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7 designer bags you’ll have for years to come

28th August, 2023

Splurging on a designer bag is a big deal. It’s a bit of a high stakes purchase given how much you’re likely going to spend with most designer bags hovering around four figures. Also, as you’re paying quite a bit of money you want your purchase to go the distance and not be a one season wonder. The upside of investing in a designer bag is that generally the materials and craftsmanship involved mean they’re built to last, so if you choose wisely you really will have a bag that you’ll be carrying around for years to come.

So, what should you look for when it comes to a designer bag that’s built for longevity?

Think about how you use your bag

If you have an endless bag budget then have fun and try out a bunch of different styles. Most of us however, will think long and hard about how much money we want to spend and what we want to buy, so my approach is generally to go for a bag that is going to suit your lifestyle. Do you tend to use your bags to carry around a lot of stuff? Then it’s likely a teeny tiny bag isn’t really going to get much use in your world and you might be better suited to a tote. If you like to go unencumbered then a crossbody bag that leaves you handsfree is going to be better for you than a top handle bag that requires you to carry it around. Make your bag work for you.

Keep it simple

Generally the more out there the design, the less likely you’re going to be able to use your bag for years to come (unless you decided to archive it and wait for it to come back in style again). So the best approach is to pick something quite pared back, with a minimalist style to ensure that your investment will work for many seasons. This applies to embellishments, hardware and colours — go as simple as possible and you’ll likely end up with a style of bag that won’t date.

Consider colour

As I mentioned above, colour is really important. Hues like black, tan, grey and beige are the kind of colours that you’ll be able to wear for different occasions. They will also work well with most things in your wardrobe compared to brighter colours which takes a little more consideration when it comes to what you’re able to pair them with.

If you’re currently on the hunt for a designer bag to splurge on, here are a few that are worth considering…

 

The Row N/S Park Textured-Leather Tote

The Row has become synonymous with quiet luxury with their sleek, understated designs, which makes them the perfect investment piece. This tote for example has a simple silhouette that makes it a classic piece that will last for years to come. It also has the right amount of slouchy giving it an effortless vibe that makes it the ideal everyday tote. There’s also very minimal branding which makes it an ‘if you know you know’ type bag.

 

Bottega Veneta Mini Wallace Leather Tote

The intreccatio weave that is synonymous with Bottega Veneta makes this identifiable as designer, without having to go over the top with logos. The shape is quite versatile so it could be worn dressed up or down and the simple handle adds an elegant touch. This comes in black and brown — two hues with definite longevity.

 

Loewe Puzzle Bag

The Loewe Puzzle bag is actually being discontinued so get it while it’s still here! The panelled design adds just the right amount of interest but the overall shape, plus the fact you can wear it on your shoulder or using the handle, is quite simple making it easily wearable for many different occasions.

 

Saint Laurent Manhattan Leather Shoulder Bag

I like the fact this bag is almost unidentifiable as Saint Laurent, and it’s more about the classic design. It’s ultra elegant and refined, with the structured shape and the simple hardware. A definite must.

 

Prada Leather Shoulder Bag

You can always rely on Prada to do a bag design that’s meant to go the distance. While the brand definitely has its own bold designs this has an ultra classic feel to it that gives it longevity. You could wear this design in years to come and it would still look very current.

 

Gucci Jackie 1961 Small GG Supreme Leather Shoulder Bag

It’s important to be quite considered when it comes to a bag involving anything with a monogram. There’s a fine line between timeless and being too trendy. With a heritage brand like Gucci, their monogram is tasteful and elegant and has been around for years giving it a very classic, almost vintage feel. I have this bag in the mini version and love how versatile it is. This size would be quite practical as it fits most of your day-to-day essentials, but it has a very high fashion feel.

 

Saint Laurent Shopping E/W Leather Tote Bag

A good roomy tote is always a worthy addition to any wardrobe and this style by Saint Laurent is quite spacious so it fits quite a bit but doesn’t look clunky or cumbersome. It also comes in a variety of classic colours which makes it a design worth considering if you want a carryall that has a refined, timeless feel.

Fashion

5 questions I always ask myself before buying anything

29th July, 2023

When I’m shopping for anything I always make sure that what I’m buying will be a worthwhile and practical addition to my wardrobe. Sounds easy enough, right? I’m the first to admit that in the past I’ve been guilty of buying something because I just like how it looks but have found that it hasn’t really worked with what I already own. There’s really no point wasting money on something that won’t necessarily be used all that much and will just end up gathering dust in my closet. I’m all about maximising the use of everything in my wardrobe and to ensure this happens there are five questions that I always ask myself before I even consider buying anything. By going through this mental checklist I’m sure I’ve saved myself from buyer’s remorse many times!

What will this go with?

It’s important that I can immediately think of a minimum of 10 pieces that I can pair a possible purchase with. And they have to be 10 pieces that I already wear a lot so I know that it will definitely have plenty of outings.

How can I dress it up or down?

Versatility is key when it comes to anything I own so I have to make sure that I can dress something up or down quite easily. I need to guarantee that I will get multiple wears out of it so it has to be able to have many outfit incarnations.

Is it going to last the test of time?

On trend pieces are great here and there but generally I always make sure that the bulk of my wardrobe is comprised of things that I can see myself wearing years down the track. Classics will always last so I can justify spending the money on it. Also with the question I consider whether it is suitable for work and when I’m off duty so I know how much wear I’ll realistically get from it.

Fabrication is a key consideration for me when making any purchase

Is it good quality?

I take into account what materials something is made from and how well it has been made. Construction is important as I don’t want to end up buying something and only wearing it a handful of times because it’s falling apart. Also quality materials such as cashmere or silk may cost a little more initially but it wears a lot better over time so I’m not having to replace a garment soon after buying it.

How many times will I wear it?

I always visualise how many times I’ll wear an item and how often but even more so when I’m thinking of buying something that’s a bit pricey. It’s all about cost per wear so I want to ensure that I’m getting value for my fashion dollar.

What’s the best purchase you’ve ever made?
Fashion, Shop

The investment purchases that have been worth every cent

9th July, 2023

Investment purchases often involve a significant financial outlay, hence the investment part. However what I’ve discovered from this is that yes, there’s a fair bit to pay upfront but what you save in the long run ends up being more than what you’ve paid. It’s often the smart way to shop, as you end up getting high quality, which equates to longevity. For me, I’d rather save up and pay more for a jacket and then not have to worry about replacing it next season or the season after that, or the season after that. And I’ve not yet found any investment purchase I’ve made that hasn’t exceeded my cost per wear expectations. It’s a fashion no-brainer. So, what buys have lived up to their promise and then some? These are the pieces that pull their weight time and time again.

Balmain blazer

It pays to do your research when it comes to investment buys as often you may not have to pay retail if you have patience to wait for it to go on sale. The thing with investment buys is that if you are able to find a design that is a part of a brand’s core collection you’ll be able to find it season after season, which means you can afford to wait for the sales to buy it in case it gets reduced. I bought this blazer years ago, on sale from Net-a-Porter and it’s been my most worn item.

Goyard tote

I can’t rave about this bag highly enough. I used it as my baby bag and every day bag—it’s so roomy so it’s really easy to throw everything in. And because it’s made of a coated fabric, if bottles leaked or water spilt on it, it didn’t matter as I could easily wipe it. It’s also a great travel companion as it’s very light and it can be folded up to put away or within a suitcase.

Louis Vuitton carry on luggage

I have used this bag for years and years. I tend to have a few trips interstate for work throughout the year and it’s such a good size for taking my essentials. I take it on overseas trips too and it’s an incredibly sturdy bag, it really stands up to travelling, whether it’s through the cobblestones of Europe or through many an airport terminal. I actually gave one to Luke for his 40th and he still uses it all the time.

Chanel slingback flats

I adore these flats. I wear them all the time for dressy or casual events, and they can be worn day or night. The classic Chanel two-tone gives it a little extra personality, plus the minimalist colour palette means I can easily work it back with multiple looks. I’ve found that the slingback design also makes them a little dressier than the traditional Chanel ballet flat.

Cartier Un Clou Bracelet

Technically this isn’t a purchase I made, I was lucky enough to be gifted it by aunt for my 30th. However, it’s a bracelet that I have worn every day since. It goes with absolutely everything and it adds an elegant touch to anything I’m wearing. It’s one of my can’t-live-without pieces.

Chanel 2.55 bag

Generally when you buy anything Chanel, it’s pretty much a purchase for life. I bought this quilted bag over 10 years ago and still wear it all the time. It’s a classic design so it works with everything and the straps are able to be adjusted so I can wear it as a shoulder bag or crossbody style. It definitely ticks the versatility box which is so important with any investment purchase.

Diamond Earrings

I love playing with costume jewellery but there’s something about timeless pieces that you can’t beat. These diamond studs are simple and elegant and can be worn every day or to any nighttime occasion. I’ve used it for both and it works seamlessly with pretty much anything I’m wearing, making them a truly worthwhile buy.

Fashion

How to save money on clothes without compromising on style

30th April, 2023

Truth: clothes can at times be expensive. Depending on the brands you like, they can be really expensive. So how can you still splurge on pieces that you love without having to completely break the bank? It’s all about having the right shopping strategy. Over the years I’ve learned a few things that have helped me ensure that I’m not paying more than I should. And sometimes you may not even have to spend any money at all! I’m all about maximising style but minimising cost, and here I’m sharing how to save money on clothes without compromising on style.

Do your research

When I have my eye on something I like to do a reconnaissance mission before I buy it. I’ll make sure to check across several different stores or sites to see which is selling it for cheaper so I know that I’m getting it at the best price possible.

Wait for sale time

There are a few designer pieces in my closet which I really, really wanted but made myself wait till sale time to buy. And I’m glad I did because it saved me a lot of money. I just make sure to do my research beforehand so I know exactly what I’m looking for so I can pounce on it the moment it’s reduced.

It’s a good idea to sign up to the mailing list of your favourite brands and stores so you can be alerted whenever they are having a sale. You may even be given early sale access by doing this which means you’ll have a better chance of finding what you’re after.

Use fashion search engines

Sites like shopstyle.com.au and lyst.com.au are like Google for fashion. You can use them to search for whatever it is you have your eye on whether it be a pair of Gucci loafers or a new Givenchy handbag. It will scan across a range of stores, bring up the search results and you can see which retailers are selling it and for how much. If you find something that you like you can ask to be sent a sale alert the moment the price is reduced so you don’t miss out.

Do regular wardrobe edits

There are things in my wardrobe that I forgot I even owned until I stumbled across them during a closet clean out. All of a sudden I felt like I had something new to wear and I didn’t have to spend a cent. It’s a good idea to get into the habit of doing a seasonal edit of your clothes, shoes and accessories. This process will allow you to see what you own, find things you’d forgotten about and see where the gaps are. Also it lets you see what you really should be spending your money on instead of ending up with another pair of shoes identical to seven other pairs you already own.

Make a style hit list

Post-wardrobe clean out I always like to list down what I’m lacking. If left to wander aimlessly, I’d often end up things that I probably didn’t need but a list helps me stay on track. I know exactly what will be useful to me as opposed to just something that I want. This helps me direct my fashion dollars to the right things.

What’s your favourite way to save money on clothes?
Fashion, Shop

What I look for before buying anything designer

20th November, 2022

Nothing beats buying a beautiful designer item but they’re often a significant investment so I always make sure I am strategic about what I’m purchasing to ensure there’s no buyer’s remorse involved. If you’re looking to snap up a special piece to treat yourself or are looking to add some key pieces to your wardrobe in the new year, here’s what I always look for…

Is it really popular?

I steer clear of the ‘it’ bag of the season. If I’m shopping for an everyday bag that’s going to be carrying everything from my essentials to my laptop then I make sure that I opt for something that’s a signature item for the brand but not ubiquitous. I don’t like having a designer bag that everyone has because I feel they go in and out of fashion just as quickly as they come in. Plus you don’t want people being able to immediately identify that your bag is from a certain year’s collection. To combat this I always ask the shop assistant if it’s a style they intend to do again so it’s not so identifiable to a particular year.

Finding a unique style

I’m the complete opposite in my approach to evening bags and shoes. If I’m buying something special like a clutch I like to make sure they’re not making further runs of it because I want it to be a one-off. The same rule applies when I’m shopping for statement heels. I want them to be quite unique so I don’t want them coming back season after season.

Anything with interlocking Cs is always a good buy!

Researching what’s out there

I used to do a lot of shopping whenever I went on an overseas trip but these days that’s impossible as a mum, especially now with two little girls to entertain. So most of my designer purchases are made online these days. I always make sure to visit various websites such as Net-a-Porter, Nordstrom and Matches Fashion to see what’s available. One way I make sure I’m only getting up to the minute releases is to click on the ‘What’s New’ section when I’m browsing websites. That way I’ll only be seeing current stock.

Double check the size

Shopping online at the high end e-tailers is often a little easier as doing returns is fairly straightforward if something isn’t quite right. However I always do a check of the size just to be sure it’s the right fit. If it’s true to size generally choosing your normal size will be fine, however if it’s not I always check if I’ve bought the brand before and see if there’s something in my closet that I can cross check the sizing against.

This Gucci clutch will be a go-to for years to come

Always opt for classic

I’m all for taking a fashion risk or two but when you’re making a purchase that’s quite expensive it pays to think longevity. I always opt for neutral colours and opt for classic styles so I know that I’ll end up with something that will last in my wardrobe season after season.

Shop around

Anything by a high end designer is generally going to come with a significant price tag so be prepared to shop around. Check out prices both in-store and online before you buy anything so you can get the best deal. Whilst they’re definitely an investment buy and will (if you choose right) last you for years to come, it still doesn’t hurt to pay the least amount as possible…and hey, anything leftover can always go to another future purchase!

 

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What’s one designer purchase you’ve made that you absolutely love?

Fashion

How to choose a watch you’ll have forever

26th October, 2022

For me, a great watch is a constant in my daily accessories stack. I pretty much never leave the house without my Cartier bangle, and a timepiece. I actually feel naked without it so I’ve always been a self-confessed watch girl since forever. The thing about watches is that they run the full spectrum as far as price goes. You can spend up big on an investment watch that has a few zeros in the price tag, to a cheap and cheerful trend piece that may only be in rotation a season or two. I tend to fall into the camp of saving up for a quality piece that has longevity and that I can wear over and over again, and also one day hopefully pass onto the girls. As with most fashion things, I think it’s worth saving up and splurging on one gorgeous quality piece as opposed to a number of slightly cheaper pieces that won’t go the distance. So, what should you look for when it comes to buying a watch?

Do your research

There are a number of different watch brands out there so take the time to do you research about brands you’re interested in, and also the styles. Different watches have different mechanisms and features so it pays to know the type that will work with you and your lifestyle. Also, which brand do you want? The top design houses such as Gucci and Hermes do beautiful watches, while you could also go for a watch from a jewellery brand such as Cartier or dedicated watch brands on the pricier end such as Jaeger Le Coultre, IWC, Piaget, Rolex.. the list goes on. It pays to know the style you want and also the brand as this can often greatly influence price. As always definitely consider your budget before splurging — a nice watch is great, but you don’t want to deal with a financial headache for the sake of having one.

New vs Used 

There’s a big market out there for vintage and used watches so before you go for something new, definitely look into those options as often you may be able to buy the watch of your dreams at half the price. However, be wary of where you buy. You’re better off looking at a dedicated watch reseller, as opposed to hitting up a site like eBay as you’ve got a better chance of authenticity. If you’re going to invest, you definitely want to make sure you’re getting the real deal!

Choose a style that works with your everyday look

There are all sorts of options out there when it comes to watches, from a gold, silver or rose gold metal band to a style with a leather strap. I like both options, as they both have their own place in my wardrobe, but it’s important to choose one that will work back with most of your wardrobe. The last thing you want to do is have an investment timepiece that’s gathering dust in your closet.

Try it on

Try before you buy! If you’re unsure about style definitely go to some reputable watch dealers or pay a visit in store of the brand you’re interested in and try on a few different watches. If you’re going to spend a significant amount of money on a timepiece you want to make sure that not only does it look right, but that it feels right.

Choose a classic style

If you’ve got your heart set on a particular style then definitely head in that direction. However if you’re unsure definitely look at a classic style, for example a simple white dial (the watch face) with a leather or metal band will likely go the distance more than say a watch with a red dial and bright purple strap. Classic = longevity.

 

Gorgeous timepieces to add to your wishlist

 

 

 

A few of my favourite watches

Investment timepieces are something I have a bit of a soft spot for as I wear watches almost everyday, and I truly am in awe of the craftsmanship that goes into them. I’ve been lucky enough to be gifted some pieces, and I make sure I put them to good use all the time! Here are a few of my faves…

 

Fashion

The secrets to avoiding an impulse buy

1st February, 2021
Avoiding making an impulse buy requires adopting a few key strategies

Shopping is fun but it can also become a costly exercise if you find yourself constantly impulse buying. Simply splurging on something because it popped up in an email or you saw it on someone on Instagram or even because the lure of sale stickers on a window was just too much can often lead to making ill-advised purchases. I’ve found that impulse buys are more often than not the kind of things that will end up gathering dust in the back of my closet because I haven’t really thought them through.

The thing is we’re all human and I know that sometimes we can see something and just become fixated on the fact that we absolutely, positively can’t live without it. I’ve been there many times, I get it. However it’s also what can lead to overspending and ending up with a wardrobe full of things that just don’t get worn. So, in the interests of helping you all avoid another impulse purchase you’ll regret, these are some of the strategies I use. Here’s how to avoid making an impulse buy easily and effectively.

Have a shopping list

I always, always have a shopping list on the go as it helps keep me focused on what I genuinely want/need as opposed to being distracted by shiny new things. By doing this I know what I will actually genuinely wear and helps to remove the temptation (somewhat – willpower is still needed!) to just buy something because it caught my eye.

Sleep on it

Whenever I’m making a big purchase decision I always make a point of sleeping on it. I think it’s so easy to get caught up in the moment whether it’s online shopping or simply seeing something in store that I need to give myself the appropriate space to think it over. Often I’ll find that if I genuinely love something I’ll still be thinking about it the next day, whereas if it was just a fleeting thing I would’ve already moved onto something else.

As yourself if you really genuinely need something before buying it
Photo by Laura Chouette on Unsplash
Ask yourself key impulse buy questions

I think it’s always a good idea to have a set of questions to ask yourself to make sure you’re making a good buy. For me this will be things like:

“Will I wear this more than once?”

In my opinion wardrobe space is precious and there’s no room for one hit wonders (the only exception to this is my wedding dress!). I always like to make sure something is going to be worn numerous times.

“Would I pick this up if it were sitting in my closet right now?”

This helps me identify whether I really would wear something. If I wouldn’t think I’d gravitate towards it in a hypothetical situation, why would it be the case in real life.

“Does this go with at least 10 other things in my wardrobe?”

Versatility is so important to me. I like to make sure that anything in my closet can be mixed and matched easily.

“Do I already own something like this?”

We all have styles that we really love and as a result we can inadvertantly end up with multiples of the same thing. To avoid this I always make sure that if I’m buying something it doesn’t already have a doppelgänger in my closet.

Set yourself a shopping budget

What’s the most important things if you want to learn how to avoid an impulse buy? Set yourself a shopping budget. If I have a firm idea of what I can spend it generally helps to curb impulse buys as I know I’ve got a pool of funds to work with and I’ve got to use it to purchase other things on my list.

What strategies do you use to avoid impulse buying?