When Do You Buy? And Sell?

Today I’m answering a reader question, from the lovely Amy (slightly amended):

I have a bag-related question for you! How do you determine when you buy new bags? The reason I ask is that you seem to have a lot of bags. I do as well, but I try to not buy multiple bags used for the same purpose (ie: multiple small crossbodies). This has started to break down for me lately, as I am finding myself lusting after similar-use bags by different brands. Ugh. I seem to remember that you sell your bags from time to time? I don’t do that, so I try to keep my collection at a usable number. What’s your thinking on this?

It’s a great question, especially since I have purchased a shameful amount of bags in my lifetime (and who am I kidding, still have quite a few). Here is my answer to this, which has evolved quite a bit:

I buy new bags when I really, really like them.

Obviously, it would also be great if that concurred with: and I know I’ll use them a ton. An example of this combination is the mini Halzan (which I love, and want another, because I’m a monster). But to be honest, lately I just want stuff that I like, and makes me smile. Cost per use is great and all…but fashion is supposed to be fun, and bring joy, no? So in the past few years, I’ve really relaxed my standards. I’d still like to get great stuff that I use, of course…but I don’t stress too much. For example, I’ve been really lusting after an excellent new clutch…really I have no idea why, because right now I use them like, three times a year. But finding the perfect new one would make me happy. The HUNT would be fun. Having it would be JOYOUS. So…I’m going to do it!

That being said, I like to keep my overall number of items down, just for my sanity. So I also enjoy purging. To be honest, getting rid of stuff feels as good as acquiring it for me (when it’s the right item…and especially for the right price…oh yeah). As for when I sell – I sell my bags (I just go through consignment shops for this, I have an old post here that talks about that) when I get even the slightest desire that I might want to get rid of one. I let that feeling sit for about a week, and if it’s still there…(okay sometimes it’s a month), it has got to go. And you know what? I never regret it.

Well except once – and it’s admittedly a biggie. It was my black Kelly Pochette. Ugh! And I let it go for a song…but at least the new owner was/is someone really fabulous. It was years ago too, when that style wasn’t as popular. That’s the only thing I’d caution…and it’s something particular to only Hermes in my opinion. That sometimes styles can come “in” and “out” in terms of pricing and demand…whereas for most brands, they only go in one direction —-> downwards slope. Like for example, if you wanted to get rid of a 35-40cm Birkin right now…you’d probably get a little less than you would have a few years ago. But then things will probably change in a few years. And big bags will be in. Really, there’s no logic or rhyme or reason. Which brings me back full circle…

I buy what I like and sell quickly when I don’t feel the magic anymore and it’s worked out for me great. Even if I’m missing my Kelly Pochette…it’s overall been an efficient and satisfying system. Trust in your instincts! And have fun and enjoy.