A topic that is often discussed here at PurseBlog is reasons to invest in a designer handbag. In fact, the topic has been covered many times over the years (here, here, and here) but it makes sense to continue the conversation given that we are a luxury purse website. I will be the first to admit that my designer handbag collection is just that, a collection. I don’t have a true need for designer bags, yet I collect them because I’m so passionate about them and enjoy the hunt. If you’re reading here, chances are you take a shine to expensive designer bags as well and have a few designer bags of your own. If you’re thinking about purchasing your first premier designer bag, welcome! If you have already jumped off the deep end, know you’re not alone in these waters.
I’ve been collecting designer bags for well over a decade, and I started my collection with contemporary brands. I still love contemporary brands and shop from them often, but there is something that for lack of a better word feels different when buying a premier designer bag. I can’t put it into words, but it’s a rush unlike any other (yes, I realize this could be a journal entry from Confessions of a Shopaholic). The quality is higher (typically), the materials and attention to detail are immaculate, and the rush is bigger when shopping premier brands. Thinking of investing in a designer bag? I’ve listed my top 10 reasons why you should below!
1. The time to treat yourself is now
Perhaps a truly basic concept, but treating yourself really is a thing. Hear me out, but there is just something so special about treating yourself to something you have been wanting to buy (within reason, of course), especially if you have been waiting months or years to get it. If there ever was a year to consider treating yourself to something nice, 2020 is the one. Go on, you deserve it!
2. You’re not spending as much on other things this year
You may have some extra cash laying around this year. I know I have been able to save a bit more than average since I’m not going out for food or drinks, attending concerts or sports games, and haven’t been able to travel. Of course I miss those things and look forward to them in the future, but the silver lining is I have extra money for my bag budget.
3. If treated well, you can wear your bag for years and years
This doesn’t apply to every bag or every person. Everyone wears their bags differently and some are tougher on bags than others, but if treated well, you can use your bags for years. My first premier designer bag was a Louis Vuitton Neverfull, and I admittedly have been tougher on that bag than any of my other bags, yet it still looks new. The vachetta has some sign of patina, but overall the bag looks to be in excellent condition. I have many less expensive PVC totes (ranging from $30-300) that show severe signs of wear after only a few wears. Same goes for any bags made with luxury materials such as lambskin, calfskin, or cowhide leathers. Treat it well and you will get a long life out of it.
4. A handbag will always fit!
Unlike designer clothes, a designer handbag will always fit. If you are thinking about investing in a little black dress or a little black bag, the bag is clearly the no-brainer winner here.
5. You can score a deal
We talk a lot about shopping the preloved market and for good reason. In fact, I encourage looking for bargains! I love to shop sales and the preloved market. Fashionphile is a great place to start. Some of the most expensive handbags in my collection cost me a 1/3 of their retail price, and I have found some really great scores with some basic research and patience. Make sure to familiarize yourself with return policies (if a price is too good to be true, it probably is), but otherwise, I fully encourage shopping preloved, and the hunt is part of the fun.
6. Some premier designs are total classics
When it comes to premier designer bags, the options are endless! I recommend going for a classic pick if you are nervous about taking the plunge, as it’s guaranteed to always be in style and not a fleeting trend. The Louis Vuitton Speedy and Chanel Flap Bag are two timeless pieces that instantly come to mind and make great choices for a first time buyer. Not sure you want something so classic and have your eye on something trendier? That’s okay too, just be aware it may not stand the test of time.
7. A handbag can dress up any outfit
If you are anything like me, you may wear a lot of basics and rely on accessories to dress up the look. I have been living in leggings and t-shirts this year, and as the temperatures dip it has become leggings and sweaters. My premier bags always make me feel so put together, even if I threw something on last minute before running out the door.
8. Your bag will give you confidence!
I’m speaking from personal experience here, but I always feel like a million bucks when I wear a bag I worked so hard to purchase. I also feel more confident when I feel put together, so see reason #7 again.
9. To celebrate a big occasion
I am super sentimental and like to purchase bags to mark momentous occasions. I recently passed a big exam and bought myself a Saint Laurent LouLou I’d been wanting for a few years to mark the occasion. Now when I carry that bag, I’m reminded of how hard I studied and worked to pass my exam! Have you had a big reason to celebrate recently? A bag makes an awesome congratulations gift to yourself, and I’m speaking from experience.
10. Prices are only getting higher
Prices for designer bags go up every few months (Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci all raised price this year), which is an unfortunate reality of loving luxury handbags. If you have your eye on a piece, chances are it will cost more in a few months, so if you can afford to do so, consider purchasing it now.
Bonus Reason- Because you want to!
If you have read this far, you must be seriously considering making a premier designer purchase. If you are looking for a sign, let it be this. If you can financially afford it and want to get it, I say go for it.
