Worth buying
Handbags worth the investment
I’d rather carry one well-made bag for years than replace a trendy one every season. Scroll on to see the bags I’ve carried myself, and what to check before buying one.
How I Assess the Quality of Each Bag
01
The leather
Full-grain and top-grain leather age well, and a brand that tells you where its leather comes from usually has nothing to hide.
02
The stitching
Clean, consistent stitching is a hallmark of a well-made handbag. Loose threads or wobbly lines are a warning sign.
03
The hardware
Zippers, clasps and buckles should feel solid and move smoothly.
04
The inside
Turn it inside out. A neat lining and finished edges tell you someone took care with the parts you don’t see.
Tested in real life
Bags I've carried and reviewed
RSVP Paris · After six months
Ateliers Auguste · Detailed review
For your next shopping trip
My 5-point quality checklist
I keep it on my phone for shopping trips. It’s five questions on one page, and it’s all yours.
Handbag guides by budget
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