2023 Resolution: Shopping my Own Bags and SLG Collection

[Vintage Leather]

A long standing tradition in this thread is to remind ourselves of how wonderful our own collections are by showcasing them. We can see how far we have come, collection wise, and we reminded that we have all (or most of) what we need making it easier to shop our own closets.



• New theme weeks start each Sunday

• Don’t jump ahead but, if you miss a week, please do show your bags “late”.

• Show bags individually or in a group

• You do NOT have to wear the bags that week

• For added fun, show old pictures from previous years to demonstrate how you have curated it over time.

• This is completely voluntary. There is no pressure to post at any time.





So what are the showcases? In the Fall, we group our bags by makers! Feel free to show bags, small leather goods, or however it is easiest to organize!

August 13 - Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta

August 20 - Burberry, Celine

August 27 - Coach, Chanel

September 3 - Chloe, Dior

September 10 - Dooney & Bourke, Fendi

September 17 - Ferragamo, Givenchy

September 24 - Goyard, Gucci

October 1 - Hermes, Kate Spade

October 8 - Loewe, Longchamp

October 15 - Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs

October 22 - Michael Kors, Miu Miu

October 29 - Mulberry, Prada

November 5 - Proenza Schouler, Rebecca Minkoff

November 12 - Saint Laurent, Tods

November 19 - Tory Burch, Valentino

November 26 - Bags by Jewelers: Bulgari, Cartier, Tiffany Co, Van Cleef & Arpels. Alternatively, the pillboxes, compacts and other lovelies made by jewelers that fit in your bag.

December 3 - independent artisans and custom bags.

 

[dcooney4]

My big mistake was to store this remnant away and then sort all my fabric remnants the next day. I even packed a duffel full of velvet fabrics- checked it, but what I´m looking for isn´t in there, neither is it in any of my newly organized other bags... it wasn´t in the bin bag of fabric remnants I threw out, either. (Checked this one before actually disposing of it.)
So the somewhere safe must have been carefully chosen- if I only remembered. One day I´ll find my velvet, I´m sure!

Congratulations on finding your prints!

Forgetting what a description on an inventory list means sounds like me. So I always try to be very descriptive. For example my shoe boxes say things like: black, too high heel, scratched, bought in xyz and there usually is a sketch.

BTW: open table space is very unlikely to be available in my world...

I hope you find your velvet. Do you remember what room you were in when you last saw it? Did you go get a snack while sorting things and is there a place to store velvet on the way to where the snacks are? I stored something in the hall closet on my way to get a cup of coffee.

 

[Vintage Leather]

I love how we’re trying to help Cowgirl hunt through her house from roughly 7000 km away.

 

[cowgirlsboots]

Years ago I sold a Coach keychain that was brand new. It had a tiny metal hangtag about 1/2 inch long (1.5 cm) that somehow fell off. I couldn't find it anywhere. A few weeks ago, in packing up things in preparation for painting, I found it. I almost vacuumed it up until I decided to take a closer look. It's unbelievable that it was there. I know it was from this particular keychain because it is pink.

Most of the time I can't remember what I put away so I wouldn't even know to look for it.

That little part had just been in hiding waiting to be found!
This happened to me a few weeks ago too. Maybe 10 years ago my youngest daughter "borrowed" my beloved and very important charm bracelet with charms on it my Grandma gave me when I was a little girl. I had totally given up hope to ever see it again, because I expected it to have disappeared in the trash or the vacuum cleaner a long time ago. When cleaning up in their house we moved the sofa off the wall and there - in the most hidden corner, half under the rug- it was. She must have thrown it behind the sofa to hide the evidence when I started asking about it. I´m so happy she did this and didn´t throw it out! It´s great to have it back!

 

[cowgirlsboots]

I love how we’re trying to help Cowgirl hunt through her house from roughly 7000 km away.

It´s wonderful!
I´ve been digging to several "safe spaces" yesterday- pretty boxes in corners, spaces behind furniture... so far without success. When I can muster the energy I must go through the back room. Maybe that small rolled up piece of fabric, tightly wrapped in plastic (not much bigger than my fist) has fallen out of a bag and rolled out of sight.

 

[cowgirlsboots]

I hope you find your velvet. Do you remember what room you were in when you last saw it? Did you go get a snack while sorting things and is there a place to store velvet on the way to where the snacks are? I stored something in the hall closet on my way to get a cup of coffee.

I last saw it on my sewing table and remember rolling it up and packing it into a clear plastic bag. The natural thing to do would have been reaching behind me and putting it into the old playpen in which I store lots of materials and remnants. I might have been there, but it isn´t anymore... I must have moved it and so far cannot imagine where to.

 

[whateve]

I last saw it on my sewing table and remember rolling it up and packing it into a clear plastic bag. The natural thing to do would have been reaching behind me and putting it into the old playpen in which I store lots of materials and remnants. I might have been there, but it isn´t anymore... I must have moved it and so far cannot imagine where to.

It's when I put something in a safe place so I won't forget it that I can't find it.

 

[dcooney4]

I last saw it on my sewing table and remember rolling it up and packing it into a clear plastic bag. The natural thing to do would have been reaching behind me and putting it into the old playpen in which I store lots of materials and remnants. I might have been there, but it isn´t anymore... I must have moved it and so far cannot imagine where to.

It will reappear when you are looking for something else.

 

[Sparkletastic]

hi, my name is Vintage and I’m a member of the “Ill Parent High Stress” brigade.

My stress reactions seem to vary depending on how much leisure time I have.

When my stress is insanely high and my time is short (5-20 minutes), I’m very active on tPF. Heck, I can measure when my life is at a tipping point by my number of comments on the “z-list celebrity fighting for relevance by opening public toilets” train wreck celebrity gossip threads. I also follow jewelry blogs like The Court Jeweller and The Adventurine, and GemX community pages and read issues of Vogue and Country Living.

When I have a half hour or so of time, shopping is a stress reliever for me. To keep shopping from becoming a problem, I like to shop for the rare and impractical. I set myself semi-impossible goals and look on resale sites, Poshmark, VC, ect. I’ll also “shop” by going through auction catalogues. Sometimes I’ll bid, but the annoyance of registering is usually enough to keep it to just browsing. Of course, the flip side is, when I do find something Ive been looking for, I feel obligated to buy it...

When I’m sitting in hospital waiting rooms, I usually knit. I have a few “home” projects, but it’s usually on the road. I’ll crochet when I’m angry

When I’m just stressed but time isn’t a factor, I’ll listen to audiobooks, sort my closet, plan a trip, go to the gym - especially the climbing gym.

I love urban sketching, and en plein air watercolors. I tend to go for the A6 Moleskin watercolor books, but I ordered a few British cold press and hot press books to play with. I do find it relaxing to take painting classes when time permits - but they’re usually at a specific time so it’s hit or miss on

Great stress relievers. I need to do a better job of managing my stress.

Your idea of making your shopping goal something coveted but difficult to find is brilliant! I’m going to join you in that approach.

Shocked about the sneaker addiction! I thought I remembered you never wearing them, or maybe that was jeans.

Covid didn't actually change my life that much as I was already retired. What bags are you considering?

The sneaker addiction came as a result of me now WFH with very little travel. I wear cute (IMO 🤣 ) athleisure most days so the cute sneakers started popping up. We don’t wear shoes in the house so these are for when I inevitably need to run an errand and am already dressed in casual wear.

And. Jeans. I hate them. They hate me. I am currently searching for cute straight leg jeans with impeccable fit. I fear I may die slumped in a darkened dressing room clutching dark denim in clawed fists. LOL!

Great to see you back! I am definitely moving toward a more relaxed way of dressing since the pandemic. I still like to look nice, but have moved more and more towards athletic wear, which has really stepped up its game (I’ve gotten some wide-leg pants that are great for work). I’m also nearing retirement, hoping to do that in about six years, so I’m trying to blend the two as I move forward with purchases. Clothing, bags, shoes and jewelry included.

Which sneaker brands and styles are you loving? And what styles of bags are you considering?

Re: brands - it varies. I have zero desire to become a sneakerhead as that comes with rule following. LOL! I get what makes me happy - period. 80% are Nike with the next good chunk from Jimmy Choo. I also snagged some Dior and a pair of Louboutin. The remainder are novelty - I hunted down some Hello Kitty Adidas, a pair of sneaks in my sorority’s colors, etc. …pure fun!

Bags - I’d love to find pretty camera bags or smallish/medium totes. I’m open to exploring brands but would love something along the aesthetic lines of Celine - great lines, limited fuss, good style, but still retains some personality.

I keep meaning to post my updated stats but things are in flux so I haven't had a chance to. Figured I'd pop in and say hi to everyone instead. Just looking at the last page or so and it seems lots of us are going through a rough time. Sending everyone best wishes and hoping that all the medical hurdles we each have pass with ease. I know how hard it is when you're in the middle of it and the stress is weighing down on you, but I promise you it will get better, so hang in there and be gentle with yourselves as you navigate these obstacles.

____

To keep (slightly) on topic- while I can't say that I have actual stats handy, I have had 2 unexpected upgrades. I went to a consignment store to get some prices on my contemporary bags and ended up swapping two of my bags instead. They weren't worth anything in cash but the store had bags that were on clearance and my store credit was just enough to get them. Who can say no to, essentially, free bags?!
Out went a couple of no-brand (but still beautiful leather bags) that were both gifted to me, and in came 2 nappa leather puffer bags (Max & co). The leather is so silky and the bag is so smooshy! I've always wanted a puffy bag and was eyeing up the MJ pillow bags a while ago but, they had quality issues that prevented me from purchasing when I could.
These are much nicer. They look like a more functional version of the Margiela Glam Slam bags, and without the logo (which I dislike).
The glam slams were amazing when I got to touch them a couple of years ago but something about the shape of the ones I saw didn't work for me (and besides, the cost was prohibitive). I'm much happier with these additions as they're a lot more casual and feel like they were meant to be mine.
*Sorry no pictures because the forum won't let me upload for some reason. I'll try again later.

Looking at my collection, I find my favourite bags are always the unplanned ones (which is the majority of them). It's more fun when you stumble across the perfect piece. I'm so glad my mental wishlist has never been uber-specific. It has left me open to nice surprises.

I've also been experimenting with shopping my own clothes closet in an extremely minimalist manner. For the past few months, I've only had out 9 items of clothing and 1 pair of shoes. I'm blown away at how easy it was to live with that little. Admittedly, that's because I have no life at the moment and I only go to the supermarket and the hospital, but it has also reminded me of how little we need to get by. Now everything extra I have feels like a huge bonus!
I did get terribly bored of my outfits so have just added in a few more pieces, totalling 15. I'll play around within that capsule for a while before revamping it all.


This is an excellent question and I'll be taking note of the answers given.
I used to be great at managing stress. A little time at the gym, long walks, a cup of tea and a pep talk to myself, and I was good to go. Over the last few years, that skill has eroded and, this past year in particular, I have found myself crumbling, time and again. I don't even recognize myself most days.
I've found that I tend to turn to TPF during those dark days and, basically, ask for help. As hard as it is to be that vulnerable and risk judgement for being stupid/weak/a failure, I've found that being brave and opening up here has always brought in nothing but love and support. The advice and emotional support everyone has readily provided each time I've shared my struggles has bolstered my resilience exponentially. I honestly don't know where I'd be today if not for this community- and my virtual friends on this thread, specifically.
So, to each and every one of you, let me take this opportunity to thank you from the bottom of my heart. The impact you've had on me is far greater than you'll ever know. I will forever be grateful!

I love your updates and am glad I popped in time to read one.

I COMPLETELY agree. My most used, most beloved bags were serendipity bags that instantly spoke to head and heart. In contrast, ones I purchased to “round out my collection” or because I felt I “should” own them are rarely worn. (Chanel black flap - I’m staring daggers at you. )

 

[lill_canele]

Which sneaker brands and styles are you loving? And what styles of bags are you considering?

I used to be such a sneakers and tennis shoes person. I used to wear converses back in high school (because those were the rage lol). Then I really got into Vans. This was probably influenced because a family member worked for Vans and so whenever we went shopping with him, we got anything we wanted 50% off.
Then it went to Adidas, with the hype of their ultraboosts. A little bit of Nike and APL as well.
Now I just have a pair of Golden Goose low top tennis shoes. I barely wear them but they come in handy when I need them.
At the gym, I still have my Vans (for lifting) and my Nike and APL shoes that I bought years ago, so I haven't bought anything new.

And. Jeans. I hate them. They hate me. I am currently searching for cute straight leg jeans with impeccable fit. I fear I may die slumped in a darkened dressing room clutching dark denim in clawed fists. LOL!

It's so interested because I lived in jeans from elementary school to college. I remember it was the straight-leg jeans in elementary and middle school. Then the super skinny jeans in high school and college. (I actually almost never wore sweatpants in college contrary to the popular stereotype haha).
Now I can't believe how I endured them lol. I have a few pair of skinny jeans and 2 baggy jeans, but I rarely wear them. Again, handy when I need them to put a specific outfit together (if I think something looks good with them), or if I need to dress down, but most of the time they're just sitting in the closet. They are more worn in fall/winter, but summers are way too hot in California, even if they're baggy.

 

[Bag peace]

I love your updates and am glad I popped in time to read one.

Ditto! Happy to have you back, Sparks.
I wear both jeans and trousers (using them almost interchangeably), so I'm no help on that discussion at all!

Bags - I’d love to find pretty camera bags or smallish/medium totes. I’m open to exploring brands but would love something along the aesthetic lines of Celine - great lines, limited fuss, good style, but still retains some personality.

Perhaps something from The Row? I've loved everyone of their bags that I've seen in Bloomies. They're really under-the-radar whilst still being chic, and they use great leather.
____
We were discussing stress relief methods earlier and I've just found another that I fall back on: clearing out stuff. Even if there's no clutter, removing items from my space somehow makes me feel calmer.
I'm navigating health problems in my entire family (including my poor kitty) and can't tolerate being in my own skin. I gave away a bag this morning.

 

[dcooney4]

Ditto! Happy to have you back, Sparks.
I wear both jeans and trousers (using them almost interchangeably), so I'm no help on that discussion at all!


Perhaps something from The Row? I've loved everyone of their bags that I've seen in Bloomies. They're really under-the-radar whilst still being chic, and they use great leather.
____
We were discussing stress relief methods earlier and I've just found another that I fall back on: clearing out stuff. Even if there's no clutter, removing items from my space somehow makes me feel calmer.
I'm navigating health problems in my entire family (including my poor kitty) and can't tolerate being in my own skin. I gave away a bag this morning.

Try and find a craft that you find enjoyable. Something simple that does not cause stress. I went to the craft store and ended up with supplies to paint little one-of-a-kind ornaments. It is fun and I can give them away or sell them.

 

[Bag peace]

Try and find a craft that you find enjoyable. Something simple that does not cause stress. I went to the craft store and ended up with supplies to paint little one-of-a-kind ornaments. It is fun and I can give them away or sell them.

Wonderful suggestion, thank you so much! I've been sampling perfumes for distraction (the hospital and lab I go to are next to several perfumeries) and that has been a nice touch of lightness amidst the bigger issues but, I definitely need better distractions at home. I'll have a think about what crafts I can tinker around with. I have some acrylic paints laying around so might start playing with those.

 

[880]

Ditto! Happy to have you back, Sparks.
I wear both jeans and trousers (using them almost interchangeably), so I'm no help on that discussion at all!


Perhaps something from The Row? I've loved everyone of their bags that I've seen in Bloomies. They're really under-the-radar whilst still being chic, and they use great leather.
____
We were discussing stress relief methods earlier and I've just found another that I fall back on: clearing out stuff. Even if there's no clutter, removing items from my space somehow makes me feel calmer.
I'm navigating health problems in my entire family (including my poor kitty) and can't tolerate being in my own skin. I gave away a bag this morning.

I’ve been clearing out stuff too. Hope the family health issues resolve themselves soon,

i buy premium denim jeans carefully; keep them for years, some for decades; and wear them sparingly.
Different cuts and styles, but none are super tight. I only wear denim in the cooler weather.
I don’t have many pairs. i prefer cargos or trousers. i do try to rotate clothes for longevity and cost per wear.
i Went through a dark, over dyed navy denim decade twenty plus years ago, and now my blue tones are mid range.
I do wear charcoal gray and black. And, as it turns out, I like pattern. I prefer regular rise. low rise never worked.
I don’t really worry about denim transfer bc I test bf wear and I tend to wear hand held bags and darker shoes.
Someday, I will return to white denim, but since I think it’s one of the least flattering denim shades, it could be awhile.

 

[cowgirlsboots]

Wonderful suggestion, thank you so much! I've been sampling perfumes for distraction (the hospital and lab I go to are next to several perfumeries) and that has been a nice touch of lightness amidst the bigger issues but, I definitely need better distractions at home. I'll have a think about what crafts I can tinker around with. I have some acrylic paints laying around so might start playing with those.

Don´t say "tinker around" please! This term makes me so mad.(*)
If you start to paint with acrylic paints it won´t be any childplay, because you will put skill, love and determination into it. Please give it a try!

*speaking of tinkering around: my man managed to totally discourage me tonight. I´m on a new me-made handbag project. As usual it´s an attempt to polish poo or in this case a very special kind of leather: curb couch!
It´s a challenge, a learning curve, nothing is straight forward and certainly nothing will turn out perfect. Plus my own attitude is changing between "I can do it and love what I do" and "I hate handmade- I want shop bought in a posh box" all the time. Still I put time, effort and my limited but developping skills into it. Having my work being called "tinkering around" drives me mad!

 

[cowgirlsboots]

We were discussing stress relief methods earlier and I've just found another that I fall back on: clearing out stuff. Even if there's no clutter, removing items from my space somehow makes me feel calmer.
I'm navigating health problems in my entire family (including my poor kitty) and can't tolerate being in my own skin. I gave away a bag this morning.

Clearing out stuff is a stress relief method I sometimes practice too. It´s so liberating to see stuff go quickly and leave behind open space. Instant gratification!
The only risk is that one gets carried away and gets rid off items one later regrets having let go...

Normally when doing a purge I will stuff everything that has to go into bin bags and store them out of sight for at least a couple of weeks so I still have the chance to overthink my decisions and claim items back that should have stayed.

May your, your family´s and your kitten´s health problems be solved quickly! I´m sending positive energy!