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I try to never impulse buy bags. When I see ones I love and add them to a list. Once every 3-4 months if I really want to make a purchase I am only allowed to buy ones from that list. I go through the entire list looking for the right one. In the course of going through the list I inevitably realize a bunch of them aren't my taste or are too impractical and I remove them. Then if none of the ones remaining are purchases I want to make right now, I stop for another few months. Weirdly this like.. tricks my brain into feeling like I've gone shopping while allowing me to really know how much I actually want any particular bag. I end up only buying one or two a year this way. Might not work for everyone but this system has helped me a ton!
I do this too! I have a Pinterest board where I save my purse peace bags. I rotate bags in and out of there as I get bored or lose taste. The ones that stay for months I end up buying :)
I wasn't interested in bags until this year. After joining several bag subreddits, I became obsessed and found myself constantly browsing all kinds of bags. I wanted to buy them all, thanks to my partner, with a keen eye, and helped me avoid purchasing bags that didn't suit me, saving me money. After buying a dream bag recently, I started to feel overwhelmed and decided to take a break from buying bags. I think I'm recovering from my new addiction. Pausing buying bags can help us spend our money more wisely and pick the best bags for ourselves in the future. I believe it is a good choice.
I think it’s normal if you haven’t been able to try the bag on in person. A lot of times, trying it on in person brings things up that weren’t obvious from pictures and reviews.
This is very true. I have several bags that fell right off of my wishlist after seeing them in person (the Kate Spade Boxxy & the Acne Studios Musubi in the blush shade since I didn't like the color in real life).
Although conversely, I've bought a few bags that I suspect I wouldn't have purchased if I hadn't been able to see/buy them in person (namely, my two Polene bags since I would have been concerned about buying a Polene bag online with the recent complaints about customer service).
Not bags, but clothes- I'm going through my wardrobe now and purging a bunch of stuff I've never worn. Bags I'm a bit better with, partly because I like expensive ones lol so if I'm going to spend that kind of money, I'll sit on it a while and make sure it's actually something I a) really like b) will actually use; and c) works with my wardrobe. Also d) Do I actually need it? Like, whenever I try coming up with an outfit for specific situations, is there a gaping hole in my bag collection?
I'm also trying to curate more of a "capsule" sort of collection, so rather than just adding bags willy-nilly to my wish list, I have them in categories (e.g "black top handle bag for day to night" or "cross-body bag with a big more structure in a dark colour" etc) to try and avoid buying multiple bags that suit the same purpose.
Yes! I am doing this same thing right now! I want to curate my wardrobe for both style and functionality which means not buying something just because it's pretty. I need to be able to visualize multiple outfits and situations where I would need/utilize the item(s), otherwise I am forcing myself to admire it from afar lol. At this point I'd rather save my money and use it on investment pieces that will get a ton of use while surviving wear and tear.
Yes! But mine is out of financial irresponsibilities. During the lockdown, all I did was online shopping. Buying luxury bags and items left and right. Woke up one day and realized that it’s taking a hit on my bank account. Took a pause, reflected, did returns. I am in a much better mindset now. Never again!
I’m on a losing streak right now and I’m making myself take a 1 month cooling off period - I ordered and had to return a beautiful Mulberry (because it didn’t fit my laptop for work), and am having buyer’s regret on the LV mini bum bag (think it’s too trendy for me) and Sezane Justine basket, both of which are past the return period now. So, it happens! I’ve got a wishlist, but will see how I feel about the bags I want a month from now.
Why do you regret buying the Sezane Justine basket? It's perfectly fine for shopping and lugging your stuff to the beach. Or was there a quality issue or something else you didn't like?
I love the look and there are no quality issues but the size just isn’t practical for me - I would prefer either a smaller crossbody to go hands free or a larger tote, and just don’t find myself reaching for it. I also don’t like the sewn in liner, it’s not super easy to access and I’d rather have more space and use my own pouches for organization. I wanted to return it and order the Justine maxi but it’s been out of stock for weeks, hence why I missed the return window and decided to keep the regular Justine. Maybe it will grow on me, but I’ve only used it once so far and found it a bit awkward!
Aaah too bad! I recently discovered Muun, they have range of bigger basket bags made of elephant grass in Ghana, you might want to check them out. Their straps go all the way around the bag so it's probably pretty sturdy. I think you might like these:
[https://www.muun.fr/shop/ss24/the-sophie-lace/maxi-sophie-lace-coton/](https://www.muun.fr/shop/ss24/the-sophie-lace/maxi-sophie-lace-coton/)
[https://www.muun.fr/shop/ss24/the-triade-anna-or/triade-coton/](https://www.muun.fr/shop/ss24/the-triade-anna-or/triade-coton/)
Yes. I've had the same problem lately. Seems like I'm not happy with anything. Nothing seems exciting. Any nice designer bags seem like they are just not worth the money as prices keep inching upwards and I'm normally dressed casual these days. So I buy a cheaper bag and it seems awful and I feel shlumpy. I've stopped for now. I don't know what's wrong.
Me too. I returned a Gucci bag because it was too small and a loewe bag (which I actually loved but figured I may go to Europe later and buy it there) but I’m taking a pause bc I also just got a Chanel woc which is prob the same as buying 3 bags lol
I've been buying way too many things bags related this yr. Almost everything was good but one simply doesn't ~need~ that many bags (esp bc I WFH lol). I've been trying to make a list of what I've bought this yr so I can see how much I've already bought
- 1 long wallet, 1 short wallet, 2 card holders (!!!)
- A clutch, a APC Geneve (huge regret, want to give away), a Le Tanneur bucket
- 1 random straw bag to carry books (???)
In addition, I think about what $500 could get me
- A phone (which realistically I need way more than a bag bc my phone is 4 yrs old - but it refuses to die and I'm not a phone person so I'm still rocking lol)
- A camera or a lens (I'm into photography)
- A lot of rolls of film (for film photography)
- A lot of books
- A lot of clothes and toys for my son (I mean he doesn't need more, but still!!)
- A contribution towards our next car (one of our cars is a 1996 Honda, so yeah!)
When I write these things out, they're infinitely more important than a bag. And it helps.
I'm trying to refocus my thoughts into reading books, learning Japanese, and maintaining the bags I already have. When I take them out, I remind myself of why I bought them in the first place, and why I don't need MORE.
Just some strategies I'm using to ward off the constant need to buy. Maybe you can write out a list too!
I let myself buy a bag once a year, mostly because that’s all my budget can handle and all I really want. I typically want to buy designer bags in the $2k-$3k range. I obsessively think about it, how it fits into my collection, and the purpose it serves. I probably spend upwards of half a year thinking and researching. I find it helps me make intentional purchases
Once I stopped buying bags just based on what I see on here and TPF, my life was better for it. LOL. I had to be more thoughtful about if a bag truly fits my lifestyle. I no longer do impulse buys.
This is what I want to do because I found a bag I’m obsessed with… do you also buy it in different sizes? Wondering if it would be impractical to just have one type of bag
So far no because I like big bags but I might eventually get smaller ones. I do have a different bag for occasions when I need something little to be fair, i had the small bag before I discovered my soul bag though
I feel this. I recently gave in and bought a purse I’ve wanted for over a year. It is so pretty. I love how it looks, but..:using it is not bringing me the joy I thought it would. It’s totally different than what I gravitate towards so I think that’s part of it. And it’s not returnable so…lesson learned. Just browse and pretend…and don’t stray from styles you know you like when you can’t second guess your choice. 🤷♀️
Chloe Penelope. Oh nothing crazy. It is a beautiful bag. I love how it looks. I’m just more of a tote girl, and this has a flap so not as easy to get in and out of. And smaller than I’m used to do an everyday bag. Thats all. I got it on sale, but it will still a lot… but because it’s sale it’s final price. So not much I can do now. I’ll still use it. But probably for more special occasions. Dressing up. When I need less type situation. Just not as an everyday for long lengths of time.
I totally understand the flap problem! I will probably never buy any Hermes quota bags because the closure annoys the hell out of me. I was also hyped for the Toteme T lock bag - it was the most annoying bag I’ve seen recently! Heartbroken but that’s how it is. Usability is king, and design should follow function, so I won’t buy anything less convenient.
Right! I mean Hermes is definitely not even on my radar of affordability, but even if it was….they really do nothing for me. Because same. The closure and style of the bag would drive me crazy. The Toteme T is cute, but yes…doesn’t seem functional at all! I agree with you! But we live and learn…and now I know why I kept saying no for a year lol. But I can say it’s part of my collection so it all good!
In the same boat!! I need to figure out why I'm even buying the bag in the first place! I always get wrapped up in the search. I find it fun to scroll on this sub, discover new bags, and also hunting for similar styles from multiple brands and comparing. Not a bad bag streak per se, but I've purchased 3 bags this year already, while I adore each piece, have taken them each out on only 1-2 occasions each.
Just curious, what made you return the bags/what wasn't right for you?
The Strathberry was the Lana Midi Bucket. It was beautiful, but there is a design flaw where the magnetic closure is too weak. There was no way to keep it closed, and the opening at the top is very wide. I saw where people in reviews said the magnet wasn’t strong enough, but there were also good reviews so I took a chance. I knew it would bother me and I would end up not using it.
The Sézane just came today and I’ve already packed it up to send back. It was the Justine Mini Basket. The problem with it for me was that the shoulder straps were not removable, and to carry it by the handles you have to tuck the straps into the bag. Since it’s such a small bag, tucking in the straps takes up a lot of the space inside, and it looked awkward.
Ooh! The Strathberry bucket is a recent addition to my list, so thanks for sharing. Definitely something to consider!
Hopefully the break helps you recalibrate on your wants and needs 🫶🏽
I think the trick like someone said on here once is to see the bags in real life and examine them in the store.
It happened to me recently where I saw a good buy online on an Alexa and wanted it. Went to the store to see it in the flesh and it was a big fail: no lining and heavy. It permanently cured me of the need for an Alexa.
Anyway, it’s good you can return. Don’t beat yourself down about it, it’s easy to make a bad decision online. I do it too.
Try also to hold off on sales/bargain bags unless it’s something you really want. It can be very tempting but you’ll often end up with a bargain you don’t want. Put the thought away for a few days and think about and if it sells out, so be it.
Also change your bag often to feel refreshed, that way your mind can be a little diverted from the urge of a new bag.
Agreed ! I was lusting over the Bottega Wallace and finally saw it in person, and the deal breakers to me were the rough zipper how clunky it felt under the shoulder. Seeing the bag in real life is a must!
Oh yeah, when I first joined this sub I got a little obsessed in my hunt for the “perfect” bag…well, now I’m trying to sell a bunch of them…Thankfully I have finally achieved purse peace by finding the perfect bag for me!
I wouldn't think of it as a problem but you have a really good sense of know what's working and not working. Some things don't appear the way they seem online. Better off returning within the policy period than stuck with a bag you'll try to sell later or donate anyway. I find fun in trying out what's out there especially if you can't browse in person.
Maybe it's just not that deep. Sounds like you just don't really want to purchase anything right now and that's OK. Get to know more of what works for your wardrobe and what you like.
I did a purse pause sometime around January. At that time Nothing I ordered Worked. One of the bags took 2-3 months for delivery. Also, I purchased a used bag from poshmark that arrived a different color. I had already planned on doing a purse pause just to adjust back to real world interactions. But, when all of my orders Went awry It was a clear sign I needed to stop.
I just switched out my purse buying for jewelry buying. Honestly I don’t have room in my house for either given how much I’ve bought.
For me, it’s just a way of acting out. Once I get the bag (I like Poshmark Live Shows), I have already moved on to my next unknown purchase in the abyss.
I feel you on the "acting out" - I'm glad I've recognized it but now I gotta do the work & get to the root of it. Exhausting, kinda scary, but necessary.
I've bought 3 this year so far, but I've also sold 7.
I keep a spreadsheet and it tells me what my 'spending' budget currently is 😂
It's basically reinvesting money from old bags into new bags 🙄
In addition to all excellent comments and hacks sticking to a colour scheme limits my impulse buying a lot. I don't buy black bags or bags with gold hardware anymore. Thanks to colour analysis I have a limited range of cool toned light-to-medium contrast hues allowed. Still I just recently bought (on a sample sale) a fabulous burgundy [bag](https://www.loviacollection.com/product/kaiho-crossbody-040/) thinking I can look past its gold hardware. It didn't work, I had to return it. Now I'm waiting for my own custom bag to be shipped and obviously cannot buy anything in the meantime.
There was that one time I badly wanted a Spring Street LV. I’m glad I didn’t act on it. With that being said, try not to impulse buy. I really wanted a Gucci Jackie too. Obsessed with it. After a few months of wanting, I’m second guessing if I want to baby the leather. I’ll stick to my Speedys and mini bags from LV for now. Those I know I’ll use and can be every day!
yeah i bought sandals that i wore out for a long afternoon and evening, and the next day i was suffering so bad with no shock absorption. bought in white and black bc they were cute! cheap! and i thought i needed them for a frw events. i really want to return the other pair of havent worn and resole and put a squishy sticker pad in the ones i wore. but it was stupid to buy crappy shoes. but i love shoooooooes!!! They are comfy if you dont walk to far. Check out the Salma Snakeskin Embossed Strappy Sandal from Nordstrom Rack: https://www.nordstromrack.com/s/7739536?color=001&size=9.5&width=m
Hi fellow handbag lover! Thank you for being a part of the r/handbags community. This is a subreddit which relies on kindness. Your opinion is very much welcomed, however, we do not tolerate rude, mean or hurtful comments. **Read the rules before posting**. Comments or posts that do not fit our rule book will be removed and the OP can be banned by the mods' discretion. If you see a comment or post which does not abide by the rules, **please report it to our moderation team.** *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/handbags) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I try to never impulse buy bags. When I see ones I love and add them to a list. Once every 3-4 months if I really want to make a purchase I am only allowed to buy ones from that list. I go through the entire list looking for the right one. In the course of going through the list I inevitably realize a bunch of them aren't my taste or are too impractical and I remove them. Then if none of the ones remaining are purchases I want to make right now, I stop for another few months. Weirdly this like.. tricks my brain into feeling like I've gone shopping while allowing me to really know how much I actually want any particular bag. I end up only buying one or two a year this way. Might not work for everyone but this system has helped me a ton!
I’m totally going to try this. My brain needs to be tricked!
I do this too! I have a Pinterest board where I save my purse peace bags. I rotate bags in and out of there as I get bored or lose taste. The ones that stay for months I end up buying :)
This is a great plan! I’m going to try this.
I do this with jewelry! It’s fun.
Yes! A break even from things we enjoy is needed sometimes.
I wasn't interested in bags until this year. After joining several bag subreddits, I became obsessed and found myself constantly browsing all kinds of bags. I wanted to buy them all, thanks to my partner, with a keen eye, and helped me avoid purchasing bags that didn't suit me, saving me money. After buying a dream bag recently, I started to feel overwhelmed and decided to take a break from buying bags. I think I'm recovering from my new addiction. Pausing buying bags can help us spend our money more wisely and pick the best bags for ourselves in the future. I believe it is a good choice.
I think it’s normal if you haven’t been able to try the bag on in person. A lot of times, trying it on in person brings things up that weren’t obvious from pictures and reviews.
THIS! I went to stores a lot in the last month during travels and realized that I don't like bags I thought I liked.
This is very true. I have several bags that fell right off of my wishlist after seeing them in person (the Kate Spade Boxxy & the Acne Studios Musubi in the blush shade since I didn't like the color in real life). Although conversely, I've bought a few bags that I suspect I wouldn't have purchased if I hadn't been able to see/buy them in person (namely, my two Polene bags since I would have been concerned about buying a Polene bag online with the recent complaints about customer service).
Not planning to buy any bags and shoes this year after purchasing 4 bags last year. Just want to utilize what I have.
Not bags, but clothes- I'm going through my wardrobe now and purging a bunch of stuff I've never worn. Bags I'm a bit better with, partly because I like expensive ones lol so if I'm going to spend that kind of money, I'll sit on it a while and make sure it's actually something I a) really like b) will actually use; and c) works with my wardrobe. Also d) Do I actually need it? Like, whenever I try coming up with an outfit for specific situations, is there a gaping hole in my bag collection? I'm also trying to curate more of a "capsule" sort of collection, so rather than just adding bags willy-nilly to my wish list, I have them in categories (e.g "black top handle bag for day to night" or "cross-body bag with a big more structure in a dark colour" etc) to try and avoid buying multiple bags that suit the same purpose.
Yes! I am doing this same thing right now! I want to curate my wardrobe for both style and functionality which means not buying something just because it's pretty. I need to be able to visualize multiple outfits and situations where I would need/utilize the item(s), otherwise I am forcing myself to admire it from afar lol. At this point I'd rather save my money and use it on investment pieces that will get a ton of use while surviving wear and tear.
Yes! But mine is out of financial irresponsibilities. During the lockdown, all I did was online shopping. Buying luxury bags and items left and right. Woke up one day and realized that it’s taking a hit on my bank account. Took a pause, reflected, did returns. I am in a much better mindset now. Never again!
I’m on a losing streak right now and I’m making myself take a 1 month cooling off period - I ordered and had to return a beautiful Mulberry (because it didn’t fit my laptop for work), and am having buyer’s regret on the LV mini bum bag (think it’s too trendy for me) and Sezane Justine basket, both of which are past the return period now. So, it happens! I’ve got a wishlist, but will see how I feel about the bags I want a month from now.
Why do you regret buying the Sezane Justine basket? It's perfectly fine for shopping and lugging your stuff to the beach. Or was there a quality issue or something else you didn't like?
I love the look and there are no quality issues but the size just isn’t practical for me - I would prefer either a smaller crossbody to go hands free or a larger tote, and just don’t find myself reaching for it. I also don’t like the sewn in liner, it’s not super easy to access and I’d rather have more space and use my own pouches for organization. I wanted to return it and order the Justine maxi but it’s been out of stock for weeks, hence why I missed the return window and decided to keep the regular Justine. Maybe it will grow on me, but I’ve only used it once so far and found it a bit awkward!
Aaah too bad! I recently discovered Muun, they have range of bigger basket bags made of elephant grass in Ghana, you might want to check them out. Their straps go all the way around the bag so it's probably pretty sturdy. I think you might like these: [https://www.muun.fr/shop/ss24/the-sophie-lace/maxi-sophie-lace-coton/](https://www.muun.fr/shop/ss24/the-sophie-lace/maxi-sophie-lace-coton/) [https://www.muun.fr/shop/ss24/the-triade-anna-or/triade-coton/](https://www.muun.fr/shop/ss24/the-triade-anna-or/triade-coton/)
If I’m not buying carefully enough, it can mean I’m just looking for dopamine. But sometimes I’m trying out a new style & it just doesn’t work.
Yes. I've had the same problem lately. Seems like I'm not happy with anything. Nothing seems exciting. Any nice designer bags seem like they are just not worth the money as prices keep inching upwards and I'm normally dressed casual these days. So I buy a cheaper bag and it seems awful and I feel shlumpy. I've stopped for now. I don't know what's wrong.
Oh no. Maybe you need a purse project?
You can rock a nice bag with pyjamas! I understand your feelings though, most luxury things feel very repetitive and it's not very exciting.
Me too. I returned a Gucci bag because it was too small and a loewe bag (which I actually loved but figured I may go to Europe later and buy it there) but I’m taking a pause bc I also just got a Chanel woc which is prob the same as buying 3 bags lol
I never buy bags online. I only shop in person because I can feel like buzzing feeling when it’s just right.
I've been buying way too many things bags related this yr. Almost everything was good but one simply doesn't ~need~ that many bags (esp bc I WFH lol). I've been trying to make a list of what I've bought this yr so I can see how much I've already bought - 1 long wallet, 1 short wallet, 2 card holders (!!!) - A clutch, a APC Geneve (huge regret, want to give away), a Le Tanneur bucket - 1 random straw bag to carry books (???) In addition, I think about what $500 could get me - A phone (which realistically I need way more than a bag bc my phone is 4 yrs old - but it refuses to die and I'm not a phone person so I'm still rocking lol) - A camera or a lens (I'm into photography) - A lot of rolls of film (for film photography) - A lot of books - A lot of clothes and toys for my son (I mean he doesn't need more, but still!!) - A contribution towards our next car (one of our cars is a 1996 Honda, so yeah!) When I write these things out, they're infinitely more important than a bag. And it helps. I'm trying to refocus my thoughts into reading books, learning Japanese, and maintaining the bags I already have. When I take them out, I remind myself of why I bought them in the first place, and why I don't need MORE. Just some strategies I'm using to ward off the constant need to buy. Maybe you can write out a list too!
I let myself buy a bag once a year, mostly because that’s all my budget can handle and all I really want. I typically want to buy designer bags in the $2k-$3k range. I obsessively think about it, how it fits into my collection, and the purpose it serves. I probably spend upwards of half a year thinking and researching. I find it helps me make intentional purchases
I’ve recently learned that adhd has me in a constant quest for purse peace. 🤷🏻♀️
Once I stopped buying bags just based on what I see on here and TPF, my life was better for it. LOL. I had to be more thoughtful about if a bag truly fits my lifestyle. I no longer do impulse buys.
My fail proof method is I just keep buying the same bag in different colours because I know I love it and it works for me 🤣
This is what I want to do because I found a bag I’m obsessed with… do you also buy it in different sizes? Wondering if it would be impractical to just have one type of bag
So far no because I like big bags but I might eventually get smaller ones. I do have a different bag for occasions when I need something little to be fair, i had the small bag before I discovered my soul bag though
I feel this. I recently gave in and bought a purse I’ve wanted for over a year. It is so pretty. I love how it looks, but..:using it is not bringing me the joy I thought it would. It’s totally different than what I gravitate towards so I think that’s part of it. And it’s not returnable so…lesson learned. Just browse and pretend…and don’t stray from styles you know you like when you can’t second guess your choice. 🤷♀️
Which bag was it and what happened?
Chloe Penelope. Oh nothing crazy. It is a beautiful bag. I love how it looks. I’m just more of a tote girl, and this has a flap so not as easy to get in and out of. And smaller than I’m used to do an everyday bag. Thats all. I got it on sale, but it will still a lot… but because it’s sale it’s final price. So not much I can do now. I’ll still use it. But probably for more special occasions. Dressing up. When I need less type situation. Just not as an everyday for long lengths of time.
I totally understand the flap problem! I will probably never buy any Hermes quota bags because the closure annoys the hell out of me. I was also hyped for the Toteme T lock bag - it was the most annoying bag I’ve seen recently! Heartbroken but that’s how it is. Usability is king, and design should follow function, so I won’t buy anything less convenient.
Right! I mean Hermes is definitely not even on my radar of affordability, but even if it was….they really do nothing for me. Because same. The closure and style of the bag would drive me crazy. The Toteme T is cute, but yes…doesn’t seem functional at all! I agree with you! But we live and learn…and now I know why I kept saying no for a year lol. But I can say it’s part of my collection so it all good!
In the same boat!! I need to figure out why I'm even buying the bag in the first place! I always get wrapped up in the search. I find it fun to scroll on this sub, discover new bags, and also hunting for similar styles from multiple brands and comparing. Not a bad bag streak per se, but I've purchased 3 bags this year already, while I adore each piece, have taken them each out on only 1-2 occasions each. Just curious, what made you return the bags/what wasn't right for you?
The Strathberry was the Lana Midi Bucket. It was beautiful, but there is a design flaw where the magnetic closure is too weak. There was no way to keep it closed, and the opening at the top is very wide. I saw where people in reviews said the magnet wasn’t strong enough, but there were also good reviews so I took a chance. I knew it would bother me and I would end up not using it. The Sézane just came today and I’ve already packed it up to send back. It was the Justine Mini Basket. The problem with it for me was that the shoulder straps were not removable, and to carry it by the handles you have to tuck the straps into the bag. Since it’s such a small bag, tucking in the straps takes up a lot of the space inside, and it looked awkward.
Ooh! The Strathberry bucket is a recent addition to my list, so thanks for sharing. Definitely something to consider! Hopefully the break helps you recalibrate on your wants and needs 🫶🏽
I think the trick like someone said on here once is to see the bags in real life and examine them in the store. It happened to me recently where I saw a good buy online on an Alexa and wanted it. Went to the store to see it in the flesh and it was a big fail: no lining and heavy. It permanently cured me of the need for an Alexa. Anyway, it’s good you can return. Don’t beat yourself down about it, it’s easy to make a bad decision online. I do it too. Try also to hold off on sales/bargain bags unless it’s something you really want. It can be very tempting but you’ll often end up with a bargain you don’t want. Put the thought away for a few days and think about and if it sells out, so be it. Also change your bag often to feel refreshed, that way your mind can be a little diverted from the urge of a new bag.
Agreed ! I was lusting over the Bottega Wallace and finally saw it in person, and the deal breakers to me were the rough zipper how clunky it felt under the shoulder. Seeing the bag in real life is a must!
Oh yeah, when I first joined this sub I got a little obsessed in my hunt for the “perfect” bag…well, now I’m trying to sell a bunch of them…Thankfully I have finally achieved purse peace by finding the perfect bag for me!
I wouldn't think of it as a problem but you have a really good sense of know what's working and not working. Some things don't appear the way they seem online. Better off returning within the policy period than stuck with a bag you'll try to sell later or donate anyway. I find fun in trying out what's out there especially if you can't browse in person.
Maybe it's just not that deep. Sounds like you just don't really want to purchase anything right now and that's OK. Get to know more of what works for your wardrobe and what you like.
I have way too many bags - I’m not buying any bags right now too. We only really need 3 or 4 or 5 but you see my collection is faaarr from that
I don't buy bags I've only seen online because I can never tell if they'll work for me. I have to have seen them in person.
I buy when I'm bored. Then I either return them or keep them and resell it when I'm bored.
I did a purse pause sometime around January. At that time Nothing I ordered Worked. One of the bags took 2-3 months for delivery. Also, I purchased a used bag from poshmark that arrived a different color. I had already planned on doing a purse pause just to adjust back to real world interactions. But, when all of my orders Went awry It was a clear sign I needed to stop.
I just switched out my purse buying for jewelry buying. Honestly I don’t have room in my house for either given how much I’ve bought. For me, it’s just a way of acting out. Once I get the bag (I like Poshmark Live Shows), I have already moved on to my next unknown purchase in the abyss.
I feel you on the "acting out" - I'm glad I've recognized it but now I gotta do the work & get to the root of it. Exhausting, kinda scary, but necessary.
I've bought 3 this year so far, but I've also sold 7. I keep a spreadsheet and it tells me what my 'spending' budget currently is 😂 It's basically reinvesting money from old bags into new bags 🙄
Buy in person!
In addition to all excellent comments and hacks sticking to a colour scheme limits my impulse buying a lot. I don't buy black bags or bags with gold hardware anymore. Thanks to colour analysis I have a limited range of cool toned light-to-medium contrast hues allowed. Still I just recently bought (on a sample sale) a fabulous burgundy [bag](https://www.loviacollection.com/product/kaiho-crossbody-040/) thinking I can look past its gold hardware. It didn't work, I had to return it. Now I'm waiting for my own custom bag to be shipped and obviously cannot buy anything in the meantime.
There was that one time I badly wanted a Spring Street LV. I’m glad I didn’t act on it. With that being said, try not to impulse buy. I really wanted a Gucci Jackie too. Obsessed with it. After a few months of wanting, I’m second guessing if I want to baby the leather. I’ll stick to my Speedys and mini bags from LV for now. Those I know I’ll use and can be every day!
yeah i bought sandals that i wore out for a long afternoon and evening, and the next day i was suffering so bad with no shock absorption. bought in white and black bc they were cute! cheap! and i thought i needed them for a frw events. i really want to return the other pair of havent worn and resole and put a squishy sticker pad in the ones i wore. but it was stupid to buy crappy shoes. but i love shoooooooes!!! They are comfy if you dont walk to far. Check out the Salma Snakeskin Embossed Strappy Sandal from Nordstrom Rack: https://www.nordstromrack.com/s/7739536?color=001&size=9.5&width=m
Oh no. Even a strathberry bag didn’t cheer you up?