Back in 2020 I shared what my favorite bags were (that I own) and after putting that post together, it actually made me revisit my entire collection in general. If my favorites amounted to a list of 13, then why was I holding onto all the others? Since then, I've done a lot of selling on Depop, donating, and of course, adding new bags to my collection so I'm excited to share where I'm at and the thought process behind my purchases.
I'm going to categorize my bags by luxury designer, bridge fashion, moderate fashion, and mass market fashion (see explanation here).
I won't lie, I love luxury designer bags! Whenever I decide to add a new one to my collection, it's a very calculated purchase. I typically wait between 3-6 months (if not more) to think about it but I try make a decision within 6 months if I'm buying brand new since boutique prices increase 1-2x a year. I read/watch reviews about the bag online and go see it in person. Then I save up for it until I have enough money set aside to buy the bag (versus charging it to my credit card and paying it off). That's why I typically treat myself around my birthday, Christmas, or when I get my bonus.
1. Dior Medium Bobby Bag | My first Dior bag and certainly not my last! Mine is the dark tan calfskin (no longer available) and it's such a beautiful, classic piece.
2. Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM | This was my first luxury designer bag purchase and still one of my best investments. I've had it for 11 years!
3. Louis Vuitton Pochette Métis | I was honestly never a fan of the LV monogram print until I saw this bag. It's a great crossbody that fits a lot more than you'd expect and elevates any casual outfit.
4. Louis Vuitton Vintage Alma Handbag Epi Leather PM | I bought this last year through Rebag during a sale after stalking it for over a year. It's a discontinued style and I got it, in amazing condition, for $735 (a steal!). I typically don't go for hand/crook of the arm bags but this silhouette is so elegant.
5. Gucci Monogram Bree Shoulder Bag | I bought this in 2013 and for the first few years, this was my most used bag but now, I'm trying to sell it (if you're interested - feel free to email me or check out my Depop). I still think it's a wonderful bag and I actually got it serviced at Gucci recently so it's in great condition but I just don't reach for it anymore.
6. Gucci Ophidia GG Small Shoulder Bag | Another excellent, roomy crossbody at a more affordable price point when compared to the Pochette Metis. Very classic, with a bit of a vintage look.
7. Chanel Quilted Medallion Tote | I wrote a whole post on my experience on buying this discontinued Chanel style through Rebag but needless to say, I'm still incredibly happy I pulled the trigger on this gorgeous tote.
8. Dior Saddle Bag | Yes, I got my second Dior bag about 6 months after getting my first and let me tell you, no regrets here! I had been looking at this bag even longer than the Bobby but I was waiting for a neutral color to come out and when this warm taupe shade was released I knew had to get it before it sold out.
9. Dior vintage clutch | I inherited this clutch from my mom, which I didn't even know she owned until I cleaned out her closet. For sentimental reasons, it's going to be a forever piece in my collection and hopefully I'll have an occasion to use it at soon.
This category makes me think of Kate Spade, Coach, and Rebecca Minkoff which used to be my go-to bag brands for years and years. But they're also the same bags I always ended up giving away or selling so I don't have many in this price bracket. I prefer to either invest in the luxury bag OR go lower.
10. Polene Numero Un (in monochrome gris) | I admired this bag online for years but I didn't want to buy it without trying it in person. I finally got my wish during my trip to Paris with Alexa. It's such a unique structure and I always get compliments when I use it (which admittedly hasn't been often lately).
11. Tory Burch Kira Chevron Floral Convertible Shoulder Bag | This is the newest bag I've purchased and my first from Tory Burch! I bought this during their recent Private Sale, so it's no longer available, but I got it at such a great price. I typically wouldn't go for a floral print but given all my neutral clothes, I thought this would be a fun yet subtle print to play up an outfit.
The quality of bags and brands in this range just gets better and better over the years.
12. Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Small | It's funny, even though this isn't my most used bag, my collection wouldn't feel complete without it. (I also own the large size but at this point it's become more of a travel/overnight bag for me).
13. Madewell Abroad Shoulder Bag | This simple crossbody has traveled with me everywhere and after years of owning it, it's starting to show quite a bit of wear so I'm planning to replace it at some point.
14. Cuyana Small Structured Leather Tote | A perfect, petite-friendly tote in a classic camel color. I wish I got more use out of it but lately I've needed to carry a backpack for work.
15. Longchamp Le Pliage Messenger Bag | This style can't be found on their website but if you're lucky, it'll be at an outlet, which is where I found mine. This is another new-ish bag and it was love at first sight. (Full disclosure: it's slightly overpriced IMHO but I'm hoping to get a lot of use out of it!)
16. Madewell Transport Camera Bag: Woven Edition | As I mentioned, all my bags tend to be neutral but I was drawn to this pale lilac and I love the woven style. It's a smaller crossbody but still fits all the essentials.
17. Cult Gaia Gaia’s Ark | This is such a cute, statement bag that I typically use for special summer occasions. I didn't have an opportunity to wear it this summer but hopefully next year!
18. Dooney & Burke City Small Barlow | I have such a soft spot for this bag because it was a gift from my mom and it's probably the only bag she's ever given me that I actually loved (I'm picky with bags, lol). I still use it to this day and it'll most likely stay in my collection for sentimental reasons.
19. Italic Phoebe Bucket Bag | I haven't talked about my Italic membership yet but for a yearly fee, it gives you access to designer quality products at a fraction of the price. This bucket bag reminds me of the Celine Sangle and it was one of my first and favorite purchases from their site.
For bags that you know are only special occasion or you're not sure if you want to make the investment, I totally think it's worth it to get an inexpensive dupe or a cheaper alternative before making the plunge. Or who knows, maybe you'll stick with the alternative!
20. Target Universal Thread belt bag | I wanted a belt bag for whenever I go on a walk so I knew I didn't want to spend much. And this belt bag has surprisingly gotten a ton of use! Sometimes I think about replacing it with something higher quality but honestly, this looks great and is made well.
21. JW PEI Kate Faux Pearl Bag | As much as I love the look of a white bag, they're just not practical for me so again, I didn't want to spend a lot. I decided to give this brand a try and it's been a great summer bag. It can be dressed up as a handbag or more casual as a crossbody (I have the strap tucked in) but I see it as another special occasion piece so I don't expect to use it that often, which is why the price point works.
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Thanks for sticking with this pretty lengthy post! I really hope you enjoyed seeing my bag collection. And I'd love to know - which ones were your favorites?
Loved seeing your bag collection! I still love that Chanel tote so much and I'm so glad you're enjoying your first Tory Burch purse!!
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