Ask Angie and the Sisterhood: Handbag Tips - YouLookFab Forum

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Ask Angie and the Sisterhood: Handbag Tips

Beth Ann

Veteran

One of my 2013 style goals is to upgrade my handbags without busting the budget. I have favored cheap, but cute bags from Kohls and Target, because I beat them up, and I've never really focused my style energy upon them. Now, my needs are simple --- REAL handbags. Substantial in size. Leather --- but not high maintenance. Must slip over the shoulder or cross the body, since when I'm not carrying something, I'm talking with my hands.

I'm trying to stay in the neighborhood of $100, but it seems that, while it's easy to find a good handbag under $200, my range of $50-100 is going to be tricky.

CocoLion commented on a post and linked to a bag on eBay. I'm embarrassed to say that eBay had never occurred to me. Anyone has tips on how to buy the best bags on eBay? Anyone found particular manufacturers in stores that would meet my needs?

I'm going out this afternoon, and intend to look at bags --- just see what I like, regardless of the cost.

Photo 1: New DWS Find. Oh so cute, good stitching and solid. Um. Made of some petroleum product, and "Hecho in China." Still, it's better fake than I usually buy!

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Shopping

28 replies

Latest reply was from Liz A.

pil

Veteran

I'll be following closely, Beth Ann, although my high end for bags is closer to $50. I bought a used Coach duffel off ebay several years ago (13 now that I think of it!) that has worked out well, although it is a bit larger and more cumbersome than I like. Knock offs would be my main concern now.

Oh, and it seems everything is hecho in China.

Sarah A

Veteran

More later, but jast wanted to say your new bag looks almost just like a Tignanello Perfect 10 Tote/shopper series which is actually leather although the PVC on the trim will be the limiting wear factor. I googled for ever last year and got my similar (but red) on for about $60 at Boscov's website. Also ebags is good (esp. when just trying to decide the name of what you want to start googleing) and ebay i have used for all 3 of my coach bags. TJMaxx has has some killer genuine leather bags too. More later when the kids arent hanging on me....

Anonymous

Are you still looking and what color? I'd love to help you look.

texstyle

(website)

Veteran

The one in the photo looks really cute - I find that Macy's and sometimes Dillards have leather handbags on sale for a good price -- if you have the option or can shop online. I recently bought a Patricia Nash leather bag at Macy's for about $70 after they adjusted the sale price for me. (I contacted them after the purchase when I noticed it went on deeper discount).

I've never purchased from ebay but I have purchased vintage bags on etsy that I've been happy with. You have to ask a LOT of detailed questions on used bags of course (odors?, any stains, tears or scratches I can't see in photos?, any loose stiches?, etc.).

Anonymous

In the meantime, what about this hobo with a crossbody strap?

http://www.overstock.com/Cloth.....oduct.html

http://www.overstock.com/Cloth.....oduct.html

ETA: Added a few from DSW as per Angie's suggestion:
Cute everyday tote:
http://www.dsw.com/handbag/aud.....1cat120020

Another neutral tote:
http://www.dsw.com/handbag/the.....1cat120020

These are all leather. I no longer buy synthetic bags, they don't last on me.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I have no suggestions but will also be watching closely since I need to upgrade my bags this year also and have exactly the same requirements, although I will go a little higher in price for the absolute right bags. Under $200 though.

Beth Ann

Veteran

Ooh! A good start! I'm off to 'handle" some bags in the store, then I'll check the thread again tonight.

Zap: Those are great bags. On the large size for me, but I would probably want one in this size. I'll post again on this thread in a few hours, and I might PM you when I'm more definitive on what color, style.

Sarah: Tignanello seems to be a good quality bag at a good price point. My DH watches, yes, QVC late at night to fall asleep (this is my manly man!). He keeps asking me what I like in a bag. Many Tignanello? They sell from QVC? Maybe I can make his quirk work for me!

Jjsloane

Veteran

I have trouble ordering online bags because I really need to feel them and see the interior layout etc.. I've bought from The Sack and Elliott Luca online during sales, also Dooney & Bourke. I find great bags at TJ Maxx and Marshalls. I've seen Kate Spade, Coach, Michael Kors, B. Mackosky and Tignanello (and others) all under $200 (ok maybe a few were over but they hover around $159 before markdown)

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Have you tried DSW? They might have what you are after in your price range. The Rack seldom has bags below $100 despite the fact that what they sell are bargains.

If you keep on scouring the Kate Spade site - you'll find bags under $100 eventually

Kristin L

Veteran

Have you tried any consignment stores? I've found several nice, authentic purses like Cole Haan, Coach and Kate Spade for under $100. Granted, they were used, but they were in amazing shape when I bought them.

Anonymous

I've had this dilemma, too. Ultimately, I've decided that in order to get what I really want, I need to be willing to spend up to $200. That means I'll buy fewer bags overall, but hopefully I'll replace them less often. Also, at that price point, I REALLY have to love it in order to pull the trigger, which also means I'm more likely to use them for years. In the long run, by spending more money upfront, you may spend less money over the long haul, KWIM?

Tignanello makes a very good bag. The leather is typically great and holds up well over time. I wouldn't hesitate to spend a few dollars more on the Perfect 10 shopper (which Sarah A pointed out is similar to the one in your picture).

Tignanello and Fossil have nice bags in the $200 and under category. B. Makowsky is close to that range and has some buttery leather bags that are seriously amazing to the touch. Dooney & Bourke also has nice leather and occasionally runs sales -- especially on end-of-season colors -- that brings them to $200 and under.

It's something to consider, anyway.

Glory

Veteran

I have found some great quality bags at Winners and Marshalls but you have to check back often - Angie's PPP will be in order.

Susie

Veteran

Another option is ebags. They have a good selection and it's easy to search by color or style or brand, And if you get their emails, there is almost always an offer for 20-30% off.

Aida

Veteran

Outlet malls can also offer good deals. I have a Kate Spade crossbody bag that I found for $98, and a Michael Kors mini-hobo found for $80. It depends on what stores are at your particular outlet, of course, but it's another option

Quite like the blue (@ Overstock) and metallic (@ DSW) bags that Zap linked!

Ginkgo

Veteran

Another vote for checking out TJ Maxx and Marshalls, and I scored a beautiful red Elliot Lucca bag at the Rack for $40! That bag has turned my life around and introduced me to the joys of a stunning bag perking up a low-key outfit.

JenA

Veteran

Another vote for TJ Maxx/Marshalls, I've bought some great leather bags there. Check the clearance section too, sometimes they have "older" bags that are really marked down. Another option is Loehman's. Their return policy is HORRIBLE, but if you live near a store you can return within the two weeks or even go to the store to see the selection.

Good luck.

Anonymous

Re. Size, the style of the hobo bag collapses on itself so it does not look as big. That is the beauty of the style. You have the room when you need it.

The metalic bag is a really, really good alternative for someone who does not have many bags, the straps are long enough so you can carry it on your shoulder, even with outerwear. The color is a great alternative to black and it goes with everything. I am considering it for myself, as a matter of fact. Sometimes I feel bad about the weight I put on my pricier bags.

Are you a member of Rue La La? They had some good deals today on this German brand Liebeskind Berlin. The leather quality is of one of the best I've ever seen at their price range.

DonnaF

Veteran

I know I've seen Tignanello at Macy's; not sure about the other brands. Macy's, like Kohl's constantly has sales, so I would want one of their Tignanellos at 50-70% off. I've also noticed that their online price may be higher than their in-store price.

unfrumped

Veteran

Another TJMaxx vote. Quite a few leather mid- range bag s, and then the odd better or trendier brand shows up here and there.

MsMary

Veteran

Yes, Marshall's/TJMaxx for sure! And I have made amazing scores on the sale racks at DSW as well! I've had especially good luck with B. Makowsky and Tignanello bags from those places. Just remember Angie's three P's -- be patient, picky, and persistent!

Beth Ann

Veteran

Oh, Thank You! So many wonderful ideas and sources.

Zap: Love both the blue/yellow tote and the metallic, which would be quite versatile for summer. I also hear you about bags not lasting! I'm going to do some more looking this weekend, and on Monday I may pull the trigger on one your links. I may call on your expertise again, since I'm a handbag newbie, for sure!

Aida: I live 10 minutes from a midrange outlet mall (H&M, Last Call, BR, Gap, etc.) and 20 minutes from a more upscale outlet mall. Today I had encough time to check out the sale at Coach (blah. Logo land), Michael Kors, and Fossil. I loved the leather in the Fossil bags. It feels good and smells good. I know that, style aside, if I spend mother for real leather I want it to look, feel and maybe even smell real!

Oddly enough, I like 45 minutes from a "real" mall!

Susie

Veteran

Zap mentioned liebeskind. I have one of that brand and it is the softest leather bag; it's really nice. A good price on that nice of quality would be a great deal.

Day Vies

Veteran

I've been looking for a yellow bag this year and i almost picked up one similar to this last night. I am in the same boat as you. I don't focus on handbags but when I do I buy the best I can afford. My favorite was exactly $99 it's a leather Liz claiborne slouchy hobo in cognac -- people always mistake it for a coach (because of the brass hardware). I found it at TJ Maxx. I find that they offer great leather purses under $100. Also you could always get a Coach classic bag. They are made of leather through and through (the classic ones not the new-fangled designs) Yes they are over $100 ($300 - $400) but I have a Coach that's 19 years old that still looks new. I have to say they take beatings pretty well. They are worth investing a couple hundred bucks.

hedgiehog

Veteran

Beth Ann,

You may have already found something.....but.....
I get invitations from Coach to shop online with discounted prices...(have spent way too much with them, LOL). The site is by invitation only but I am able to invite friends.....if you're willing to share your e-mail address I can send you the link. Just got an e-mail from them this morning.
Echoing what all the other ladies have said, TJMaxx and Marshall's are great for finding deals. I recently picked up a Michael Kors bag for $175 that retails for $348 so I was very happy!

Hope I can help.

Beth Ann

Veteran

Thanks, DV and Hedgie! I'm trying to get used to this new site format, and was just wondering how to check back on older posts, or threads I'm commented on. And then I saw the photo of my bag!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with me. I've been taking some time to shop handbags when I'm out. Gathering intelligence, so to speak, and deciding what I like. So far, I've learned that some leather bags don't feel or look better than the midpriced imitations I've been buying, but the buttery leather than even smells like leather makes me really happy!

TJ's and Marshalls are both 10 minutes away, but tend to be poorly stocked.

Hedgie: I"ll PM you with my email address!

Anonymous

Beth Ann, I saw a red Cupid Rebecca Minkoff in my TJ Maxx for $199 yesterday! I was tempted but walked away. They do have hidden treasures if you look often and dig.

Eliza

Veteran

I tend to splurge on handbags as I keep them a very long time if they hold up and they, like footwear, can really make a statement and elevate a look.
That said, at times I also look for deals on handbags and have had great luck at TJ Maxx, often on clearance and once in awhile at the Rack I find something. In my area (the northeast), there is a big selection variation between different TJs, so check out any stores as you go by. Tiganello does use a nice leather and it holds up. That is my adult daughter's go to brand and the durability is remarkable. I have also had expensive European brands not hold up due to style and leather quality. Make sure the straps are strong and well attached for bags that will carry a lot of necessities.

Up until recently, I was quite apt to go less expensive on summer bags (short season and even the great ones don't seem to look as fresh for long in lighter colors). That gave me budget room for workhorse bags and a chance for trendier in the summer.

When I shop for bags, I go with an open mind and a wish list of color/function in mind. Then I can take advantage of what is there. I have all sorts of requirements for bags, but have gradually accumulated a good collection. Good luck. With perseverance, you will gradually fill that wardrobe hole.

Liz A.

Veteran

I am also an avid tj max and Marshall's shopper. I planned to comment earlier then ran out of batteries. I find that certain stores are winners over others. The best Marshall's is about a half hour from me so I don't get there often. Just scored a metallic leather lucky brand bag for $40 at tj Maxx last night.