As the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve 2025, I made a resolution that veers away from the typical promises of hitting the gym or adopting a healthier lifestyle (do not get me wrong I did those as well). But, in addition, I've set my sights on curbing my preloved handbag obsession in the coming year. Yes, you read that right – I've committed to purchasing only one luxury handbag in the entirety of the next 365 days. The big question now is: which one will it be? where will it be from? and will I actually be able to do it?

The decision to limit my handbag purchases stems from a desire to be more financially responsible. Over the years, my collection has grown (although I should stress it’s still very, very modest compared to nearly everyone online!), at the great expense of my savings account and it's time I embrace a year off, and take a more intentional approach to fashion. So, armed with my resolution, I've begun the quest to find 'The One' handbag that I ‘need’ this year. I cannot stress how hard for me this will be.

To embark on this journey, I've established a set of criteria that will guide my choice. Functionality is key – the chosen handbag must seamlessly transition occasions. Versatility is a must. I'm also only considering timeless design elements, ensuring that my choice won't fall out of fashion as quickly as it came into it.

Research has become my ally in this pursuit. I'm delving into various brands, styles and materials, weighing the pros and cons of each. It's not just about finding a bag that matches my outfits; it's about finding one that aligns with my lifestyle and reflects my personal style evolution. It’s also not about cost - the most expensive does not win. I will never be purchasing an Hermes (that will always be too expensive) … though the Hermes Constance always draws me in…. but a Vintage Preloved Bottega, Dior, Prada, Loewe, Louis Vuitton is not off limits.

Of course, the preloved handbag market is vast and varied, making this resolution both exciting and challenging. Do I opt for a classic leather tote that exudes sophistication, one I can wear endlessly to work or do I embrace a special occasion bag? The options are endless, and each one presents its own unique allure.

The chosen bag will of course be pre-loved. But believe me, I will be doing my research in the boutiques first - I like to get to know my bags inside out… all the better to spot a fake too.

…So these are the categories I have narrowed it down too:

Special Occasion Bag

I have two weddings, a baby shower and Wimbledon. I do not have a white handbag. (I am discounting my Aspinal of London Mayfair, because it looks very tired now - the edging has not aged well)

Timeless

Do I add a classic to my collection? Black Fendi Baguette (creasing of the leather along the front is the issue), Loewe Puzzle Bag, Gucci Jackie, Gucci Horsebit, Mulberry Bayswater, Saint Laurent Sac Du Jour or Sunset, Bottega Veneta Sardine… a lot of strong contenders in this category.

Backpack

I get back pain from carrying my heavy prada work tote to and from the train. Do I spring for a backpack to combat this? Prada Nylon? Louis Vuitton? Mulberry?

Special Occasion Category: Front runners review

Fendi Baguette, Floral Patchwork..

Victoria Beckham, Chain Pouch with Strap [I think a shout out to Victoria Beckham for this bags design is well and truly deserved] ITS ON SALE!!! £1,290.00Sale price:£645.00-50% off

Lady Dior, Small She is the moment. But not at £5,000 RRP. Preloved only people.

Chanel Classic - Needs 0 introduction.

Fendi Baguette (I have added to the list, but the creasing at the front over time makes it a strong no)

The Timeless and the OG’s Options

Loewe, Puzzle, Small

She needs no introduction. I love the Loewe Puzzle (small). Iconic, impeccable, better than the edge. I think I would get in the caramel colour, not brown. I find the brown, too brown and flat matte if that makes sense? I have my eye on this one on Vestiaire Collective. It is just too expensive at the moment - that’s what is stopping me, and I do not think the seller will go lower. I have made a few offers which she rejected.

Gucci Horsebit, Monogram Medium.

I love this bag and have loved it for a very long time. My only question is this…. what do we think about the monogram, I go back and forth about monogram - does it look dare I say it cheap? I find the plain leather a bit too boring - not worth the price tag, and I already have my brown leather Celine Triomphe - they feel too similar. Check out this preloved one from Sellier. I really want the crossbody (like the below) - so much more versatile then just shoulder. I really, really like it.

Gucci Jackie, Medium

Now then. If I only wanted a shoulder bag. This bag probably wins. I love the history and connection to Jackie Kennedy. I think the strip of Gucci colours down the centre with the gold hardware looks excellent, the red really pops and sets off the gold tone. However, I have an issue with this bag when worn as a cross-body. It does not work… (in my opinion) because the cross body strap starts where you see the buckle in the photo - it’s too thick, it just loses the elegance. Check out the Gucci website - picture 5 - and you’ll see what I mean.

Mulberry Bayswater

Ok, I have a few things going on here. The Mulberry Bayswater is a classic. You cannot deny it. It has stood the test of time as a classic. But, and I think this is because I grew up in the hype of the Mulberry Bayswater era of the 2010s - it does not feel special to me. This is also due in part to the sea of fakes that came with the popularity. Every girl I knew who went to Thailand in there ‘gap yahh’ came back with a fake Mulberry.

It doesn’t feel exclusive or luxurious to me in the same way, Gucci, Chanel and Prada do. That feels like a terrible thing to say! I am not rich… Mulberry is still expensive to me, it’s just the feeling it gives me. The price is definitely exclusive.

But the Mulberry Bayswater Small with the shoulder strap, is the perfect size to be worn cross-body, beautiful made, quality leather and fits a lot in. It is lovely.

If you love Mulberry, The Handbag Clinic is the place to go.

Bottega Veneta

I do not own a Bottega Veneta (I did get given a 30 year old pair of shoes though - which are so well made) and I love Bottega Veneta. Bottega is a less is more brand - you will not find a branded logo on any single item. Instead, they let the craftsmanship and the intrecciato woven leather speak for itself. Fun fact it means intertwined in Italian and Bottega Veneta means Venetian shop, which brings me to which bag is the most classic and if I was too pick one - which one would it be? These are my contenders:

Padded Cassette - I think it might have had its moment, and hasn’t tipped into the realm of classic?

Jodie - I do love, but a lot of fakes out there flooding the market and taking away its special* quality for me. I also prefer the smaller Bottega weave.

Sardine - I think she is here to stay. She’s newish from 2022. But I think it’s the perfect mix of being able to dress it up or down. Matthieu Blazy’s debut bag - stunning.

Pouch - hmmm it has been replicated a lot. But, the softness of this leather is another level, and the folds…oh it is heaven. £863 on Vestiaire Collective (I bet they’d take £650.

Bottega Veneta, Vintage Hobo Bag.

This is definitely one of my favourites. But, do I need another big bag? That’s what is stopping me here. But a seriously perfect shoulder bag. £1,127 on Vestiaire Collective. I would offer £900.

Saint Laurent

If I think of a timeless classic Saint Laurent in my opinion there is only two options the Sunset or the Nano Sac Du Jour. I used to think the Sac Du Jour was a bit, for lack of a better word, dull. But, I saw my friend wearing one and she looked so stylish, understated and sophisticated - I have totally changed my mind. Remeber, they have three sizes: Nano, Baby and Small. The Small is a big bag, the Baby is too big to be worn cross-body, but the Nano is the perfect size.

Sunset

Imagine the below with gold hardware not silver (I am not a silver hardware on bags gal, with the exception of Stella McCartney) . It is a very well structured, classic bag. The quality of leather is excellent - and it fits a lot in.

Backpacks (finally sorry the Timeless List was long)

Why do I need a backpack? I walk 20 minutes to and from the train once I get to London. I carry my laptop, charger, make-up etc and depending on the weight of the handbag this can be a heavy load to carry on one arm. As a result I do get mid-back pain and I have a dodgy glute. So, is the answer a backpack to distribute the weight? In my mind there is only two options:

Prada Nylon -It is a cult classic: lightweight, durable, and perfect for everyday use. The fabric is easy to clean (if you get the dark colours) and holds up better than most luxury materials, but over the years the nylon can show its age, losing some of its crispness, structure and can look ‘scuffed’. It’s still a practical, stylish choice, just one that develops a more “lived-in” look with time.

Louis Vuitton Backpack - The Louis Vuitton monogram backpack is a true winner. On the preloved market you can uncover some absolute gems, at a tiny fraction of retail. The signature coated canvas is virtually indestructible, easily the most durable material in the designer world, (I think) making it a bag that not only holds its value (if buying preloved) but also stands up to years of wear. A smart, stylish investment piece.

Finding 'The One' Handbag