Recently I changed out purses, which I do from time to time, just for a change of pace. This time around I wanted one that would fit a book, since I’m scheduled for physical therapy and doctor’s appointments for the next month and may spend time in their waiting rooms. In fact, based on the length of my To Be Read list, that will likely become a requirement for any new bag purchases.
I’ve never been one to drop a decent amount of money on a designer, high end bag for this reason. I don’t keep them long enough. People say, “But they’ll last forever!” Well, that’s great, but I probably won’t have it forever. I’ll get tired of it and replace it, long before it wears out. I’ve never in my life had an inexpensive purse fall apart on me. And, I can think of SO many other things to do with several hundred dollars. I read something like the following on Becoming Minimalist – have a $25 purse and keep $175 in it, rather than a $200 purse with nothing in it. Or something to that effect.
Which brings to mind a funny memory..
Years ago we were camping and a friend of ours went for the day to a nearby Coach outlet store. She came back with a nice Coach purse and was so excited – “Look at this purse I got for $175!!”
“It’s a purse”, we replied.
“No, you guys, it was normally priced $350!!”
(All of us, in unison) “Oh my God, it’s a PURSE!!!”
Hahaha.. To each their own. I was happy she scored a bargain, even though it’s not one I’d have gone for.
What say you? Do you splurge when it comes to purses or go the economy route?
Omg, Kathleen … if I could find a purse that I love, I would keep it forever and pay whatever it takes ever to have never to buy one again. I hate changing purses and hate even more having to put up with one that just doesn’t fit the bill. (Spoken by someone who is close to having the perfect purse but hasn’t found it yet! Budget or designer … is there one out there?)
Karen! So nice to hear from you! What would your perfect purse have to offer?
I have the same attitude you do. Shawn wanted to buy me a Coach purse years ago, I said no way. My tastes would change and it would be largely a waste of money. I buy my purses at thrift stores or online resale – haven’t bought a “new” one in I-don’t-know-how-long. My current one is a (purple!) practically brand new Bagallini that sells for $70 but I got it for $10 + $6 shipping from Poshmark. Score!
Ooh, I’ll have to check out Poshmark! My mom-in-law gave me a nice Dooney & Burke she said she got on sale (which I’m sure was still a pretty penny) and yes, this thing is built like a tank! I keep it in my rotation. 🙂