Mine happened when I was NOT bag shopping, merely going to an expensive boutique to ~look~ at Koobas.
I had never actually seen one IRL and wanted to see what the fuss was all about on these bags. I couldn't imagine anyone spending $600.00 on one handbag unless it was made of gold.
Don't laugh, but I was carrying Kathy VanZeeland bags at the time, $89.00 tops.
As soon as I saw the Kooba Maria in terraine I saw the light and understood. It WAS made of gold.
And would you believe the shop has all of their bags at 60% off to get ready for the new Spring things.
I plucked that Maria up for $195.00 right then and there and switched bags as soon as I got in the car.
Since that day I have not carried one of my old Kathy bags and have collected 5 Koobas by hunting sales and watching Ebay like a starving hawk.