2024 Resolution: Shopping my own Bag and SLG Collection

[Sparkletastic]

December Activities and Challenges - pick and choose as you please.

I. 2024 Year In Review Reflection
(Thanks @Vintage Leather)

Utilize these thought starters to evaluate your collection, your usage patterns and your lessons learned in 2024.
• What is your most useful purse?
• What is your best purchase of the year?
• We’ve all had a lot of lifestyle changes this year - how has it affected your style?
• What is the one thing we’ve learned this year that you want to take into the next?

II. Setting 2025 Goals
Take this month to consider what you want to do with your handbag collection, wardrobe or even your beautiful life in 2025. Share these thoughts in January when we start the 2026 Shopping Your Closet thread.

III. End of year optional challenges

• Holiday colors: December has many holidays celebrated across the world - red & green, brown & gold, blue & white and more! Pick the holiday that you want to honor and wear / show off your bags in those traditional colors.

• End with a bang: As we come to the last part of the year, wear the last bag you’ve purchased at least 3 times this month.

@Vlad please pin this to the top of our thread.

 

[Sparkletastic]

@Sparkletastic and others interested in


• What specific model of bag do you find most practical and happy to use?
Hermes Evie, literally by default. I love the colour (black) the leather (Clemence) the ghw (I bought one because H stated making the Evie with ghw) as well as the size, comfort and anonymity of it (pocket forward).

I also like my Emmys (now discontinued). They were coveted in the '80s and I inherited 3. So well organised.

All the cartridge-style (horseshoe shape) or camera bags like the Gucci Lady Web, Dior Bobby, Gucci Soho Disco, Chanel Tassel etc. They're good alternatives for the Evie, when I need a bit more dressy.

• What specific model of bag do you just love to own?
H Boldies, Plumes, Gucci BTHs, Dome bags (Catherines) which are similar to H Bolides. I love they're so traditional and beautifully Modern at the same time.


• Do these categories match? Why or why not?

Practical is not always beautiful aesthetically. Evie is a sports bag (around stables and horses). I have gone out in the evening with it, but I'm not really happy doing that. I feel similarly about a cartridge/saddle bag shape.
Bolides, Plumes and BTHs are statement dress-bags in the way one wears statement jewellery. I point of focus rather than for schlepping. I could take a small dome-shaped or box bag out for an occasion or evening date and feel en pointe as well as look authoritative for everyday.
Camera bags are quite a good compromise between the two, particularly of there's a tassel or chain.

I just had time to look up some of these models as I was unfamiliar with them. I couldn’t find anything on the “Emmy” (I assumed it’s Hermes?) or Gucci BTH. Can you share the full or standard names?

I adore dome bags and am surprised I don’t see more brands coming out with them. Perhaps it’s because of the past (too many IMO) years of focus on mini bags. I fully regret selling a beautiful Prada dome bag I had just a few years ago. If I ever see one resale, I’m snapping it up. Similarly I’ve been tempted by the Alma. Maybe, I should consider the Bolide as I haven’t purchased Hermes yet. I’ll have to check them out to see if they make me swoon like some of its descendants from other brands have.

I’m JUST starting to buy larger bags again . I really am weary of the small bag dangling on my shoulder silhouette and want to get back to more of the statement / crook of the arm bags with certain outfits. Nothing too big because I don’t carry much - just sunnies, a small wallet and a cosmetics case. But, I've also gone back to carrying a small notebook everywhere because - despite being attached conjoined twin style to my phone - I often do like to physically write notes and do my sketching (art) when I’m waiting somewhere.

I’m sick of shoving things Tetris like into smaller bags but hate the black holes of hobos and deconstructed totes. So a “proper” pocketbook / handbag with structure is really appealing to me now. Maybe this shift will have me appreciate my C Jumbos more.

 

[papertiger]

My navy Emmy:

It's only 22cm across but hold essentials easily. 0 markings. No name on the outside, no logo, just soft supple leather. 4 compartments inside plus a pen and ticket holder. Zipped pocket and a back pocket. The main opening zips before the flap folds over too.
The dark red I have is 25cm and has a companion larger sister. I took both to Stuttgart for work and they looked very smart despite being 30+ years at that point.



Gucci BTH = Bamboo Top Handle*.

Not exactly practical in a chuck around way but very usable. I used to carry it regularly to work, more like a basket, things stay organized because it's structured. I just love them. *People seem to include all Bamboo handles, but the name really doesn't include the Diana (bamboo handles tote) basket or Peggy (single handle hobo or flatter bag)

This is my newer SO black BTH 1947 (2022) and the Light Beige Bold New BTH (2015). It's confusing, but there are many small differences to the variations through the years.

Usually the bamboo is natural, or at least shoes of brown (which is also gorgeous and I have 3 of those too)



Dome bags a re smart and functional IMO.They work formally /casually.

 

[whateve]

My navy Emmy:

It's only 22cm across but hold essentials easily. 0 markings. No name on the outside, no logo, just soft supple leather. 4 compartments inside plus a pen and ticket holder. Zipped pocket and a back pocket. The main opening zips before the flap folds over too.
The dark red I have is 25cm and has a companion larger sister. I took both to Stuttgart for work and they looked very smart despite being 30+ years at that point.

View attachment 6079257

Gucci BTH = Bamboo Top Handle*.

Not exactly practical in a chuck around way but very usable. I used to carry it regularly to work, more like a basket, things stay organized because it's structured. I just love them. *People seem to include all Bamboo handles, but the name really doesn't include the Diana (bamboo handles tote) basket and the Peggy (single handle hobo or flater bag)

This is my newer SO black BTH 1947 (2022) and the Light Beige Bold New BTH (2015). It's confusing, but there are many small differences to the variations through the years.

Usually the bamboo is natural, or at least shoes of brown (which is also gorgeous and I have 3 of those too)

View attachment 6079266

Dome bags a re smart and functional IMO.They work formally /casually.

I had a dome bag once. I felt it was hard to use. You had to unzip it all the way to reach things inside. I love the way they look, just not very functional for me.

 

[cecchetti]

More a thing with RTW and make-up. It's definitely a phenomenon.

I do RTW twice a year, so at least it's on purpose. I buy an investment piece, occasionally couple of pieces. This year it was two suits (one's home, the other still in alteration).This/These are central points to my seasonal wardrobe. Everything else has to work around, including clothes I have already. I then bought: Shirts; ties; shorts; tees, jeans; scarves; etc which added-up, but not as much as if I had just bought willy-nilly. Apart from Gucci shoes and dog collar, most has been vintage, high-street or I own already. I felt very guilty about the cashmere scarves because I didn't need them. At least everything new works with everything existing.

Major shifts can help me weed-out 'what was I thinking?', 'I'll never be that person again' and 'what's that?' for the charity shop. Plus, the major fashion shows also come twice a year so it makes me feel inspired longterm. Next SS, I'll be heading (or keep heading) luxe 1960s (a la Celine SS25) just a bit more relaxed (which means I'll have almost everything already).So whilst I so a "spurt" of RTW buying, it also prompts me to edit and repairs.

Make-up is like an on/off switch. Don't buy anything bar a mascara all year and then bam, I have boxes. It is a dark-evening, coming-up to Christmas thing - I need to be really aware Oct-Jan. It used to be seeing the beautiful displays in department stores and pretending I was only buying gifts for others .

Today I forced myself to empty my Liberty cart which was full of Lisa Eldridge and Hourglass. I have so many beautiful lipsticks to use-up and just bought new (Hermes, Guerlain x 2, Mac x 2). How often do I wear red lipstick? Hardly ever. I own at 3 full-size Hourglass finishing powders already that are not even half-used but there I was buying 5 more plus 3 blushers, a bronzer and a strobe highlighter. I just bought 4 blushers (Mac and drugstore) and a Mac bronzer. I have an unopened bottle of Nars foundation on my bathroom self, just bought a Fenty stick, and I was stalking LE's Enhancing skin tint like she'll never restock. 1 bottle of foundation lasts me more than a year!!!! Mid- September, I had to buy a new waterproof mascara for a shoot (Benefit - rubbish) now, somehow I have 6 new ones including a free with purchase and Burgundy Maybelline Sky High - which makes me look like I've been (but it was 3 for 2 offer ).

I also shop like this..

I bought pieces in February /March, but then also in July.

Yesterday I bought a merino snow tip shearling coat, which I hadn’t intended to do-that was on Next year’s list!

I bought some fall wear in September, and am shopping tomorrow .

That’s really it until next year , apart from jeans, Skins pieces etc…I watched the collections as well for SS2025 and have lists for next year.

Tomorrow I May buy RTW, I have a list of things to try on(very long!), but I’ve just got over a week long head cold and tbh am sick of the winter already..

I’ll report back on Saturday with my shopping!

 

[papertiger]

I also shop like this..

I bought pieces in February /March, but then also in July.

Yesterday I bought a merino snow tip shearling coat, which I hadn’t intended to do-that was on Next year’s list!

I bought some fall wear in September, and am shopping tomorrow .

That’s really it until next year , apart from jeans, Skins pieces etc…I watched the collections as well for SS2025 and have lists for next year.

Tomorrow I May buy RTW, I have a list of things to try on(very long!), but I’ve just got over a week long head cold and tbh am sick of the winter already..

I’ll report back on Saturday with my shopping!

I'm sorry you're not well. Please look after yourself

Preparing for and buying seasonally is the couture/tailor-made way, but sometimes things show-up unexpectedly and we have to be ready to pounce too.

I found two other almost unused statement Dior lipsticks and a Chanel radiance finishing powder, so I'm really pleased I didn't spend more on needless makeup. At least these days I'm actually wearing lipstick occasionally so there's hope I'll get through them.

Spoiler: DH update

I am happy to report DH is eating better after some difficult times last week. This will be his 'round 3' of chemo

 

[cecchetti]

I'm sorry you're not well. Please look after yourself

Preparing for and buying seasonally is the couture/tailor-made way, but sometimes things show-up unexpectedly and we have to be ready to pounce too.

I found two other almost unused statement Dior lipsticks and a Chanel radiance finishing powder, so I'm really pleased I didn't spend more on needless makeup. At least these days I'm actually wearing lipstick occasionally so there's hope I'll get through them.

Spoiler: DH update

I am happy to report DH is eating better after some difficult times last week. This will be his 'round 3' of chemo

That’s good news about DH❤️❤️❤️.I hope things stay that way, but I know things are day by day..

Don’t worry about me-I’m 95% better, by tomorrow I’ll be fine…

I wear lipstick every day, a hangover from my dancer days ..red or pink.(Kilian, I might buy a new pink tomorrow ).

 

[dcooney4]

I'm sorry you're not well. Please look after yourself

Preparing for and buying seasonally is the couture/tailor-made way, but sometimes things show-up unexpectedly and we have to be ready to pounce too.

I found two other almost unused statement Dior lipsticks and a Chanel radiance finishing powder, so I'm really pleased I didn't spend more on needless makeup. At least these days I'm actually wearing lipstick occasionally so there's hope I'll get through them.

Spoiler: DH update

I am happy to report DH is eating better after some difficult times last week. This will be his 'round 3' of chemo

Glad to hear he is eating well. That helps! Happy you found perfect lipsticks.

 

[dcooney4]

I also shop like this..

I bought pieces in February /March, but then also in July.

Yesterday I bought a merino snow tip shearling coat, which I hadn’t intended to do-that was on Next year’s list!

I bought some fall wear in September, and am shopping tomorrow .

That’s really it until next year , apart from jeans, Skins pieces etc…I watched the collections as well for SS2025 and have lists for next year.

Tomorrow I May buy RTW, I have a list of things to try on(very long!), but I’ve just got over a week long head cold and tbh am sick of the winter already..

I’ll report back on Saturday with my shopping!

The coat sounds lovely.

 

[lill_canele]

It’s funny how I always buy in spurts. Anyone else like that? I will go months or even years and buy almost nothing. Then I’ll get in a mood and buy several items at once.

More a thing with RTW and make-up. It's definitely a phenomenon.

Make-up is like an on/off switch. Don't buy anything bar a mascara all year and then bam, I have boxes. It is a dark-evening, coming-up to Christmas thing - I need to be really aware Oct-Jan. It used to be seeing the beautiful displays in department stores and pretending I was only buying gifts for others .

As I have accumulated things overtime, I have shopped less frequently and prefer to go in when the SS or FW collections come in, or try on sample sizes when they are available. On occasion I will buy an item here or there. But I do find it fun to buy in spurts. It's like a shopping spree haul and it feels limitless, lol.
With make-up I tend to hold off and wait for the Sephora Rouge/VIB sale which is at least twice a year. I believe the next one starts 01Nov2024, so I have a nice list waiting for new items I'm excited to try and to restock old ones.

Questions of the day:

Within your collection…

• What specific model of bag do you find most practical and happy to use?
• What specific model of bag do you just love to own?
• Do these categories match? Why or why not?

In recent years I have loved shoulder bags. While I find top handle bags and clutches more fashionable and am happy to wear them to complete an outfit; my grab and gos are my shoulder bags. They feel secure under the arm, don't pull at clothes (especially blazers and other outerwear) like a crossbody bag. And I don't know, it just feels so clean and chic to carry a shoulder bag. The feeling of carrying it by hand and easily transitioning to the shoulder is so nice!


I have really been MIA this year haha. Wishing you all well and hope things get better if you're in a bit of a slump.

Work just has been a little crazy. And with the economy, it has been a very trying time for healthcare. There's been a lot of structural changes and it's interesting to see that a field in which many have felt to be safe and stable, may not be the case for some anymore. I feel fortunate to be where I am however, tensions are high in some departments, even for the nurses.
As medical foundations and groups buy up small private practices, insurance contracts with hospitals get cut/let go or changed, it creates a lot of stress and upheaval for healthcare professionals and patients alike.
These days there are a lot of changes and decisions being made, and I'm just waiting for the dust to settle and see what the results of those changes will be in the years to come.

 

[whateve]

As I have accumulated things overtime, I have shopped less frequently and prefer to go in when the SS or FW collections come in, or try on sample sizes when they are available. On occasion I will buy an item here or there. But I do find it fun to buy in spurts. It's like a shopping spree haul and it feels limitless, lol.
With make-up I tend to hold off and wait for the Sephora Rouge/VIB sale which is at least twice a year. I believe the next one starts 01Nov2024, so I have a nice list waiting for new items I'm excited to try and to restock old ones.


In recent years I have loved shoulder bags. While I find top handle bags and clutches more fashionable and am happy to wear them to complete an outfit; my grab and gos are my shoulder bags. They feel secure under the arm, don't pull at clothes (especially blazers and other outerwear) like a crossbody bag. And I don't know, it just feels so clean and chic to carry a shoulder bag. The feeling of carrying it by hand and easily transitioning to the shoulder is so nice!


I have really been MIA this year haha. Wishing you all well and hope things get better if you're in a bit of a slump.

Work just has been a little crazy. And with the economy, it has been a very trying time for healthcare. There's been a lot of structural changes and it's interesting to see that a field in which many have felt to be safe and stable, may not be the case for some anymore. I feel fortunate to be where I am however, tensions are high in some departments, even for the nurses.
As medical foundations and groups buy up small private practices, insurance contracts with hospitals get cut/let go or changed, it creates a lot of stress and upheaval for healthcare professionals and patients alike.
These days there are a lot of changes and decisions being made, and I'm just waiting for the dust to settle and see what the results of those changes will be in the years to come.

RE: the medical situation. It's happening in our small town. The hospital is buying up private practices and most doctors now work for them. There is less choice in providers. Some types of medicine aren't represented or there is nowhere to go for a second opinion. We've had to go out of town to a university hospital for important things.

I agree with you about shoulder bags.

 

[cecchetti]

RE: the medical situation. It's happening in our small town. The hospital is buying up private practices and most doctors now work for them. There is less choice in providers. Some types of medicine aren't represented or there is nowhere to go for a second opinion. We've had to go out of town to a university hospital for important things.

I agree with you about shoulder bags.

Re the bags, I prefer top handle bags..

 

[Sparkletastic]

I went on a bit of an online handbag / SLG shopping spree this month. A bit of celebration from being pain free for the first time in 3 months.

I ended up returning most of the items (6 of 11) because they looked far better online than they did when they arrived to me. But, I did find 3 bags and 2 SLG’s that I’m super excited about. Here are the deets on the first.

If you’ve known me for any amount of time on this forum, you know I’ve been on a continuous yet wildly unsuccessful hunt for the perfect black tote. I’ve given up on perfection and now I’m just looking for a tote that meets most of my requirements. I ordered 4 totes and narrowed it down to a Dior and a Louis Vuitton.

I liked the look of the Dior but it was super boxy and unattractive on my body. I felt like I was carrying a shipping crate under my arm. LOL!

I expected to hate the LV Mahina Blossom MM because I really don’t like the Neverful. But, lo and behold, the LV blossom won! I love that it has two very different shapes depending on how you use the closures. I also really like the leather that has a good hand feel but is still thin enough to be lightweight. I’ll have to use an organizer / shaper when it’s fully open but overall, I really like the versatility this will give me in my wardrobe. Huge win!

It also doesn’t hurt that I got it for half price at Fashionphile because it doesn’t have the detachable shoulder strap. I’d never use that thin shoulder strap anyway so I can buy a thicker one from a leather vendor. Saving 50% on a like new bag makes the budget babe in me giddy.

 

[Sparkletastic]

My navy Emmy:

It's only 22cm across but hold essentials easily. 0 markings. No name on the outside, no logo, just soft supple leather. 4 compartments inside plus a pen and ticket holder. Zipped pocket and a back pocket. The main opening zips before the flap folds over too.
The dark red I have is 25cm and has a companion larger sister. I took both to Stuttgart for work and they looked very smart despite being 30+ years at that point.

View attachment 6079257

Gucci BTH = Bamboo Top Handle*.

Not exactly practical in a chuck around way but very usable. I used to carry it regularly to work, more like a basket, things stay organized because it's structured. I just love them. *People seem to include all Bamboo handles, but the name really doesn't include the Diana (bamboo handles tote) basket or Peggy (single handle hobo or flatter bag)

This is my newer SO black BTH 1947 (2022) and the Light Beige Bold New BTH (2015). It's confusing, but there are many small differences to the variations through the years.

Usually the bamboo is natural, or at least shoes of brown (which is also gorgeous and I have 3 of those too)

View attachment 6079266

Dome bags a re smart and functional IMO.They work formally /casually.

I neeeeeeed both of these gorgeous bags! I’m holding you fully accountable for my future BTH purchase!!

I'm sorry you're not well. Please look after yourself

Preparing for and buying seasonally is the couture/tailor-made way, but sometimes things show-up unexpectedly and we have to be ready to pounce too.

I found two other almost unused statement Dior lipsticks and a Chanel radiance finishing powder, so I'm really pleased I didn't spend more on needless makeup. At least these days I'm actually wearing lipstick occasionally so there's hope I'll get through them.

Spoiler: DH update

I am happy to report DH is eating better after some difficult times last week. This will be his 'round 3' of chemo

I’m SO glad that DH is doing better and eating well! That is such a relief for both of you!

 

[Sparkletastic]

Someone please come list the bags I want to get rid of. I am soooooo over listing bags. I just hate the whole process including answering questions and selling.

I’m going to take one more look to see if there’s something I can do to fall in love with and / or transform these bottom feeders into “good citizens” in my collection. But I really think they just need to go. And, I need some little helper to make them go away.

 

[cecchetti]

I went on a bit of an online handbag / SLG shopping spree this month. A bit of celebration from being pain free for the first time in 3 months.

I ended up returning most of the items (6 of 11) because they looked far better online than they did when they arrived to me. But, I did find 3 bags and 2 SLG’s that I’m super excited about. Here are the deets on the first.

If you’ve known me for any amount of time on this forum, you know I’ve been on a continuous yet wildly unsuccessful hunt for the perfect black tote. I’ve given up on perfection and now I’m just looking for a tote that meets most of my requirements. I ordered 4 totes and narrowed it down to a Dior and a Louis Vuitton.

I liked the look of the Dior but it was super boxy and unattractive on my body. I felt like I was carrying a shipping crate under my arm. LOL!

I expected to hate the LV Mahina Blossom MM because I really don’t like the Neverful. But, lo and behold, the LV blossom won! I love that it has two very different shapes depending on how you use the closures. I also really like the leather that has a good hand feel but is still thin enough to be lightweight. I’ll have to use an organizer / shaper when it’s fully open but overall, I really like the versatility this will give me in my wardrobe. Huge win!

It also doesn’t hurt that I got it for half price at Fashionphile because it doesn’t have the detachable shoulder strap. I’d never use that thin shoulder strap anyway so I can buy a thicker one from a leather vendor. Saving 50% on a like new bag makes the budget babe in me giddy.
View attachment 6080250View attachment 6080251

I’m SO sorry you’ve been in pain..and SO happy now that you’re finally pain free!

That’s some shopping spree..pity you had to return so much(lucky you were able to..)

Your new bags so far are beautiful and practical as well.

(although your bag which I love the most is the pale gold Prada, I absolutely love that!)

3 bags and 2 SLGs isn’t so bad, especially when you’ve got such fantastic discounts!
Carry them in good health❤️❤️❤️.

I hope you manage to find Emmy bags as well, and sell the bags you no longer want to own ..xx

There is light at the end of the tunnel!