5 Tips For Buying Your Luxury Handbag
Thinking of purchasing your first or second luxury handbag? There's plenty to consider prior to investing in that beautiful handbag. Here are some of my tried and true tips to help guide you to your first or next handbag purchase!
1. Brand
So you decided to take the plunge to invest in a luxury handbag?! With so many brands on the market determining the best one for you can be tricky. Most of the major fashion houses (Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes, Gucci and etc.) tend to come with extra perks when purchasing one of their items.
For one, the repair of regular wear-and-tear of the handbag is usually honored within the first year of purchase (Remember to always hold on to your receipt!). Meaning that the item may be repaired for nothing to little cost. Keep in mind, this might mean being without the handbag for several weeks to months while it's being repaired. Two, most of the major fashion houses are very big on presentation and it's easily observed by how well the items are packaged-they usually come with a care booklet, a dust bag, a storage box and sometimes an authenticity card (depending on the brand).
2. Color
For your first or even second luxury bag, I would highly suggest going with a neutral shade like black, brown or a navy blue. Darker and neutral shades offer the most versatility. Darker shades are also greater at hiding daily usage in comparison to lighter colors. My first luxury handbag was a Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 in Damier Ebene. The darker shade pairs very well with brown, white, and even all black outfits.
3. Material
Canvas, Leather (pebbled/caviar), lambskin, and suede-- the options are endless. Some are more expensive than others. But if you're looking for a good quality handbag, I would suggest going with a caviar leather/pebbled leather, or even a canvas material. These materials are more durable, resistant to scratches and they also show less wear in comparison to a lambskin bag and other delicate materials. Suede comes with many obstacles like color transfer and not being water resistant. Proceed with caution when purchasing bags of these sensitive materials. Imagine being caught in an unexpected rain shower with a suede bag. Ay, dios mio!
Gucci Ophidia Medium Top Handle Bag
4. New vs. Pre-Loved
I've purchased both brand new and pre-loved luxury handbags. Deciding between New and Pre-loved for me is often determined by the price of the item, availability, and the overall condition of the handbag. It's a great idea to check the pre-loved market prior to purchasing brand new to determine if the brand or bag will hold it's value over time. Certain brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton are known for holding their value over time with classic pieces. Meaning...when purchased on the pre-loved market, the price of the handbag will likely stay around the original retail value price. At that point, it may be easier to purchase the handbag brand new in the store.
There are a few designer brands that sell brand new at a high selling point, but when purchased on the pre-loved market is only a fraction of the cost. I was able to purchase a City Mini bag from vestaircollective.com for $900 instead of the retail $1700. Other sites that are also great for purchasing pre-loved items are Fashionphile , Yoogi's Closet and many others. Additionally, these sites usually come with a return policy!
5. Size/Style
It's important to know or at least have an idea of best size handbag that will work for you and your lifestyle. I myself, tend to go for mini cross body handbags. Over the years I've been able to master packing my daily essentials into these miniature bags (look out for the future blog post on this!!!). If you're unsure of the size of the handbag, I would highly suggest to view it in person. Trying on the handbag and observing how your items will fit will give you a better idea if it's the right handbag for you. If you're only able to purchase the handbag online, pay close attention to the size measurements listed online and the return policy.
Handbag Glossary
Lastly, take some time and think about your purchase prior to buying! Don't let Sales Associates or Social Media Influencers force you to feel that you need to purchase the handbag at that very moment.
If you have any tips or comments that you would like to add, please feel free to leave them below.
What was your first luxury handbag? If you don't have one yet, do you have your eye on a luxury handbag?