer classic structures, materials, and colors. I enjoy bags that have a timeless feel and subtle elegance, even if they aren’t logo-free. It’s about finding pieces that stand the test of time, both in style and quality, rather than going for something overly branded or flashy.
On Budgeting & Perceptions
Who pays for your bags? *Raises Hand*
Do you set aside a budget for your bag purchases? No, I don’t set aside a specific budget for my bag purchases. I tend to buy what catches my eye, but I always try to stay mindful of the price and make sure it fits within my overall financial goals.
Have you ever purchased a counterfeit because you couldn’t afford a designer item? No, I have never purchased a counterfeit bag. I avoid them because they contribute to child labor, drug trafficking, and other harmful practices. However, I have unintentionally purchased counterfeit items in the past, and fortunately, the reputable companies I worked with were very understanding and helped me recover my money.
Do you use financing or payment plans (like Afterpay or Klarna) for bag purchases? I do shop using credit, but I try to be mindful of what future me will look like when the payments come due. I make sure it’s something I can comfortably manage and that it won’t put unnecessary strain on my finances later on.
Do you think owning luxury bags helps you in professional or social situations? How so? Yes, I do think owning luxury bags can help in both professional and social situations. In my profession, I often meet with CEOs and executives, and carrying a well-crafted bag can make a positive impression. It adds to my overall appearance of professionalism and confidence. Additionally, in social settings, people tend to notice and admire my bags, which can spark conversations and connections. That said, I come from humble beginnings, and for me, these bags aren’t just about status—they represent hard work and the milestones I’ve reached in my career.
Do you ever hide purchases from your significant other? Have you ever lied about the cost of a bag to avoid judgment? I absolutely do, but my significant other is understanding, and knows that these are my expenses, not theirs. We’ve got a good balance where we respect each other’s personal choices and finances, so it’s never an issue. Plus, anyone on the outside doesn’t know whether the bag was purchased new or used, and no one has ever asked me about the cost.
Do you ever resell bags on platforms like The RealReal, Fashionphile, or Vestiaire Collective? All the time! I have never used Vestiaire Collective, but use TRR, Fashionphile, Rebag and Poshmark.
Have your friends or family ever criticized your bag-buying habits? If so, how did you respond? No, if anything, my friends and family may compliment me on my bags or ask about them. They’ve never criticized my bag-buying habits. It’s more about curiosity and admiration for my collection.
Do you think your shopping is ever a problem? Have you ever felt like you were struggling with a shopping addiction? Sometimes, I do wonder if it’s a bit much, but I love clothes, shoes, and bags. It’s something I really enjoy, and I make sure I’m mindful of my spending. I don’t feel like I’m struggling with a shopping addiction, but I try to keep a balance so it doesn’t get out of hand.
Let’s get personal…
What is your greatest extravagance? My greatest extravagance would definitely be clothes, handbags, and shoes. I love treating myself to pieces that I can enjoy and that make me feel confident. It’s a way I like to express my style and personality.
What is your greatest fear? My greatest fear is related to both physical and mental health. In Colorado, I stay very active with hiking, cycling, fishing, and going to the gym, but I’ve had some tough days with both physical and mental health. I’m always incredibly grateful when I recover and can get back to the things I love.
What is the trait you most admire in others? The traits I most admire in others is strength, grace, and humor in the face of adversity. For example, I’ve seen someone go through a tough personal loss and still manage to keep a positive attitude, making those around them laugh and feel supported despite their own struggles. It’s inspiring to see how they can stay strong yet compassionate, handling challenges with such resilience and grace. It reminds me how powerful it is to maintain a sense of humor, even during difficult times.
Which living person do you most admire? I most admire my parents. We grew up very humbly in terms of money, but every night at our house was full of music, books, art projects and discussions about the things we read or watched. They raised me and my brother to be empathetic, thoughtful, musical, and above all, kind. We’ve both carried on their legacy through the work we do, benefiting our families, friends, colleagues and communities.
What or who is the greatest love of your life? My cat and my husband, in that order (kidding, not kidding).
What is your favorite journey you have taken so far? My favorite journey was when I moved from a very cold northern state to Southern California in my early twenties. The experience completely challenged my worldviews and helped shape the person I am today. Plus, it eventually led me to Colorado, where I met my now husband!
What is your idea of perfect happiness? My idea of perfect happiness involves a cozy fireplace, great music, my favorite people around, and a martini in hand. It’s all about simple pleasures and being surrounded by warmth and good company.
Any parting words you would like to share with our readers? Where you start is not always where you end up, and that’s okay—embrace the journey. Remember to love yourself, grow through your experiences, and always find ways to give back to others. The impact we have on those around us can be the most meaningful part of our lives.
