Did you know that October 10 is National Handbag Day? 👜 Yes it is! While I love jewelry and shoes ‘my investment icing’ are handbags! I love changing the look of an outfit with handbags. When selected with care handbags can last for years! Can you imagine, I still own and wear handbags that are as old as my sons–24 and 28 years respectively! How? I invest in quality pieces, I rotate them regularly and I use and maintain with extreme care. I recently heard a quote that says “buy it nice and you don’t have to buy it twice.”  I wholeheartedly agree! It’s a gentle reminder that investing in a high-quality product initially can save you money in the long run compared to buying a cheaper, inferior item that will need to be replaced sooner.

As with my approach to clothes and other wardrobe items, I don’t recommend breaking the bank on trends (e.g., my casual trendy leopard slouch bag). However, for handbags with staying power, shop with intent. Note: it doesn’t have to be a known designer. If it’s made well (leather, suede, or durable fabric) and has features of importance to you (e.g., color, strap length, size, interior lining, interior zipper, feet, hardware), it makes for a product you will treasure and care for years!

Because your handbags deserve as much care as the style they bring following are 7 tips to keep them beautifully maintained:

1. Store with Structure
   Keep your bags upright and filled with bubble wrap, an old T-shirt, or handbag shapers (pillow) to help them retain their shape. Avoid newspaper—it can transfer ink. Use shelf-dividers to help maintain upright and to avoid dye transfer.

2. Use Dust Bags or Pillowcases 
   Protect your out-of season bags from dust and scratches by storing them in breathable fabric covers. No dust bag? A soft pillowcase works beautifully. However, I maintain my current season handbags visible and out of dust bags.

3. Avoid Overstuffing
   Overloading your bag stretches leather, distorts structure, and wears out handles. Rotate contents and switch bags regularly to extend longevity.

4. Rotate Regularly
   Just like shoes, bags need rest days. Rotating your collection prevents unnecessary wear and allows you to enjoy and wear different pieces. When rotating, remove all contents prior to storing–discard gum/candy wrappers, old tissues and receipts.

5. Clean Gently and Consistently
   Wipe the exterior with a soft, slightly damp cloth after each use. For leather, use a conditioner seasonally to maintain. 

6. Mind Where You Place It
   Avoid setting your bag on the floor (especially in restaurants/public places). Use a purse hook or place it on a clean surface—your bag will thank you.

7. Organize Your Interior
   Use a purse insert or small pouches (e.g., cosmetic or mesh bags) to group items inside—makeup, tech/supplies, and essentials. This prevents spills, protects the lining, and makes switching bags effortless. NEVER drop a loose pen in handbag, place in a pouch or pen sleeve to avoid disastrous spills. 

Let’s celebrate National Handbag Day all month long by showing your favorite bags a little love! Curating a seasonal collection and caring for your investment is sure to create a long lasting relationship with your purses!👜 👛