October 29, 2010

Today's Everyday Fashion






































I recently picked up this great bag at T.J. Maxx for $35. The problem is - it's not leather. A couple years ago, I decided that I wouldn't buy leatherette purses anymore. I wanted to look more grown up and upgraded to a leather bag. I actually only own two purses at this point - which might sound crazy to those of you who own tons of handbags, but my dilemma is that on a budget of $250/month, it's a big investment to purchase a leather purse since they usually start at $200 and go up. I absolutely love this T.J. Maxx bag, and it's only $35, but... it's not leather. I mean I really, really love it, but it's just not leather... and paired with my faux leather jacket I feel like I'm one big walking leatherette billboard. :-)

So, what's your take - is a leather handbag worth the splurge? Should I keep this purse or go for the gold?

Occasion: Casual Friday
Faux leather jacket: Forever 21, $40
Scarf: H&M, $13
Shirt: Elegantees, $20
Jeans: Gap, $44
Shoes: Aldo, $70
Purse: Nine West/Tj Maxx, $35
Photo left: My inspiration from CoutureCandy.com!

19 comments:

  1. I think the purse is cute but I am one to go for the splurge. I am just like you and only own 2 or 3 purses - black, brown, and a fun one that my MIL purchased for my birthday. They last so much longer than leatherette and are totally worth the splurge!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Actually, I decided a long time ago that I wouldn't buy bags or shoes that weren't leather. I definitely miss out on some styles, but I'd prefer quality over quantity any day of the week.

    The last bag I bought was from Banana, it's my favorite purse ever and I got a killer deal on it.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I LOVE leather purses, but I get bored so easily with bags. I would say that a black leather purse is a worthy investment if it's in a classic shape that isn't too trendy. I own about 20 purses because I need to change it up all the time. I'm saving up to invest in an all black leather Coach bag next year :-)

    ReplyDelete
  4. I'm not really a big fan of leather either and prefer faux leather that looks like real leather! I'd say keep the TJMaxx bag as it looks very nice and can be paired easily with so many outfits.

    Awesome leopard print scarf too, btw!! :)

    kileen
    cuteandlittle.com

    ReplyDelete
  5. at least your helping the animals!

    ReplyDelete
  6. I think the bag looks great, but personally I like change things up with my outfit or shoes and carry a classic purse. I bought myself a brown leather bag when I graduated college to be a bit more 'grown up' like you said, and then my bf gave me a designer purse for Christmas last year, so now I never carry anything else ;)
    I LOVE those booties btw!

    ReplyDelete
  7. I'm SUPER picky about my bags. I'm a big fan of real leather too, but I have found some faux bags that I can deal with, IF they are made with a good quality faux leather. It seriously takes me a few months to find a new bag that I like, for a good price that doesn't look cheap!

    www.designsbymandiboutique.com

    ReplyDelete
  8. get the leather purse. its so worth it and it lasts for a long time. make sure to get a classic style

    ReplyDelete
  9. I love purses so I have tons of them. I always go by the rule, does it feel cheap or look cheap, if it does I leave it. But if it feels of good quality but isn't real leather, then it is mine. I say if it doesn't look or feel cheap keep it!

    ReplyDelete
  10. Like you said, you "really, really love it." I think that pretty much answers your question!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Personally...I try not to buy things that are leather. My thinking is that if i refuse to wear real fur (which i do), then why should I wear real leather? It's equally as bad. (NO offense to anyone that does wear leather or fur..these are simply my own policies for myself!) Plus, on the upside, it's cheaper so I can afford to buy MORE! lol J, I think the bag is gorgeous. Keep!!!

    ReplyDelete
  12. I don't know if this would completely go against your budgeting policy but instead of instead of using your monthly $250, you could wait until you accomplish something great and then buy a leather purse as a reward. It could be anything like finding a new job or running a race and breaking your personal record. I'm sure there are plenty of things you can think of. These are only a few examples

    ReplyDelete
  13. Thanks everyone for weighing in!! I loved reading your responses. I think you all helped me confirm that I should listen to the voice in my head and not settle for less. I saw a black Juicy bag at NM Last Call for $170 that I might just go back and pick up!

    Anonymous - I absolutely love the idea of setting a goal and rewarding yourself with a great purchase like that! (as long as it's planned and not blowing your budget) I will definitely consider that, thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  14. I totally agree that you should go for the splurge. I have a leather bag that I have used for years and it was worth every penny. On the flip side, what about using that bag (which I like very much) but getting yourself a leather jacket? I finally invested in one a few weeks ago and I am so happy I did. A leather jacket is going to keep you so much warmer than faux leather and it will be in style always. Mine was a steal -- a beautiful fit in the softest leather, by Guess, for $189 at The Rack.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Yes, invest in good, quality leather. When it comes to quality it's worth the expense. Remember, it's price per wear! I always tend to spend more on fabulous accessories that I'll be able to use for years and years; Cole Haan boots, Coach bags etc. Keep checking TJ Maxx for a discounted Michael Kors or B Makowsky.

    Ashley @ www.acstylefiles.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  16. Girl, you're on a budget! If you love the look of the bag, keep it!

    PS where do you get your celebrity inspiration pics? such a great idea.

    ReplyDelete
  17. OK, first- I LOVE those boots from Aldo. Go perfectly with my obsession with gray :)

    Second- I am all about leather handbags. I only have 3 "nice" purses and maybe 10 cheap/knock-off type purses. I truly just rotate between my nice ones and use the cheap ones once in a blue moon. But it's definitely all about staying on budget and setting goals.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Genevieve, great suggestion about the jacket, but I already have one cognac leather coat from Banana and didn't feel like a black one is a piece i love enough to spend the extra $ on. (not to mention, this Forever 21 jacket looks and smells just like leather, it's kind of freaky) A purse will get tons more wear, so I'm definitely planning to invest in one.

    Primadonna, all my inspiration pics are credited in the captions. This one is from CoutureCandy.com!

    ReplyDelete
  19. I hear the about the bag... I only have a few bags bc of the same problem. May I suggest the Coach outlet, affordable and real.

    ReplyDelete