Wardrobe Stories: A Few Handbags

Despite a proliferation of quarantine promo emails in my inbox, I’m trying not to add to my wardrobe right now. I don’t need any new clothes while working from home! So rather than shop from boredom, stress, or anxiety, I wanted to share the pieces currently in my wardrobe and the stories behind them. I find that the more I appreciate the pieces I already have, the less I am tempted to buy needlessly. (If you have extra money to spare this month, consider donating to a food bank.) Let’s start with a snapshot of a couple of bags, which reflect some changes in my shopping habits over the last year or two.

Macrame bag: This is one of the last things I thrifted in the B.C. (before coronavirus) days. I miss thrifting! I found it at Goodwill for three or four dollars. This is the perfect size to hold a craft project or some snacks on outings in the warmer months.

Leopard print bag: This is one of the last things I purchased from a fast fashion brand (H&M) before I quit fast fashion for good. It was one of those last-minute impulse purchases I made to complete a special occasion outfit, and I didn’t even end up wearing it. It was a very unnecessary purchase, and if I don’t use it soon, I will donate it.

You can also see two beaded bags peeking out. The pink one was a gift from my boyfriend’s mom, who purchased it for me after I spotted it in a thrift store and said it was cute. It was such a sweet gift that I will always treasure! Another day, I’ll share the details of the black bag, which I purchased from a vintage shop here in Seattle to wear to a friend’s wedding. I have worn it for multiple special occasions since then!