My Favourite Designer Handbags
So.. handbags ! I might have a slight obsession, but who doesn’t, we all know the power of a good handbag. It's not just about carrying stuff; it's about making a statement, expressing your style, and sometimes, just feeling like a boss. So, grab your coffee (or mimosa, no judgment here) and let's dive into the wonderful world of handbags.
I love a designer handbag, so this week I thought I would share my favourite ones, but I will also share some high street options, that are more budget friendly.
I know buying a designer handbag is a big splurge, but if you choose well you won’t regret it. I have learnt the hard way and bought bags I thought I would love, but actually found they didn’t work for me. Some were too big, some were too heavy, and that was when empty. By the time I filled it with all my shite, it was like carrying around a 7kg dumbbell on my shoulder.. no thanks!
I have resold the ones that I fell out of love with and got a good price, which I then used to buy something different. I have managed to sell many of my bags for a pretty good price.
I have a pretty extensive bag collection, with a mixture of high end designer ones and affordable bags. One of my favourite mini bags, I bought in Zara for £10 and it has accompanied me to many a party. However, I do love some arm candy with my favourite being Gucci.
Gucci Marmont Maltasse Shoulder Bag
I bought the Gucci Marmont bag a few years ago, the price has increased significantly since then. Love this bag so much, the dusty pink and gold hardware, makes the bag perfect for wearing with any outfit. The pink is more of a neutral than a pink, so it very versatile and has had a lot of wear. What I really love is you can wear the bag with the chain strap, long, or you can shorten it and wear as a shoulder bag. It’s a medium size, so it can fit loads of stuff for a night out.
Top Tip: There is such a great second hand market now for genuine bags like this, you can sell or buy designer bags, the best places to check out is Vestiarie, The Handbag Clinic, Ebay, Designer Exchange, or The Hosta. Enjoy!
Here are some more affordable alternatives with a similar look. The first one I found on amazon, gives you the high end look without the price tag. Then Kurt Geiger, they have so many lovely options, really well made bags of all sizes. Next Coach which are mid priced so won’t totally break the bank. Finally I found this super stylish bag from H&M a total bargain.
Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM Tote Bag
I must say out of all the bags I own this is my number one. I have the LV Neverfull tote in Rose Beige. The reason being, it is so versatile and honestly covers all scenarios. This bag has been all over the world with me. I have used it as my beach bag, I use it as my workbag in the summer and put my laptop in it. The material is canvas with a natural cowhide trim. It weights hardly anything, it is super light, which is another reason why I always reach for it.
The material is so hard wearing, it takes all kind of abuse, and still looks perfect, you can easily wipe it to keep it clean. Inside, it also had a removable zipped pouch, which is such a good addition for popping your makeup in. I just love it, now I know its super expensive but honestly worth every penny !
Some alternative options I have found, is this nice one from DKNY. The classic LE PLIAG Longchamp, I have a few of these they are just brilliant for weekend’s away, the gym or your work bag, the dark blue & brown are great options. Then a good quality but more affordable tote from Michael Kors, and for the budget option, you can always count on Zara to give you a great selection.
Gucci Blondie Shoulder Bag
I have the pervious version of this shoulder bag from gucci. I have it in nude but also in red. It is a perfect camera bag with the addition of the little tassel that hangs off the zip. It's a perfect everyday bag with that added luxury. It is a lovely size and fits loads in it. I love that you are totally hands free, with the cross body strap that can be adjusted. A great timeless everyday bag, pricey but, an excellent investment.
Some more adorable options are, this black camera bag from M&S, the internet blow up for this bag as it’s a dupe of the famous Celine cross body. For a more summery bag, this is a lovely choice from M&S. Here is a great option from Mango, it gives a lovely day at the races vibe, or perfect for the regatta. Finally, you will know from my blog I love Scamp & Dude, here is a lovely cross body option with gold studs and the signature lightening blot, a good everyday choice.
Prada Saffiano Leather Double Bag
I bought this bag Prada bag nearly 10 years ago and it has earned its keep. The inside is red, which makes it really standout from a standard black tote bag. It has a double handle and detachable shoulder strap. A flap pocket inside which is perfect for dividing the bag into two large sections. It helps me organise my crap. I normally use this bag for work as my laptop fits perfectly into it. It is a true iconic classic, it looks as good today as the day I bought it.
Here are some other options, that offer the same look but at various price points. I love this tote from Arket, the way the strap has the side buckle adds some nice detail.
Stella McCarthy Falabella Mini Tote Bag
I have always wanted to own a Stella McCarthy bag, and a few years ago I bought the icon that is the Falabella. This bag is a show stopper, it is very rock chick, and just looks great with any outfit. It is made from grained vegan shaggy deer fabric, so it very soft to touch. The chunky chain is a double top handle and you have a longer shoulder strap, which falls beautifully over the bag, when you carry with the top handles. Signature bag from Stella, one that will stay with me forever.
Found a dupe on amazon if you want the look, but don’t want to spend the cash. Then here is another great alternative from Stradivarius. Also some options from Asos & River Island.
Loewe Small Puzzle bag
This bag is nothing short of stunning, I don’t own one but it is next on my hit list. I just love Loewe as a brand, and this bag has started to gain a cult following. If you know you know. A cuboid shape with these precise cutting technique, which creates a Puzzle's distinctive geometric lines. I just love it, especially the woven top handle. It is made from calfskin leather so it super soft. It has a tiny zip at the back where you can pop a key or your card. It does come in lots of different colours but this is one for me.
Some other options are one of my fav’s the Gianni Bou Bag, comes in tons of colours, I have my eyes on a few options. A cute little Zara top handle with a crackle effect is fun. I found this nice soft mini top handle on amazon. Finally this lovely leather bag from M&S.
I hope you enjoyed this update, let me know, I could keep going on the handbags, but my husband does read my posts. So I will drop this hint for him here.
S x