I mostly purchase my bags from department stores in my area. I also purchase online from Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, etc.
I have never purchased a bag that I have not first looked at in person, though. I am pretty lucky that I live in L.A. and we have just about every store imaginable. I don't like ordering stuff and then returning it and I don't think I could make a decision on a pricey handbag without first seeing it. I know a lot of people do, but then you have to deal with returns. If you can, I would find a store with a liberal return/exchange policy (like Nordstrom) and a capable Sales Associate to help you with your future purchases.
I have never purchased a bag that I have not first looked at in person, though. I am pretty lucky that I live in L.A. and we have just about every store imaginable. I don't like ordering stuff and then returning it and I don't think I could make a decision on a pricey handbag without first seeing it. I know a lot of people do, but then you have to deal with returns. If you can, I would find a store with a liberal return/exchange policy (like Nordstrom) and a capable Sales Associate to help you with your future purchases.