1. You've named it. Like cats and dogs, once you've given it a name, it is yours forever

2. I can 'hear' the joy bubbling up in your words. This is the bag for you!

And someday, if the 2.55 is still haunting you, you can bring home a sister for Miss Scarlett.

I cannot tell you how excited I am for you! It is a gorgeous bag!

It's beautiful and it makes you happy. Nothing else matters. And a belated happy birthday!

Wow, it is PERFECT!

First of all, congratulations on your 40th, and also on your new baby (I don't know how old he is -- I've obviously missed a bit! -- but last time I saw a pic of you, you were preggers!).

OK, the handbag. My disclaimer: I'm not a bag girl. When it comes to bags, I just don't get it. I'm clearly lacking the handbag gene. However, I'm reading all these gushing, swooning comments so I understand that, to people in the know, Miss Scarlet is a very nice bag. So here's my take:

1. You find the bag so visually appealing that you hugged the sale assistant in a moment of rapture.
2. You named the bag. La Belle Demimondaine makes a good point.
3. You are prepared to spend serious coin on an item that will mark a milestone, possibly a turning point, in your life.

I vote keep it. You clearly love it, and to my eye it looks the same as the other one you were coveting. Again, I'm not in the know when it comes to Chanel bags, but neither is 98% of the rest of the world, and if you love the bag and it's pretty and it suits your style, which it does, then go for it. I don't think you will regret it. And Angie (who certainly DOES know her bags) gave you a "killer", which is as good a blessing as you're going to get anywhere.

Plus, this way you could also get an expensive trench. It's a win-win!

Amazing love it!!!! I think this bag is absolutely perfect for you (and you've named her!) - forget about the other bag - this is the right one!

Happy Birthday!

Great bag, and I think the better bag, because #1 it is the colour you want, and # 2 I think that second flap in the more $$ version would drive me crazy, iconic or not!

I positively, absolutely, without-a-doubt LOVE THIS BAG FOR YOU!!!

I think the size is perfect, the finish of the leather is perfect, the colour is perfect and it will work with your wardrobe beautifully. I wouldn't change a thing

And Happy Birthday beautiful lady!

I think the bag is lovely. It's definately not settling. Keep and enjoy.

Natalie, Miss Scarlet is the perfect bag for you! Enjoy her. Take her out for many spins. Show her the town. And congratulations!

Hey Natalie - somehow I missed your B-Day - so, let me first wish you happy belated birthday (and I hope that you are still celebrating!) And, second - well, that bag is YOURS! It seems to be perfect for you and your happiness factor is soaring - so, enjoy to the fullest! Also - dear woman - how do you juggle all of your responsibilities??? I am amazed and in awe! I lose my purse, my keys, my watch, shoes, etc. all of the time - and I don't have the excuse of taking caring of children and juggling a career and husband as well! You rock!

Now I know why you were talking about red bags on my thread

I missed this post! Though I caught the one where you were thinking about it!

Congratulations! I like Rachy's point about how you actually look good in Chanel--I've often thought I wouldn't! I also like how you thought through all the different aspects of your purchase. Good job! Can't wait to see this bag many times!

Congratulations on having found the perfect bag for you.
What a story about the *almost* lost bag! You are so overworked from all sides, I think it was a bit harsh from your DH to cancel everything and hold it against you. An accident is an accident. Of course, you CAN keep track of everything, but you have so much on you shoulders! Your brain had to pick its priorities. Remind him that at least it wasn't the baby you forgot in that tent! lol. Imagine that.
Happy 40th! 40's are the best, trust me. Better than the 30's!

Totally agree with krishnidoux. Perfect all round. Well told story too. You life makes me feel lazy. You misplaced a purse!! I am with kd on that too.
Happy BBD.