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Who guessed that buying a handbag could be such a dilemma? What should happen is you should pop to the store, pick a bag, and there you have it, but it's much more complex than that. You've got budget, fashion, longevity, useability all to think about, and it doesn't matter whether you're buying an expensive designer handbag or a budget fashion purse, it's all money out of the bank so you need to make sure you're spending it well.
Of course, I could just tell you to manage without a bag and carry everything around in your pockets (men manage it, after all) but bags are a passion, and we are allowed a little bit of fun in our lives. So here are my top five tips for buying a handbag.
1. How will you use it?
I have a toddler daughter so my current handbag is very toddler proof. It's a cheap slouchy handbag big enough to carry a few diapers and wipes, along with sunhat, sunscreen, food and drink (I can even get a purse, a notebook and my sunglasses in there.) It's strong enough to go to the beach with us, it's been lugged through fields and sat on the soggy floor of the swimming pool changing room. It also fits nicely over the arms of the buggy. It's not my favourite bag ever. In fact, it's pretty dull, but it does the job. I can use it for everything I need when I'm out with my daughter and that's what makes it such a great handbag.
2. Money
As sensible women we know that if you can't afford it you shouldn't buy it. Debt is never good, and do you really want to do that for a purse? If you've got your heart set on something exclusive then save for it - it will be even more exciting when you eventually buy it. On the same note if you see an affordable handbag but it isn't the one you want don't buy it because it's in budget. Wait until something really appeals to you, because you will find something.
3. Don't jump on the Bandwagon
Ultra-fashionable becomes ultra-unfashionable within the space of weeks so if you're only buying it because it's bang on trend then save your money. Buy something that's going to stay chic forever. Will you still use it in five years time? In five weeks? On a similar note don't buy something because everyone else has got it/your favourite celeb has it/your favourite website recommends it. You'll be the one wearing it so make sure you like it.
4. Designer Handbag or Fashion Handbag
This comes down to budget, useability and love. If you haven't got the budget for a designer bag then don't get one. If you're buying a bag to use with your toddler then I'd stick with a fashion handbag. You've got the budget for a designer handbag but there's a budget purse you love? Stop being such a bag snob and buy the fashion handbag.
5. Replica Designer Handbags
Stay away. Everyone knows they're fake and you won't impress anyone, least of all yourself. If you can't afford the real thing then get yourself a beautiful fashion handbag - there are plenty out there.
Nicola Pedley loves handbags in all shapes and sizes (and budgets.) She writes about designer handbags and her current favourite is the Dolce & Gabbana Lily Bag.
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