I am a really big fan of accessories in every shape and form.  But the biggie for me is handbags! My thought is that your handbag should “lead” you into a room.. It makes a statement. It can create the mood for your outfit. I have been collecting handbags since I was a child. I can give the blame or credit for that to my Dad. When I was a little girl one of his buying assignments was kids handbags. Needless to say, I was right in step with whatever the the fashionable thing was for little girls. And it stuck with me.

In a Harper’s Bazaar article I read “collecting bags, when well done, can arguably be an art form…” I agree 100%!!  There are so many varieties of handbags (aka purse, pocketbook) to choose from. Here are a few categories that should be part of your dream collection, or should I say your art collection!!

Every collector needs 1) a classic black day bag. This is a bag that can be with you through all parts of the day and would not be out of place in the evening. 2) a neutral tote. Since I am a big-bag-girl totes are more than just having a neutral one for me. I need several!   3) a day clutch- a great look, but I find I always need to be carrying more things and a bulging clutch looks ridiculous. Diane von Furstenberg came out with a great idea the DVF Secret Agent Bag…a large leather tote with a zipped on detachable clutch on the outside. Fabulous idea if you want to part with $498.00.  4) Metallic Minaudiere is  must for every woman. Does not matter if you only use it twice a year it is a must have. 5) a weekend casual bag. Once you hit retirement this becomes a major staple. This category includes shoulder bags, bucket bags, satchels, hobo bags.  6) cross body bag. This is a bag on the small side that you can wear cross body and be able to get up and dance without worrying about your bag being on the table or use on a day when you need both hands free. It can either be something in color or classic. These are incredibly versatile. 7) a weekender. This can either be for a long weekend or as a carry-on when traveling. There are fabulous weekenders out there. Everything from designer duffle bags in leather, or faux leathers or a printed Vera Bradley bag. 8) a just-for-fun bag. Fringe, plaids whatever is of the moment. One of these can be purchased without breaking the bank and it can add some fun to your outfit. 9) a pop of color. This can be  seasonal addition. Color does add a lot to an outfit. 10) a structured lady-like bag. Adds polish…always looks neat. Think Heritage bags. Maybe you are lucky and have gotten a hand-me-down Hermes!!

You do not need to spend a zillion dollars on a bag. There are fabulous on trend bags in every retailers’ private label lines. Regardless of leather versus man made, there are things to look for when making a purchase. Examine the hue of the material. You want to make sure the color is saturated so that it is not just painted onto the surface rather than dyed. Check the seams of a bag around the edges. Look for loose threads or cracking of the leather or the faux leather.

I think that collecting bags can become an addiction. But keep in mind, bags can last almost forever and the styles are reinvented as years pass. I have some some bags that are 40 years old and are still looking good! I have just gone through all of my mother’s collection and have found some wonderful truly vintage bags that I will treasure and enjoy for a very long time.