YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Handbags etc.

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Handbags etc. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:39:39 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php mtnsofthemoon on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2393038 Thu, 07 Aug 2025 15:50:56 +0000 mtnsofthemoon 2393038@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ LJP - I am a little late to the discussion here but I concur.  A few years ago I had a very bad biking accident.  Due to some of the injuries I sustained I could no longer tolerate a satchel or even small cross body bag on my shoulder.  I moved to what my girlfriend calls "hands free" with a small but my absolute favorite Hobo small leather card holder.  My car key is small and fits in a pocket as well as my cell phone.  I have always been a "pockets" girl - pants or dresses.  I feel so much freedom with so little to carry.  I keep sunglasses or lipstick in my car.  I live in a "car" town but also do a lot of walking.  This unfurtunate accident liberated me and I absolutely love not carrying a ton of stuff with me.  Below is my beloved Hobo card holder.  It is colorful, a little shiny, has subtle animal print in it and gives me that "happy" feeling.   UmmLila (Lisa) on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392989 Thu, 07 Aug 2025 07:05:00 +0000 UmmLila (Lisa) 2392989@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I love handbags (and shoes) as outfit-makers. I like how they add texture or contrast (suede in summer, as your example). Also I always am carrying a lot of stuff around. I do the pouch thing for lipgloss, eyedrops, spare contacts, inhaler, hair tie, comb, stain remover, wet wipes, and then I have my wallet, my sunglasses, my fan, and often my American-signifier water bottle. It’s so hard to pare down to small bags for evening, but I do it occasionally. Indigoprint on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392974 Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:48:24 +0000 Indigoprint 2392974@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I lust over beautiful bags. Looked up the comercial you mentioned and loved that bag. As they say with yarn... So many bags so little time! Carol on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392912 Wed, 06 Aug 2025 16:29:06 +0000 Carol 2392912@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ LJP— so weird you posted about bags – – I was going to put up something similar today. I still might… But I am having Internet trouble, so we’ll see. My bag needs are not much – – I would love to have an interesting collection, if not a huge collection. I have an everyday Baggallini crossbody pictured here—bought secondhand and still looking good, despite being beat around. I also have an evening shoulder bag, a simple clutch, and a few totes. (And oh, look—I guess I am participating in the fish trend—a few months ago, I attached a wooden carp I found in my stuff!) I could probably live without scarves if I had to, but I think seeing them provides some moral support for creating an interesting outfit. The same way having a cup of fun pencils on a desk might make you want to write. That’s three – – there is another one in the giveaway box, but I’m not sure if I will keep it. I love, purses, but I have never totally felt at home with them. I could probably do fine with a tote bag, and a backpack. Carla on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392910 Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:30:42 +0000 Carla 2392910@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I’m just not a bag person.  It may have something to do with the ‘trauma’ of having my first ever leather bag stolen when I was a teen.  Afterwards keys and wallet went in a pocket.  I guess I used my book bag like a purse afterwards, and after uni carried a leather briefcase into which I might pop my packed lunch or other essentials.  (I did have beautiful leather briefcases - 3 over 30 years.) <div>In my 50’s my work changed, the briefcase was out, and the search for a ‘good’ bag started. After 10 years of bag churn, I’ve settled down to a few in rotation and have no bag wantsies.  The dark blue half-moon bag from Uniqlo is hands down the most used.  The Longchamps bags are the bags of choice for travel.  The wine Coach is my favourite leather bag.   </div><div> </div><div>My super simple duffle bag gym bag is showing its age and I’m toying with the idea of using the black Longchamps Neo for that purpose.  </div><div> </div><div>I’m off backpacks and anything physically heavy.  </div> LJP on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392901 Wed, 06 Aug 2025 13:53:27 +0000 LJP 2392901@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ That's interesting , Bijou.  I am not a schooled and experienced second-hand market shopper - yet.  I often think about it - and envy those who make good use of the various sites around .  Your bags are incredible !   Bijou on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392886 Wed, 06 Aug 2025 03:58:47 +0000 Bijou 2392886@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Angie's response really resonated with me as I like to add interest to my outfits with my bags.  Sunglasses are an essential item for me, so my day bags need to have sufficient room for my wallet, phone and sunglasses. Having discovered buying online from Japan second hand has meant that I have bought three fabulous bags at a fraction of their new retail cost - if they are new with tags (as was the case with the pink Bao Bao or the Coach bag - then a lesser discount). A Japanese retailer that I trust is Second Street. My large brown Chloe Marcie bag was decidedly second hand, in that whilst it had been well cared for, the leather had softened when compared to new bags and was rated as being B grade with obvious signs of wear (the interior was immaculate and came with certification and the original dust bag). The Marcie bag cost me about A$250 and I use it often. The quality of the leather and hardware is stunning. This may be a way to get those few amazing bags that you will love and use for many years to come. Style Fan on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392874 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 23:59:12 +0000 Style Fan 2392874@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am not a bag person.  I have one bag that gets a lot of wear, and I don't think about it as part of my outfit.  When I joined YLF, I saw how vital bags were to the outfits.  I tried to change my bag to go with my outfit.  I was a failure. I need a bag for my wallet, sunglasses, car keys, dog things, etc.  It is a functional object. I do love footwear, but the days of looking for great shoes and boots are gone.  It is Birks and orthopedic shoes for me. I never got into scarves.  I couldn't figure out what to do with them. Jewellery is one accessory that I love.  I adore bangles, rings, earrings and artisan jewellery. Peri on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392825 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:36:40 +0000 Peri 2392825@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ No decrease in bag use for me, I still want one whenever I leave the house. I see people with those wallets and I don't even know how they manage. Probably a weird exception due to allergies but I even have to carry a little bottle of hand soap due to contact allergies, and two of my allergens are ridiculously prevalent in soap products. And I want hand sanitizer, tissue pack, reading glasses, etc. I could never be a minimalist. But, I generally have one bag until it wears out. The only reason I have two now is because the first one ended up too bulky and heavy for everyday use. I don't switch them around for fun or to go with what I'm wearing, don't really care about that. So, a bag is essential, but mostly functional. In that way I'm a minimalist.  judy on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392822 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:21:16 +0000 judy 2392822@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I feel like I need a big bag, just mentally to organize myself and my various things.  I use some of them to store things in my closet ( I have a very large closet but no bureau these days).  I think I own eight bags, all very simple leather totes.  The last one I bought was early during the pandemic and unlike the others, it has an outside pouch that I have come to rely on such that it has become my go to bag. But your post has reminded me that I DO actually have others, so I have taken one out today to change things up!   I used to own and wear a lot of scarves, but now I only own a handful of them, about half for warmth, half are cotton/linen.  I don't really love the feel of a scarf any more, it just feels like too much lately.  One I bought a long time ago is a Sashiko scarf, it's a method of Japanese quilting, with gorgeous colors, is still with me.  It seems to go with everything, and even if I don't wear it that much, I love to see it hanging in the closet.   Janet on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392817 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 15:15:07 +0000 Janet 2392817@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I’ve also seen my handbag collection shrink, but not much — I use my grey Bao Bao about 75-80% of the time, but sometimes I still like to switch it up. I have some bags that are kind of unique in color, pattern, or style, that I don’t want to let go of, in case I start wanting to use them again. They’re all ones I *like* that have some sort of practical use. Others I may use only a few times a year but enjoy them enough that I will not let them go. And then there are some special occasion bags and ones that have special purposes (small ones I can take to concerts or sports events). Now, scarves are a thing for me, LOL. I have not been wearing them as much in the last couple of years, but I still love them and I’m not getting rid of my favorites. I don’t care for heavy knitted scarves at all, so my lightweight wool blends, etc get worn in cooler months for a bit of warmth and color/pattern. I do need to stop collecting them though! LJP on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392808 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 14:19:47 +0000 LJP 2392808@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Interesting to hear such varied responses !  And yes, sunglasses and their cases do present the need for a bag of some sort, when leaving them in the car isn't an option . Sal - laughing at the Labubu comment.  Clipping it to a Vuitton bag is some sort of trend - lol.  My daughter has a Labubu and clipped it to her gym bag ONCE, then I noticed it never appeared again.  I really prefer the purity of the design of a bag and don't like extra clip-ons or scarves tied etc. That St. Agni line is really nice, you're right! AndiB on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392803 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:19:55 +0000 AndiB 2392803@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I used to be a big bag gal myself, but have rather organically shifted to fewer, and smaller, bags.  I am sure I got the idea here from Angie, but I've collected a handful of guitar straps for bags that have hooks, making cross body easier and tidier.  Often the narrow strap that comes with a bag is too narrow and digs into my shoulder.  I do still carry a bag daily, for wallet, sunnies, readers, lippy, tissue, phone.  I don't really carry anything more than that day to day.  I use a leather tote (with added, wide guitar strap) when I need to, travel, day long work days out of the office).  I do still go to a professional office every day, and sometimes travel across the state (Michigan) for work, but not nearly as much as I used to (yay Covid, and the acceptability of Zoom Meetings!) I did get rid of all of those long, lightweight double loop/double wrap-able scarves a few years back, I don't think I kept a single one, but I did keep all of my silk neckerchiefs, and - eek! - added two more this month!  One from Madewell and the other from Loft.  I do still love the French girl chic look of that, and it is really a signature of my style.   And speaking of Madewell, I had been eying a big, slouchy, suede (brown or burgundy) tote, this one I think, but it is no longer on the website in suede.  Maybe it will come back in the fall,to tempt me again.  I do hear you on the big bag.  It can be quite the statement piece.  <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/madewell-the-essential-bucket-tote/8428491?color=CHOCOLATE+RAISIN&size=one+size&country=US&currency=USD&utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=seo_shopping&utm_channel=low_nd_seo_shopping&srsltid=AfmBOoqEONM0qj298hz-WCGaUGBHfzWnUo_QLow7qYMkaVxc79QspsUQpWM">https://www.nordstrom.com/s/ma.....IN&si</a> Star (Lise) on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392788 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:54:06 +0000 Star (Lise) 2392788@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Interesting replies! I used to love bags and had many. I have become more practical with age with regard to shoes and bags. I am down to 11 bags and won't be getting any new ones soon. I don't change them out very often now, only if they really clash with my outfit. I also have come to realise that I don't like or need very big bags and they should have a couple of exterior zipped pockets for ease of finding things, as well as a wide enough strap for comfort. In the future when I need to purchase it will probably be in a warm metallic and meeting the above mentioned requirements. Then I can become the 'one bag woman'. Your Mom was clearly on to something ;). No more scarves either. Don't wear them. Lisa on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392780 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 02:23:07 +0000 Lisa 2392780@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I adore bags and will swap my bags for my outfits. I don't swap everyday but probably a few times a week. I don't carry a lot of stuff daily, but the biggest reason why I use a bag everyday is because I sport sunglasses daily. I need somewhere to put them when I go indoors. I do not like to put the sunglasses on the top of my head because then they get stretched out or inside the neckline of my shirt because they always fall out when I bend over. My bags span various sizes and so do my moods for my bags. I'll use a small Tumi crossbody for errands one week, then a Coach shoulder tote the next week. My newest bag is the brown JW Pei Linda Large Faux Leather Tote from NAS. It's also my largest bag that isn't a travel tote. (I also added a Longchamp Le Pliage cosmetics case during NAS that I guess counts as a bag?) In my bag collection, I have a few sentimental bags that I'll never get rid of. Of my sentimental bags, some I haven't used in years but that's ok. I don't expect my handbag collection to be equal use. Aquamarine on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392779 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 02:19:38 +0000 Aquamarine 2392779@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I like my bags but am being more realistic about the ones I will use, and the ones I never reach for. So I recently culled some, including big heavy leather ones that my shoulders can’t handle anymore. I’ve got more (smaller) crossbody bags now. The pandemic really changed my handbag habits—and I don’t carry nearly as much stuff in my bags, either. tam on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392765 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 00:07:36 +0000 tam 2392765@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Lisa - I will be 61 in September and less is more for me so I understand your thoughts.  I need a backpack on days I travel for work but errands around town and dinners out etc I want something small, lightweight and crossbody.  Nothing exciting here - MZ Wallace quilted bags work - don't love them but they do work.  I've spent a fortune trying to find one more exciting but must be lightweight but large enough to hold a small wallet, sunglasses case, iphone, lipstick, keys, hand sanitizer.  I prefer a zipper but has to be soft and not a stiff zipper.  Yellow hardware, not silver. Must have outside pocket for easy access to phone. Still looking for that one perfect bag and give up the rest.   Helena on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392761 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 00:00:11 +0000 Helena 2392761@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm with you Lisa ... I used to have all sorts of bags that I would switch up based on my outfit. Now I have one main bag for warm weather (a taupe leather one) and one for cold weather (a black le pliage), a crossbody for those weather variations too, and a smart small bag for going out (still casual, but smart casual lol ... There is no dressy in my world, and on the odd occasion, I borrow something). If I could have one for all occasions, that would suit me fine! Jaime on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392759 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 23:51:37 +0000 Jaime 2392759@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hmm. Well. Umm. I have a ridiculous amount of bags. I have hardly ever bought a new bag, and certainly not for many years but as a committed (or perhaps should be committed ) thrifter I cannot resist a very good bag. I actually only use a small section of these, and one day will sell the rest off. Or my kids will nab them. LJP on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392757 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 23:42:08 +0000 LJP 2392757@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Angie  - yes, of course this is personal and lifestyle related.  I once had a huge collection of bags because I treated them as part of my "look" for the day when out working as a sales rep .  And lots of matching was going on - lol.  I get it from your point of view !    I still have probably 10 bags at this point and have no plans for anything new anytime soon. Of course I'd LOVE a beautiful soft, soft brown suede casual bag, but I cannot justify something that isn't a hole in my wardrobe at this point.  It would just replace something else, and the issue with good bags (and you know this) is that they don't wear out !  I have had my Fendi for 24 years now - which I cannot believe as I remember the day I bought it ) and it looks every bit as good today as it did then.  I'd never replace it at this point as it's simply too much money now .  Irina - I love your Bao Bao bags.  If I were to ever need a new bag, other than my unicorn brown suede dream bag, I'd look at one of those too .  I also find settling for "second-best" in a bag (usually because of price) never works.  Same with shoes, actually.  I'd rather not buy something  than settle for a lesser version ( which is probably another reason I don't go and satisfy my yearning for a soft suede tote or bag).   Lastly, for someone like me who spent a lifetime trying to fill some unidentified hole with shopping and buying more things, being free of the desire for more is a relief.   Dee on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392754 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 23:38:22 +0000 Dee 2392754@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm not much of a bag person, I'm just too darn lazy to be changing bags to suit my outfits. My bags have to be practical and suit the way I like to use them too. Always crossbody, have a zipper closure for easy access, another zippered pocket in the front or back to fit my cell phone (dont want to be digging in my purse) Zipper interior pocket for those pesky little items and big enough to hold my wallet, sunglass clips, foldable shopping bag, and eye glass case. So, needless to say, my bags often don't really add much panache to my outfits. I have about 4 bags in a few different colours that suit my needs, but basically I use the same one most of the time. Sal on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392750 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 23:12:29 +0000 Sal 2392750@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I too am off scarves right now and have edited to eight.   I was a one handbag person until YLF - and now have about eight as well.  My most formal one is rarely used now.  I am about slouchy bags and small cross bodies (which I know are not trendy but are good for some occasions).  My clutches are a bit tired but so infrequently needed..... I think a small curated but broad bag collection is a good idea for you.  And I do think fashions change in this area - at the moment simple bags with less hardware seem to be popular whereas at times there were a lot more bells and whistles.  Although charms and Labubu (spelling may be wrong) are big in some circles.  These are not for me though. I am hoping to get a new bag this year.  I haven't decided what but definitely minimal hardware. My favourite bag brands are two NZ brands Saben and Deadly Ponies.  Yu Mei are also gorgeous.  But I am sure Canada have something similar. I have seen some woven leather bags (St Agni <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.st-agni.com/collections/bags/products/lattice-everyday-satchel-black">St. Agni | Lattice Everyday Satchel - Black</a>) that I really like too.  I could see you in most of the St Agni styles Lisa! The first three are the most used - and the tan and black cross body. LJP on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392748 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 23:00:39 +0000 LJP 2392748@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh - this is travel and work commuting aside. I use a large custom canvas tote in summer and a faux (i.e lighter weight) leather tote in winter for work. I carry my lunch, coffee, a makeup/general personal stuff zip bag , my phone, wallet , shoes in winter, etc etc. I use a crossbody or hip pack for hiking . I'm thinking more of everyday use . And no, I don't leave my wallet unattended in a shopping cart - lol. Canadians aren't *that* dewey-eyed and innocent ;). Although pickpockets admittedly don't cross my mind here . Irina on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392747 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 22:54:51 +0000 Irina 2392747@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I’m sad to report that there is no significant decrease in my wants! :) Bags were always difficult for me. I started owning more than one in the last 5 years. I don’t leave my house without a bag of some sorts. <div>I often choose a bag for a style or color and later realize there is not much use or it’s functional but particularly handsome. My success rate with adding new bags is less than 50%. I know the reason - I don’t want to spend considerable amount of money on a good design. I buy something not similar in a look but in function and fail often. </div><div>I actually added two kind of evening bags but mine are not for weddings. I carry it in the fall/winter when we attend concerts. I think I’m done with this category. I still enjoy my Bao Bao bags and get compliments on them often. But two of them are warm weather only. I wear crossbody  small Bao Bao in the winter but sometimes they are too small. I’m so happy I snatched a navy bag with top handles and a crossbody strap and looking forward to wear in the fall/winter, too. </div><div>So, even with retirement, I’m still looking for that unicorn bag - beautiful and functional. And have bags on my shopping wants list. </div><div>And like with other unused things, I sell my bags on Poshmark. </div><div>I often think that I should stop wasting my money on clothing which I have plenty of and instead spend more on bags and shoes. More impactful and versatile items. </div> Roberta on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392746 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 22:50:42 +0000 Roberta 2392746@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I still love a cute bag, but they've gotten smaller and smaller over the years. I'm no longer carrying a pair of shoes to change into at work, for example. I don't need room for a hairbrush or a makeup kit, however small. I used to have a lovely slouchy suede bag that you would have enjoyed, but it was just too big. My wallet got smaller too, I no longer needed a checkbook or much cash. I have kept two of my larger bags, solely because I love the way they look and they have special memories for me. I'm trying to find a way to use the red bag i bought in Amsterdam, since I can wear it as a crossbody or a shoulder bag. The other one is very much a lady bag (pictured) and it's just for me to admire in my home. I sold or donated my other large bags. Some years ago there was a program for homeless women that asked you to donate a purse and fill it with small cosmetics, sanitary needs, tooth care, that kind of thing. That was fun and I felt really good about it. Suz on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392745 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 22:49:24 +0000 Suz 2392745@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hmmm....before YLF I was your mother. One bag to rule them all, was my rule. Maybe two -- meaning black for most of the year and a straw bag in summer.  Then I bought a bunch of bags! Wheeee! Mostly inexpensive second-hand and Danier. I got some decent bags there, though!  I have ramped things up and honed things down some in the intervening years, and I like a bit of variety. I seem to need several categories:  1. The big tote / hobo that I can use when travelling to hold a day's worth of stuff, including folded up coats, water bottles, you name it. Often when I travel I leave in the morning and don't go back to the accommodation until night and need to deal with weather, varied activities, and so on. These big bags are a lifesaver in those times.  2. Backpacks -- these fill a similar function but I don't tend to use them much any more. I would like a nylon one that is still "street presentable" like my old cobalt Rebecca Minkoff, which I still use even though it is stained and in terrible shape. I have not found a replacement. But it was a great bag for summer so as rough as it is, I can't let it go.  3. City bags -- if I'm on my bike, I need a smallish one. The Pom Poms fit easily in my paniers. I also like to travel with one of these. The silver one works for day into evening. The gorgeous satchel from Furla is great on walking days in the city. Ditto the mustard Coach bag.  4. Miscellaneous: the pot bag is good for summer days when I don't need much. The clutch is one of a kind -- a different bag to have. I have a silver clutch, too, for evenings, though increasingly, I use the silver Pom Pom.  I also use a commuter backpack for my computer and work stuff.  JAileen on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392744 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 22:45:04 +0000 JAileen 2392744@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Years ago, a friend said I seemed to be starting a Vintage Coach Handbag Museum.  For a couple years, whenever I saw a Coach bag at the thrift store, I bought it.  Most were classic styles, but a few were somewhat rare.  None were expensive. A few years ago I went through my bags very ruthlessly and eliminated a couple dozen, the ones that did not spark joy.  They had their issues - too small, undesirable color (mostly black), no shoulder strap, etc.  First I offered them to friends and family, and then donated the rest to our church’s yard sale, where they brought in a nice little bundle.   When my husband retired, I gave him grocery shopping.  But even before that, there was no way I would leave my wallet in a shopping cart.  That’s why I use crossbody bags.  Your town must be nicer (duh, full of Canadians!)               :) Angie on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392741 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 22:29:36 +0000 Angie 2392741@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ People have different needs! If going without a bag suits you more these days - run with it! Follow those feelings, LJP. It's part of your evolving style, and you are wise to follow through on the change   As you mentioned, I'm a HUGE bag lover and wearer.  Bags are my thing!!! Always have been. Shoes have never been my thing. I have a very curated, and large collection of high quality leather bags. Many 10 years, and older. Some approaching 20 years. I have been collecting them for decades. I LOVE MY BAGS!!! They are ALL in rotation. None of them are frivolous.  When you live in the city and are on foot like me - with doggies in tow too - you need a bag for your stuff. Simply put, it's very practical to  carry a crossbody bag.  Almost everyone in the city carries a bag. All genders included. Many backpacks!  Personally, I don't like putting items into pockets. I make a point never to do that. That's how I lose things, forget things, and I'm weary of pickpockets. My hands go into pockets! In that respect, my preference is different to many on YLF - who enjoy putting items into pockets.  LJP on "Handbags etc." https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbags-etc#post-2392737 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 22:01:20 +0000 LJP 2392737@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ The older I get, the less stuff I want.  Shoes and bags (and clothes) included.  I've moved twice in 6 years and that itself forced major reassessments of how much I really needed to keep .   Nothing makes me feel worse and self-indulgent than piles and piles of possessions.  Yet accumulation creep occurs if I don't keep an eye on it. I'm on holidays from work for another few days and am finishing up a review and editing of my summer stuff.  Carol's post today about scarves spurred me onto the last leg of it - my scarf and handbag collection.  I also saw an  ad for Jennifer Aniston's new dry shampoo which showed her pulling it out of a gorgeous supple, big brown suede bag.  Kind of seasonally conflicted, but with her grey tank top and jeans, it looked so luxe and fabulous. This was the start of it all .....I only want a very few gorgeous quality bags. Sure Lisa, you say that every year .   Am I the only one who finds less use for handbags as years go on? I know Angie is a huge bag lover, but I feel she's a bit unique here;).  I finally got rid of a few 'evening' type bags I was hanging onto in case I suddenly got invited to a wedding -  none of these bags were of any quality to note, and I haven't attended a wedding in probably 30 years, so I think I'm safe in letting them go.  I passed on some 'novelty' type bags ( nylon  , canvas , etc ) from a line I used to rep years ago, and some cross body phone/wallet/bag things that don't even fit my current phone .  I'm not the one-bag-fits -all person who carries the same one all season (ahem, my late mother) but too many colours and styles and sizes are just overwhelming to me, and too fussy.  Most of the time, when I'm running errands etc, I don't even take a purse now. I have a vintage-y gold Coach zip around wallet that holds my phone and a tissue and a lipgloss, and that's what comes with me to the grocery store. In fall and winter, my phone and a few cards in a small case go into the pocket of my coat.   Carol's scarf post also resulted in a scarf cleanse and I'm now down to 5-6 silk scarves . I went through my collection with each move, but I bet I haven't worn a silk scarf since our first move 6 years ago.  I feel old.  Or smarter?  Curious to hear about your experiences with bags and changes in lifestyle/aging etc!