Do wet want some new challenges in August?
How about wearing one non-black neutral per week (whatever is a neutral for you)
How about wearing one non-black neutral per week (whatever is a neutral for you)
2025 Resolution: Shopping my own Bag and SLG Collection
- Thread starter papertiger
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I’m typically not one for giant logos and was surprised to see Hermes have their H on so many of their bags. But, some brands like LV, YSL & Gucci are top “offenders” when it comes to relying on their logo to be the “design.”
Warning, bag rant ahead
I want brands to avoid the current two extremes: the boredom (and IMO) laziness of “quiet luxury”and logomania 😵. I’m not saying I don’t like a well designed sleek and restrained bag. I do - IF it has some sort of architectural or other interest to it. And I can appreciate a good logo if the bag also has a reason for existing beyond that logo.
But, I want truly unique, mind blowing, heart pounding DESIGN. Where is the bold reinterpretation of archival elements? The head turning but judicious use of unique hardware & embellishments? The introduction of never before seen shapes and silhouettes that still manage to be practical off runway? The dreamy use of fine materials and construction to create a purse worthy of a good swoon?
Shouldn’t I know that’s a <insert brand name here> without any logo? Or, even better, shouldn’t I not care what brand it is because the bag is stunning in and of itself?
Handbags have such a huge potential to be wearable art. And premier brands once reliably delivered on that in (not so recent) past decades. So why now are we often just getting slightly differently shaped rectangles with big logos and maybe a tiny differentiator (strap goes this way or a pocket is hidden there or a flap closes that way…)
Rant over.I just have zero interest in looking like everyone else OR in having all my bags look like each other OR in paying premium prices for old / recycled ideas.
Sadly, how many of us are in favour of 'quiet luxury' on TPF, there are millions more people who won't buy any 'designer' goods unless they bear the V/LV/CC/GG/H/FF/TB/Burberry check/SLP/Celine etc. Even the Row put their name on their stealth wealth bags.
The 'H' on an Evelyne goes on the inside (and was designed to). For me it's OK anyway as it's one of my initials.
You beat me to it PT - the H does go on the inside but I see most people carrying it with the H on the outside. I can only think of one other H bag that has an H on it - the Constance. But the majority of the others are unlabeled unless you get up close and personal with it.
I agree 100% that the majority of people want that 'in your face' logo.
I love a good, well made bag - regardless of the label. I do think that often to get that quality, you have to look at the designer bags.
Since the move(s), I have been really looking at my bags (they're all quivering - worried they're about to hit the sale pile) and thinking about what I really like and need in a bag... beside excellent quality.
I know we've talked about it before - but what are your 'must have's' in a bag?
For me - it needs to be the right size (not too big or too small), with smooth leather, a leather lining, a top handle and a shoulder strap.
Not too much to ask for, right?
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My reds!
Last year - Goyard Sac Rouette, Ferragamo Studio, Hermes Drag II, Tory Burch McGraw
This year (I cropped out the Tory Burch McGraw because I sold it)
Last year - Goyard Sac Rouette, Ferragamo Studio, Hermes Drag II, Tory Burch McGraw
This year (I cropped out the Tory Burch McGraw because I sold it)
1) Agree, right size for me and my items
2) Not too heavy when empty
3) Not too bulky, I'm not a fan of it sort of sticking out against my body when on the shoulder or crossbody, maybe okay if handheld only
4) No too delicate, don't baby my bags lol, gotta be relatively durable
5) Needs to have at least some structure. Preferably able to sit and stand on its own without falling over and spilling contents.
As I have explored more options and gotten more comfortable with trying things, my list of requirements gets shorter haha.
You beat me to it PT - the H does go on the inside but I see most people carrying it with the H on the outside. I can only think of one other H bag that has an H on it - the Constance. But the majority of the others are unlabeled unless you get up close and personal with it.
I agree 100% that the majority of people want that 'in your face' logo.
I love a good, well made bag - regardless of the label. I do think that often to get that quality, you have to look at the designer bags.
Since the move(s), I have been really looking at my bags (they're all quivering - worried they're about to hit the sale pile) and thinking about what I really like and need in a bag... besides excellent quality.
I know we've talked about it before - but what are your 'must have's' in a bag?
For me - it needs to be the right size (not too big or too small), with smooth leather, a leather lining, a top handle and a shoulder strap.
Not too much to ask for, right?
The best of luck to all your (quivering) bags
Sometimes I feel sorry for my outgoing bags, particularly if they are vintage. The brand new, never worn ones, I don't mind because 'we' haven't bonded, and the ones that have well and truly been used to the point of wear have done their job. The vintage ones upset me more because I don't know if someone will appreciate their quirky charm. I already regret donating a 1960s, black, Susan Smith patent leather bag last year. It was just so slim, not much fitted inside.
Must-haves:
Lust-worthy leather or interesting/exceptional material is no1 by a long way
Workable colours for my wardrobe. I like most colours, it's more the exact shade I need to vibe with.
Winter bags preferably with leather or suede lining. For Summer bags, pretty linen or cotton is okay. H Evie is the exception (unlined).
Excellent hardware (if there is any).
At least one inside or outside pocket in/on med/large bags
Must be cartable (as in not hurt me or ruin clothes)
Small bags must hold my keys + cardholder + phone. This usually means min of 25cm length and some depth. Add to this lipstick or balm + sunglasses, or small folding umbrella in the Summer/Winter as desirable.
WOCs/clutches/minaudières etc are exceptions as they're for formal evening gowns or cocktail wear.
Med bags (25-30cm) Need to be occasion-friendly. Add to essentials of keys + cardholder + phone, with small makeup pouch, gloves, tissues, notebook, pen (in case) etc.
Large bags (30-40) make up most of my daily bags because I'm often out all day. I will probably need all the above + iPad, cardigan or shawl, sometimes a packed lunch. If I can keep it upright, a water battle too. Can't be too heavy - but I have exceptions.
hahahah - yes! I am still exploring but I do have to say that this thread - over the years - has really helped me understand what I really need and want in a bag!
I forgot to say that I do like a structured bag - not so structured that it's redonkulous (I haven't forgotten the Danse Lente debacle), but I do like it to be able stand up on it's own.
Yes - I always hope that the person who has the bags I've said Goodbye to - loves it and appreciates it too. I do wonder sometimes if they run into the same issues that I had with it as well!The best of luck to all your (quivering) bags
Sometimes I feel sorry for my outgoing bags, particularly if they are vintage. The brand new, never worn ones, I don't mind because 'we' haven't bonded, and the ones that have well and truly been used to the point of wear have done their job. The vintage ones upset me more because I don't know if someone will appreciate their quirky charm. I already regret donating a 1960s, black, Susan Smith patent leather bag last year. It was just so slim, not much fitted inside.
Must-haves:
Lust-worthy leather or interesting/exceptional material is no1 by a long way
Workable colours for my wardrobe. I like most colours, it's more the exact shade I need to vibe with.
Winter bags preferably with leather or suede lining. For Summer bags, pretty linen or cotton is okay. H Evie is the exception (unlined).
Excellent hardware (if there is any).
At least one inside or outside pocket in/on med/large bags
Must be cartable (as in not hurt me or ruin clothes)
Small bags must hold my keys + cardholder + phone. This usually means min of 25cm length and some depth. Add to this lipstick or balm + sunglasses, or small folding umbrella in the Summer/Winter as desirable.
WOCs/clutches/minaudières etc are exceptions as they're for formal evening gowns or cocktail wear.
Med bags (25-30cm) Need to be occasion-friendly. Add to essentials of keys + cardholder + phone, with small makeup pouch, gloves, tissues, notebook, pen (in case) etc.
Large bags (30-40) make up most of my daily bags because I'm often out all day. I will probably need all the above + iPad, cardigan or shawl, sometimes a packed lunch. If I can keep it upright, a water battle too. Can't be too heavy - but I have exceptions.
Most of my bags are on the small to medium size - I have a couple things I absolutely must have in my bag at all times. If they don't fit, I don't buy it.
And - yes - it can't be too heavy... which is another reason I don't have many large bags. Nature (and Cookie) hates a vacuum and it must be filled.
(with candy wrappers, tape measures, extra bags (coz you never know), scarves, coupons that you keep forgetting you have, dog treats and empty poo-bags)
1) Low maintenance and maintainable - no exotics, nothing that can't be wiped off if I get caught in a sudden rainstorm, easy to clean. Bonus if I can drop it off with the original maker for a bag spa visit.
2) Not too "in-your-face." I lived in NYC in the 90s - I don't feel safe carrying a heavily branded bag. CC and GG and LV's all belong on an optometrist chart, not a handbag. I will carry a chanel or LV bag to an event where I go from house-car-event, but not if there is any walking at all.
3) Easy to carry. If it's an arm-carry bag, it needs to fit on my arms. If its a shoulder bag, it needs to fit over my generously sized arms and to stay on my shoulder and not fall off. Crossbody bags must rest on the opposite hip, and the strap has to be wide enough to distribute the weight, and narrow enough that my boobs don't hate me.
4) crossbody and hobo bags need to be supple, and conform to the body. A shoulder or hand-carry bag needs to be rigid, and capable of standing on its own.
Bonus) One of my weird, hard no's - exotics with diamond accents. My grandmother was of the culture who believed in style rules. No leather in the evenings, exotics are strictly for sports events. No diamonds during the day, solid gold or pearls only. So when I see the diamond himalayan birkin, I just see something designed to either not be worn, or designed to be offensive.
I hear “quiet luxury” being used different ways. Sans aggressive logo/branding is how it was once used here on tPF and in other venues. That definition is one I can get behind.
The more recent usage of it as an aesthetic of wearing minimalist neutrals to ape some perceived image of the westernized wealthy is one I cannot tolerate. Luxury and wealth cuts across styles and cultures and “quiet” is relative.
That being said, some people don’t feel it’s “worth” buying a a bag unless everyone can see it as a status symbol. That’s how we end up with so many logoed bags. The brands are ensuring that crowd will buy. More and more, they’re ignoring those of us who would prefer not to wear ostentatious logos because it takes resources and risk to come out with innovative design.
BUT! I would happily wear a logoed bag if I were lucky enough like you to have my initial be the logo!
I only know the H is supposed to be on the inside from reading that on tPF. I’d bet 80% of who buy second hand haven’t heard that “rule.” So it makes sense that many people wear it on the outside.You beat me to it PT - the H does go on the inside but I see most people carrying it with the H on the outside. I can only think of one other H bag that has an H on it - the Constance. But the majority of the others are unlabeled unless you get up close and personal with it.
I agree 100% that the majority of people want that 'in your face' logo.
I love a good, well made bag - regardless of the label. I do think that often to get that quality, you have to look at the designer bags.
Since the move(s), I have been really looking at my bags (they're all quivering - worried they're about to hit the sale pile) and thinking about what I really like and need in a bag... beside excellent quality.
I know we've talked about it before - but what are your 'must have's' in a bag?
For me - it needs to be the right size (not too big or too small), with smooth leather, a leather lining, a top handle and a shoulder strap.
Not too much to ask for, right?
When I was originally learning about H, I saw 4 models with logos: Evelyne, Jige Elan, Constance and Geta. There may be more that I forgot since I don’t follow the brand. I do like the clutch and could see getting one if I can ever learn to not lose them. Lol.
What do I need in a bag? Hmmmm… This has shifted based on my life stage, my career stage, and stage of building my collection. But, I’ve learned lessons and nees fewer bags so I’ll be even more picky with my requirements:
• Excellent functionality for its class of bag - For example, I don’t require a WOC to be a workhorse but every bag still has to be well organized and hold at minimum my keys, phone, lip color and sunnies. I’m simply NOT going to be inconvenienced for a bag.
• Great quality - I and my wallet aren’t at the “it has to be bespoke, Hermes or nothing” level but I do expect solid construction and higher end materials. I’m hoping to learn much more about leathers, hardware and construction before I buy more. I’ve trusted brands too much in the past. Now, I want to know how to buy better.
• Elevates my collection as a whole - this can be via a unique design, filling an important niche or upleveling the overall quality. For example, last year I bought two bags with exotic leather. That is an advancement from just having cow and lamb skins. Now, I’d love a great croc bag. But, I have no clue where to even start and I will not spend the cost of a luxury vehicle on a bag.
• Fits my lifestyle - I wear my bags and refuse to have closet creepers. Except for evening bags, each one needs to be usable in my real life.
But that life has changed so radically since 2020 that I may have to do some buying / selling / gifting to DD to accommodate this shift. However, before I make any radical changes, I’m going to let my life and health stabilize.
😯 I have never heard of any of these rules. So, she would say you can’t wear a lambskin bag in the evening? Or that python only belongs at something like a tennis match? Then what does one wear in the evening if no leather or exotics? Just fabric? May I ask the origin of these rules? I’m very curious.
Re the bonus:
I must admit the exotic + diamond looks weird. Even stranger is that the diamonds are on base metal - at least H could run to gold or platinum
Most bags (and other luxury items) I think I'll hate, look much better in person. I know I should reserve my judgement. But, I have seen shiny croc and diamond B and Ks, including Himalayas and, nope, I don't get it.
Unlike you, I do like exotics though. Usually for day. Not so keen on 'mock-croc' though, there are enough interesting leathers and finishes. Ostrich and eel are also pretty good in the rain.
Another reason for the logos all over bags is that it is the one element that can be copyrighted. Bag designs can be copied so the original needs a way to be distinguished from the dupes.You beat me to it PT - the H does go on the inside but I see most people carrying it with the H on the outside. I can only think of one other H bag that has an H on it - the Constance. But the majority of the others are unlabeled unless you get up close and personal with it.
I agree 100% that the majority of people want that 'in your face' logo.
I love a good, well made bag - regardless of the label. I do think that often to get that quality, you have to look at the designer bags.
Since the move(s), I have been really looking at my bags (they're all quivering - worried they're about to hit the sale pile) and thinking about what I really like and need in a bag... beside excellent quality.
I know we've talked about it before - but what are your 'must have's' in a bag?
For me - it needs to be the right size (not too big or too small), with smooth leather, a leather lining, a top handle and a shoulder strap.
Not too much to ask for, right?
I don't have many must haves in a bag because even though there are things I'd like to have, it's rare to find everything in one bag.
I'd love an outside slip pocket for my phone.
I'd love at least 2 pockets inside, one for my card case wallet and one for my lip balm. I used to like zipped pockets; now I prefer all pockets to be open.
Leather quality is very important to me. It can be pebbled or smooth but it has to soft and supple. Bonus if it smells like real leather.
Color is important to me too, although I do have a few bags in "boring" colors.
For small bags I like to have a crossbody strap, preferably not too thin.
Larger bags should fit comfortably on my shoulder with a shortish drop but not crammed into my armpit and fit easily over a coat.
Minimum size should fit phone, card case, keys, sunglasses, lip balm... so WOCs don't usually work for me. I need some depth in a bag. Flat bags, even if they are big, can look lumpy when you put thicker items inside.
I have a couple clutches but I'm more comfortable with bags that allow me to be hands free. At least the clutches I own can be put under my arm if need be.
I don't like to stand out too much. My one bit of standing out is the bright colors I like.
Oooo - good point on the length of either top handles or shoulder straps!
My grandmother was very much into those rules as well, but I’ve never heard of exotics only for sporting events! So interesting! I have an old Emily Post book about etiquette, from the ‘50’s. It’s very entertaining to read - she goes into things like what to wear if you’re invited to someone’s country estate - I wonder if that rule is in it as well!
(I’d run off to check, but it’s at the other house)
What a great point about fitting your lifestyle. I have been guilty of buying for my imaginary very posh life… when in truth I live a life of office work, dogs, golf, and trying to organize my somewhat disorganized life.
I had a croc bag, but it was more for my imaginary life than my real life - so I sold it. But from that bag I learned that while I love green bags - I won’t carry one, and I hate dividers in my bags.
I can’t do WOC’s either, and I have the same issue with flat bags… I don’t like bulges!
I do like a pocket on the outside of my bag for my phone!
😯 I have never heard of any of these rules. So, she would say you can’t wear a lambskin bag in the evening? Or that python only belongs at something like a tennis match? Then what does one wear in the evening if no leather or exotics? Just fabric? May I ask the origin of these rules? I’m very curious.
I was 4 when I first started hearing these rules - no brown in town, no diamonds during the day, no white after Labor Day, leather is strictly for daytime, exotics are “sporty”. She attended Radcliffe in 1912, so she either learned them from her parents or at college etiquette classes.
She would usually have her dressmaker hold onto the offcuts from her dresses, and a bagmaker would make a custom matching evening bag. Sometimes, she’d pin a diamond brooch onto the evening bag to make it sparkle. If she didn’t have a matching bag, or didn’t feel like wearing it that night, she’d carry a beaded bag, a corde bag, or a metal one.
All your burgundy bags are beauties - I really like the first one - the Oliveve, and your Bayswater is divine.
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