6 Things to Consider When Buying A New Bag

Oh we love a new bag don’t we. They are just fab for carrying all our stuff, well, I mean all our personal belongings, things we just don’t want to loose. Some of us will carry a lot others just a few items. As we are going to wear or carry this bag then we will want one that isn’t just practical but one that will suit your style, personality and story.

So here are some of my tips to consider when choosing the best bag for you

1.Consider the Occasion - Is it for everyday, days out, work or a special event. For active days you could opt for a shoulder bag or a rucksack as you could be carrying it all day. If you have young kids or don’t like to carry anything you might prefer a hands-free crossbody bag. Shoulder bags can be good for work and meetings, if your not doing them all on Zoom or teams from home of course! Formal gatherings may call for a handbag. Clutch bags and handbags are ideal for evening events and occasions when you might not want to carry too much. Great times for showing off so you might want quite a fancy one.

2.Well of course a bag needs to be comfortable too. Firstly consider the weight of the bag before you add all your stuff as that can make a huge difference to your comfort especially if your carrying it far. Look for wide comfortable straps that wont dig into your shoulder. Rucksacks can be both stylish and can distribute weight evenly on your back and make sure there is a bit of padding there too.

3.Do you love it? Do you like a classic timeless handbag or shoulder bag. A casual crossbody bag or backpack for a hands-free style. Do you prefer a dramatic large statement piece or an artistic, creative bag in vintage or eclectic fabric or perhaps feminine is your style with florals or sequins? The options are limitless. You can choose to follow a trend or to be unique and creative. You might find you have to look to makers and designers for the quirky one off pieces.

4. Design considerations. Do you prefer a fancy bag with multiple pockets and decorations or do you prefer a simple one? Having at least one pocket for valuables, like bank cards and a phone, is useful, especially in the evening when you might not want to carry a purse. You may also be considering a bag that can be versatile like a rucksack that can be carried on one shoulder or both. A clutch bag that has a removable chain. A purse that can be carried as a clutch bag.

5.Where did my bag come from- It can be lovely to know who made your bag I always think about the person who made my things when I wear or use them if I have purchased from an artisan maker. It just makes it feel so much more special. It may also be important to you to know where the fabrics came from Are they locally woven or fair trade- have they been upcycled or have they come half way across the world from a sweat shop. Is the company your buying from reputable and authentic with good customer service.

6. Is this a special bag, perhaps its a gift or for a special occasion, have you considered commissioning a bag. It could be in your family tartan, it could be in a fabric to match an out fit your having made, it could be made from a jacket or skirt that you love but that no longer fits or is no longer your style. Sounds expensive but you might be surprised and you will get a piece that is just right for you.

So no matter whether you are looking for something unique or on trend. There is a lot to think about and take into consideration when investing in a bag. But most importantly will it bring you joy to use and make you smile every time you use it. Then it will be worth the investment.