2015 resolution - shopping from my own bag and wallet collection. Any one else?

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I'm new to the forum and I'm a minimalist in the purse department -- in 2015, I have not carried a purse at all, I have carried a little, colorful Vera Bradley ID wallet attached to my keys (that has a my drivers license, debit card and a few coins.)

In 2016, I'd like to find a nice, functional, quality / built-to-last, go with everything, everyday purse, very likely secondhand, for under $200.

Bonus points if I can get a sturdy well made wallet, likely secondhand.

I'd like to buy *everything* secondhand in 2016 (I have bought some nice Patagonia coats, La Canadienne boots, and a pair of UGG gloves on the way from Ebay and am encouraged by that), and I know I can't get *everything* that way but I can do most of my shopping 2nd hand and should be able to get very nice quality / value that way.

Every year I say I want to get more put together and fashionable. I also want to have a small, capsule wardrobe. Has anyone tried Project 333? I am inspired by that, but most of my everyday clothes are rather boring. I'd like to get a little fancier while staying comfortable with who I am.

Karen
 
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I'm new to the forum and I'm a minimalist in the purse department -- in 2015, I have not carried a purse at all, I have carried a little, colorful Vera Bradley ID wallet attached to my keys (that has a my drivers license, debit card and a few coins.)

In 2016, I'd like to find a nice, functional, quality / built-to-last, go with everything, everyday purse, very likely secondhand, for under $200.

Bonus points if I can get a sturdy well made wallet, likely secondhand.

I'd like to buy *everything* secondhand in 2016 (I have bought some nice Patagonia coats, La Canadienne boots, and a pair of UGG gloves on the way from Ebay and am encouraged by that), and I know I can't get *everything* that way but I can do most of my shopping 2nd hand and should be able to get very nice quality / value that way.

Every year I say I want to get more put together and fashionable. I also want to have a small, capsule wardrobe. Has anyone tried Project 333? I am inspired by that, but most of my everyday clothes are rather boring. I'd like to get a little fancier while staying comfortable with who I am.

Karen

Welcome! I am sure you will find what you are looking for.
 
I'm new to the forum and I'm a minimalist in the purse department -- in 2015, I have not carried a purse at all, I have carried a little, colorful Vera Bradley ID wallet attached to my keys (that has a my drivers license, debit card and a few coins.)

In 2016, I'd like to find a nice, functional, quality / built-to-last, go with everything, everyday purse, very likely secondhand, for under $200.

Bonus points if I can get a sturdy well made wallet, likely secondhand.

I'd like to buy *everything* secondhand in 2016 (I have bought some nice Patagonia coats, La Canadienne boots, and a pair of UGG gloves on the way from Ebay and am encouraged by that), and I know I can't get *everything* that way but I can do most of my shopping 2nd hand and should be able to get very nice quality / value that way.

Every year I say I want to get more put together and fashionable. I also want to have a small, capsule wardrobe. Has anyone tried Project 333? I am inspired by that, but most of my everyday clothes are rather boring. I'd like to get a little fancier while staying comfortable with who I am.

Karen


Good for you. I just googled "Project 333". Great idea. You say that most of your clothes are rather boring but you can jazz them up. Get a couple of pieces that don't take up much space but add a pop of color. I love scarfs. They don't take up much room, they travel great & you could get great colors for your skin tone. If you get some oblongs, there are many ways to tie them (check out YouTube). Also, go to a consignment store & see if they have any "statement" jewelry. I try to wear them under a collared shirt so maybe just a small pop of color is showing, not the whole necklace. I would keep my eyes open for a LV regular size pochette. If you don't like the monogram, they have them in Epi leather with many colors to choose from. I'm sure you could find something in your price range (or close to it) on eBay, tradsey or fashionphile etc.... This style would hold your wristlet, phone, small cosmetics & keys no problem & would last for years. You've inspired me come up with my own "Project 333". I'll be re-thinking my closet in the new year. I might not turn into a "minimalist" per say, but at least start re-thinking potential purchases, selling some stuff in my closet & gearing my lifeSTYLE into "a little bit less is more". I know I'll still look fabulous [emoji41]. So glad I read your post. You really made me think & I'm going to go back & read Project 333 carefully. Thanks for sharing & welcome to tpf. I think you can contribute a lot of positive ideas (while still being true to our own personal style). [emoji151][emoji164][emoji162][emoji156][emoji137]🏻
 
I'm new to the forum and I'm a minimalist in the purse department -- in 2015, I have not carried a purse at all, I have carried a little, colorful Vera Bradley ID wallet attached to my keys (that has a my drivers license, debit card and a few coins.)

In 2016, I'd like to find a nice, functional, quality / built-to-last, go with everything, everyday purse, very likely secondhand, for under $200.

Bonus points if I can get a sturdy well made wallet, likely secondhand.

I'd like to buy *everything* secondhand in 2016 (I have bought some nice Patagonia coats, La Canadienne boots, and a pair of UGG gloves on the way from Ebay and am encouraged by that), and I know I can't get *everything* that way but I can do most of my shopping 2nd hand and should be able to get very nice quality / value that way.

Every year I say I want to get more put together and fashionable. I also want to have a small, capsule wardrobe. Has anyone tried Project 333? I am inspired by that, but most of my everyday clothes are rather boring. I'd like to get a little fancier while staying comfortable with who I am.

Karen


Welcome!
Getting a second hand, good quality purse under $200 is not hard especially if you have consignment stores where you live. I have Clothes Mentor close by and their prices are very reasonable.
 
I'm new to the forum and I'm a minimalist in the purse department -- in 2015, I have not carried a purse at all, I have carried a little, colorful Vera Bradley ID wallet attached to my keys (that has a my drivers license, debit card and a few coins.)

In 2016, I'd like to find a nice, functional, quality / built-to-last, go with everything, everyday purse, very likely secondhand, for under $200.

Bonus points if I can get a sturdy well made wallet, likely secondhand.

I'd like to buy *everything* secondhand in 2016 (I have bought some nice Patagonia coats, La Canadienne boots, and a pair of UGG gloves on the way from Ebay and am encouraged by that), and I know I can't get *everything* that way but I can do most of my shopping 2nd hand and should be able to get very nice quality / value that way.

Every year I say I want to get more put together and fashionable. I also want to have a small, capsule wardrobe. Has anyone tried Project 333? I am inspired by that, but most of my everyday clothes are rather boring. I'd like to get a little fancier while staying comfortable with who I am.

Karen
Welcome to the forum and thread! I'm amazed and envious on how you've been able to use just an ID wallet - incredible. I am familiar with project 333 but have not tried It myself. I've been aiming for a more minimalist wardrobe the last 2 years and have attempted versions of a capsule wardrobe but find that my wardrobe is not it there yet. It took me a while to replace items because, similar to yourself, my clothes were pretty boring and i had to find more exciting pieces to get a better mix. Right now I've been able to narrow it down to more of a color capsule focus at the moment and will try project 333 when i let go of more items. Pls share you project 333 if you attempt it, would love follow your progress! With how little ou carry, agree with cocolv's suggestion of an LV pochette - still very minimal and would go with everything. If you are looking for a larger bag, I'm sure you will be able to find a number of MBMJ and coach (I recommend the legacy pieces) in your rice range. You may have better luck with the knowledge of those in the authentication threads to really help you score a great deal on more premium designers.
 
I'm new to the forum and I'm a minimalist in the purse department -- in 2015, I have not carried a purse at all, I have carried a little, colorful Vera Bradley ID wallet attached to my keys (that has a my drivers license, debit card and a few coins.)

In 2016, I'd like to find a nice, functional, quality / built-to-last, go with everything, everyday purse, very likely secondhand, for under $200.

Bonus points if I can get a sturdy well made wallet, likely secondhand.

I'd like to buy *everything* secondhand in 2016 (I have bought some nice Patagonia coats, La Canadienne boots, and a pair of UGG gloves on the way from Ebay and am encouraged by that), and I know I can't get *everything* that way but I can do most of my shopping 2nd hand and should be able to get very nice quality / value that way.

Every year I say I want to get more put together and fashionable. I also want to have a small, capsule wardrobe. Has anyone tried Project 333? I am inspired by that, but most of my everyday clothes are rather boring. I'd like to get a little fancier while staying comfortable with who I am.

Karen


Welcome!
 
Day 7, another Massaccesi bag. Sorry, not a new photo.
View attachment 3218381


Is that grey? I think I want a grey bag too. That's so pretty.

Aww. So cute! I love Dooney's Disney items.


Thanks! They're so cute.

Love this little Dooney slg bag. Wore it yesterday to eat Italian with my son . It wipes clean it anything gets spilled on it. It has a nice red lining and the strap goes easily over the shoulder. Just a great little mini bag. This is the photo for yesterday as the photo I took at the restaurant wouldn't load last night.

That's the perfect mini bag.

Tuuli that still looks beautiful! What a good buy!


Here is my Day 8, my beloved Massaccesi Zhoe Legend.

View attachment 3217609


Very pretty!

Here's day 6 of 12!
ImageUploadedByPurseForum1450637865.077171.jpg
Burberry Maisy coin purse
I thought I needed to sell this, but found it can easily carry flash drives. :) so glad it didn't sell now.
 
Welcome Karen!

Earlier this year I picked up a cute Vera Bradley WOC (wallet on chain) type device at Buffalo Exchange that I wore to a couple music festivals when I didn't want to bring a leather bag. I'm also a less is more person & a consignment queen so you can def find an awesome bag for <$200 once you figure out what styles & brands you like. I have a huge soft spot for Louis Vuitton, other than my VB WOC all my accessories are LV :hbeat:

Overall I have 10 purses (incl non-branded), 9 accessories/SLGs & 8 non-purse bags (luggage, gym duffels, what have you). The only bags I don't count in this count are fabric grocery/errand bags. When I move to my new permanent place in early January I'll photograph all my stuff and start a Bag Showcase thread for finally.

Other than finishing up holiday errands, my goal today is to put all my purses and shoes on the Stylebook app. Trying to set myself up for success on shopping my wardrobe in 2016 :heart:
 
Good for you. I just googled "Project 333". Great idea. You say that most of your clothes are rather boring but you can jazz them up. Get a couple of pieces that don't take up much space but add a pop of color. I love scarfs. They don't take up much room, they travel great & you could get great colors for your skin tone. If you get some oblongs, there are many ways to tie them (check out YouTube). Also, go to a consignment store & see if they have any "statement" jewelry. I try to wear them under a collared shirt so maybe just a small pop of color is showing, not the whole necklace. I would keep my eyes open for a LV regular size pochette. If you don't like the monogram, they have them in Epi leather with many colors to choose from. I'm sure you could find something in your price range (or close to it) on eBay, tradsey or fashionphile etc.... This style would hold your wristlet, phone, small cosmetics & keys no problem & would last for years. You've inspired me come up with my own "Project 333". I'll be re-thinking my closet in the new year. I might not turn into a "minimalist" per say, but at least start re-thinking potential purchases, selling some stuff in my closet & gearing my lifeSTYLE into "a little bit less is more". I know I'll still look fabulous [emoji41]. So glad I read your post. You really made me think & I'm going to go back & read Project 333 carefully. Thanks for sharing & welcome to tpf. I think you can contribute a lot of positive ideas (while still being true to our own personal style). [emoji151][emoji164][emoji162][emoji156][emoji137]&#127995;
I tried to Project 333 at the beginning of summer, and it was helpful. I did not do it perfectly, I gave myself some flex with it -- and I bought a few pairs of shorts over the summer. But it was good. I like the idea. Recently I cleaned out my jewelry drawers and got rid of the things I don't wear. But they are still over-full and I need to go through with a second swipe. None of my things are very expensive.

For Christmas our family has a book exchange this year, and one of the books I bought to trade (and I hope I get it back, LOL) is called the Life Changing Art of Tidying Up. The author is cute and there is a video of her on Youtube and she says that any item that does not inspire joy should be eliminated. That's interesting.

I want to post a photo of my favorite ever handbag, it is a Fossil that is now ripped at the edges. Right now I am looking at Hermes canvas bags, maybe like this, on Ebay. What do you think?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Authentic-H...839544?hash=item280d4cf6b8:g:3mcAAOSwHQ9WZWOY

http://www.ebay.com/itm/401043836809?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

They look kind of fun and different. And I am Ms. Casual most of the time. I usually have a shoulder strap so this would be very different. Not sure though. Maybe I'll start another thread somewhere where forum members can help me pick something nice.

Karen
 
I think those bags are attractive & you would be able to use them for different errands. You MIGHT want to check out Longchamp if they are your style (I'm a girl that like to know all my options). I think that is so cool that you guys have a book exchange at X-mas. That must take away so much stress, saves on the bank account, you don't have to find space for stuff you really don't want in the first place. With a book, it's good you have to focus on the subjects that the person is interested in. I think I'm going to try and tame my closet next year. I'm traveling for awhile but when I get back, that will be my project. I think while I'm away, I'll even try to make notes of my intentions. You're an inspiration. I think I'll try to reassess my purchases at point of sale & even think of what it will replace. I used to know of a girl that would by an "outfit" but when she brought it home, one outfit would have to leave so she wasn't jamming her closet. I don't know if I could ever get to THAT point. I really think you're right about managing our "stuff" better. We should have stuff we love but not stuff just to take up space & give us that shopping therapy "high". Take your time in figuring out your new bag, check all you options then let us know which one you pick. Enjoy your holidays [emoji300]&#65039;
 
I'm new to the forum and I'm a minimalist in the purse department -- in 2015, I have not carried a purse at all, I have carried a little, colorful Vera Bradley ID wallet attached to my keys (that has a my drivers license, debit card and a few coins.)

In 2016, I'd like to find a nice, functional, quality / built-to-last, go with everything, everyday purse, very likely secondhand, for under $200.

Bonus points if I can get a sturdy well made wallet, likely secondhand.

I'd like to buy *everything* secondhand in 2016 (I have bought some nice Patagonia coats, La Canadienne boots, and a pair of UGG gloves on the way from Ebay and am encouraged by that), and I know I can't get *everything* that way but I can do most of my shopping 2nd hand and should be able to get very nice quality / value that way.

Every year I say I want to get more put together and fashionable. I also want to have a small, capsule wardrobe. Has anyone tried Project 333? I am inspired by that, but most of my everyday clothes are rather boring. I'd like to get a little fancier while staying comfortable with who I am.

Karen
Hi! Welcome! There are a lot of beautiful pre-owned purses within your price range. Personally I'm into Marc Jacobs collection, you can find good deals at ebay, The Real Real, etc. Just make sure to have your items authenticated in tpf. Good luck on your 2016 project!
 
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