My husband jokingly teases me sometimes about wanting to purchase more bags. My interest in handbags is relatively new. I used to only buy a bag when I
had to, maybe about once a year or so. In fact, for many years, if I could get away with going out without a bag, I would....I didn't like to feel confined to a purse all the time, especially in my dancing days. I used to carry all of my id and necessary card in a bank card protector sleeve and my cash in my front pockets. Whatever make-up I had would be on my face and that was that. Unfortunately, I now depend on medication now and I need to have it with me at all times...so gone are the days of not having some sort of handbag with me.
In the last year or so, I started getting tired of buying one so-so bag once a year and carrying it around until it was mush. And so my handbag appreciation days began. I decided if I really do need to have a bag with me, I should have something I enjoy! Besides, I don't really spend much money on myself anyway. Handbags and shoes are pretty much the only things that I purchase for myself.
So, my response (after a long winded and sort of relevant preface) pertaining to the original post, is that people do notice my handbags. I get lots of comments, but none of them are negative. Mostly, I find, that those close to me actually seem to have a little anticipation when they see me, as in "what hot new bag is she carrying today?". I get lots of positive questions/comments such as: "Where did you get that?" "Where can I find one of those?" Sometimes there is a little good natured ribbing/teasing but nothing that is pointed or nasty. If I ever did encounter someone negatively commenting on my new love and appreciation for designer handbags/footwear etc, I would pay very little attention to it and not let it ruin my day. I know that "not letting it get to you" sometimes is easier said than done when people are throwing snide remarks your way, but it is the healthiest way to handle negative people. Even though I just said I most likely wouldn't let negative feedback get under my skin, I know that sometimes, if someone I know started being critical of my purchases, I occasionally might get a little irritated and may throw a barb or two back at them ....depending on the situation. Ultimately though, for the most part, I wouldn't let anybody "make" (I put that in quotes because technically nobody can "make" us feel anything...we
allow others comments and nastiness affect us) me feel bad about my love of acquiring a beautiful handbag collection! Nobody should allow anybody else to ruin their day with nasty comments. In general those people that enjoy crapping on others are doing so because they feel they don't have much to offer the world but their negative attitude.
Sorry for the long tangent.
Bottom line: Be proud of your good taste and beautiful collection! Be super cool to those that try to put you down, in any situation, be it about your handbags or anything else...rise above the B.S!