I scrimp when it comes to spending $$$ on a brand. As far as wallets go, I have 4 Abas full frame, an Abas checkbook, 1 full zip around Lodis, and 2 Hobo International small card case style (for inside a larger clutch). I bought all these, except 1, from TJ Maxx for about a third of their retail price. For other small goods, I don't use leather as I try to keep the contents of my purse lightweight. So for cosmetics or other small items, I use Vera Bradley and Lesportsac cases. They come in very fun colors/patterns and I like to switch them out, they're easy to keep clean, and they're featherweight.
If variety isn't your thing and you're pretty picky about function, like my Mom, I would spend the amount of money that gets you exactly what you want the FIRST time. My Mom tried several different wallets before finally finding what she wanted for function and it wasn't even a wallet! She keeps her cash/coins in a wristlet and her cards in a credit card file. So it really depends on your priority list.
If variety isn't your thing and you're pretty picky about function, like my Mom, I would spend the amount of money that gets you exactly what you want the FIRST time. My Mom tried several different wallets before finally finding what she wanted for function and it wasn't even a wallet! She keeps her cash/coins in a wristlet and her cards in a credit card file. So it really depends on your priority list.
