It's a debate that comes up often here at The Bag Lady; just how much cash would you spend on a bag?. Some of us won't spend more than we need to, while others will max out their credit cards and sell their first born to be able to afford this seasons 'It' bag. What gets me is that some of these bags aren't even that nice! Are people buying the bag because they like the look of it, or for the kudos it will bring?
I can't see many people actually liking this Louis Vuitton 'Tribute Patchwork' (pictured), which is made from 15 different Louis Vuitton bags, some rare feathers and a bit of alligator skin. Hands up if you do. It looks like a cross between a surreal Dali painting (sorry Mr. Dali), and the vomit of a monster who gorged on Louis Vuitton bags, but I'm sure that won't stop people clamouring for it. Not even the £23,484 price tag (yes, read it and weep) will stop the bag crazies. This hideous confection is now the world's most expensive bag. Thank goodness there's only one to be bought in the UK!
It seems the higher the price tag, the more covetable it is, and quite often, the uglier it is. How does that work? If I had £23,000 or so, call me boring, but I know I'd probably do something practical like put a deposit down on a house or buy a nice car, but I certainly wouldn't buy this beast. I'd maybe indulge in a bag or two, but nothing too extravagant.
However, if the Louis Vuitton bag is slightly out of your price range, the next 'affordable' (used in the loosest sense of the word) bag is a £20,000 chinchilla and sable offering from Fendi. Still too pricey? How about a crocodile skin 'Carolyn' bag from Marc Jacobs? Could be yours for a mere £13,000. No? What are you, some kind of plebe? OK, final choice, Valextra's alligator hide 'Carla', for the bargain price of £11,160. I'm sure if these animals knew how just much their skin cost, they would have sold it to us themselves. Selfridges reported that the average price of a designer handbag is now £850, and like most things, prices will only get higher.
High street bunnies may scoff at these prices, and laugh at those who are willing to part with that kind of money, but even high street prices are on the rise. Topshop and Accessorize are just two examples on the high street where we won't bat an eyelid and spend £80+ on a bag. Even H&M has some bags that cost £70 or more - beware, Primark will be next!
So unless you are happy carrying your bits and bobs in a carrier bag, we really can't complain. If money isn't an issue, then go for it. If you know your financial limitations, then stick to them. Either way there is a bag out there for all of us. How much do you think I can get for my right arm and a kidney, anyway?
More Designer Bags: Gucci, Louis, Marc et al.