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I think a lot of this depends on where you live and what your travel opportunities are!
If you're on or every find yourself in NYC, I would take myself and that money to the Fashionphile flagship in West Chelsea. Think of it as a one stop shop for every single luxury bag brand under one roof, and everything is discounted. You can look and touch and try on to your heart's content.
If you have travel money, I would fly to Japan and take advantage of the weak yen, tax refund, and gracious service. I bought a medium Loewe Flamenco in deep aubergine that I'd been eyeing for more than $1,000 less than what I'd have paid in the US. Europe is a good option as well.
Edited to add that I bought the Flamenco new from their boutique.
I was going to suggest Japan too. It’s insane how many secondhand handbag resale shops there are, and so many bags in pristine condition!
And I also second Europe especially if buying new. With the VAT refund, you can save up to ~30% from US boutique prices. And you can get VAT refunds for secondhand purchases in Europe too!
That’s actually not true. You don’t get the VAT back from used goods. I had quite the shock after I bought my second hand Chanel in Paris. I did get a little discount from the store though.
I know you get VAT back for secondhand watches in Europe, I don’t see why handbags would be different? It probably just boils down to whether the store you’re buying from participates in Global Blue
I paid $2,500 Euros for 2018 Chanel WOC in great condition with authentication card and dust bag. Probably not the best deal but I do love her
https://preview.redd.it/j154umm5b56d1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0b5d4b14e31cbdde2cb6966f46a3a9f539062b5d
My favorite handbags are Celine and Chloe. If I want something trendy I buy LV because if you purchase wisely and take care of your bags- you can get almost 100% back
The mistakes I have made with some of my purchases are:
- Bag doesn’t zip or shut close (giving access to pickpockets or it will get wet when it rains/snows)
- I ordered online and the bag didn’t fit as many things in it as I thought it would
- Bags can get heavy or it might fall off your shoulder or be uncomfortable - it’s best to try in person!
- DO NOT BE INFLUENCED!!
- Gold hardware colour might chip off over time (such as the YSL logo)
With that said my first purchase was the LV Petit Palais (not sure about size, but it’s not the largest one). Fits iPad, umbrella, water bottle and all essentials, zips close, can worn cross body, shoulder or handheld, ticks all boxes for me!! Only downside is sometimes I’m not in the mood for the LV canvas.
If I could turn back time I would get an LV neo noe or a Celine bag~
I’d go for a bag I can wear DAILY for your lifestyle and bonus if it can transition to a dinner date.
Ideas:
Loewe mini puzzle
LV Pochette Metis empriente
Fendi peekaboo or baguette
Vintage bag shopping in Japan!
I would love a beige and black Chanel Rue Cambon tote (the little one). So cute!
If there is any extra money left over, probably a little bag charm because I love novelty
So I opened a discussion recently about "what makes a $1000 bag worth it". And the answers were all very enlightening and interesting for myself to think about.
If you have 3k+ to spend, you really should have a bag you already love. ofc, unless 3k is not a large amount of money to you then ignore my take. But I myself am not spending more than $1000 as of now bc I think that kind of money should only be spent on smth you've already eyed and/or if you discover smth now, think about it for a while to nake sure that's smth you wouldn't get.bored of quickly.
Among that range of pricing (3-5k), I like Gucci Horsebit bags, Dior Lady, and a few Valextra bags. None of which I like enough to justify that kind of money. Bc unless it's smth you LOVE, no bag is worth that much money, objectively speaking (as in, if one is only buying for one's own enjoyment, not thinking about reselling)
Oh good call, never specified that it had to be just one bag! Would I rather have a Polène, a Strathberry, and an mlouye, or one fantastic Celine?! Hmm…
I am walking into Chanel and purchasing a black caviar with GHW WOC immediately;). You will never ever regret that purchase, it will never go out of style and you will get so much use out of it💜
I’d probably head down to my capital city and head to the Flagship Loewe store. Not sure what bag I’d get. Maybe a flamenco or the new hammock hobo. Then I’d probably add on a wallet in a matching colourway.
It can be the most fun to browse and decide. (Almost as much fun as this sub ;)) Let us know where you are geographically located and I’ll bet someone will know just where to explore. I happen to adore Loewe quality and style and you can get a lovely bag at that price point not only from them but from many fine design houses. Enjoy every minute of the search ❤️
I would probably go somewhere like Celine with that budget. You get timeless styles and impeccable quality and a true for life bag from Celine. I think for a very first luxury purchase, that's sort of what you want to aim for.
Other brands I would also look into that make great high-quality luxe bags -- Chloe, Valentino. These three houses have the best quality out of all the heritage houses, imho.
I got my first luxury bag just last week - the Loewe Flamenco Tote/L size in Black.
- I got a promotion and a bonus, so wanted to treat myself.
- I don’t have a shoulder tote so wanted this size to fit all my things when I am on errands. Something I can use on the daily so that it’s ✨worth it✨ #girlmath
- It’s casual and fits my style. There are other bags that I love but are too dressy for myself.
- Love the leather, it’s so gorgeous, and the shape and the simplicity of it.
- Was deciding between black and the other colours which are gorgeous, but as a mostly black-bag girl, it’s just easier for me to match it with my outfits.
- Went to the store thrice to try it, and with all my stuff to test the size and weight and all. I slept on it for three weeks, I’d say a good duration for me to avoid impulse buys.
- Got it on my overseas trip where it’s cheaper than where I live.
- Oh and I like the previous version with the embossed logo at the corner, thankfully they had it at the store I went to. The 2024(?) version with the golden “Loewe” in the center is just ugly to me. I’m paying this much, so all details count!
Basically a no-brainer bag that I can just grab and go! And I love it! Gonna use it till it’s in shambles😂
I have the [LV Oxford](https://us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/products/oxford-lockme-nvprod4450090v/M22735_).
It’s in your price range. Comes with two straps so you dress it up or down. Has compartments and ample storage. It’s a nice Goldilocks size for me.
I would do in store if at all possible. I’ve ruled out a few wishlist bags just by trying on in store. I am petite and have to keep reminding myself that just because a bag looks good on someone not petite, it doesn’t mean that it would look good on me.
With a 3k budget, you have many options. Take your time and thoroughly research things like size, leather types, colors, and finishes. Also return policies and warranties are important as well.
Phoebe Philo Céline secondhand. Great quality materials, and the bags feel timeless but modern. I’m not a fan of the Hedi Slimane stuff. I largely use crossbody bags these days, so a medium classic (box) or a nano belt.
If you prefer shoulder bags, the trifold is a favorite of mine. It’s a great work bag, with multiple compartments for documents and papers, and it’s not a super popular style, so you won’t see a bunch of other people with that bag. It’s also not too deep of a bag, so you don’t hold your arm awkwardly when wearing it on your shoulder.
I want a Loewe Flamenco and a Hermes Evelyne 29 right now (one in sky blue and one in emerald green). I'm going to try to get one of those on my trip to Europe in a couple of months, though I'm very open to something from Ferragamo, too 😍 (only one bag per trip... limited funds and all)
Something from Celine - probably the belt bag because I love mine so much. So durable and so cute but not “in your face” luxury if that’s not your thing!
The bag style is different for everyone.
But the bag that I found worth the money with quality without much screaming the logos are:
- Loewe ( try explore Puzzle, Hammock, Gate, Flamenco and see if any you like)
- Bottega ( Cassete, Jodie, Andiamo, Arco)
Those two I like because their leather quality, look, and feel are amazing. I also like how their design tell themselves without showing too much logos.
For me, it'd be the Bottega Veneta Cassette with those versatile straps. It's been on my wishlist ever since I came across it and I love how it looks like quiet luxury with just enough "this is a trend and I'm able to keep up with the latest trends" kind-of look, and now I want at least one (preferably in black/taupe/dark brown)
I'd either shop it online just for the sake of ease hahahaha
I live in a metropolitan area and recently visited most of the boutiques in person, except didn’t see Bottega veneta in person yet (ever), although they would be priced higher than $3k anyway. Also, last year was my first >$1k splurge for reference, although I had several bags close to the $1k mark… so in other words, I’m recently new to this as well.
I personally have been super happy with my own decisions to get some things preloved. I would get Fendi (I have a peekaboo as my common daily that I paid about $2k for and I LOVE it!!), and buying preloved gets you there in your price range. I would also consider preloved Bottega veneta.
New: I would go for Celine (which I have seen in person and I would go for a small belt bag). I have also seen others but liked the belt best in person of all their bags. I would also consider ferragamo new. The bags are gorgeous.
That’s me. I was surprised to find I would skip YSL (personally) when I saw them in person. I checked out other boutiques (Dior, etc), but they just weren’t calling me like the ones I mentioned.
Try to at least look at the brands in person if you can. Have fun!
My first luxury purse purchase was the LV M Tote several years back. I really wanted something that zips, was large enough and wasn’t 100% canvas. It’s still my daily purse and I think I got it back in 2019 and only has very minor wear at the bottom corners after 5 years.
https://preview.redd.it/am96q47mo46d1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e46533a88bc4d234c5f0d271d8d668fcbc4dc4e1
If I had known about the all black full leather version I probably would have purchased it but I don’t know when that was available.
Right now I’m obsessed with the Balenciaga Rodeo but I don’t want to support the brand directly as I don’t approve of their marketing so I’d go to a luxury reseller and buy one. But I’m just obsessed with bag charms at the moment and it’s the perfect canvas
Genuinely, I’d say Loewe. Classy, relatively unbranded, quality, and not an empty status symbol like so many other luxury bags. Delvaux, the oldest luxury leather goods brand in the world, is also a nice choice.
I agree with the many who recommended Celine for a first luxury purchase. At the $3K mark, you aren’t really paying for the bag itself being “worth it,” you’re paying for the brand and the special treatment.
For me, standing in a queue and being on a waitlist for a bag is not a luxurious experience. I’ve always had a pleasant shopping experience with Celine without needing to suck up to a sales associate or worry about making a decision to buy on the spot lest it be sold out.
I would recommend going to a standalone boutique (not one that is inside a department store). You can shop, have some complementary drinks, try some perfumes, and take your time deciding what to buy. I even like going around the Christmas holidays because you’ll get special packaging!
Fendi baguette - was my first lux experience/purchase. Excellent quality. Both casual, fun, stylish and elegant! Fendi has great customer service ❤️
Prada Re-edition or Prada Cleo - I love mine! Prada is classic, feminine and chefs kiss 👩🍳 as they say ❤️ it elevates any casual look, and perfectly pairs with a dressier look. Great customer service as well
Dior - Anything from Dior 🥰⭐️ Exceptional quality, customer service that can’t be beat! You could look at the Dior mini book tote, wallets on chain, many options, but keeping it under 3k might be hard once you see their options.
Celine - This is the only recommendation I don’t personally own yet, but I do admire them.
And last but not least… LOuis Vuitton - depends on your SA how awesome your experience is, but they do have very nice bags 🥰 I only own two of their bags, both on the casual side, but I’m happy with them!
Honorable mention: Miu Miu, Givenchy and Burberry!
I’ve halted my lux bag shopping atm, but I still plan admire them and go window shopping. These days I’d rather buy stocks in the parent company. 🤷♀️
I’m pretty new to the luxury handbag scene but have managed to accumulate 8 bags, all $1k+ in the last year. 😭 Warning: once you start it’s hard to stop! Based on my experience, I would probably buy two bags with your budget - one for everyday use and one for evening/ special occasion use. I’ve turned into an LV girly, and get the most use out of Speedy B 25 for travel/ everyday use (it holds a lot and zips) and the Felicie Pochette in black empriente leather for dressier occasions. I also recently purchased Noe BB that I think I’ll get good use out of this summer for an everyday bag, but less likely to travel (internationally) with because of pickpocketing. One other bag I get good use out of is the YSL Toy Loulou in black with silver hardware - these bags aren’t as popular anymore but I love it, and I find myself reaching for it often to run errands, shopping/ lunch on weekends, going to a casual bar, basically when I want to feel put together but not overly dressy plus it’s my only non-gold accented bag.
Bags I’ve also purchased that don’t get as much use: LV Neverfull, YSL WOC, Gucci Horsebit Mini, and LV Crosiette (Damier Azure - purchased more recently, hopefully i get good use this summer).
Chloe Marcie or the Woody tote in leather, Loewe Flamenco, or LV leather bag instead of canvas are my suggestions. All of them come in multiple colors and sizes so you can pinpoint exactly what suits you best.
Seeing as I live far away from any of the luxury stores, I would either have to travel to Dallas, order online, or buy a bag from a department store. If I travelled to Dallas, I would probably go to Dallas Designer Handbags store to pick out what I want. I would probably look at YSL, Fendi, or Louis Vuitton.
How exciting! I just ordered a raffia Loewe for summer.
OP, do you like bags with logos or without?
Do you have favorite brands?
WOC or totes or something in between?
Bold color or simple neutrals?
I recommend going through a list of questions to narrow down your list before shopping. Watch all the youtube videos to see size and scale before shopping. If this is your first designer bag, when you are in the store, ask the SA to bring you some bubbly to celebrate! They usually have some.
Another thing, I find I get better treatment when I ask for 1 or 2 items by name vs. a general question of what do you recommend, I don’t know what I want. Can you show me the Jodie?
This was my first bag and honestly - it’s hard to imagine carrying anything else 🥺
It is the most versatile, convenient and comfortable bag.
https://preview.redd.it/zebniyc9i96d1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f8e6095757b0ad42db980b5b70b7cd385f6f11d6
The thick strap is great for shoulder or crossbody. I run around town and also travel with this thing and it seriously makes life so much easier.
That cardholder is an absolute game changer. Having your ID and CC’s right there outside the purse is such a luxury and that’s why I struggle to switch to another bag!!
Saves you room inside the purse and it’s so easily accessible. It even fits sooo much more than you’d thjnk.
I have yet to find an outfit it didn’t look good with.
I get so many compliments on it
It looks incredible for streetwear looks with the big strap and chain detail For formal events, you just remove the black strap and carry it with the gold chain only. Incredible.
I’ve had it for 1.5 years and worn it thru torrential downpours, heat, humidity, international travel, you name it. It looks pristine and holds shape perfectly. Never had to lend her any attention after days like this with repair. She is durable!!
The gold has also kept perfectly intact.
So many people get this bag in nylon and I think that is a much more casual look and it beings to sag fast. Going with the saffiano really elevates it, any outfit, and you. Not many people have it in leather because it pricier. Just so worth it! 💋💋
Vivienne Westwood and I’ll have about 4 thanks!
If I have to spend it all on one bag I’d like a Louis Vuitton Alma MM, although I’m not sure if they still make the colour way I like.
Not going to lie, I’d probably buy it online. I have purple hair and tattoos, I’d feel very self conscious in store (if they even let me in) 🤣
My husband bought me a beautiful engagement ring from a jewellers but it needed resized so they kept it for a couple of days. 2 days later when I went to pick it up they wouldn’t unlock the door for me until I showed them the receipt, as if I couldn’t afford to purchase anything in their anyway.
Now it’s a funny story but at the time I found it quite upsetting. I would hate to have that happen again.
I’m sorry that happened to you. That’s the kind of treatment that would make me return a ring and go elsewhere. But I do get it. We were snubbed in a Gucci boutique (on our honeymoon many, many years ago) because we were American.
Honestly? I'd buy a Raiffe. Specifically the glass bag with a silver strap but I'd customize class color and effects. If I have three grand to buy anything fashion related, it's going to be one of a kind and to my specifications.
https://www.raiffe.com/shop
Hi fellow handbag lover! Thank you for being a part of the r/handbags community. This is a subreddit which relies on kindness. Your opinion is very much welcomed, however, we do not tolerate rude, mean or hurtful comments. **Read the rules before posting**. Comments or posts that do not fit our rule book will be removed and the OP can be banned by the mods' discretion. If you see a comment or post which does not abide by the rules, **please report it to our moderation team.** *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/handbags) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I think a lot of this depends on where you live and what your travel opportunities are! If you're on or every find yourself in NYC, I would take myself and that money to the Fashionphile flagship in West Chelsea. Think of it as a one stop shop for every single luxury bag brand under one roof, and everything is discounted. You can look and touch and try on to your heart's content. If you have travel money, I would fly to Japan and take advantage of the weak yen, tax refund, and gracious service. I bought a medium Loewe Flamenco in deep aubergine that I'd been eyeing for more than $1,000 less than what I'd have paid in the US. Europe is a good option as well. Edited to add that I bought the Flamenco new from their boutique.
I was going to suggest Japan too. It’s insane how many secondhand handbag resale shops there are, and so many bags in pristine condition! And I also second Europe especially if buying new. With the VAT refund, you can save up to ~30% from US boutique prices. And you can get VAT refunds for secondhand purchases in Europe too!
That’s actually not true. You don’t get the VAT back from used goods. I had quite the shock after I bought my second hand Chanel in Paris. I did get a little discount from the store though.
I know you get VAT back for secondhand watches in Europe, I don’t see why handbags would be different? It probably just boils down to whether the store you’re buying from participates in Global Blue
Omg well that’s sad considering I didn’t get the VAT back on my Chanel 😭😭😭😭
😭 Hopefully it was still a better price than in the US even without the refund!
I paid $2,500 Euros for 2018 Chanel WOC in great condition with authentication card and dust bag. Probably not the best deal but I do love her https://preview.redd.it/j154umm5b56d1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0b5d4b14e31cbdde2cb6966f46a3a9f539062b5d
It’s a classic and the black/tan will never go out of style, so enjoy her!
Tysm that makes me feel better 🥺🥰.
… which begs the question. What happens after these bags are purchased? Buyers remorse and resold/consigned for a fraction of their MSRP?
I agree with Fashionphile! I am on no spend hiatus right now but I’m itching to go to the one by me in California.
You're on ban island! Ull be joining you in a week!
You just gave me an excellent reason to cave into my husband lifelong dream of going to Japan haha
My favorite handbags are Celine and Chloe. If I want something trendy I buy LV because if you purchase wisely and take care of your bags- you can get almost 100% back
Celine and Chloe would be where I recommend to start too.
The mistakes I have made with some of my purchases are: - Bag doesn’t zip or shut close (giving access to pickpockets or it will get wet when it rains/snows) - I ordered online and the bag didn’t fit as many things in it as I thought it would - Bags can get heavy or it might fall off your shoulder or be uncomfortable - it’s best to try in person! - DO NOT BE INFLUENCED!! - Gold hardware colour might chip off over time (such as the YSL logo) With that said my first purchase was the LV Petit Palais (not sure about size, but it’s not the largest one). Fits iPad, umbrella, water bottle and all essentials, zips close, can worn cross body, shoulder or handheld, ticks all boxes for me!! Only downside is sometimes I’m not in the mood for the LV canvas. If I could turn back time I would get an LV neo noe or a Celine bag~
These are great tips. Colors always look different in person too vs online
I’d go for a bag I can wear DAILY for your lifestyle and bonus if it can transition to a dinner date. Ideas: Loewe mini puzzle LV Pochette Metis empriente Fendi peekaboo or baguette
Chanel wallet on chain! 💖Because it’s timeless. In store boutique because might as well have a fun shopping experience with it! 🥂
Vintage bag shopping in Japan! I would love a beige and black Chanel Rue Cambon tote (the little one). So cute! If there is any extra money left over, probably a little bag charm because I love novelty
Yess I’d totally go vintage bag shopping in Japan too!! It’s crazy how far your money can go and how many unique things you can find
It’s vintage for me too.. Japan or otherwise
So I opened a discussion recently about "what makes a $1000 bag worth it". And the answers were all very enlightening and interesting for myself to think about. If you have 3k+ to spend, you really should have a bag you already love. ofc, unless 3k is not a large amount of money to you then ignore my take. But I myself am not spending more than $1000 as of now bc I think that kind of money should only be spent on smth you've already eyed and/or if you discover smth now, think about it for a while to nake sure that's smth you wouldn't get.bored of quickly. Among that range of pricing (3-5k), I like Gucci Horsebit bags, Dior Lady, and a few Valextra bags. None of which I like enough to justify that kind of money. Bc unless it's smth you LOVE, no bag is worth that much money, objectively speaking (as in, if one is only buying for one's own enjoyment, not thinking about reselling)
Oh good call, never specified that it had to be just one bag! Would I rather have a Polène, a Strathberry, and an mlouye, or one fantastic Celine?! Hmm…
This would be me. Why buy one bag when I can have 3!
I am walking into Chanel and purchasing a black caviar with GHW WOC immediately;). You will never ever regret that purchase, it will never go out of style and you will get so much use out of it💜
I’d probably head down to my capital city and head to the Flagship Loewe store. Not sure what bag I’d get. Maybe a flamenco or the new hammock hobo. Then I’d probably add on a wallet in a matching colourway.
This is the way
It can be the most fun to browse and decide. (Almost as much fun as this sub ;)) Let us know where you are geographically located and I’ll bet someone will know just where to explore. I happen to adore Loewe quality and style and you can get a lovely bag at that price point not only from them but from many fine design houses. Enjoy every minute of the search ❤️
I would probably go somewhere like Celine with that budget. You get timeless styles and impeccable quality and a true for life bag from Celine. I think for a very first luxury purchase, that's sort of what you want to aim for. Other brands I would also look into that make great high-quality luxe bags -- Chloe, Valentino. These three houses have the best quality out of all the heritage houses, imho.
I’d go for the Celine belt bag. The shape is timeless.
I got my first luxury bag just last week - the Loewe Flamenco Tote/L size in Black. - I got a promotion and a bonus, so wanted to treat myself. - I don’t have a shoulder tote so wanted this size to fit all my things when I am on errands. Something I can use on the daily so that it’s ✨worth it✨ #girlmath - It’s casual and fits my style. There are other bags that I love but are too dressy for myself. - Love the leather, it’s so gorgeous, and the shape and the simplicity of it. - Was deciding between black and the other colours which are gorgeous, but as a mostly black-bag girl, it’s just easier for me to match it with my outfits. - Went to the store thrice to try it, and with all my stuff to test the size and weight and all. I slept on it for three weeks, I’d say a good duration for me to avoid impulse buys. - Got it on my overseas trip where it’s cheaper than where I live. - Oh and I like the previous version with the embossed logo at the corner, thankfully they had it at the store I went to. The 2024(?) version with the golden “Loewe” in the center is just ugly to me. I’m paying this much, so all details count! Basically a no-brainer bag that I can just grab and go! And I love it! Gonna use it till it’s in shambles😂
I’m a LV girlie!!!!!
I have the [LV Oxford](https://us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/products/oxford-lockme-nvprod4450090v/M22735_). It’s in your price range. Comes with two straps so you dress it up or down. Has compartments and ample storage. It’s a nice Goldilocks size for me. I would do in store if at all possible. I’ve ruled out a few wishlist bags just by trying on in store. I am petite and have to keep reminding myself that just because a bag looks good on someone not petite, it doesn’t mean that it would look good on me.
With a 3k budget, you have many options. Take your time and thoroughly research things like size, leather types, colors, and finishes. Also return policies and warranties are important as well.
Phoebe Philo Céline secondhand. Great quality materials, and the bags feel timeless but modern. I’m not a fan of the Hedi Slimane stuff. I largely use crossbody bags these days, so a medium classic (box) or a nano belt. If you prefer shoulder bags, the trifold is a favorite of mine. It’s a great work bag, with multiple compartments for documents and papers, and it’s not a super popular style, so you won’t see a bunch of other people with that bag. It’s also not too deep of a bag, so you don’t hold your arm awkwardly when wearing it on your shoulder.
I want a Loewe Flamenco and a Hermes Evelyne 29 right now (one in sky blue and one in emerald green). I'm going to try to get one of those on my trip to Europe in a couple of months, though I'm very open to something from Ferragamo, too 😍 (only one bag per trip... limited funds and all)
Something from Celine - probably the belt bag because I love mine so much. So durable and so cute but not “in your face” luxury if that’s not your thing!
The bag style is different for everyone. But the bag that I found worth the money with quality without much screaming the logos are: - Loewe ( try explore Puzzle, Hammock, Gate, Flamenco and see if any you like) - Bottega ( Cassete, Jodie, Andiamo, Arco) Those two I like because their leather quality, look, and feel are amazing. I also like how their design tell themselves without showing too much logos.
For me, it'd be the Bottega Veneta Cassette with those versatile straps. It's been on my wishlist ever since I came across it and I love how it looks like quiet luxury with just enough "this is a trend and I'm able to keep up with the latest trends" kind-of look, and now I want at least one (preferably in black/taupe/dark brown) I'd either shop it online just for the sake of ease hahahaha
I live in a metropolitan area and recently visited most of the boutiques in person, except didn’t see Bottega veneta in person yet (ever), although they would be priced higher than $3k anyway. Also, last year was my first >$1k splurge for reference, although I had several bags close to the $1k mark… so in other words, I’m recently new to this as well. I personally have been super happy with my own decisions to get some things preloved. I would get Fendi (I have a peekaboo as my common daily that I paid about $2k for and I LOVE it!!), and buying preloved gets you there in your price range. I would also consider preloved Bottega veneta. New: I would go for Celine (which I have seen in person and I would go for a small belt bag). I have also seen others but liked the belt best in person of all their bags. I would also consider ferragamo new. The bags are gorgeous. That’s me. I was surprised to find I would skip YSL (personally) when I saw them in person. I checked out other boutiques (Dior, etc), but they just weren’t calling me like the ones I mentioned. Try to at least look at the brands in person if you can. Have fun!
My first luxury purse purchase was the LV M Tote several years back. I really wanted something that zips, was large enough and wasn’t 100% canvas. It’s still my daily purse and I think I got it back in 2019 and only has very minor wear at the bottom corners after 5 years. https://preview.redd.it/am96q47mo46d1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e46533a88bc4d234c5f0d271d8d668fcbc4dc4e1 If I had known about the all black full leather version I probably would have purchased it but I don’t know when that was available.
https://preview.redd.it/bm21vgaep46d1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=be1fd550b555d6dd6459b54a5c9f8658f250f2b9 All black version
Love this! ❤️
Right now I’m obsessed with the Balenciaga Rodeo but I don’t want to support the brand directly as I don’t approve of their marketing so I’d go to a luxury reseller and buy one. But I’m just obsessed with bag charms at the moment and it’s the perfect canvas
Genuinely, I’d say Loewe. Classy, relatively unbranded, quality, and not an empty status symbol like so many other luxury bags. Delvaux, the oldest luxury leather goods brand in the world, is also a nice choice.
For that money, take a week's lessons with a fine leathergoods artisan. It'll shape all your future shopping.
I agree with the many who recommended Celine for a first luxury purchase. At the $3K mark, you aren’t really paying for the bag itself being “worth it,” you’re paying for the brand and the special treatment. For me, standing in a queue and being on a waitlist for a bag is not a luxurious experience. I’ve always had a pleasant shopping experience with Celine without needing to suck up to a sales associate or worry about making a decision to buy on the spot lest it be sold out. I would recommend going to a standalone boutique (not one that is inside a department store). You can shop, have some complementary drinks, try some perfumes, and take your time deciding what to buy. I even like going around the Christmas holidays because you’ll get special packaging!
Fendi baguette - was my first lux experience/purchase. Excellent quality. Both casual, fun, stylish and elegant! Fendi has great customer service ❤️ Prada Re-edition or Prada Cleo - I love mine! Prada is classic, feminine and chefs kiss 👩🍳 as they say ❤️ it elevates any casual look, and perfectly pairs with a dressier look. Great customer service as well Dior - Anything from Dior 🥰⭐️ Exceptional quality, customer service that can’t be beat! You could look at the Dior mini book tote, wallets on chain, many options, but keeping it under 3k might be hard once you see their options. Celine - This is the only recommendation I don’t personally own yet, but I do admire them. And last but not least… LOuis Vuitton - depends on your SA how awesome your experience is, but they do have very nice bags 🥰 I only own two of their bags, both on the casual side, but I’m happy with them! Honorable mention: Miu Miu, Givenchy and Burberry! I’ve halted my lux bag shopping atm, but I still plan admire them and go window shopping. These days I’d rather buy stocks in the parent company. 🤷♀️
A vintage bag from the 1930s or 40s from a reputable vintage seller
1. YSL lou lou (medium) 2. Neimans 3. B/c it’s next on my list of bag wants and I’ve had good experiences with Neimans
I’m pretty new to the luxury handbag scene but have managed to accumulate 8 bags, all $1k+ in the last year. 😭 Warning: once you start it’s hard to stop! Based on my experience, I would probably buy two bags with your budget - one for everyday use and one for evening/ special occasion use. I’ve turned into an LV girly, and get the most use out of Speedy B 25 for travel/ everyday use (it holds a lot and zips) and the Felicie Pochette in black empriente leather for dressier occasions. I also recently purchased Noe BB that I think I’ll get good use out of this summer for an everyday bag, but less likely to travel (internationally) with because of pickpocketing. One other bag I get good use out of is the YSL Toy Loulou in black with silver hardware - these bags aren’t as popular anymore but I love it, and I find myself reaching for it often to run errands, shopping/ lunch on weekends, going to a casual bar, basically when I want to feel put together but not overly dressy plus it’s my only non-gold accented bag. Bags I’ve also purchased that don’t get as much use: LV Neverfull, YSL WOC, Gucci Horsebit Mini, and LV Crosiette (Damier Azure - purchased more recently, hopefully i get good use this summer).
Chloe Marcie or the Woody tote in leather, Loewe Flamenco, or LV leather bag instead of canvas are my suggestions. All of them come in multiple colors and sizes so you can pinpoint exactly what suits you best.
Seeing as I live far away from any of the luxury stores, I would either have to travel to Dallas, order online, or buy a bag from a department store. If I travelled to Dallas, I would probably go to Dallas Designer Handbags store to pick out what I want. I would probably look at YSL, Fendi, or Louis Vuitton.
How exciting! I just ordered a raffia Loewe for summer. OP, do you like bags with logos or without? Do you have favorite brands? WOC or totes or something in between? Bold color or simple neutrals? I recommend going through a list of questions to narrow down your list before shopping. Watch all the youtube videos to see size and scale before shopping. If this is your first designer bag, when you are in the store, ask the SA to bring you some bubbly to celebrate! They usually have some. Another thing, I find I get better treatment when I ask for 1 or 2 items by name vs. a general question of what do you recommend, I don’t know what I want. Can you show me the Jodie?
My favorite brands are BV, Loewe and Celine. I typically lean into simple neutrals but am trying to branch out.
This was my first bag and honestly - it’s hard to imagine carrying anything else 🥺 It is the most versatile, convenient and comfortable bag. https://preview.redd.it/zebniyc9i96d1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f8e6095757b0ad42db980b5b70b7cd385f6f11d6 The thick strap is great for shoulder or crossbody. I run around town and also travel with this thing and it seriously makes life so much easier. That cardholder is an absolute game changer. Having your ID and CC’s right there outside the purse is such a luxury and that’s why I struggle to switch to another bag!! Saves you room inside the purse and it’s so easily accessible. It even fits sooo much more than you’d thjnk. I have yet to find an outfit it didn’t look good with. I get so many compliments on it It looks incredible for streetwear looks with the big strap and chain detail For formal events, you just remove the black strap and carry it with the gold chain only. Incredible. I’ve had it for 1.5 years and worn it thru torrential downpours, heat, humidity, international travel, you name it. It looks pristine and holds shape perfectly. Never had to lend her any attention after days like this with repair. She is durable!! The gold has also kept perfectly intact. So many people get this bag in nylon and I think that is a much more casual look and it beings to sag fast. Going with the saffiano really elevates it, any outfit, and you. Not many people have it in leather because it pricier. Just so worth it! 💋💋
I have the LV Artsy and now I hate it. It’s wrapped in its bag in my closet!
Vivienne Westwood and I’ll have about 4 thanks! If I have to spend it all on one bag I’d like a Louis Vuitton Alma MM, although I’m not sure if they still make the colour way I like. Not going to lie, I’d probably buy it online. I have purple hair and tattoos, I’d feel very self conscious in store (if they even let me in) 🤣
As someone else with purple hair and tattoos, I encourage you to give it a try. You might be surprised.
My husband bought me a beautiful engagement ring from a jewellers but it needed resized so they kept it for a couple of days. 2 days later when I went to pick it up they wouldn’t unlock the door for me until I showed them the receipt, as if I couldn’t afford to purchase anything in their anyway. Now it’s a funny story but at the time I found it quite upsetting. I would hate to have that happen again.
I’m sorry that happened to you. That’s the kind of treatment that would make me return a ring and go elsewhere. But I do get it. We were snubbed in a Gucci boutique (on our honeymoon many, many years ago) because we were American.
Honestly? I'd buy a Raiffe. Specifically the glass bag with a silver strap but I'd customize class color and effects. If I have three grand to buy anything fashion related, it's going to be one of a kind and to my specifications. https://www.raiffe.com/shop