A while back, I shared a post about my most frequently used handbags throughout the years, and many of you expressed interest in hearing about the less-used ones as well. Although I had written this pre-quarantine, I held off on publishing since, frankly, none of my handbags have seen the light of day in recent weeks.
Nonetheless, I hope you find this to be an enjoyable read and helpful if you're considering any of these bags. Each bag in my collection holds a special place in my heart for various reasons, but they haven't been very practical for my current lifestyle. However, it's important to note that personal preferences and style needs change over time.
My Neglected Handbags in Recent Years
1. Celine Small Box Bag
Old review post: Paris bag shopping - Celine small vs Medium box bag
It pains me to include this purse on the list because, in my mind, few bags are as timeless as the Celine box. It's a fantastic option for those who prefer minimalist, non-logo bags. The craftsmanship is exquisite, and the strap is adjustable and removable via a sliding clasp. However, despite owning the small box bag for a few years, I seldom reach for it.
Compared to my frequently-worn Gucci Soho bag, which holds a surprising amount for its size, the small box bag's capacity is noticeably smaller when worn as a crossbody. Moreover, the strap of the box bag is not as pliable as those of the Soho or chain bags. When used as a clutch, the Small Box Bag's shape feels more like a boxy cube than a flat envelope clutch. It's worth noting that this is not an issue with the larger box bag size; the Small Box Bag is 3" deep, while the larger Teen size is only 2" deep despite being bigger overall.
When I initially bought this bag, I deliberated endlessly between the small and medium sizes (see comparison in this post). Now, there is a newer, in-between "teen" size that I believe would be more ideal for someone petite!
2. Prada Medium Double Bag
Old review post: Prada Double bag vs Saffiano Lux bag comparison
This bag remains a beloved piece in my collection, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to others. There's so much to adore, from its sophisticated shape and structure to the durable, low-maintenance, and lightweight saffiano coated leather (much lighter than regular leather, such as that found on a Celine tote).
I generally don't purchase multiple variations of one style, but I couldn't resist buying this bag in all the neutral colors (black, brown, navy, grey, cammeo blush...). However, since I transitioned away from a corporate setting, I've had fewer opportunities to use it. I do enjoy using it occasionally to elevate my outfits for meetings or presentations, but it's too formal for my everyday life. The bag's divided interior, which lends to its structural integrity and prevents a saggy base, is also somewhat limiting compared to my most-used totes with a single, large compartment. Similarly, my Tory Burch totes have seen minimal use since I left the corporate world.
If you have a dressier or more business-oriented lifestyle, I still believe this is a timeless bag. Alternatively, a friend of mine who tends to dress casually has the same bag but in a smaller size that she wears crossbody-style.
3. Chanel Petite Shopping Tote (PST)
Super old review post: Chanel PST and wallet on chain
I feel strangely attached to this bag, even though I haven't used it in years. Maybe it's because it was one of my very first luxury purchases as a young professional. Or perhaps I envision my future self loving it when the time is right. As a mother to a toddler these days, I tend to gravitate towards smaller, hands-free crossbody bags (with a diaper bag in tow) or super light and roomy, low-maintenance totes, like the ones I featured in my most frequently used bags post.
There are plenty of second-hand Chanel Petite Shopping Totes and Grand Shopping Totes available on the market. If you're considering one, note that they tend to soften in shape and structure over time with regular use (as they should). The pebbled leather is thick and of excellent quality, making the bag substantial but not overly heavy, unlike Celine Luggage totes in similar medium to larger sizes, which can be quite weighty.
Do you have any purchases in your closet that haven't received as much love as you anticipated? When this happens, do you tend to sell or get rid of those items, or do you have a tendency to hold onto them? Let me know in the comments!
