What You Need to Know About Buying a Luxury Handbag

With clothing trends cycles running shorter and costing less, many women are choosing  not to spend as much on trendy pieces, but more on accessories, such as luxury handbags, shoes and jewelry; the elements of style that make up the finishing touches of one’s  unique look.

A well crafted bag of the finest materials is not only a wonder to behold, but an investment in one’s signature style.

I’ve always loved well made handbags. Like my “signature” jewelry, I like having a “go-to” bag rather than changing my handbag with every outfit. I choose a bag or two each season, bags  I think will go well with my  color palette and silhouette. Choosing the “right” bag is so very personal, but I did write a post about how to choose the “right” bag for you.   Check out the post Here.

A signature handbag can be as costly as important piece of jewelry. Such bags feature high quality materials and hand craftsmanship, and can last a life time if cared for properly. If you have never purchased  such a bag, making a selection can be daunting, but owning and carrying such a bag can be a delightful treat.

These days, certain handbags have become investment pieces with a very strong second hand market, and buying second hand can be a great way to start a handbag collection, and save a little money too.

I spent the first several years of my career in high end retail sales—and started out in handbags where I fell in love.

Purchasing Tips:

To start your collection, go for a classic color and style.

Black, navy, taupe or off white go with a wide range of wardrobes, with darker colors wear nicely and hide soil, and are best for frequent use.

To avoid your bag becoming dated, choose simple elegant styles, avoid materials that are easily stained, marred or show wear quickly, such as suede, and soft leathers.

Or, you may want to strike out with something bold and unusual—such bags can become classics and really make your wardrobe pop.

I only buy when I fall in love with a bag and can imagine myself wearing it with almost everything I own.

Refurbishment:

A high end bags, such as Channel, Louis Vuitton, Chloe, Feringamo, can be sent back for periodic refurbishment when they show signs of wear, and is a great option if you love your bag but it needs a little spruce up.

Best Bags for Resale and Getting Top Dollar:

Channel, Louis Vuitton, Chloe, Faringamo, Birkin and Prada are among the most popular bags for resale and receive top dollar when they are in good condition. Buyers look for bags that are authenticated by a secondary source,  original packaging including the original shopping bag, box, dust cover, sales slips, and anything else that came with the original purchase.

What to Look for When Buying:

When purchasing a second hand investment handbag, seek a trusted reseller, have the bag authenticated, as well as receiving the bag in its original packaging, with sales slips, warranties and all accessories is preferable.

When shopping on line, be wary of sellers who don’t show all sides and angles of the bag or won’t allow the bag to be authenticated.

Here’s to finding that Holy Grail luxury handbag and enjoying it fully and completely.  Cheers Darlings!

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