Ever purged your collection in pursuit of one bag? How did it go?
- Thread starter Loquita
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louch, welcome to this thread!!! And you def. sound like you are in purge mode - don't worry, you are doing the right thing.
If you feel like you are slipping or need some support, just step in here. We've got your back!
Aw thanks Loquita - tPF gals are awesome
Hi Ladies,
I've been away for awhile but always love to return to read this thread! All the stories are so interesting and introspective--and very inspirational.
I'm happy to report that I continue to love the handbags I have. I am one of those people who do better with just a few loved styles. I also think I finally 'clicked' and focused on only keeping bags that really fit my lifestyle NOW--not ten years ago, not the aspirational/one day I'll dress up daily sort of mindset--and this has made all the difference. I still love looking at all these styles but realize that they are better for looking than buying.
I'm also turning the big 4-0 this year and started thinking about picking out a great bag to celebrate the occasion. There is a small part of me that has long LOVED the Bal Anthra City/Velo but I've never spent anywhere CLOSE to that on a bag--I'm a very low-end kind of girl. I've been trying to convince myself to just go for it, but it is just too far out of my comfort zone and, truth be told, I realized that I really just love carrying my lightweight Longchamp bags most of the time. Is that odd? Seems odd. Guess I'm odd.
I think this thread has been so great in helping people uncover the underlying reasons for some of their buying habits and working through this process. It's about the bag, but it's also about so much more than the bag.
I've been away for awhile but always love to return to read this thread! All the stories are so interesting and introspective--and very inspirational.
I'm happy to report that I continue to love the handbags I have. I am one of those people who do better with just a few loved styles. I also think I finally 'clicked' and focused on only keeping bags that really fit my lifestyle NOW--not ten years ago, not the aspirational/one day I'll dress up daily sort of mindset--and this has made all the difference. I still love looking at all these styles but realize that they are better for looking than buying.
I'm also turning the big 4-0 this year and started thinking about picking out a great bag to celebrate the occasion. There is a small part of me that has long LOVED the Bal Anthra City/Velo but I've never spent anywhere CLOSE to that on a bag--I'm a very low-end kind of girl. I've been trying to convince myself to just go for it, but it is just too far out of my comfort zone and, truth be told, I realized that I really just love carrying my lightweight Longchamp bags most of the time. Is that odd? Seems odd. Guess I'm odd.
I think this thread has been so great in helping people uncover the underlying reasons for some of their buying habits and working through this process. It's about the bag, but it's also about so much more than the bag.
I've thought about selling three of my five bags. For some reason, I just haven't been that interested in bags for the past few months and haven't bought a bag since early March, and before that, my last new bag was in the fall.
I don't really know if I would buy another bag with the sales or just sock it away!
I don't really know if I would buy another bag with the sales or just sock it away!
Hmmm Tejas do you remember telling me this? I had said that I wasn't sure I could spend $1k on a bag--
"JxWilliams--I think you should only carry what you're comfortable carrying. Maybe you simply want to scale down overall in terms of bag numbers but stay with midlevel designers. I know I'm considered pretty low end in terms of what I carry, but I just can't justify more money. I have no problem with what other ladies choose--I think they should buy it and enjoy it as they like--I just know what my comfort level is and it's pretty low."
I don't want you to be uncomfortable with your purchase if you should decide to get the Bal. I hear fantastic things about them, but if it is out of your comfort zone, I don't know that you will ever truly enjoy it without feeling some guilt about the money you have spent on it. Your advice was very good to me--it gave me something to truly ponder.
On the other hand, if you have loved the bag for a long time, maybe there is something to that. Good luck with your decision, I know it's tough.
"JxWilliams--I think you should only carry what you're comfortable carrying. Maybe you simply want to scale down overall in terms of bag numbers but stay with midlevel designers. I know I'm considered pretty low end in terms of what I carry, but I just can't justify more money. I have no problem with what other ladies choose--I think they should buy it and enjoy it as they like--I just know what my comfort level is and it's pretty low."
I don't want you to be uncomfortable with your purchase if you should decide to get the Bal. I hear fantastic things about them, but if it is out of your comfort zone, I don't know that you will ever truly enjoy it without feeling some guilt about the money you have spent on it. Your advice was very good to me--it gave me something to truly ponder.
On the other hand, if you have loved the bag for a long time, maybe there is something to that. Good luck with your decision, I know it's tough.
Lovely bag and very pleased for you. Isn't it great to wait, and without the guilt trip? Anthra is a great colour. I think this every day I look at my Anthra Twiggy. And downsizing is a great feeling too. Makes you appreciate the things you already have.
Tejas, you should do what makes you happy and comfortable! Maybe a piece of jewelry would be something that you would enjoy more and it would bling up your longchamp - which are chic bags - when I went to Paris they were everywhere!
Warning long post - I'm really just thinking outloud alot here, but would be happy for feedback!!
I've decided my Chanel (former HG) is going back. I have other Chanel bags that I love and use but this one was way more expensive. I thought it would make me giddy, but it sort of stresses me out. I wouldn't feel comfortable wearing it with many of my friends (I'd just feel wierd about the cost) nor does it really fit my lifestyle - plus honestly my bags hit the floor when we go out to eat more often then I'd like but that's the way most restaurants are set up. Recently I was in a place that brought me a little stool for my bag, but I just felt silly at that point.
So the Chanel is going back this weekend. I did recently purchase a little clutch I've wanted for ages, but which sold out and I've been looking for it since then. So cute - its a little star shaped bag in black patent leather...the price....are you ready?? About $30 shipped and it is a Betsy Johnson bag, lol.
Instead of the Chanel I think I'll pick up something by BcBg for casual wear. And I'm not saying that I won't buy other expensive bags, its just that this particular bag was too pricey and not a good fit.
I'm still decluttering, I got great feedback and had some good Ebay sales so I'm thinking of what I want to sell next. I have a b-bag that definitely needs to go since I bought a replacement that works much better & some Tiffany earrings I don't wear and some shoes. So some ideas:
1 - a Chanel tote I bought in the fall and never wore, it is the dark metallic bronze version of a bag I wear alot. I think I haven't worn it b/c I worry because its metallic and that makes it more fragile and I don't wear brown - more like lots of black, grey, etc - also I can probably get what I paid for it out of it - just let it go?
2- a Prada tote that I've used quite a bit, got it for 70% off, but its starting to feel very large/oversized to me. But I still used it alot this past fall so maybe keep?
3 - cherry red ferragmo flats - worn a couple of times, got a great deal, but I wear so much black (I'm sort of an adult goth, lol) so maybe just kick them out. I do have other shoes I should probably sell....
My collection is getting pretty minimal, but I don't care, it makes me so much happier. And who knew I had so much money rotting in my closet??? I might splurge a little on something once I'm closer to done, maybe a watch or a nice piece of jewelry. hmmm.
Warning long post - I'm really just thinking outloud alot here, but would be happy for feedback!!
I've decided my Chanel (former HG) is going back. I have other Chanel bags that I love and use but this one was way more expensive. I thought it would make me giddy, but it sort of stresses me out. I wouldn't feel comfortable wearing it with many of my friends (I'd just feel wierd about the cost) nor does it really fit my lifestyle - plus honestly my bags hit the floor when we go out to eat more often then I'd like but that's the way most restaurants are set up. Recently I was in a place that brought me a little stool for my bag, but I just felt silly at that point.
So the Chanel is going back this weekend. I did recently purchase a little clutch I've wanted for ages, but which sold out and I've been looking for it since then. So cute - its a little star shaped bag in black patent leather...the price....are you ready?? About $30 shipped and it is a Betsy Johnson bag, lol.
Instead of the Chanel I think I'll pick up something by BcBg for casual wear. And I'm not saying that I won't buy other expensive bags, its just that this particular bag was too pricey and not a good fit.
I'm still decluttering, I got great feedback and had some good Ebay sales so I'm thinking of what I want to sell next. I have a b-bag that definitely needs to go since I bought a replacement that works much better & some Tiffany earrings I don't wear and some shoes. So some ideas:
1 - a Chanel tote I bought in the fall and never wore, it is the dark metallic bronze version of a bag I wear alot. I think I haven't worn it b/c I worry because its metallic and that makes it more fragile and I don't wear brown - more like lots of black, grey, etc - also I can probably get what I paid for it out of it - just let it go?
2- a Prada tote that I've used quite a bit, got it for 70% off, but its starting to feel very large/oversized to me. But I still used it alot this past fall so maybe keep?
3 - cherry red ferragmo flats - worn a couple of times, got a great deal, but I wear so much black (I'm sort of an adult goth, lol) so maybe just kick them out. I do have other shoes I should probably sell....
My collection is getting pretty minimal, but I don't care, it makes me so much happier. And who knew I had so much money rotting in my closet??? I might splurge a little on something once I'm closer to done, maybe a watch or a nice piece of jewelry. hmmm.
Great to see other tPF's really taking stock. Leemiller I also recently sent back a Chanel Black Maxi Flap with silver HW which was supposed to be my 40th birthday present - I bought it early as it was on a consignment website and I thought it was what I wanted. It has sat in my cupboard for over 3 months and like you, I realised it just didn't suit my lifestyle. My friends are also the same - I would feel really uncomfortable wearing this kind of bag as they know I don't buy fakes.
Anyway, I yesterday purged the rest of my collection I don't use - 9 more bags off to consignment (total of 24 bags all up in the last few months!!) and it was hard and a bit scary I must admit. My cupboard looks so BARE!
I have found the good thing to be that I can't rush in and buy another bag (or bags!) straight away as it takes time for the bags to arrive (I send them overseas) and then for the assessment and money to clear. I have often in the past just bought on impulse but this waiting is making me really consider what I WANT, USE and ENJOY. It's been a really GREAT process for me - made me realise how much I was buying bags just for the sake of it.
All I have left :
1/ Chanel shoulder flap bag (you wouldn't recognise it - it's nothing like the usual flap bags)
2/ Black Prada Tote
3/ Burberry Black/white check tote
4/ Marc By Marc Jacobs Purple Shoulder Bag (I love purple)
5/ LV Mongtregeuil (sp?)
I know that probably sounds like a lot but I had about 27 bags!!!!!
I am planning to add 5 bags at the most over a substantial period of time and make sure I enjoy what I have.
Anyway, I yesterday purged the rest of my collection I don't use - 9 more bags off to consignment (total of 24 bags all up in the last few months!!) and it was hard and a bit scary I must admit. My cupboard looks so BARE!
I have found the good thing to be that I can't rush in and buy another bag (or bags!) straight away as it takes time for the bags to arrive (I send them overseas) and then for the assessment and money to clear. I have often in the past just bought on impulse but this waiting is making me really consider what I WANT, USE and ENJOY. It's been a really GREAT process for me - made me realise how much I was buying bags just for the sake of it.
All I have left :
1/ Chanel shoulder flap bag (you wouldn't recognise it - it's nothing like the usual flap bags)
2/ Black Prada Tote
3/ Burberry Black/white check tote
4/ Marc By Marc Jacobs Purple Shoulder Bag (I love purple)
5/ LV Mongtregeuil (sp?)
I know that probably sounds like a lot but I had about 27 bags!!!!!
I am planning to add 5 bags at the most over a substantial period of time and make sure I enjoy what I have.
Lee, I think you are on the right track! It sounds like you are definitely evaluating every item's purpose. And I agree with ms p and would totally sell the metallic Chanel, red flats, and misc shoes. I'm a bit how-do-you-say "vanilla" and have tried buying red patent shoes and just can't pull them off--always return them. But I love how they look on everybody else. Go figure! I like that you are going to reward yourself when you are all done--great motivation!
louch I definitely know what you mean about it being a bit scary to let go of all of these bags! It's almost like I feel naked without them even though most people never even saw my bags! It's a mental thing for me--I guess I would equate it to cutting off my long hair. Maybe I'm hiding behind my bags.
I finally bit the bullet and listed 2 RM bags that are so gorgeous but I have never used and are new, with tags. They were just sitting in my closet looking fantastic but what a waste. Seriously!! I don't know if I went overboard, but I am down to one bag for sure that I am keeping (a work tote) and maybe one super fantastic leather bag--not sure it's pretty expensive for me. Everything else has been listed for sale. Am I the only one who purges all the time? I think I have always done this except not so extreme. In my more innocent bag buying days, I would buy one Coach and use it for a year and then sell it to fund another. Hmmm....thanks everyone for listening to me think out loud (kind-of)..
louch I definitely know what you mean about it being a bit scary to let go of all of these bags! It's almost like I feel naked without them even though most people never even saw my bags! It's a mental thing for me--I guess I would equate it to cutting off my long hair. Maybe I'm hiding behind my bags.
I finally bit the bullet and listed 2 RM bags that are so gorgeous but I have never used and are new, with tags. They were just sitting in my closet looking fantastic but what a waste. Seriously!! I don't know if I went overboard, but I am down to one bag for sure that I am keeping (a work tote) and maybe one super fantastic leather bag--not sure it's pretty expensive for me. Everything else has been listed for sale. Am I the only one who purges all the time? I think I have always done this except not so extreme. In my more innocent bag buying days, I would buy one Coach and use it for a year and then sell it to fund another. Hmmm....thanks everyone for listening to me think out loud (kind-of)..
Thanks everyone for your kind welcome back!!! 
I was in Spain for a bit visiting family - my father-in-law is still very sick, and I basically went to see him one last time before he starts to decline further...sounds sad (and it is, believe me), but at the same time I had a lovely time with them and took some great photos as keepsakes.
TejasMama, I don't think that you are odd in the very least.
I too have discovered the joys of nylon bags (and not just Longchamp, lol!) I bought a very pretty red nylon Mandarina Duck crossbody on sale in Spain while I was there, and since then I haven't worn anything else.
My next purchase - I really need a black bag, and crossbodies are my favorite - will most likely be a black MZ Wallace crossbody. For anyone who prefers sturdy, stylish, well-organized nylon bags, those are fantastic.
I love my Bals, but am also loving nylon bags lately!!!
And for those who are interested, my collection stands at the following (since mid-April, I have not purchased any leather bags):
1. Sanguine 09 Balenciaga City (regular HW)
2. Anthracite 08 Balenciaga Day (regular HW)
3. Rouille 07 Balenciaga Day (regular HW)
I also have a Bilberry (dark purple) medium-sized Longchamp shopper that I use as a handbag, and a small red Mandarina Duck cross-body that I love.
For future purchases I would like a small black nylon crossbody, a larger leather black everyday bag, and sometime in the future a bright red Balenciaga. Those are gaps in my handbag that I truly feel - anything else is just an extra.
I was in Spain for a bit visiting family - my father-in-law is still very sick, and I basically went to see him one last time before he starts to decline further...sounds sad (and it is, believe me), but at the same time I had a lovely time with them and took some great photos as keepsakes.
TejasMama, I don't think that you are odd in the very least.
I too have discovered the joys of nylon bags (and not just Longchamp, lol!) I bought a very pretty red nylon Mandarina Duck crossbody on sale in Spain while I was there, and since then I haven't worn anything else. My next purchase - I really need a black bag, and crossbodies are my favorite - will most likely be a black MZ Wallace crossbody. For anyone who prefers sturdy, stylish, well-organized nylon bags, those are fantastic.
I love my Bals, but am also loving nylon bags lately!!!
And for those who are interested, my collection stands at the following (since mid-April, I have not purchased any leather bags):
1. Sanguine 09 Balenciaga City (regular HW)
2. Anthracite 08 Balenciaga Day (regular HW)
3. Rouille 07 Balenciaga Day (regular HW)
I also have a Bilberry (dark purple) medium-sized Longchamp shopper that I use as a handbag, and a small red Mandarina Duck cross-body that I love.
For future purchases I would like a small black nylon crossbody, a larger leather black everyday bag, and sometime in the future a bright red Balenciaga. Those are gaps in my handbag that I truly feel - anything else is just an extra.
LeeM and louch, you are doing so well!!! As TejasMama says, you have to go with what's comfortable for you...I have been lusting after something in LV Damier Ebene for a long time, and I have come to the conclusion that no matter how often I go to look at the bags (and I even purchased one - and then returned it), they are not me. So I will content myself with looking at photos, lol.
Better to keep the money and wait it out until you get something that feels 100% comfortable. That will be money well spent - and less stress, which is priceless.
Better to keep the money and wait it out until you get something that feels 100% comfortable. That will be money well spent - and less stress, which is priceless.
:salute: u are my new bag purge hero!
i love to declutter so in most area of my life i'm constantly buying and then selling/ donating. i do that to bags too so u are not alone
. also the truth is i rarely used my more expensive bags. i feel terrible to have so many pieces of "art" sitting inside my closet. when i buy a new one i feel the need to send one away.if u are used to having 1 bag than i can understand why 1-2 bags may be the most comfortable for u
. i'm letting myself have maximum 12 bags all in including my baby bag backpack, nylon bags, LV etc. i figure i can talk myself into allowing 1 bag for each month of the entire year lol