What Bag Should I Buy?

Phone, wallet, lip gloss, lipstick, powder, digital camera: all things you would potentially find if you took a peek inside my bag. The inside of a girls purse is sacred; a mini storage unit we carry around at all times incase of a makeup emergency or simply because most of our clothes aren’t made with large enough pockets to hold our necessities.

One of the more luxurious pleasures in a woman’s life is splurging on a designer bag. Unfortunately, while some might be equipped to drop a few thousand like its nothing, most of us don’t have that ability. Saving up for a large purchase is difficult on its own regard; making sure that hard earned coin goes into a valuable purchase is a separate challenge. Although I don’t deem myself an expert in this topic, I have done a hefty amount of research (hours of scrolling through The RealReal for literally no reason) and have come to an understanding about which bags are great investments and which are not going to hold significant value in the long run.

Before making such a prominent purchase, you must identify the type of bag you need.

Timeless Staple

The first and most important thing to look at when deciding on a bag is figuring out if it can stand the test of time. What does that mean? Many factors attributed to this quality, mainly being durability and style. A simple black bag made with durable leather will likely last longer than an over-the-top statement piece. If you’re willing to spend a little more to get the ideal bag, you hope to pass down to your future daughter; this is the kind of bag you need.

It would be a crime to write this and not include the Chanel Classic Double Flap Bag. This bag, dating back to February 1955, has become a staple for women across the globe, signifying timeless elegance and wealth. Some may say she’s basic, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with sticking to the basics! When determining the color, I would stick to neutrals (yes, red is a neutral). A wide variety of bags in any price range could achieve this look and longevity. If the flap bag is too “been there, done that” for you, here’s a few more options you might want to consider!

• Gucci Jacki 1961 (via NET-A-PORTER)
• Small Lady Dior (via DIOR)
• Saint Laurent Small Sac de Jour (via SAINT LAURENT)

Everyday Practical

Similar to the timeless staple, an everyday practical bag should be durable and simple, but it is important to remember practicality remains at the forefront of this decision. Again, I must note that this decision heavily depends on your own style and preferences. An everyday practical bag could be a trendy one if that’s what you wish to use, but I’d advise against getting anything too flashy or crazy; something that’s neutral and tasteful yet still aligns with your wardrobe and the color palette you tend to gravitate towards on a day-to-day basis.

It’s no secret to anyone that Bottega has made a huge resurgence. From the Jodie to the Andiamo (another great option although I didn’t include it in the list due to it being a bit overplayed), the people love these handcrafted woven bags. The intrecciato woven leather of these bags makes each of them so special and worth the investment. For me, knowing these bags are versatile and timeless, and don’t display a big tacky logo or brand name, makes them even more desirable for every day usage. Finding the perfect color is fully up to your discretion. If you find yourself wanting something smaller, bigger, or overall different, I’ve made a few more suggestions below!

• Prada Medium Leather Top Handbag (via Saks Fifth Avenue)
• DeMellier London Midi New York (via DeMellier London)

A Big Ol’ Bag

A Mary Poppins-esque bag will never be out! Although we are seeing it become a more popular bag size amongst fashion girls, it’s always going to be useful. Whether it’s for school, work, pilates, or running errands, you likely will need a big ol’ bag to throw all your useless nicknacks in. This bag doesn’t necessarily have to be designer. However, you would be shocked at how many incredible and incomparable pieces there are on second-hand sites and stores that you could definitely afford.

Am I sick of seeing everyone carry this bag all over my Instagram feed? Yes. Do I still want one too? Yes. I do think the over-accessorizing of these bags, and bags in general for that matter, is slightly tacky. On the other hand, I like the idea of making this bag your own by adding a tasteful keychain or charm. This bag is big; big enough to carry your laptop, shoes, makeup, and whatever else you’re deciding to carry around, causing irreversible shoulder and back problems.

I think the main reason I differentiate one of these bags from an “every day practical” is the impracticality of its size. The truth is, wearing a bag this big could be quite uncomfortable and unnecessary to many, but we often must sacrifice comfort for style! If you’re not digging the Miu Miu craze, here’s some more big bags you may want to check out!

• Polo Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Suede Large Bellport Tote (via Ralph Lauren)
• Tom Ford Audrey Large Tote Bag in Grain Leather (via Neiman Marcus)
• Loewe Flamenco XL Clutch Bag (via Loewe)
  

Cheeky Night Out

You’re just a girl sipping a martini in a black mini-skirt and a kitten heel looking for a good time; your bag needs to say the same! A night-out bag is crucial to complete your wardrobe and can often be worn in the daytime as well. These bags are fully up to you and your lifestyle, and while some like to go out to West Hollywood and cause a scene, others prefer a dimly lit jazz bar (both are valid). This bag will not only keep your belongings protected from a potential thief, but it also has to showcase your personality. I’d also be cautious about taking out anything too precious if you are going to be worried about ruining it while you’re out and about.

Circling back to the topic of trends, this studded bag from Khatie is the “it” bag. Studs on jeans, purses, jackets, and shoes are the current obsession across the globe! I’ve been debating how I feel about this trend, specifically with bags, for a little while now. I think I do like it. However, I am unsure if spending so much money on a bag I may hate in a few years is a good idea or investment. Instead, I’d recommend looking into some second-hand options! Here are some cool second-hand bags that would be perfect for your night out.

• Christian Dior 2004 John Galliano Shoulder Bag (via The RealReal)
• Chanel 2004 Karl Lagerfeld Vintage Hobo (via The RealReal)
• Louis Vuitton Monogram Vernis Shoulder Bag (via The RealReal)

Personality Hire

This bag is a conversation starter. It’s so unique that it carries your outfit. Not everyone needs her, and not everyone will understand her, but she was made to be seen. Think of her as the Carrie Bradshaw of bags: stylish and problematic. While some think, “WTF is that bag?” others ponder where you got it. You’re taking this bag to the club, grocery store, or even your kid’s soccer game, perhaps? It’s just that one bag in your closet that is screaming for attention and admiration, and you constantly feel the need to grab her at all times, even in the moments you know it’s probably not appropriate.

What can I say? I love Bottega! This bag radiates such good energy; I just want to be around it. My favorite part about this bag is that I can guarantee tons of people see this bag daily and think the exact opposite. Nothing is more exciting or fun than knowing your taste differs from others, and feeling unique or special is a dream as a fashion lover (even though I’m quite basic and boring at times). Instead of linking more options for this category, I’m going to let you do your own research and see what you feel drawn to. Look for something that makes you feel that sudden urge to grab your wallet with zero hesitation; that’s when you’ll know you’re heading in the right direction. And while you’re there, ensure that bag fits your wallet.