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Cornflower Blue · Aug 5th, 2009, 06:16 PM

I never analyse too deeply why I like a certain handbag tbh. Admittedly, it's got to be comfortable, practical(ish!) but most of all, it's got to have 'style' which is very subjective I know! It's got to have something, even though I can't put my finger on it, that just makes me want to have it and use it. Colour, leather, usefulness all might come into it, but it's got to have an ingredient X that makes me love it!

I'm not really into choosing a bag for a season (but I will choose wisely if it's raining) or even if it matches my outfit - it just has to match me

!

So I guess what I'm saying is pick the 5 bags that seem to 'fit' you the most and ones that you love wearing for whatever reason

.

TejasMama · Aug 5th, 2009, 07:02 PM

I tend to pick my bags based on function and whether I will be alone or toting a gaggle of children behind me! I want super comfy shoulder bags when I'm running around with kids, a more structured bag for meeting with clients and then something smaller when I am on my own. Most of my bags are black, brown or grey (with petrol, too) so that's not a big deal for me. I'm pretty neutral on that end.

For me, it's a low-fuss factor. I HATE messing with a bag when I've got a busy day with kids. It makes me grumpy.

gga · Aug 5th, 2009, 07:55 PM

Originally Posted by Cornflower Blue

I never analyse too deeply why I like a certain handbag tbh. Admittedly, it's got to be comfortable, practical(ish!) but most of all, it's got to have 'style' which is very subjective I know! It's got to have something, even though I can't put my finger on it, that just makes me want to have it and use it. Colour, leather, usefulness all might come into it, but it's got to have an ingredient X that makes me love it!

I'm not really into choosing a bag for a season (but I will choose wisely if it's raining) or even if it matches my outfit - it just has to match me

!

So I guess what I'm saying is pick the 5 bags that seem to 'fit' you the most and ones that you love wearing for whatever reason

.

I'm with you on that one. I spend every day with people who are dying or struggling with life-threatening illnesses. I get bad/deeply sad news every month. For me, bags are my escape and just for fun. They just can't become a launching point for me to philosophize. Life is so short, and frequently so sad. I have to maintain something that's just for escape.

TejasMama · Aug 5th, 2009, 08:48 PM

I agree that handbags are for fun and a wonderful hobby to have. For me, however, I also view them as my home office and a critical tool I use to get through my days juggling different things. Maybe I just have a low threshhold for handbag hassle and that is what has me wanting to simplify.

My dad has been battling advanced cancer this last year, and I agree that life if far too short and often unfair, but we must take it on its terms and be grateful for all that we have. I'm so glad to have all you ladies to ruminate with about these wonderful carryalls!

gga · Aug 5th, 2009, 08:55 PM

I feel the same sense of gratitude TM. I find ithe variety of approaches we all have to our bags absolutely fascinating, and I always get a chance to see things differently. I love that about this place.

I'm sorry about your dad. We lost my FIL to esophageal cancer last year. We're still not over it. You have my deepest sympathy.

TejasMama · Aug 5th, 2009, 09:01 PM

Thanks for your kind words, GGA. This cancer has been a real bear. He was clean for 8 years and it just came out of nowhere and was extremely aggressive. He is staying optimistic and living his life, working when he is not too tired and taking each day for the blessing it is. He lives across the country so that has been hard. I would like to be more support than I am able to be from this distance.

I'm so sorry to hear about your FIL. Losing someone you love in this way must be very difficult.

TropicalGal · Aug 5th, 2009, 09:45 PM

Originally Posted by sgreg

It is weird, I am completely the opposite. Most of the time what prompts me to change over to a different purse is color. Eggplant top? brown bag gets swapped out for a light blue one or a tan because of the color clash. I'm pretty stodgy this way, and when color forces me to think and change my purse I am excited that today is going to be a satchel day, or a hobo day (who am I kidding, most days are satchel days....).

I guess the reason I don't change for color...is that my wardrobe is very set in color: black, white, some khaki/beige, and denim. That's it. Occasional color in a top... And my bags are neutrals...so everything goes with everything.

TropicalGal · Aug 5th, 2009, 09:47 PM

Tejas, my heartfelt wishes go out to you and your family about your father's fight with cancer. It is so hard, so unfair. You are a wonderful daughter, balancing it all.

I agree that a great handbag is like a calling card to the world, just like shoes are. Jeans with sneakers is a look; and jeans with snappy red loafers is a whole different story. That's why accessories are so great!

TejasMama · Aug 5th, 2009, 11:00 PM

TG,
Thank you for your kindness. Some days are better than others but I try to be thankful for all of it for I know others have far worse things to battle.

I agree about the shoes and accessories. It is amazing how much these choices can impact a look. I seem to be addicted to Yellow Box flip flops. Does that count as a look?

lanasyogamama · Aug 6th, 2009, 10:10 AM

TejasMama, I'm sorry about your father. I lost my Dad to esophageal cancer as well, same as gga. It's very, very difficult to not be able to help.

I only buy a bag or so a year, and I've missed some years. I've never sold a bag. Let me think about what I have:

- Chloe Bay in Moka
- Longchamp Le Pliage
- Marc Jacobs Sophia
- Prada in Rust colored leather from about 12 years ago

OMG, I'm under 5!! And honestly, I'm not even sure the Longchamp should count. Let's get moving on that Pewter Hold Me Bespoke!

TropicalGal · Aug 6th, 2009, 11:28 AM

^^^I don't think the Longchamp Le Pliage should count at all. So, congrats! You're living beautifully with 3 handbags!!!! WOW! That means you have chosen well, and that you haven't grown out of your tastes...you really know who you are! An inspiration to me!

TejasMama · Aug 6th, 2009, 12:00 PM

Lanasyogamama..thank you so much. I'm sorry you lost your father this way.

OT, I'd have to agree with TG that you are a remarkable inspiration regarding your bag choices and your philosophy of simplicity. You aren't one easily distracted or sidetracked into buying something that isn't right for your style and needs. I love it!

lanasyogamama · Aug 6th, 2009, 01:13 PM

Can I thank you ladies for the warm welcome to this forum? I knew Mariadbc a little from Chloe, but everyone here is awesome!

I guess my tastes haven't changed much in the years. I love big bags, and I have my key colors. The other big factor is that I don't have enough disposable income for too many bags, lol!

I'd love to own a Balenciaga someday in Rouge Theatre.

I do learn more with each bag I buy though, like that Prada I have, the leather is super smooth and firm - and scratchable. I actually just ordered some Apple care to see if it helps.

Tarantino · Aug 6th, 2009, 02:40 PM

I just had to do a bag inventory to choose my five bags and I was shocked with the number of bags I have XXXX not allowed

I think my top 5 would have to include in no particular order:
- Balenciaga City Noix
- Rebecca Minkoff plan B brown
- BE Indulge Me (red flamma on order)
- BE hold me chocolate crash OR my hug me chocolate - I can't quite call it
- BE love me pewter

When you realise you can cut down your favourite bags to that number it does make me think about whether I should keep the rest of them... but they all do have that "je n'est sais quoi" or "x" factor mentioned before, so really difficult to let go of.

Lana you are definitely an inspiration...

kel28 · Aug 6th, 2009, 03:31 PM

Great thread! I fully support downsizing handbag collections. I adopted this policy sometime ago and feel so much more content with my collection. My five perfect handbags would be:-

BE Pewter LM Midi
BE Black crash clutch me (but would love a python one one day)
Botkier Black Sasha
Choco brown messenger bag (underground designer)
Miu Miu fumo bow satchel (received today and loved)

Aug 5th, 2009, 06:16 PM	#46
Cornflower Blue Member Joined: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,332	I never analyse too deeply why I like a certain handbag tbh. Admittedly, it's got to be comfortable, practical(ish!) but most of all, it's got to have 'style' which is very subjective I know! It's got to have something, even though I can't put my finger on it, that just makes me want to have it and use it. Colour, leather, usefulness all might come into it, but it's got to have an ingredient X that makes me love it! I'm not really into choosing a bag for a season (but I will choose wisely if it's raining) or even if it matches my outfit - it just has to match me ! So I guess what I'm saying is pick the 5 bags that seem to 'fit' you the most and ones that you love wearing for whatever reason .
Cornflower Blue Member Joined: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,332

Aug 5th, 2009, 07:02 PM	#47
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	I tend to pick my bags based on function and whether I will be alone or toting a gaggle of children behind me! I want super comfy shoulder bags when I'm running around with kids, a more structured bag for meeting with clients and then something smaller when I am on my own. Most of my bags are black, brown or grey (with petrol, too) so that's not a big deal for me. I'm pretty neutral on that end. For me, it's a low-fuss factor. I HATE messing with a bag when I've got a busy day with kids. It makes me grumpy.
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	__________________ ____________________________ "Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." --Albert Einstein ____________________________ Finding Mindful Habits Here: www.zenhabits.org

Aug 5th, 2009, 08:48 PM	#49
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	I agree that handbags are for fun and a wonderful hobby to have. For me, however, I also view them as my home office and a critical tool I use to get through my days juggling different things. Maybe I just have a low threshhold for handbag hassle and that is what has me wanting to simplify. My dad has been battling advanced cancer this last year, and I agree that life if far too short and often unfair, but we must take it on its terms and be grateful for all that we have. I'm so glad to have all you ladies to ruminate with about these wonderful carryalls!
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	__________________ ____________________________ "Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." --Albert Einstein ____________________________ Finding Mindful Habits Here: www.zenhabits.org

Aug 5th, 2009, 08:55 PM	#50
gga Dr. Destructo Joined: Dec 2006 Posts: 4,232	I feel the same sense of gratitude TM. I find ithe variety of approaches we all have to our bags absolutely fascinating, and I always get a chance to see things differently. I love that about this place. I'm sorry about your dad. We lost my FIL to esophageal cancer last year. We're still not over it. You have my deepest sympathy.
gga Dr. Destructo Joined: Dec 2006 Posts: 4,232

Aug 5th, 2009, 09:01 PM	#51
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	Thanks for your kind words, GGA. This cancer has been a real bear. He was clean for 8 years and it just came out of nowhere and was extremely aggressive. He is staying optimistic and living his life, working when he is not too tired and taking each day for the blessing it is. He lives across the country so that has been hard. I would like to be more support than I am able to be from this distance. I'm so sorry to hear about your FIL. Losing someone you love in this way must be very difficult.
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	__________________ ____________________________ "Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." --Albert Einstein ____________________________ Finding Mindful Habits Here: www.zenhabits.org

Aug 5th, 2009, 09:47 PM	#53
TropicalGal OP Member Joined: Jan 2007 Posts: 5,064	Tejas, my heartfelt wishes go out to you and your family about your father's fight with cancer. It is so hard, so unfair. You are a wonderful daughter, balancing it all. I agree that a great handbag is like a calling card to the world, just like shoes are. Jeans with sneakers is a look; and jeans with snappy red loafers is a whole different story. That's why accessories are so great!
TropicalGal OP Member Joined: Jan 2007 Posts: 5,064	__________________ *Visit me!* www.theportablemother.blogspot.com

Aug 5th, 2009, 11:00 PM	#54
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	TG, Thank you for your kindness. Some days are better than others but I try to be thankful for all of it for I know others have far worse things to battle. I agree about the shoes and accessories. It is amazing how much these choices can impact a look. I seem to be addicted to Yellow Box flip flops. Does that count as a look?
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	__________________ ____________________________ "Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." --Albert Einstein ____________________________ Finding Mindful Habits Here: www.zenhabits.org

Aug 6th, 2009, 10:10 AM	#55
lanasyogamama Member Joined: Oct 2007 Location: Boston, MA Posts: 1,547	TejasMama, I'm sorry about your father. I lost my Dad to esophageal cancer as well, same as gga. It's very, very difficult to not be able to help. I only buy a bag or so a year, and I've missed some years. I've never sold a bag. Let me think about what I have: - Chloe Bay in Moka - Longchamp Le Pliage - Marc Jacobs Sophia - Prada in Rust colored leather from about 12 years ago OMG, I'm under 5!! And honestly, I'm not even sure the Longchamp should count. Let's get moving on that Pewter Hold Me Bespoke!
	__________________ I bespoke(d) it!: - Belen Echandia Hold Me Max in Orange with Purple lining

Aug 6th, 2009, 11:28 AM	#56
TropicalGal OP Member Joined: Jan 2007 Posts: 5,064	^^^I don't think the Longchamp Le Pliage should count at all. So, congrats! You're living beautifully with 3 handbags!!!! WOW! That means you have chosen well, and that you haven't grown out of your tastes...you really know who you are! An inspiration to me!
TropicalGal OP Member Joined: Jan 2007 Posts: 5,064	__________________ *Visit me!* www.theportablemother.blogspot.com

Aug 6th, 2009, 12:00 PM	#57
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	Lanasyogamama..thank you so much. I'm sorry you lost your father this way. OT, I'd have to agree with TG that you are a remarkable inspiration regarding your bag choices and your philosophy of simplicity. You aren't one easily distracted or sidetracked into buying something that isn't right for your style and needs. I love it!
TejasMama Member Joined: Mar 2007 Posts: 5,469	__________________ ____________________________ "Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." --Albert Einstein ____________________________ Finding Mindful Habits Here: www.zenhabits.org

Aug 6th, 2009, 01:13 PM	#58
lanasyogamama Member Joined: Oct 2007 Location: Boston, MA Posts: 1,547	Can I thank you ladies for the warm welcome to this forum? I knew Mariadbc a little from Chloe, but everyone here is awesome! I guess my tastes haven't changed much in the years. I love big bags, and I have my key colors. The other big factor is that I don't have enough disposable income for too many bags, lol! I'd love to own a Balenciaga someday in Rouge Theatre. I do learn more with each bag I buy though, like that Prada I have, the leather is super smooth and firm - and scratchable. I actually just ordered some Apple care to see if it helps.
	__________________ I bespoke(d) it!: - Belen Echandia Hold Me Max in Orange with Purple lining

Aug 6th, 2009, 02:40 PM	#59
Tarantino My gorgeous Ginas Joined: Jul 2008 Location: London Posts: 888	I just had to do a bag inventory to choose my five bags and I was shocked with the number of bags I have XXXX not allowed I think my top 5 would have to include in no particular order: - Balenciaga City Noix - Rebecca Minkoff plan B brown - BE Indulge Me (red flamma on order) - BE hold me chocolate crash OR my hug me chocolate - I can't quite call it - BE love me pewter When you realise you can cut down your favourite bags to that number it does make me think about whether I should keep the rest of them... but they all do have that "je n'est sais quoi" or "x" factor mentioned before, so really difficult to let go of. Lana you are definitely an inspiration...
	__________________ Tarantino You buy cheap, you buy twice Wish list: Belen Enchant Me in Matte Tan & Red, Miu Miu bow tote purple, Chloe Paraty Do you want this bag? Join our bespoke group here Last edited by Swanky Mama Of Three; Aug 10th, 2009 at 05:12 PM.

Aug 6th, 2009, 03:31 PM	#60
kel28 Member Joined: Aug 2008 Location: UK Posts: 476	Great thread! I fully support downsizing handbag collections. I adopted this policy sometime ago and feel so much more content with my collection. My five perfect handbags would be:- BE Pewter LM Midi BE Black crash clutch me (but would love a python one one day) Botkier Black Sasha Choco brown messenger bag (underground designer) Miu Miu fumo bow satchel (received today and loved)
kel28 Member Joined: Aug 2008 Location: UK Posts: 476

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