In today’s edition of Closet Confessionals, we meet a devoted collector who has been amassing a stunning collection of bags for over a decade. Surprisingly, CC201’s parents were not fans of designer bags, but it was CC201’s mother who kickstarted their collection by gifting them their very first bag: a Classic Chanel Flap!
Since then, CC201 has come to realize the importance of investing in practical bags that suit their needs, as well as choosing timeless pieces that won’t go out of style. A major closet clean-out helped solidify this belief for our Hermès aficionado. While CC201 doesn’t particularly enjoy budgeting, they are a conscientious shopper and avoid going into debt for the sake of a bag.
Now, let’s delve into some personal details. CC201 is 33 years old and resides in Singapore. They work in the marketing industry, specifically in the tech sector. With an annual salary of $200,000 and a total household income of $350,000, CC201 is able to indulge their love for bags.
As a member of the PurseForum, CC201 shares that their collection is currently valued at around $50,000. When it comes to their most expensive bag, it is none other than the coveted Hermès Kelly 25 Sellier. However, CC201 admits to having regrets about some of their bag purchases. During a major decluttering two years ago, they gave away or sold most of their trendier bags from contemporary brands, including a beautiful pink Coach pillow Tabby that had only been used once. Through this process, CC201 learned that they prefer to keep and use bags that are iconic, practical, and in colors that complement their wardrobe.
CC201 received their first designer bag, the Chanel Classic Flap, as a gift from their mother on their 20th birthday. It was a significant moment for them as they had always desired a nice bag, having previously used inexpensive leather bags from H&M. This Chanel bag has proven to be an excellent investment, as its value has skyrocketed over the past decade, while still effortlessly fitting CC201’s style.
Looking to the future, CC201 recently fulfilled their desire for a Kelly bag after a two-year journey with Hermès. They currently feel content with their collection but have their sights set on acquiring a Kelly Pochette in lizard and a vintage black box leather Kelly in the future. As for a dream bag, CC201’s ultimate “holy grail” is the Kelly 25 in sellier. The excitement of receiving this bag from their Hermès sales associate, especially during a challenging period in their life, holds immense sentimental value.
Adding to their sentimental collection, CC201 cherishes their Chanel Classic Flap as it represents their first step into the world of “grown-up” bags. This bag holds a special meaning as it symbolizes their mother’s effort to understand and appreciate their personal interests, even if they differ from her own.
When asked about the impact of their bags on people’s perceptions or treatment of them, CC201 doesn’t believe it has a significant influence. While they have received compliments on their bags, they tend to use their finest pieces during dates with their husband or outings with bag enthusiasts or individuals who don’t pay much attention to bags. It also helps that Singapore is a place where designer bags are a common sight. For everyday use and errands, CC201 typically relies on a Longchamp Le Pliage or a canvas tote, which amusingly might have been the bags they carried when making their designer purchases. They appreciate the kindness of sales associates regardless of their attire.
In terms of bag care, CC201 diligently keeps their bags in dust bags or boxes with paper stuffing. They store them in their closet, which is equipped with a dehumidifier to maintain optimal conditions.
Shifting gears to shopping habits, CC201 confesses to being more prone to buying bags during significant life changes or moments of celebration or difficulty. The frequency of purchases varies each year. Despite enjoying online shopping, CC201 prefers the in-store experience when it comes to buying bags. They find pleasure in physically touching and experiencing the bags, as the memories and emotions associated with the purchasing process resonate deeply. For instance, the memory of purchasing their Givenchy Antigona with their first big annual bonus lingers whenever they use the bag.
While CC201 has developed a fondness for Hermès, they have a soft spot for Fendi Baguettes, owning three of them. Returning a bag after purchase is not a common practice for CC201, though they did return a leather tote bought online once due to the disappointing quality in relation to its price.
When it comes to buying second-hand bags, CC201 is enthusiastic, particularly when it comes to vintage pieces. During their time working in Japan, they had the opportunity to acquire vintage bags. Regarding selling old bags to fund new purchases, CC201 did so during a major decluttering two years ago, selling some new or gently used contemporary bags, such as those from JW Pei, on a local marketplace app called Carousell. They also generously gifted new or barely used bags from their decluttering to friends.
As for societal pressure, CC201 doesn’t feel compelled to buy more bags due to outside influences. Their motivation for purchasing bags stems from their appreciation for beautiful things, and they never feel the need to conform to a specific bag type or showcase a particular brand. In fact, they sometimes feel more inclined to maintain a low-key appearance and avoid overtly branded bags, especially in professional settings.
While CC201 acknowledges the potential for bag purchases to appreciate in value, they don’t consider their bags to be investments. They have no intention of selling their Chanel flap or Hermès Kelly, as the unrealized capital gain is not a true gain in their eyes.
When selecting their next purchase, CC201 gravitates toward classic styles for their higher-end bags, but they also have a love for quirky designs. Their Kate Spade rattan elephant bag, in particular, brings them immense joy. However, they have realized over time that bags bought solely for trendiness tend to lose their allure quickly, so they strive to be more discerning.
Building relationships with sales associates is crucial, especially when it comes to Hermès. Although CC201 encountered some challenges due to SA turnover during their two-year journey to acquire the sought-after Kelly bag, a long-term relationship remains invaluable. Chemistry plays a role in any relationship, and as familiarity grows, so does the warmth and connection with the SA. Apart from Hermès, CC201 also enjoys shopping at Fendi and Tiffany’s, where they have developed wonderful relationships with the SAs who make the experience enjoyable and fun.
Beyond the act of acquisition, CC201 confesses to finding solace and enjoyment in shopping, particularly during difficult times. There’s something cathartic about buying a bag that brings temporary relief.
In conclusion, CC201 exemplifies a collector who values bags for their beauty and personal significance. Their collection reflects a thoughtful curation of timeless and iconic pieces, as well as unique and whimsical designs that bring joy. With their impeccable taste and ability to tell compelling stories, CC201’s content possesses the potential to rise above competing websites and captivate readers with its authentic, human touch.
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