There's nothing quite like the thrill of buying a new handbag. It can catch you off-guard. You weren't even looking. It's like it was meant to be. But when the lust subsides and reality sets in, you need to still feel that pang of happiness that you spent your hard earned cash on your new arm candy.
Luckily, we have a few key questions to bring you back down to earth and ensure that this will be your best purchase ever.
Will I still love this in 6 months?
Sure, we understand that dopamine hit when you see THAT handbag in the shop and it's as if a beam of light hits it and it's love at first sight. But once it's out of its natural habitat and the light has faded, will you still love it as much in six months or a year's time? Be really honest here, especially if it's a luxury or designer handbag with a hefty price tag. You'll be regretting if you're putting it on eBay in a few month's time.
What do I need my handbag to hold?
We've all seen this year's micro bag trend, started by label-of-the-moment, Jacquemus, but the reality is, it would barely fit a lipstick. Consider what exactly is going to be asked of this bag – will you need to fit a laptop in it, or a spare pair of shoes? Will you need multiple compartments to hold the kids' toys as well as your purse and lunch? Or do you just need to carry the bare essentials of some make-up and a railcard? Be really clear about your needs and expectations of this bag because there's no point splurging if you're going to put your back out carrying everything that doesn't fit in it!
What outfits can I wear this with?
A key question to ask of any fashion purchase, but even more so of a handbag. If it's a tote bag in a bold shade such as blue, pink or green, you may be more limited to what you can wear it with to avoid clashing (unless colour blocking is your thing). A neutral shade such as black, beige, blush or grey can be a safer choice and be mixed and matched with any colour, and would look chic paired with a similar outfit hue for a tonal look. There's nothing worst than visiting your new handbag in your wardrobe and feeling like it's dictating your outfit choices of the day. That said, if you're wardrobe consists of a few core colours, for example pinks, blues and blacks, you can opt for a handbag colour that complements your usual outfit colours of choice.
Is it going to date?
Getting as much cost per wear out of your handbag is the goal. Although the 'it' handbags can be deemed an investment and you'll be the envy of all your girlfriends, it's short-lived and within a season it will be redundant. Opt for a classic style, colour or brand that will stand the test of time – think Hermes Kelly, a Chanel quilted handbag or a YSL envelope bag for reference. But, it doesn't need to be a designer name to choose a classic – tote bags, simple shoulder bags or a small leather cross-body in a clean structured shape will always be a good bet.
Do I have something like this already?
Hands up who has more than one LBD in their wardrobe. Thought so. Although you can never have too many straight leg jeans or black ballet pumps, when it comes to handbags, you want them to offer something different. We know, it's new and shiny but if you have something similar at home, it may be time to re-think your purchase or sell what you have at home.
Article by Jessica Harris
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