2023 Downsizing Your Bag Collection

[inverved]

For the last few years, I have stuck to the number "ten" when it comes to premier designers:

- 2 Hermes (B30, K28)
- 6 Chanel (M/L Classic Flap, Small Boy, Mini Reissue, Mini Rectangular, WOC and Timeless CC Flap)
- 1 Louis Vuitton (Alma BB in Epi)
- 1 Valextra (Iside Mini) (most recent addition, replacing Pochette Accessories NM which is now moving to my SLG collection as I don't want to wear it as a bag)

I am pretty firm on that number and don't plan to deviate away from it. I've also decided to play it safe and avoid "trendy" bags.

Otherwise, I have recently done a bit of an overhaul of my contemporary bag collection:

- 1 Polene (Numero Sept)
- 2 Longchamp (Le Pliage Cuir Croc XS and Le Pliage Neo XS)
- 2 Oroton (Dylan Baguette and Anika Crossbody)
- 1 Miscellaneous

I do have totes and more medium-sized casual bags (all three are Longchamp), but have classed them as travel bags as I only use them during my travels.

I now feel like my overall collection is more more well-rounded and all the previous gaps have been filled.

 

[mz_engineer12]

I started on a downsizing kick a few years ago when I realized my large collection was too overwhelming for me. I wasn’t using what I had; I just stuck to one bag all the time. I reduced my luxury collection drastically, parting with nearly thirty bags. I’m now down to five: one for each basic category (I am not including my Longchamp tote and Pacsafe carry-on for long flights in this list because I use those primarily as luggage pieces). After culling the herd, I find that I use everything I have and am much happier.

My rules for myself:
1. One in, one out. Always and forever.
2. Anything I buy must match my lifestyle.
3. If I haven’t worn it in the past year, out it goes.
4. I want my bags to be versatile: ideally, they can each serve in multiple categories.
5. No trendy items that will soon look dated. The point for me is not having to replace things often.
6. All bags must be darkish colors that go easily with my wardrobe. Blacks, browns, and jewel tones can work. No bright reds, yellows, pinks, or oranges (I don’t wear these well) or light neutrals/pastels (these show wear and tear too quickly and easily for me).
7. Adequate strap drop is essential. No top handle bags.
8. I must be happy with the closure. My needs here depend on the type of bag in question.
9. Material matters. No silk clutches for me; I prefer a worry-free durable leather unless a bag is used as a beater, in which case I go with nylon (lightweight and waterproof).

Of course, these are rules I’ve set only for myself. Everyone’s experience is different, and one of the biggest benefits of downsizing is discovering what works best for you. I hope you find as much satisfaction in cultivating and pruning your collection as I have!

Thanks for sharing your tips! You are so impressive for downsizing your collection! May I ask what 5 bags made the cut ?

 

[Joule]

Thanks for sharing your tips! You are so impressive for downsizing your collection! May I ask what 5 bags made the cut ?

I’ve since gone down one further! I was not using my Alaïa Mina, so I sent it off to live with my sister. I’ll replace it eventually, once I find the perfect tote. I’m finicky.

Still in my closet: Fendi Fendista as a crossbody, Chanel Reissue 227 as my day-to-night, Hermès Evelyne III PM as my everyday, and Delvaux Iron Shield Mini Madame for evening.

 

[Cali2HI]

So far this year I have
Consigned: 2
Donated: 0
Gifted: 1
Sold: 0

I have 40 designer and 2 contemporary brand bags left. Last year it was in the low 50s. Some progress was made. Originally my max number of bags at the end of the 00s was no more than 30. I stopped counting in 2010 hahaha.

 

[forgetmenot301]

I also majorly downsized and feel so much relief. I didn’t do a final count but sold probably 8-10 Chanel bags, a few Valentino, ysl, fendi, and louis Vuitton. Some were hard to sell because they were very rare and I won’t ever be able to repurchase but it came down to usage. Why keep bags that sit or get used 1x a year or never in my case. I had about 30 plus. I happily sold all of these and have added a few Hermes bags that i never dreamed of owning, a few Chanel and a few special Valentino, fendi and bottega. I haven’t counted but I think it’s around 10-11. No regrets and I feel a lot less guilt. Very freeing!

 

[dcooney4]

I've seen so many deinfluencing videos online, but I wanted to see actual tips on buying less and reducing the urge to keep searching and collecting more handbags. Here are the things that have helped me so far. It would be great if everyone could share the tips and tricks that work for them so we can all make better, more mindful purchases.

• Buy secondhand as much as you can. Wait for deals. If you miss one, there will always be another deal, another bag.
• You want the item, but you also want your money. The sellers also want your money. This means your money is very valuable, and you should think twice before spending it.
• A lot of bags you see online touted by influencers could be rentals or gifts. Some are also fakes.
• Don't listen to what other people say are the bags you NEED, or the categories you have to get at least one bag for. Think carefully about what your personal needs actually are.
  • Example: I thought I needed a top handle style evening bag, but I never used it. Similar to style categories or use categories. I only have two categories: daily bags, and fancy bags I can use on a daily basis as well as take to a nice evening event if the occasion arises. I have a few Celine bags that meet that standard, so I have no need in my life to continue buying expensive bags when I'm not going to get the same value out of owning that item.
• The company can set whatever price they want for that bag, but that's not the actual value of that bag. Do a cost-benefit analysis. On the cost side, what's the value of the materials used to produce the bag? The labor? The brand? On the benefit side, what's the value of the bag to you? How much value would it bring to your life? What is the design worth to you? What is the brand worth to you? How do you want to use the bag?
  • Example: I have enough bags at this point that another bag wouldn't bring me much additional benefit to my life. I wanted to try black shoulder bags so I bought cheap ones to try out the style and see if I wanted to invest in a more expensive luxury designer one later. I ended up donating those bags away because I lost interest in that style, so I'm glad I didn't spend that much money in the first place.

I like your cost benefit analysis. I am going to think on that.

 

[dcooney4]

I only buy bags I love; that I am certain I will wear; and, whose style will stand the test of time.
Even though I don’t resell and rarely consign, I do prefer that the bags I purchase retain value.
I don’t return purchases, so I have to be very certain in order to avoid expensive errors.
DH loves to shop and has great taste (often he and my SA have the same opinion on prospective purchases,
so I try to listen). These factors all lower the chances of mistakes and buyers remorse.

ETA: do not go too minimal. It’s terrible to miss something and then have to repurchase

I agree! I can't go minimal. I like to have variety.

 

[dcooney4]

Great points from everyone!

This is what I do sometimes.

Think about how much the bag (or whatever item) costs and then think what else could I do with the same amount of money?

$5k for a bag vs other things like:
- travel
- multiple fine dining outings
- multiple spa/facial sessions
- investing more into my garden
- a 3rd puppy (Currently banned by my husband lol)
- savings and investments of course
- OR, that could get me 4 pairs of designer shoes lol, or 2 pieces of RTW, or a nice piece of fine jewelry, etc.

This is what my friend and I call purse math.

 

[dcooney4]

Colours are really important. Even if we love a colour to wear, it may be too much to have a bag/accessories in the same. Sometimes very slightly off of the same colour can look worse than a completely different one. I find red an easy colour (yours are gorgeous) but I also need to be in the mood. I reach for black or brown, black is definitely my default.

I think a certain shade can mean everything in a bag, for instance, I have lots of brown: tan, chestnut, chocolate, rust, but there is not a single taupe or dark grey-browns (unless you count Hermes Etain - which I think is grey) I have smokey, Prussian and navy blues but no light or bright blues. If I want a 'pop' I go green or red. I've seen a 'one that got away' bag at a preloved agency - but it's light blue, so end of story.

As for green, I am so fussy (I may not seem it). A shade/tint/hue one way or the other makes all the difference. As a secondary colour it is harder to find the right one that leans neither too blue or yellow, isn't too dark or light, greyed or bright. And then of course it has to be in the right style and size. The odds are not always in our favour.

I think color is a real big deal.

 

[poleneinblack]

I like your cost benefit analysis. I am going to think on that.

I feel I got an whole bachelor's degree in economics and all I've used it for is purse math haha!

 

[Minimalist_Chic]

I'm going to go a bit against the grain here.

Currently for me, I follow many influencers on Youtube and IG. I probably watch at least 1-3 videos of them a day. It could be shopping, hauls, reviews, collection showcases, etc. And at this point, in terms of feeling influenced or wanting to buy, I don't really feel very much to be honest. The more I see, sometimes, the less interesting it becomes to be actually.
There was only one item that I visibly remember being influenced by Tamara in 2021, which was a pair of YSL heels. I think she wore them to the YSL runway show during fashion week. I still love them and wear them to this day.

However, having said that, I was very obsessed with luxury goods and shopping in my early 20s. I think part of it was that I wanted what I could not afford.
And then I sort of let it go, did other things in my life, had other hobbies, worked on my career, etc.
Came back to luxury in my late 20s, could afford some things, mostly pre-loved, but enjoyed them never-the-less! Made my fair share of mistakes of course . I was still a little obsessed with Chanel, but then when I got my CF I realized I probably did not love the brand as much as I thought I did. No wow factor for me when I unboxed the bag. Of course, I would not sell it, I still like it and glad that I have it. But I probably truly love some of my other bags more.
And now in my 30s, I have a decent collection. I've slowed down a lot. I'm a lot more picky (I turn down more things than I say yes to). I know what I like (generally). I have a wishlist but I don't check it often, it just sits there until I'm in the mood to buy.
I still make spontaneous purchases here and there, but I feel that after experimenting with my style, my gut feeling is more on point.
In addition, I very much dislike having a lot of stuff. It's ironic because I like buying stuff, but it gets on my nerves when I see my closet start getting packed, especially with things that I don't use or wear as often. I'll do a bit of spring cleaning here and there, but as I accumulate more RTW and designer shoes, it gets harder to clean out things that cost so much and then it cycles back to, not wanting to buy as much because I already have this much stuff.

So, I guess, maybe a break is a good idea?

I also follow a few influencers and also watch influencers to unwind. That doesn’t mean I want everything they buy and own, in fact I would say it’s turned me off because it’s become too basic, hauls or promoting brands they’re being paid or gifted. They all have very similar taste which is also boring. For example Lydia now never shows her other handbags, it’s all about Hermès now. It’s like you can never truly feel satisfied unless you have a Hermès. Don’t get me wrong I would love to own a Hermès, but I won’t be selling my current handbags to get one nor would I stop using all of my other handbags if I do get one.

I've seen so many deinfluencing videos online, but I wanted to see actual tips on buying less and reducing the urge to keep searching and collecting more handbags. Here are the things that have helped me so far. It would be great if everyone could share the tips and tricks that work for them so we can all make better, more mindful purchases.

• Buy secondhand as much as you can. Wait for deals. If you miss one, there will always be another deal, another bag.
• You want the item, but you also want your money. The sellers also want your money. This means your money is very valuable, and you should think twice before spending it.
• A lot of bags you see online touted by influencers could be rentals or gifts. Some are also fakes.
• Don't listen to what other people say are the bags you NEED, or the categories you have to get at least one bag for. Think carefully about what your personal needs actually are.
  • Example: I thought I needed a top handle style evening bag, but I never used it. Similar to style categories or use categories. I only have two categories: daily bags, and fancy bags I can use on a daily basis as well as take to a nice evening event if the occasion arises. I have a few Celine bags that meet that standard, so I have no need in my life to continue buying expensive bags when I'm not going to get the same value out of owning that item.
• The company can set whatever price they want for that bag, but that's not the actual value of that bag. Do a cost-benefit analysis. On the cost side, what's the value of the materials used to produce the bag? The labor? The brand? On the benefit side, what's the value of the bag to you? How much value would it bring to your life? What is the design worth to you? What is the brand worth to you? How do you want to use the bag?
  • Example: I have enough bags at this point that another bag wouldn't bring me much additional benefit to my life. I wanted to try black shoulder bags so I bought cheap ones to try out the style and see if I wanted to invest in a more expensive luxury designer one later. I ended up donating those bags away because I lost interest in that style, so I'm glad I didn't spend that much money in the first place.

Some tips that works for me on buying less

Handbags
I designed my wardrobe to only fit a certain number of handbags, I keep a wishlist and only buy a couple items each year. I don’t buy handbags out of my wishlist. I also don’t chase or have the need to tick off an item as quickly as possible. I was broke during my 20s so never thought about buying handbags, it was a distant dream. When I did first buy my proper designer handbag I decided it would be the Chanel classic flap which was way above anything I could afford, I think this helped me a lot. If I had just brought YSL or Gucci I would have easily fallen into the exessive trap. I was strict on myself when I had that goal.

Wishlist
I keep a wishlist of all items that I want or need, whether it’s handbags, clothes or shoes, expensive or inexpensive. I like a minimal collection so things on my wishlist are something where I feel there is a gap in my closet. For example, I have a red cardigan on my list. It’s been there for a good couple years. I also keep a wishlist for general household items too.

List of outfits
I keep a list of outfits I have for all seasons or occasions on my phone. This helps me to quickly pick an outfit whenever I feel I have nothing to wear.
Examples include city break outfits, work outfits, gym outfits, casual brunch outfits, dinner outfits, formal occasions. This also reminds me of all the items that I have in my closet and what I do need.

Choose your saves and splurges
Choose the luxury items that I want to buy, just because I see influencers buying luxury items from every category doesn’t mean I have to as well. Personally I only buy luxury handbags and a mix of independent jewellery and known jewellery brands. I don’t buy designer shoes, clothes or other accessories. This is a personal taste thing, I just don’t want to look like the average insta girl. I buy clothes from both high street and high end, H&M, Zara, Allsaints, Free People, Reiss, and many more. I make my clothes last years regardless of whether it was fast fashion or not.

Don’t treat luxury items as investments
Even if I buy a classic handbag or a timeless watch. My luxury items will likely only sell at the price the buyer is willing to pay. Unless the item is rare and in pristine condition, there may be some time and effort before the item sells which I then may want to factor in when selling.

Chasing your wishlist item or your dream
Whilst it is fun to tick off a wishlist item, find the next bargain, reward after a tough day or to celebrate a milestone. I ask myself why I really want that item. Nothing wrong in wanting the item for any of the above reasons, but I remind myself there are other ways to reward myself. E.g massage, takeaway, movie night, taking a trip, out with friends.
I also remind myself of bigger goals and challenges other than acquiring a wishlist item e.g. travel somewhere, learn a new skill, do something I’ve always wanted to do or have been afraid to do.

Even I struggle with spending, I like nice things and have expensive taste. I constantly remind myself that I can lose this in a heartbeat and I still have bigger things that I want to achieve. I don’t just want nice handbags, I want to be happy and live an enriched life. When I think of this I think of family, friends and memories not handbags. Being a somewhat minimalist also helps with being content with the things you do have.

 

[Alienza]

Is there a thread for downsizing scarves collection? I just sold a few of my scarves . Im feeling a bit sad but relieved as well. Sad because I sold them cheaply, relieved because I finally did it after planning to do it for many months. From now on I will be more careful in choosing colourways…
Back to bag collection downsizing, I would like to add, try the bag before buying it. Carry it to feel the weight and how comfortable it is. If its not comfortable don’t buy it. I let go a Prada gaufre and LV artsy empreinte because they were too heavy for me. And gave away to charity a Balenciaga because it kept slipping off my shoulder. They are beautiful bags and when I bought them I thought I could adjust to them but in the end I couldn’t . There is one more bag in my collection that I should give away because it sits awkwardly on my shoulder when i use it. Once that is gone, all the bags in my collection are bags that are comfortable and easy to carry.

 

[Kuschelnudde]

+1

Imho the main problem is constant dealing with this stuff. Even the discussions about how ro reduce the urge to buy new handbags are an expression of obsession with it.

It might sound harsh but for me it is a kind of self-deception. Not really changing anything but instead dealing with the same topic in a way you can pretend it is more reflective, responsible and grown-up.

I don’t want to offend anyone, it is just my personal opinion based on the reflection of my own habits.

Very insightful post. I think this is spot on.

Saying that this is based on your reflection makes it seem that you felt obsessed with this topic yourself. Have you since managed to become less obsessed with it?

 

[880]

I also follow a few influencers and also watch influencers to unwind. That doesn’t mean I want everything they buy and own, in fact I would say it’s turned me off because it’s become too basic, hauls or promoting brands they’re being paid or gifted. They all have very similar taste which is also boring. For example Lydia now never shows her other handbags, it’s all about Hermès now. It’s like you can never truly feel satisfied unless you have a Hermès. Don’t get me wrong I would love to own a Hermès, but I won’t be selling my current handbags to get one nor would I stop using all of my other handbags if I do get one.



Some tips that works for me on buying less

Handbags
I designed my wardrobe to only fit a certain number of handbags, I keep a wishlist and only buy a couple items each year. I don’t buy handbags out of my wishlist. I also don’t chase or have the need to tick off an item as quickly as possible. I was broke during my 20s so never thought about buying handbags, it was a distant dream. When I did first buy my proper designer handbag I decided it would be the Chanel classic flap which was way above anything I could afford, I think this helped me a lot. If I had just brought YSL or Gucci I would have easily fallen into the exessive trap. I was strict on myself when I had that goal.

Wishlist
I keep a wishlist of all items that I want or need, whether it’s handbags, clothes or shoes, expensive or inexpensive. I like a minimal collection so things on my wishlist are something where I feel there is a gap in my closet. For example, I have a red cardigan on my list. It’s been there for a good couple years. I also keep a wishlist for general household items too.

List of outfits
I keep a list of outfits I have for all seasons or occasions on my phone. This helps me to quickly pick an outfit whenever I feel I have nothing to wear.
Examples include city break outfits, work outfits, gym outfits, casual brunch outfits, dinner outfits, formal occasions. This also reminds me of all the items that I have in my closet and what I do need.

Choose your saves and splurges
Choose the luxury items that I want to buy, just because I see influencers buying luxury items from every category doesn’t mean I have to as well. Personally I only buy luxury handbags and a mix of independent jewellery and known jewellery brands. I don’t buy designer shoes, clothes or other accessories. This is a personal taste thing, I just don’t want to look like the average insta girl. I buy clothes from both high street and high end, H&M, Zara, Allsaints, Free People, Reiss, and many more. I make my clothes last years regardless of whether it was fast fashion or not.

Don’t treat luxury items as investments
Even if I buy a classic handbag or a timeless watch. My luxury items will likely only sell at the price the buyer is willing to pay. Unless the item is rare and in pristine condition, there may be some time and effort before the item sells which I then may want to factor in when selling.

Chasing your wishlist item or your dream
Whilst it is fun to tick off a wishlist item, find the next bargain, reward after a tough day or to celebrate a milestone. I ask myself why I really want that item. Nothing wrong in wanting the item for any of the above reasons, but I remind myself there are other ways to reward myself. E.g massage, takeaway, movie night, taking a trip, out with friends.
I also remind myself of bigger goals and challenges other than acquiring a wishlist item e.g. travel somewhere, learn a new skill, do something I’ve always wanted to do or have been afraid to do.

Even I struggle with spending, I like nice things and have expensive taste. I constantly remind myself that I can lose this in a heartbeat and I still have bigger things that I want to achieve. I don’t just want nice handbags, I want to be happy and live an enriched life. When I think of this I think of family, friends and memories not handbags. Being a somewhat minimalist also helps with being content with the things you do have.

Love this post as a reminder to purchase in a more mindful, sustainable, and meaningful way! Thank you

 

[EmmaPeel]

Very insightful post. I think this is spot on.

Saying that this is based on your reflection makes it seem that you felt obsessed with this topic yourself. Have you since managed to become less obsessed with it?

Yes, a few years ago I made a straight cut and sold a lot. I still love bags but I am more mindful with my purchases.

For example I realized that - though I really like colorful bags - I always tend to wear more muted or classic colors.
Also I stopped looking for „deals“. These were always seasonal and at the end I didn’t use them as much as I would have used the classic styles.

At the moment I have around 15 bags. Mainly timeless styles (or what I see as timeless) in black, brown or beige. Before a new purchase I think a lot about how I will use it and if it will fit my lifestyle. Often I pass - too small, too colorful, too trendy, not practical… the list of my no-go‘s today is very long and this stopped my obsession. And there are months I am not even thinking about bags. Afterwards it is just fun scrolling through the new releases and styles and sometimes I find something appealing which is going to work for me. But I have to love it.