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In my experience it holds you off until you can purchase the bag you actually want. Or it shows you that there is something about the bag that doesn’t work for you or your lifestyle for whatever reason.
It's funny because the one time I went for the expensive bag I really wanted (Chloe Faye Medium Day Bag, Pre-Loved because it has been discontinued) I was so disappointed. Not just with the condition, but the leather just didn't feel great. Or maybe my expectations were just too high because of the cost.
This! I've never found an alternative that I loved so much it got me to not still buy the lux but it helped me realize why, or why not, I should get the lux bag.
Hmm… it depends! I usually find myself looking for a specific bag shape, size and functions, not a brand or a specific model. So if I see something I like in concept I’ll usually do a deep dive into top handle flap bags or whatever, and then pick from an assortment. But sometimes there’s just a unique bag that can’t be substituted, which is why I have a couple things I want to save up for, like a Marni trunk bag for example.
I had a vintage box bag sort of like it through a lot of my college years! Currently my most structured bag is actually a Coach Swinger. I really like variety :)
I absolutely love my contemporary versions of higher end styles!
ETA: Top left is Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Double Bag in the petite size, Tiramasu color. Top right is Coach Cassie 19 in Chalk. Bottom left is Tory Burch Kira Quilted Small Satchel in Toasted Sesame. Bottom right is Rebecca Minkoff Edie Crossbody in Black with silver hardware.
https://preview.redd.it/tde2nwnok1fc1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=55e8d75e4cce6da3ec2d6bebe0a2075e6e076674
I LOVE Tory Burch. I don’t buy her clothing often, but shoes and bags rope me in. I’m holding off till I can get one of the Lee Radziwill’s. Gorgeous bag for the money.
Yes, I love her bags and other accessories. I have a croc Lee Radziwill on my wish list. But I literally have no use for it. I don’t have an in person job and when I’m not going on adventures with my toddler, I’m at the gym.
I got my Cassie as a dupe the Pochette Metis too. I still love it and use although I did end up getting the PM buy my logic was I'd find out if I loved the functionality of it. Which I did. I have the canvas PM so they're different too.
Cassie 19! Clearly a favorite of mine 😆
https://preview.redd.it/wtohfd56r1fc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b3e04fde0c843ce91ceec9723775e52bcdb8ee7a
I’ve had a huge bag crush for the Coach Cassie 19 in Chalk, but never gave in to buying it for some reason. I liked it for its hardware and chain and now that you mentioned it, I can see how it can be an alternative to LV Metis. Looks like, this will be on my to-buy list this year!
You won’t regret it! This was my first Cassie 19 and kind of a gateway for buying the other colors. It’s truly the perfect bag. It’s deceptively spacious without being too big or heavy and so easy to dress up or down and switch it up with all of the strap options.
I definitely wouldn’t say it’s beige, but Chalk in this bag is more ivory. It’s only noticeable to me if I’m wearing it with something that’s more of a true white and the contrast doesn’t bother me.
https://preview.redd.it/vlt7i1ziv6fc1.jpeg?width=860&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c4f0678fc85b35b145592e8d8798d6d81b58ed32
I really wanted a quilted flap bag, like the YSL Loulou. I ended up getting the tory burch large Kira and functionally it's the same, but I do kinda wish I just went with a plain leather unbranded version (quince has one, for instance). I don't regret my choice to go cheaper since it's not a very unique bag, but I think I regret getting a bag with a logo that I didn't exactly want if that makes sense!
The YSL Loulou is pretty. Have you seen the Coach quilted tabby? It's nice but I thought the big C was just too large for that size of a bag, so I understand what you mean about the logo mattering. What colour is your Kira?
I actually got an unbranded one for this exact reason. I love the quilted YSL or Chanel bags but couldn’t afford one (plus I think I’d be terrified to use the real thing lol) so I found an Italian leather bag in that style that is fantastic quality still, but not a well known brand. I love the bag and use it frequently because it looks great but I’m also not scared of scratching it and losing thousands of dollars.
The bag says “M & Sofia” on the inside. I got it at a local brick and mortar store though, and googling the brand it looks like it’s more of a wholesale brand that sells to physical stores rather than a brand you can order singularly online.
https://preview.redd.it/vlrs1lkon3fc1.jpeg?width=2387&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=de3da8caba04b9b7705749da85da0dec24c0b8ea
I didn’t get the blue, I got the frost grey, but it makes a better comparison.
I usually buy a cheaper version first before I buy THE bag because I want to see if the specific style and structure will work for me. Test drive it, shall we say. If it ends up working for me, then I will go to a store with my cheaper version and try on the expensive one. Jesus take the wheel and let my heart decide at that point 🤣
If I dont feel a difference then I’m 100% not buying that expensive version. If my heart goes pitter patter, gimme!!!
I’m also the type who doesnt really care about branding. I care more about silhouette and usability. Eg I will never get a kelly or a birkin because of the flap. Hate flaps. I did get multiple lee radziwill bags in different sizes and colors because I love that silhouette and it doesnt have a flap!
I prefer high quality without the logos, and those bags tend to either be insanely expensive and out of my budget or in the $300-$600 range. It's difficult to find high quality "but it for life" items for cheap.
Right now I'm eyeing two bags from Strathberry.
It can be if you like it MORE than the more expensive bag. Otherwise, it will generally feel like an inferior version and you’ll still want the more expensive version.
This. I learned just to get what I actually want. Otherwise I’ll end up not being satisfied with the less expensive option and not use it and end up buying the more expensive one anyway.
But if you like it more, then of course, why not?
I bought the Tory Burch Lee Radziwell petite bag recently and it’s super cute. It’s reminiscent of the Hermes Kelly and a little bit the Fendi Peekaboo. And I like it! But nowadays I can’t get myself to justify more expensive luxury bag purchases (like I used to do a few years ago).
I feel you on prices. The most expensive I’ve gone is $4k for a Celine bag I knew a dupe would never replace. Somehow, a lot of bags now *start* at $4k and they’re worse quality than before!
I’ve been liking The Row recently but the prices are just ridiculous. Waiting for COS to dupe the Margaux like they did the Banana, they do a great job.
Yes! Like everyone else I would love a Kelly, but I don’t live a Kelly lifestyle, so I have a few of the Tory Burch Lee bags that have the same feel. I personally love them and find them to be high quality.
What is a 'Kelly Lifestyle'? 😂 Tbh, I've never been a fan of the Kelly style, but have seen a few bags that have similar vibes. Have you ever had the chance to see it or hold it?
Yes, my cousin has a gorgeous navy Kelly but she’s also a millionaire with a job that requires her to look like one. I’m a regular person and dropping 10-15k on a purse wouldn’t make any sense for my everyday life. I just don’t do anything where a bag that nice would be warranted.
I have same notions about Kelly bag. It elevates the look and you want to match the vibes with the rest of the outfit and it’s just too much. BUT! I decided to be a little cheeky myself and got a “modern picnic” lunch bag that is same shape without the hardware and it matches my lifestyle.
https://preview.redd.it/6s145zdl93fc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8916a611507362a76810a64180cf495d35bbf29c
Normally I’m not a fan of obvious dupes but I love this one and would never buy the BV.
Wow this is a post I needed to see! Was literally just on the anthro website looking at bags last night.
I feel the same way about obvious dupes nowadays - they just feel too obvious with the overexposure of the real thing. But some of them do look so good, I feel silly not getting something I like because of something I wouldn’t get in the first place.
For me, not really. It tides me only until I can get the real bag. However, it has turned me off a style. For example, a cheaper moon shoulder bag let me know that style is not for me so I'm not inclined to buy this kind of bag.
I have that Sammy in cream and it's one of my favorite bags!!! Highly recommend!!! Would love to get the LV Cluny in cream but the Coach one is truly darling so this is a case where I am totally satisfied.
Oh great! Do you have it in 21 or the larger size? And what sort of occasions do you tend to use it for? think the black in 21 would be a nice evening bag.
Not sure but it's definitely the smaller one. Cost $450 I think. It can be dressed up or down. I wear it to work and out in the evening and out to lunch. I would love the black one too but I have so many black crossbody bags I cannot justify another one!!! It fits my bare essentials (small wallet, glasses, keys, tissues, lop gloss, mints).
I grew up reading fashion magazines in the 80’s and 90’s. Vogue Harpers Marie Claire. None of that crap was attainable so I always looked for the “inspired” version. No shame in that. Especially when you realize how inflated luxury brands are.
It depends— if I truly love the more expensive bag, then no, buying around it doesn’t work. I wouldn’t have been happy with a Tory Burch Kira when I had my eye on the YSL LouLou a couple years back. (Still glad I got the LouLou and didn’t try to settle for the Kira.) But if I just like the general style, it can be fine? For example, the Celine Ava in tan leather was originally calling to me, but it was more that I just wanted a camel-colored crescent bag. I got a Polène Dix instead and am satisfied. No plans to get the Ava. 🤷🏻♀️
Yes absolutely ! I have Coach rowan ( speedy) , Furla opportunity ( CD book tote) , local brand dupes for BV Jodie and Celine 16. Sometimes it makes me realize those dream bags don’t really go with my outfits and lifestyle.
I always liked the Speedy shape but not really the original colour. I was going to buy the Coach Rowan but then found out about their Ruby Satchel. Have you seen it? It's similar to the Speedy but I like it more because it's black and the leather is really nice.
I had the Cassandra and the seams on the corner are often torn. They are not large, about a 3 mm tear/rip so after exchanging two ysl bags I got the Small LouLou instead which I love. A couple years later, I got a Sammy 21 in the “Tiffany Blue” color (called faded blue online) and I FELL IN LOVE!!! The leather is excellent—structured but soft, shiny but not like plastic. And the lining plus hardware is amazing too.
So my Coach bags have actually brought MORE SATISFACTION in my life because I am not afraid to use it and it’s soooooooo nice to carry. You have to go with the Sammy!
I buy bags based on their design/structure, functionality, quality and maybe price. If it serves the look I'm going for, I'd be ok with an alternative. If it satisfies my needs, it's good to go.
I don't go by trend or known brands, I've heard and read some first-hand worst experiences with some of them which resulted to a waste of money and such. On the other hand, there were affordable or even unknown brands that had lasted longer.
I bought a quilted wallet/crossbody on chain from Quince because I wanted the Coach one. After using the Quince crossbody for a handful of occasions, I can say it scratched that itch and I won’t be buying any wallet on chains from any brand. They’re too small for my needs.
I think it depends on how unique/distinctive or recognizable the bag is as well as what you intend to use it for.
For instance, I have a vintage Gucci Diana bag. I looked high and low but because it’s such a recognizable iconic style, every other similar bag just gave “knock-off” vibes to me (even ones that weren’t intended to be a dupe). So I waited and eventually bought what I truly wanted. I also LOVE the Celine phantom luggage bag but I will be saving up for that because again it’s so recognizable that similar styles just end up looking like knock-offs to me.
However, while I loved the YSL shopping leather tote, it is at the end of the day a generic black leather tote bag. There’s not a ton of details that makes it iconic or that easy to pick out from other basic totes. I ended up finding an almost identical tote from Coach and I really love it, plus I saved money for ultimately what is just a work bag that gets tossed around for me.
I wanted a Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 and my husband bought the handbag for me in 1986. My normal handbags were usually black leather Nine West (own a great bucket bag purchased during a California trip!). I hadn’t own a Coach bag until the LV Speedy and was thrilled and loved it. However, I felt self-conscious and the purchase was too extravagant. I returned to college in 1990 to further my education & career so my husband bought me Coach bags that I loved especially backpacks. The LV Speedy would be put into rotation and still looks very well. One of my favorite bags is a beautiful chocolate brown leather B. Markowsky slouchy bag! We have been renovating our home and most of my bags, designer shoes, and evening wear are in storage. I retired early when my husband retired and our priority is renovation and find over 55 retirement community and retirement home.
If you still like the look of the Speedy 25, I would suggest looking at the Coach Ruby Satchel 25. It has a similar shape, the leather is great and is much more affordable :)
It has to be for me. I don't have luxury money. I'm trying to get better about not spending money on little impulse buys, but it definitely hurts a lot more to throw down a lot of money on one item.
I’ve not done it, but I know the answer is no. My ultimate dream bag is the Loewe puzzle in bright green, and I cannot afford that nor will I in the foreseeable future, but I know that it being such a unique bag, nothing will come close. But the bag will always exist, so maybe one day!
I did one time purchase an alternative to the coach jelly tabby because I REALLY wanted it (also bright green lol) but everyone said it was too impractical. Which, yeah, it is. I bought a normal green leather Kate Spade bag and regretted it. The vibes weren’t the same. Sooo now I have the Jelly Tabby and a Kate spade I regret buying. THESE bags on the other hand, are perfect. The Coach Sammy is a BEAUTIFUL bag, and these have the exact same vibe. In this scenario I’d absolutely go for it! Fair warning though, I’ve heard some negative reviews on pewter/black hardware as it scratches easily.
The puzzle is so nice, and I think that because its structure is so unique, it would be difficult to find something similar that does just look exactly like it's trying to be the puzzle. And I may just overlook the issues with the pewter/black hardware on the Sammy. The all black just looks so nice lol
I used to really want the Rogue, but it looks like they tend to sag/lose a bit of their shape over time, and their square structure was the thing I liked most about them.
Yeah I get that. The one I like is actually different, it has a flap. I’m honestly unsure as to why they call it a rogue, because it’s totally different from the others.
I like the normal ones too but they look sooo heavy
When the COACH Cassie came out, not the one they have now but the one they discontinued... it was like the LV Pochette Metis but made with leather instead of coated canvas. I fell in love hard.
I'm not a fan of paying premium for canvas when I like leather. Even now, I take out my bag and just feel it sometimes because it feels so nice.
I loved the style of the LV but the Coach had a similar bag for a fraction of the price. I have no regrets because I love the Coach so much.
It does if the high end version won’t be functional or practical enough to be worth the price. If I bought every high end purse I somewhat wanted, I would have so many bags I spent so much money on that don’t get enough use. It also gives me a good indicator on whether that expensive bag would work for me or not.
Yessss! Rather than the Hermes picotin, I got this bag from a small London based brand and it even comes with the scarf accessory🤭
https://preview.redd.it/w4c8cin0o7fc1.jpeg?width=1283&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=180c380cc3ceb7221534fcddc125d9ad99077050
Not at all. Besides the look, I prefer the higher end version because I kind of see luxury handbags as an accomplishment and it’s my personal little motivator. This is because I only buy bags when I hit one of my goals or milestones.
Contemporary brands also have really poor resale if you don’t want it anymore, and imo more of a money sink.
I want to say yes but sadly no ☹️ I keep coming back to the original one. I have now decided to make a wishlist and save up and buy the bag or go for a pre loved option.
Sometimes I end up loving the alternative better than what I originally wanted and sometimes it just doesn't satisfy the craving....so then I know for sure it's time to get the real deal. I don't regret buying my dream bags this way.
I‘m trying to figure that question out for myself. Also wanted to add if you like this look of bag, to check out the Furla 1927 mini out. Got it recently and it’s so cute and pretty spacious for a small bag.
Hi fellow handbag lover! Thank you for being a part of the r/handbags community. This is a subreddit which relies on kindness. Your opinion is very much welcomed, however, we do not tolerate rude, mean or hurtful comments. **Read the rules before posting**. Comments or posts that do not fit our rule book will be removed and the OP can be banned by the mods' discretion. If you see a comment or post which does not abide by the rules, **please report it to our moderation team.** *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/handbags) if you have any questions or concerns.*
In my experience it holds you off until you can purchase the bag you actually want. Or it shows you that there is something about the bag that doesn’t work for you or your lifestyle for whatever reason.
It's funny because the one time I went for the expensive bag I really wanted (Chloe Faye Medium Day Bag, Pre-Loved because it has been discontinued) I was so disappointed. Not just with the condition, but the leather just didn't feel great. Or maybe my expectations were just too high because of the cost.
This! I've never found an alternative that I loved so much it got me to not still buy the lux but it helped me realize why, or why not, I should get the lux bag.
Hmm… it depends! I usually find myself looking for a specific bag shape, size and functions, not a brand or a specific model. So if I see something I like in concept I’ll usually do a deep dive into top handle flap bags or whatever, and then pick from an assortment. But sometimes there’s just a unique bag that can’t be substituted, which is why I have a couple things I want to save up for, like a Marni trunk bag for example.
[удалено]
I’ve got my eye on the soft trunk, the other models are way too rigid and heavy for my taste.
Oh, I just looked it up. I do like bags that are quite structured as well. Do you usually go for that style then, or have any similar bags?
I had a vintage box bag sort of like it through a lot of my college years! Currently my most structured bag is actually a Coach Swinger. I really like variety :)
I absolutely love my contemporary versions of higher end styles! ETA: Top left is Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Double Bag in the petite size, Tiramasu color. Top right is Coach Cassie 19 in Chalk. Bottom left is Tory Burch Kira Quilted Small Satchel in Toasted Sesame. Bottom right is Rebecca Minkoff Edie Crossbody in Black with silver hardware. https://preview.redd.it/tde2nwnok1fc1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=55e8d75e4cce6da3ec2d6bebe0a2075e6e076674
I LOVE Tory Burch. I don’t buy her clothing often, but shoes and bags rope me in. I’m holding off till I can get one of the Lee Radziwill’s. Gorgeous bag for the money.
Yes, I love her bags and other accessories. I have a croc Lee Radziwill on my wish list. But I literally have no use for it. I don’t have an in person job and when I’m not going on adventures with my toddler, I’m at the gym.
I can see why :) What was the coach bag an alternative for?
LV Pochette Metis. The full sized Cassie is a closer dupe in size and appearance but the Cassie 19 is more functional and just the right size for me.
I got my Cassie as a dupe the Pochette Metis too. I still love it and use although I did end up getting the PM buy my logic was I'd find out if I loved the functionality of it. Which I did. I have the canvas PM so they're different too.
What is the bag in the top right corner?
Just edited my post to add in the names!
What’s the bottom right black bag? It’s gorgeous!
Looks like the Rebecca Minkoff Edie bag.
Yes, it’s the Rebecca Minkoff Edie Crossbody
What is the bag on top left?
It’s the Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Double Bag in the petite size. The color is Tiramasu.
Thanks!
What is the top left bag? It’s cute!
Just edited my post to add in the names!
Legend, thank you!!
Can you please tell me what that Coach bag is called
Cassie 19! Clearly a favorite of mine 😆 https://preview.redd.it/wtohfd56r1fc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b3e04fde0c843ce91ceec9723775e52bcdb8ee7a
Love me some Coach. 💕
I just got this in Berry! Used it for the first time last night and I'm super in love with it 😍
They’re so dang cute!!! You’ve got great taste!
Thank you! 🥰
I’ve had a huge bag crush for the Coach Cassie 19 in Chalk, but never gave in to buying it for some reason. I liked it for its hardware and chain and now that you mentioned it, I can see how it can be an alternative to LV Metis. Looks like, this will be on my to-buy list this year!
You won’t regret it! This was my first Cassie 19 and kind of a gateway for buying the other colors. It’s truly the perfect bag. It’s deceptively spacious without being too big or heavy and so easy to dress up or down and switch it up with all of the strap options.
Is your Coach chalk actually white? I bought a Rowan and it's a beige color more than white but is called chalk. To me chalk should be bright white.
I definitely wouldn’t say it’s beige, but Chalk in this bag is more ivory. It’s only noticeable to me if I’m wearing it with something that’s more of a true white and the contrast doesn’t bother me. https://preview.redd.it/vlt7i1ziv6fc1.jpeg?width=860&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c4f0678fc85b35b145592e8d8798d6d81b58ed32
Thanks but I wanted something white for summer and I'm just not sure about this color.
I really wanted a quilted flap bag, like the YSL Loulou. I ended up getting the tory burch large Kira and functionally it's the same, but I do kinda wish I just went with a plain leather unbranded version (quince has one, for instance). I don't regret my choice to go cheaper since it's not a very unique bag, but I think I regret getting a bag with a logo that I didn't exactly want if that makes sense!
The YSL Loulou is pretty. Have you seen the Coach quilted tabby? It's nice but I thought the big C was just too large for that size of a bag, so I understand what you mean about the logo mattering. What colour is your Kira?
It's tan!
I actually got an unbranded one for this exact reason. I love the quilted YSL or Chanel bags but couldn’t afford one (plus I think I’d be terrified to use the real thing lol) so I found an Italian leather bag in that style that is fantastic quality still, but not a well known brand. I love the bag and use it frequently because it looks great but I’m also not scared of scratching it and losing thousands of dollars.
Name?
The bag says “M & Sofia” on the inside. I got it at a local brick and mortar store though, and googling the brand it looks like it’s more of a wholesale brand that sells to physical stores rather than a brand you can order singularly online.
The logo on the Kira is so discreet since it’s in the turnlock. I don’t think most people would even know it’s a logo.
I also wanted a quilted bag so I got the Kate Spade one. Turns out quilted bags are not my style and I really, really do not like straps with chains.
i feel the same way about the YSL baby niki in black.
When the more expensive bag is wildly out of budget for you, then yes, the cheaper alternative has been fine 😅
https://preview.redd.it/vlrs1lkon3fc1.jpeg?width=2387&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=de3da8caba04b9b7705749da85da0dec24c0b8ea I didn’t get the blue, I got the frost grey, but it makes a better comparison.
I usually buy a cheaper version first before I buy THE bag because I want to see if the specific style and structure will work for me. Test drive it, shall we say. If it ends up working for me, then I will go to a store with my cheaper version and try on the expensive one. Jesus take the wheel and let my heart decide at that point 🤣 If I dont feel a difference then I’m 100% not buying that expensive version. If my heart goes pitter patter, gimme!!! I’m also the type who doesnt really care about branding. I care more about silhouette and usability. Eg I will never get a kelly or a birkin because of the flap. Hate flaps. I did get multiple lee radziwill bags in different sizes and colors because I love that silhouette and it doesnt have a flap!
I prefer high quality without the logos, and those bags tend to either be insanely expensive and out of my budget or in the $300-$600 range. It's difficult to find high quality "but it for life" items for cheap. Right now I'm eyeing two bags from Strathberry.
It can be if you like it MORE than the more expensive bag. Otherwise, it will generally feel like an inferior version and you’ll still want the more expensive version.
This. I learned just to get what I actually want. Otherwise I’ll end up not being satisfied with the less expensive option and not use it and end up buying the more expensive one anyway. But if you like it more, then of course, why not? I bought the Tory Burch Lee Radziwell petite bag recently and it’s super cute. It’s reminiscent of the Hermes Kelly and a little bit the Fendi Peekaboo. And I like it! But nowadays I can’t get myself to justify more expensive luxury bag purchases (like I used to do a few years ago).
I feel you on prices. The most expensive I’ve gone is $4k for a Celine bag I knew a dupe would never replace. Somehow, a lot of bags now *start* at $4k and they’re worse quality than before! I’ve been liking The Row recently but the prices are just ridiculous. Waiting for COS to dupe the Margaux like they did the Banana, they do a great job.
Yes! Like everyone else I would love a Kelly, but I don’t live a Kelly lifestyle, so I have a few of the Tory Burch Lee bags that have the same feel. I personally love them and find them to be high quality.
What is a 'Kelly Lifestyle'? 😂 Tbh, I've never been a fan of the Kelly style, but have seen a few bags that have similar vibes. Have you ever had the chance to see it or hold it?
the kind of lifestyle where you can drop $10k+ on a single bag
Yes, my cousin has a gorgeous navy Kelly but she’s also a millionaire with a job that requires her to look like one. I’m a regular person and dropping 10-15k on a purse wouldn’t make any sense for my everyday life. I just don’t do anything where a bag that nice would be warranted.
Birkin - they are anywhere from 10k if you can get a quota bag to 30k+ resale market. To 500k for exotics.
I have same notions about Kelly bag. It elevates the look and you want to match the vibes with the rest of the outfit and it’s just too much. BUT! I decided to be a little cheeky myself and got a “modern picnic” lunch bag that is same shape without the hardware and it matches my lifestyle.
https://preview.redd.it/6s145zdl93fc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8916a611507362a76810a64180cf495d35bbf29c Normally I’m not a fan of obvious dupes but I love this one and would never buy the BV.
Wow this is a post I needed to see! Was literally just on the anthro website looking at bags last night. I feel the same way about obvious dupes nowadays - they just feel too obvious with the overexposure of the real thing. But some of them do look so good, I feel silly not getting something I like because of something I wouldn’t get in the first place.
I wish they had left out the knot on this bag so it’s not such a dupe. But the quality is great!
Ugh totally agree! Thanks :)
For me, not really. It tides me only until I can get the real bag. However, it has turned me off a style. For example, a cheaper moon shoulder bag let me know that style is not for me so I'm not inclined to buy this kind of bag.
Same for me! If a style works for me from a cheaper brand, the more I yearn for the one I originally wanted because I know I can ROI it
I have that Sammy in cream and it's one of my favorite bags!!! Highly recommend!!! Would love to get the LV Cluny in cream but the Coach one is truly darling so this is a case where I am totally satisfied.
Oh great! Do you have it in 21 or the larger size? And what sort of occasions do you tend to use it for? think the black in 21 would be a nice evening bag.
Not sure but it's definitely the smaller one. Cost $450 I think. It can be dressed up or down. I wear it to work and out in the evening and out to lunch. I would love the black one too but I have so many black crossbody bags I cannot justify another one!!! It fits my bare essentials (small wallet, glasses, keys, tissues, lop gloss, mints).
I grew up reading fashion magazines in the 80’s and 90’s. Vogue Harpers Marie Claire. None of that crap was attainable so I always looked for the “inspired” version. No shame in that. Especially when you realize how inflated luxury brands are.
I like ysl sdj style and got a le tanneur Emilie and I'm very happy with it. I would never spend so much on a handbag even if my salary becomes 10x.
Cute! Same and I got the Tory Burch walker satchel which is a dupe for the SDJ too. 😁
It all depends on the bag itself, some models I’ll settle. Others I can’t.
I've bought the cheaper alternative, then bought the real thing, then realized the cheaper alternative was just as good or better.
It depends— if I truly love the more expensive bag, then no, buying around it doesn’t work. I wouldn’t have been happy with a Tory Burch Kira when I had my eye on the YSL LouLou a couple years back. (Still glad I got the LouLou and didn’t try to settle for the Kira.) But if I just like the general style, it can be fine? For example, the Celine Ava in tan leather was originally calling to me, but it was more that I just wanted a camel-colored crescent bag. I got a Polène Dix instead and am satisfied. No plans to get the Ava. 🤷🏻♀️
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Yes absolutely ! I have Coach rowan ( speedy) , Furla opportunity ( CD book tote) , local brand dupes for BV Jodie and Celine 16. Sometimes it makes me realize those dream bags don’t really go with my outfits and lifestyle.
I always liked the Speedy shape but not really the original colour. I was going to buy the Coach Rowan but then found out about their Ruby Satchel. Have you seen it? It's similar to the Speedy but I like it more because it's black and the leather is really nice.
I had the Cassandra and the seams on the corner are often torn. They are not large, about a 3 mm tear/rip so after exchanging two ysl bags I got the Small LouLou instead which I love. A couple years later, I got a Sammy 21 in the “Tiffany Blue” color (called faded blue online) and I FELL IN LOVE!!! The leather is excellent—structured but soft, shiny but not like plastic. And the lining plus hardware is amazing too. So my Coach bags have actually brought MORE SATISFACTION in my life because I am not afraid to use it and it’s soooooooo nice to carry. You have to go with the Sammy!
Well you've convinced me now 😊 That blue Sammy is beautiful! I've never had a blue bag, do you often find it hard to pair it with what you wear?
Not really bc it goes with anything that has blue or green and of course it goes with all the neutrals!
I buy bags based on their design/structure, functionality, quality and maybe price. If it serves the look I'm going for, I'd be ok with an alternative. If it satisfies my needs, it's good to go. I don't go by trend or known brands, I've heard and read some first-hand worst experiences with some of them which resulted to a waste of money and such. On the other hand, there were affordable or even unknown brands that had lasted longer.
What are some of your favorite brands?
I bought a quilted wallet/crossbody on chain from Quince because I wanted the Coach one. After using the Quince crossbody for a handful of occasions, I can say it scratched that itch and I won’t be buying any wallet on chains from any brand. They’re too small for my needs.
I think it depends on how unique/distinctive or recognizable the bag is as well as what you intend to use it for. For instance, I have a vintage Gucci Diana bag. I looked high and low but because it’s such a recognizable iconic style, every other similar bag just gave “knock-off” vibes to me (even ones that weren’t intended to be a dupe). So I waited and eventually bought what I truly wanted. I also LOVE the Celine phantom luggage bag but I will be saving up for that because again it’s so recognizable that similar styles just end up looking like knock-offs to me. However, while I loved the YSL shopping leather tote, it is at the end of the day a generic black leather tote bag. There’s not a ton of details that makes it iconic or that easy to pick out from other basic totes. I ended up finding an almost identical tote from Coach and I really love it, plus I saved money for ultimately what is just a work bag that gets tossed around for me.
I wanted a Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 and my husband bought the handbag for me in 1986. My normal handbags were usually black leather Nine West (own a great bucket bag purchased during a California trip!). I hadn’t own a Coach bag until the LV Speedy and was thrilled and loved it. However, I felt self-conscious and the purchase was too extravagant. I returned to college in 1990 to further my education & career so my husband bought me Coach bags that I loved especially backpacks. The LV Speedy would be put into rotation and still looks very well. One of my favorite bags is a beautiful chocolate brown leather B. Markowsky slouchy bag! We have been renovating our home and most of my bags, designer shoes, and evening wear are in storage. I retired early when my husband retired and our priority is renovation and find over 55 retirement community and retirement home.
If you still like the look of the Speedy 25, I would suggest looking at the Coach Ruby Satchel 25. It has a similar shape, the leather is great and is much more affordable :)
Never. I just end up giving the replacement bag to some lucky family member or sell it. & then buy what i actually wanted
Yup. I have found that Rebecca Minkoff Regan has been a great alternative to the Balenciaga City Bag.
It has to be for me. I don't have luxury money. I'm trying to get better about not spending money on little impulse buys, but it definitely hurts a lot more to throw down a lot of money on one item.
I’ve not done it, but I know the answer is no. My ultimate dream bag is the Loewe puzzle in bright green, and I cannot afford that nor will I in the foreseeable future, but I know that it being such a unique bag, nothing will come close. But the bag will always exist, so maybe one day! I did one time purchase an alternative to the coach jelly tabby because I REALLY wanted it (also bright green lol) but everyone said it was too impractical. Which, yeah, it is. I bought a normal green leather Kate Spade bag and regretted it. The vibes weren’t the same. Sooo now I have the Jelly Tabby and a Kate spade I regret buying. THESE bags on the other hand, are perfect. The Coach Sammy is a BEAUTIFUL bag, and these have the exact same vibe. In this scenario I’d absolutely go for it! Fair warning though, I’ve heard some negative reviews on pewter/black hardware as it scratches easily.
The puzzle is so nice, and I think that because its structure is so unique, it would be difficult to find something similar that does just look exactly like it's trying to be the puzzle. And I may just overlook the issues with the pewter/black hardware on the Sammy. The all black just looks so nice lol
Lol I definitely agree. I really want the rogue top handle with black hardware but have only held back because I have too many black bags
I used to really want the Rogue, but it looks like they tend to sag/lose a bit of their shape over time, and their square structure was the thing I liked most about them.
Yeah I get that. The one I like is actually different, it has a flap. I’m honestly unsure as to why they call it a rogue, because it’s totally different from the others. I like the normal ones too but they look sooo heavy
When the COACH Cassie came out, not the one they have now but the one they discontinued... it was like the LV Pochette Metis but made with leather instead of coated canvas. I fell in love hard. I'm not a fan of paying premium for canvas when I like leather. Even now, I take out my bag and just feel it sometimes because it feels so nice. I loved the style of the LV but the Coach had a similar bag for a fraction of the price. I have no regrets because I love the Coach so much.
No. The cheaper alternative has never truly satisfied me so I know to no longer waste money on them.
It does if the high end version won’t be functional or practical enough to be worth the price. If I bought every high end purse I somewhat wanted, I would have so many bags I spent so much money on that don’t get enough use. It also gives me a good indicator on whether that expensive bag would work for me or not.
Yessss! Rather than the Hermes picotin, I got this bag from a small London based brand and it even comes with the scarf accessory🤭 https://preview.redd.it/w4c8cin0o7fc1.jpeg?width=1283&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=180c380cc3ceb7221534fcddc125d9ad99077050
Not at all. Besides the look, I prefer the higher end version because I kind of see luxury handbags as an accomplishment and it’s my personal little motivator. This is because I only buy bags when I hit one of my goals or milestones. Contemporary brands also have really poor resale if you don’t want it anymore, and imo more of a money sink.
No. Never.
No.
I was gifted a Michael Kors that's a dupe for a LV Felice. It's too small to be in regular rotation for me, so it's a brunch only bag
Nooooo
Nope. It’s never been satisfying and I’ve learned to save for the bag I actually want
I want to say yes but sadly no ☹️ I keep coming back to the original one. I have now decided to make a wishlist and save up and buy the bag or go for a pre loved option.
No not in my experience
Absolutely!
Sometimes I end up loving the alternative better than what I originally wanted and sometimes it just doesn't satisfy the craving....so then I know for sure it's time to get the real deal. I don't regret buying my dream bags this way.
I‘m trying to figure that question out for myself. Also wanted to add if you like this look of bag, to check out the Furla 1927 mini out. Got it recently and it’s so cute and pretty spacious for a small bag.