2025 Resolution: Shopping my own Bag and SLG Collection

[Vintage Leather]

I don’t know if people are interested in the challenge, but I made a calendar:

ANNUAL COLOR WEEK BAG SHOWCASE!!



A long standing trading (10 years and counting!) is to remind ourselves of how wonderful our own collections are by showcasing them by color. We can see how far we have come, collection wise, and we reminded that we have all (or most of) what we need making it easier to shop our own closets.

To make this celebration fun, we share bags of a certain color each week.



COLOR WEEK BAG SHOWCASE!

• New color weeks start each Sunday

• Don’t jump ahead but, if you miss a week, please do show your bags “late”.

• Show bags individually or in a group

• You do NOT have to wear the bags that week

• For added fun, show pictures from previous years (2016-2024) or even just one photo from when you started your collection to demonstrate how you have curated it over time.

• This is completely voluntary. There is no pressure to post at any time.

COLOR WEEKS

Feb. 9: Red (including burgundy)

Feb. 16: Orange & Yellow

Feb. 23: Purple & Pink

Mar. 1: Blue & Indigo (including turquoise & teal)

Mar. 8: Green

Mar. 15: Black

Mar. 22: Gray

Mar. 29: White & Cream

Apr. 5: Brown & Tan

Apr. 12: Metallic (gold, silver, bronze and more!)

Apr. 19: Jeweled and all other embellished

Apr. 26: Multicolored

If you have posted in previous years, you can search the previous threads to find old photos of your bags to share the journey of your curation

 

[Sparkletastic]

Yesterday was my first day out of the year with my girlfriend shopping and lunching-this time testing my New Year’s resolution not to buy clothes until our day out in April for my birthday.

I chose the venue-a shopping mall with over 300 shops and 100 restaurants, but none of my favourite shops (so that I wouldn’t be tempted!)
But there Was Prada, Burberry etc, and I almost cracked and bought tons of clothing(and bags) etc.
I knew I’d have to confess here, and held my resolve, but it wasn’t easy…

We had a lovely Italian lunch.

My girlfriend bought lots of clothes and a pair of suede boots(none designer).
She doesn’t know about my resolution -or it would be broken.

I bought 2 eye creams, a pair of black shoes from All Saints(perfect for my planned trip to Paris later this year), and a Return to Tiffany silver bracelet with a pink heart and a diamond.

The next test to my resolution will be Paris Haute Couture week (beginning 27th January), which ignites my love of fashion and makes me want to buy a whole new wardrobe.

Good job on proceeding with your goal! But be kind to yourself if you make a teeny purchase this season since you love clothes so very much. Maybe your goal is to greatly reduce vs ban.

And, I’m a long time Tiffany & Co fan so I think you picked out a cute bracelet for yourself. I just got the Tiffany Lock necklace, earrings and bracelet set in rose gold with white diamonds. I wear them all the time. Take a look at that line next time you go. I think they’d be very flattering on you and they’re perfect for casual to cocktails.

If it doesn't sell what about making it a go bag. Keep any important documents , photos , etc in it to grab in an emergency.

Wow! That’s a really original and great idea! I can use it as a go bag so it has a purpose in the long periods of time when I don’t carry it but then it’s still available to me the few times it actually is the perfect bag. Smart!

Thanks! I never would have thought of that. I’ll put it with my backpack “go bag” and fill it with my important documents in firesafe pouches.

Speaking of safe, I’m thinking of getting a wall mounted safe put in during my bedroom remodel. Have any of you done that. Any advice? Was it worth it? I like keeping my jewelry displayed (to me only) in my closet system jewelry drawers. But, I’ve been wondering if our watches, jewelry and cash on hand should have extra security.

Yesterday I went to my local department store with a gift card I had. I looked at the bags and nothing spoke to me. I think they use this particular store as the dumping ground for all the ugly fashions that have not sold. They barely carry any real leather bags anymore. I didn't have time to drive to one that still carries nicer stuff. So instead of settling on a bag I liked but did not love, I bought a new pair of sunglasses as my DH absconded with my favorite wayfarers. For me that is big as gift certificate usually equal new bags. Trying hard to shop my own closet bag wise this month. I also returned a sport bag I ordered last month when they sent the wrong thing, but didn't replace it with another. Baby Steps!

Great job! You’re starting off the year well! Remember this good feeling when you get tempted later. (also remember the hassle of selling. 😵‍💫) You can do it!

———
Speaking of selling. I had someone DM me back and forth with 6 individually asked questions. (Why don’t buyers put all their questions in one message?) Then she asked me if I would accept a lesser amount. I said yes and adjusted the listing to that price.

Aaaaaaand… she ghosted. I’m taking my own advice I just gave @dcooney4 and am going to definitely remember the hassle of bag sales. I just relisted at my original asking price (grumble, grumble).

That being said I did just sell a NWT Pottery Barn holiday pillow for double what I bought it for. It’s an ugly thing but for some reason that’s the price at which all the previous ones on offer sold. I took pictures to ensure people saw how it really looks (the stock photos PB used weren’t realistic) and it still sold. There’a something for everyone!

Last comment on selling. Absolutely nothing is selling for me locally on Facebook. Long distance sales on Ebay, Poshmark & Vestiare are working for me now. I actually used to have more luck for local sales on Craigslist. Is that even still around.

 

[whateve]

Good job on proceeding with your goal! But be kind to yourself if you make a teeny purchase this season since you love clothes so very much. Maybe your goal is to greatly reduce vs ban.

And, I’m a long time Tiffany & Co fan so I think you picked out a cute bracelet for yourself. I just got the Tiffany Lock necklace, earrings and bracelet set in rose gold with white diamonds. I wear them all the time. Take a look at that line next time you go. I think they’d be very flattering on you and they’re perfect for casual to cocktails.

Wow! That’s a really original and great idea! I can use it as a go bag so it has a purpose in the long periods of time when I don’t carry it but then it’s still available to me the few times it actually is the perfect bag. Smart!

Thanks! I never would have thought of that. I’ll put it with my backpack “go bag” and fill it with my important documents in firesafe pouches.

Speaking of safe, I’m thinking of getting a wall mounted safe put in during my bedroom remodel. Have any of you done that. Any advice? Was it worth it? I like keeping my jewelry displayed (to me only) in my closet system jewelry drawers. But, I’ve been wondering if our watches, jewelry and cash on hand should have extra security.

Great job! You’re starting off the year well! Remember this good feeling when you get tempted later. (also remember the hassle of selling. 😵‍💫) You can do it!

———
Speaking of selling. I had someone DM me back and forth with 6 individually asked questions. (Why don’t buyers put all their questions in one message?) Then she asked me if I would accept a lesser amount. I said yes and adjusted the listing to that price.

Aaaaaaand… she ghosted. I’m taking my own advice I just gave @dcooney4 and am going to definitely remember the hassle of bag sales. I just relisted at my original asking price (grumble, grumble).

That being said I did just sell a NWT Pottery Barn holiday pillow for double what I bought it for. It’s an ugly thing but for some reason that’s the price at which all the previous ones on offer sold. I took pictures to ensure people saw how it really looks (the stock photos PB used weren’t realistic) and it still sold. There’a something for everyone!

Last comment on selling. Absolutely nothing is selling for me locally on Facebook. Long distance sales on Ebay, Poshmark & Vestiare are working for me now. I actually used to have more luck for local sales on Craigslist. Is that even still around.

I find the people that ask a million questions are almost always trouble. I kind of had a rule when I was doing a lot of online shopping. I would either ask a question or ask for a discount, but never both. I felt it was too much imposition.

I've sold three small things, none purse or collection related, so far this year - a top, a book, and a toy. Very small amount of money but the top still had tags and I don't like to donate things with tags.

 

[DME]

I find the people that ask a million questions are almost always trouble. I kind of had a rule when I was doing a lot of online shopping. I would either ask a question or ask for a discount, but never both. I felt it was too much imposition.

I've sold three small things, none purse or collection related, so far this year - a top, a book, and a toy. Very small amount of money but the top still had tags and I don't like to donate things with tags.

This! While I don’t sell online, I do sell on our site at work, which is kind of like Craig’s List. The more questions asked, the more difficult the buyer and the more unlikely they are to ultimately purchase. There’s one person who contacts me every time I post, asking for pictures of multiple items; I’m lucky if she purchases one and am even luckier if it’s over $10. She’s always asking for some crazy bundle deal, usually 50% off my list price. I’ve started pushing back, telling her I need to know what she’s truly interested in purchasing before I’m willing to work with her on price. Since she’s in a different building 15 minutes away and carpools, I have to take purchases to her. I groan every time I see her email pop into my Inbox, but since this is through work, ignoring her doesn’t seem like a good option (even though it’s a big place).

 

[DME]

In the spirit of shopping my own closet, I’ve decided to wear two of my neglected cashmere sweaters (both black) with my beloved lululemon. I don’t think I’ve reached for either since before the pandemic. They’re pretty casual; I’m just trying to find the right bottoms to pair them with. Here’s the Theory one with black, fleece-lined joggers. I also put my YSL Sac du Jour out on the shelf so I will use it more and tied an unworn Dior Mitzah (purchased several years ago!) around the handle; both also shown in this photo. Please excuse the flip flops, as it was mani/pedi day. I’m not sure how much I love the sweater with the joggers, so might try pairing with leggings.



Since we are cruising more in the coming year, I wanted to add a raffia bag to my collection that could be used for evening; I have a Loewe tote for day. After some searching, I found this Givenchy Voyou floral wristlet on the Nordstrom website (stock photo). If I want to use it as a clutch, the strap can be removed.



While I was at the mall yesterday, I took advantage of post-holiday sales, grabbing a Lilly Pulitzer dress and a Coach cardholder (both stock photos). We are doing a short cruise with friends next month and are aiming for carry-on only so we don’t have to waste time in baggage claim, so the fact that this dress is silk means it is both lightweight and won’t take up much room.

 

[Sparkletastic]

I find the people that ask a million questions are almost always trouble. I kind of had a rule when I was doing a lot of online shopping. I would either ask a question or ask for a discount, but never both. I felt it was too much imposition.

I've sold three small things, none purse or collection related, so far this year - a top, a book, and a toy. Very small amount of money but the top still had tags and I don't like to donate things with tags.

You are SO right!!! The “ghost” just popped back up with more questions: 1) “Is it authentic?” Of course. But if I was a con artist would I admit to it being fake??? 2) “Is the bag and box included?” This is when I blocked them. I detailed this information VERY clearly in the description. I’m not playing 20 questions with a jerk who doesn’t read the listing.

This! While I don’t sell online, I do sell on our site at work, which is kind of like Craig’s List. The more questions asked, the more difficult the buyer and the more unlikely they are to ultimately purchase. There’s one person who contacts me every time I post, asking for pictures of multiple items; I’m lucky if she purchases one and am even luckier if it’s over $10. She’s always asking for some crazy bundle deal, usually 50% off my list price. I’ve started pushing back, telling her I need to know what she’s truly interested in purchasing before I’m willing to work with her on price. Since she’s in a different building 15 minutes away and carpools, I have to take purchases to her. I groan every time I see her email pop into my Inbox, but since this is through work, ignoring her doesn’t seem like a good option (even though it’s a big place).

I think you should tell her you no longer have time to take things to other buildings so that you don’t have to deal with her anymore.

In the spirit of shopping my own closet, I’ve decided to wear two of my neglected cashmere sweaters (both black) with my beloved lululemon. I don’t think I’ve reached for either since before the pandemic. They’re pretty casual; I’m just trying to find the right bottoms to pair them with. Here’s the Theory one with black, fleece-lined joggers. I also put my YSL Sac du Jour out on the shelf so I will use it more and tied an unworn Dior Mitzah (purchased several years ago!) around the handle; both also shown in this photo. Please excuse the flip flops, as it was mani/pedi day. I’m not sure how much I love the sweater with the joggers, so might try pairing with leggings.

View attachment 6115281

Since we are cruising more in the coming year, I wanted to add a raffia bag to my collection that could be used for evening; I have a Loewe tote for day. After some searching, I found this Givenchy Voyou floral wristlet on the Nordstrom website (stock photo). If I want to use it as a clutch, the strap can be removed.

View attachment 6115282

While I was at the mall yesterday, I took advantage of post-holiday sales, grabbing a Lilly Pulitzer dress and a Coach cardholder (both stock photos). We are doing a short cruise with friends next month and are aiming for carry-on only so we don’t have to waste time in baggage claim, so the fact that this dress is silk means it is both lightweight and won’t take up much room.

View attachment 6115291View attachment 6115292

You and your bag look gorgeous! And I think getting a raffia “evening” bag is brilliant. Good thinking and the one you picked is pretty!

 

[cecchetti]

Good job on proceeding with your goal! But be kind to yourself if you make a teeny purchase this season since you love clothes so very much. Maybe your goal is to greatly reduce vs ban.

And, I’m a long time Tiffany & Co fan so I think you picked out a cute bracelet for yourself. I just got the Tiffany Lock necklace, earrings and bracelet set in rose gold with white diamonds. I wear them all the time. Take a look at that line next time you go. I think they’d be very flattering on you and they’re perfect for casual to cocktails.

Wow! That’s a really original and great idea! I can use it as a go bag so it has a purpose in the long periods of time when I don’t carry it but then it’s still available to me the few times it actually is the perfect bag. Smart!

Thanks! I never would have thought of that. I’ll put it with my backpack “go bag” and fill it with my important documents in firesafe pouches.

Speaking of safe, I’m thinking of getting a wall mounted safe put in during my bedroom remodel. Have any of you done that. Any advice? Was it worth it? I like keeping my jewelry displayed (to me only) in my closet system jewelry drawers. But, I’ve been wondering if our watches, jewelry and cash on hand should have extra security.

Great job! You’re starting off the year well! Remember this good feeling when you get tempted later. (also remember the hassle of selling. 😵‍💫) You can do it!

———
Speaking of selling. I had someone DM me back and forth with 6 individually asked questions. (Why don’t buyers put all their questions in one message?) Then she asked me if I would accept a lesser amount. I said yes and adjusted the listing to that price.

Aaaaaaand… she ghosted. I’m taking my own advice I just gave @dcooney4 and am going to definitely remember the hassle of bag sales. I just relisted at my original asking price (grumble, grumble).

That being said I did just sell a NWT Pottery Barn holiday pillow for double what I bought it for. It’s an ugly thing but for some reason that’s the price at which all the previous ones on offer sold. I took pictures to ensure people saw how it really looks (the stock photos PB used weren’t realistic) and it still sold. There’a something for everyone!

Last comment on selling. Absolutely nothing is selling for me locally on Facebook. Long distance sales on Ebay, Poshmark & Vestiare are working for me now. I actually used to have more luck for local sales on Craigslist. Is that even still around.

I’m trying ban rather than reduce, as once I buy one thing, I won’t stop…

Re the Tiffany Lock, I started buying Tiffany in my teens, I’ve had a Tiffany keyring since I was 17, collect crystal and homeware and did wear the jewellery for a while.

But I worked in High Jewellery and have contacts in Bond Street-if I’m buying big ticket pieces I prefer to buy solitaire diamonds from jewellers where I’m known and have been for decades.
My speciality is Type 11 diamonds, and whilst I love all jewellery -including the set you have-I’d rather buy one stone than a suite or two..

Although I hope to live to 125, so I do need a rounded jewellery collection!

 

[DME]

I think you should tell her you no longer have time to take things to other buildings so that you don’t have to deal with her anymore.

You and your bag look gorgeous! And I think getting a raffia “evening” bag is brilliant. Good thinking and the one you picked is pretty!

Ooh, great idea! Why didn’t I think of that? And thank you about the raffia bag purchase! We’re going on a short cruise next month, so I’m looking forward to giving it a spin.

 

[Sparkletastic]

I’m trying ban rather than reduce, as once I buy one thing, I won’t stop…

Re the Tiffany Lock, I started buying Tiffany in my teens, I’ve had a Tiffany keyring since I was 17, collect crystal and homeware and did wear the jewellery for a while.

But I worked in High Jewellery and have contacts in Bond Street-if I’m buying big ticket pieces I prefer to buy solitaire diamonds from jewellers where I’m known and have been for decades.
My speciality is Type 11 diamonds, and whilst I love all jewellery -including the set you have-I’d rather buy one stone than a suite or two..

Although I hope to live to 125, so I do need a rounded jewellery collection!

That’s why I think the Tiffany Lock collection might be fun for you. They aren’t big ticket pieces. They’re fun pieces for everyday use. And Tiffany’s has a special place for many of us. All us girls at my school got the obligatory Lock pieces as one of their Sweet 16 purchases. It felt very grownup at the time.

But enjoy your ban. You’ve made the first step!

 

[cecchetti]

That’s why I think the Tiffany Lock collection might be fun for you. They aren’t big ticket pieces. They’re fun pieces for everyday use. And Tiffany’s has a special place for many of us. All us girls at my school got the obligatory Lock pieces as one of their Sweet 16 purchases. It felt very grownup at the time.

But enjoy your ban. You’ve made the first step!

Thank you for the tip-I’ll have a look!❤️❤️

ETA I really love the white gold Lock set!

 

[DME]

And, I’m a long time Tiffany & Co fan so I think you picked out a cute bracelet for yourself. I just got the Tiffany Lock necklace, earrings and bracelet set in rose gold with white diamonds. I wear them all the time. Take a look at that line next time you go. I think they’d be very flattering on you and they’re perfect for casual to cocktails.

I’ve been thinking about the lock necklace. Which size did you get? Do you find it wearable with both casual and more dressy outfits? Would love a mod shot, if you’re comfortable!

 

[Sparkletastic]

That’s why I think the Tiffany Lock collection might be fun for you. They aren’t big ticket pieces. They’re fun pieces for everyday use. And Tiffany’s has a special place for many of us. All us girls at my school got the obligatory Lock pieces as one of their Sweet 16 purchases. It felt very grownup at the time.

But enjoy your ban. You’ve made the first step!

@cecchetti - I was unclear when I wrote this.

Items in Tiffany’s Lock collection is the fun one I just purchased and recommended. What we all bought as teens is the RTT (Return to Tiffany) collection like your bracelet charm. I’ve always had a warm place for the RTT and Mr. Sparkle bought me a gorgeous 18k yellow gold RTT choker perhaps 15 years ago. I wear that all the time as well.

IMO, anything in “a little blue box” means fun is here! I’m thinking of finally adding an Eliza Peretti bangle. We’ll see. I have to get thru this bed / bathroom renovation before I can think of much else.

I’ve been thinking about the lock necklace. Which size did you get? Do you find it wearable with both casual and more dressy outfits? Would love a mod shot, if you’re comfortable!

I purchased the medium earrings and medium necklace in rose gold with diamonds and the rose gold bangle with diamond accents. The small necklace looked to “dainty” for such an architectural piece IMO and the large looked too much likea real padlock on me.

I’ll try to do a mod for you a little later.

I have questions for you on your Sac de Jour. I love the structure and organization of my Prada double zip totes and have been thinking of getting a small burgundy SDJ as I think they’re similar in structure and function.

Is your black size small? It looks to be a perfect size. Also, do you find it to be heavy when fully loaded with your things? TIA!

 

[cecchetti]

@cecchetti - I was unclear when I wrote this.

Items in Tiffany’s Lock collection is the fun one I just purchased and recommended. What we all bought as teens is the RTT (Return to Tiffany) collection like your bracelet charm. I’ve always had a warm place for the RTT and Mr. Sparkle bought me a gorgeous 18k yellow gold RTT choker perhaps 15 years ago. I wear that all the time as well.

IMO, anything in “a little blue box” means fun is here! I’m thinking of finally adding an Eliza Peretti bangle. We’ll see. I have to get thru this bed / bathroom renovation before I can think of much else.

I purchased the medium earrings and medium necklace in rose gold with diamonds and the rose gold bangle with diamond accents. The small necklace looked to “dainty” for such an architectural piece IMO and the large looked too much likea real padlock on me.

I’ll try to do a mod for you a little later.

I have questions for you on your Sac de Jour. I love the structure and organization of my Prada double zip totes and have been thinking of getting a small burgundy SDJ as I think they’re similar in structure and function.

Is your black size small? It looks to be a perfect size. Also, do you find it to be heavy when fully loaded with your things? TIA!

It’s ok I understood -30 years ago my boyfriend also bought me a silver RTT choker!
I don’t have it anymore as he referred to it as my dog collar, sadly I parted with it as he passsed away last year, I had Elsa Peretti gold and silver pieces too.❤️❤️❤️

I agree about the little blue boxes which was why I kept the crystal, homeware and keyrings..I would never part with anything again unless I was gifting it to my dear Niece.

 

[Sparkletastic]

It’s ok I understood -30 years ago my boyfriend also bought me a silver RTT choker!
I don’t have it anymore as he referred to it as my dog collar, sadly I parted with it as he passsed away last year, I had Elsa Peretti gold and silver pieces too.❤️❤️❤️

I agree about the little blue boxes which was why I kept the crystal, homeware and keyrings..I would never part with anything again unless I was gifting it to my dear Niece.

I’m an only child so, unfortunately, I don’t have a niece (or a nephew).

And I can’t “gift” most of my things to DD because she just uses whatever she likes of mine whenever she chooses. She and I are too much alike. If I’m tired of something, she’s long since banished it from her consideration set. LOL!

 

[DME]

I have questions for you on your Sac de Jour. I love the structure and organization of my Prada double zip totes and have been thinking of getting a small burgundy SDJ as I think they’re similar in structure and function.

Is your black size small? It looks to be a perfect size. Also, do you find it to be heavy when fully loaded with your things? TIA!

Yes, mine is the small size. YSL did two iterations of the SdJ. Mine is the second, where they used bonded leather to lighten the bag. It can still be heavy when full, depending on what I put in it and how much I fill it, but it’s no worse than most other comparable 30 cm bags I own. While I don’t own the Prada, I have handled one in the past and I think it is a bit heavier than the SdJ due to the zippers. There is a removable center pouch, which is the piece you can actually use the lock on, and there is also a removable strap. I’ve not used either, so can’t offer any insight on those aspects. Although this bag doesn’t get as much love from me as it should, it’s one that I’ve never once considered selling because I love it. HTH!

 

[Cookiefiend]

I’d like to get your suggestions and thoughts on this Jimmy Choo Cheri tote. I was drawn in by the sparkly buckles and stupidly ignored the fact that I don’t very rarely wear large totes. (This one is 11” x 15”)

I bought it on Poshmark and didn’t realize the seller didn’t include the longer strap until it was too late to challenge the sale. And the attached handles are too short for shoulder carry - which is my strong preference for totes - only arm/hand which is tough for a bag of this size. I’m not inclined to buy a shoulder strap because then this large bag would bump around my hips as I walk.

I’m struggling to see how/when I will ever use this bag. But I thought your creative ideas may help me see it differently. And, as I mentioned, my goal is to at least try to keep bags vs selling them. But this may be a hopeless case. TIA!
View attachment 6112666

What a marvelous color!
But that is a big bag to arm carry… I would second the suggestion to see if a cobbler, or Leather Surgeons could make longer handles for you.
@dcooney4 - I am sorry to read of your wrist issues. I hope that PT can help.

I have been out of the loop - selling our home of 21 years, the purchase of a second home and the home that will be our more ‘permanent home’, the two moves, and the impending office move have put me in a mental spin.

I am feeling like selling almost everything. Last month I posted that I had carried my Just Campagne almost exclusively; lately I’ve been carrying the Gucci Ophidia and the Dior Lady bag. Brown and black. Asking myself if I really need more.

That said, I’m giving myself some time, saying ‘No’ to selling anything right now … also saying ‘No’ to cutting my hair.
I love my yellow bags, my red bags, and my blue bags.
So I’m on a buying ban, I don’t really need a damn thing.
Thanks for listening!