-Revised-Main-Image-Template-(11).jpg)
When I was still a student, I dreamt of owning the same designer items I would see Hollywood celebs wear in fashion magazines. As someone who loved playing dress up (and hated uniforms), beefing up my closet was on my "Big Girl Bucket List."
As I became older and started working, I realized that purchasing designer items was a challenge. Bills exist and a fresh grad salary would only allow you to spend on essentials. Cute clothes and shoes were not a priority, so I had to briefly shelf the "designer purchase" dream.
Through the years, however, I slowly learned how to pick items for my wardrobe. With trial and error, I figured out how I could buy designer bags with a limited budget. After all, I wanted to make sure that I won't regret that big-ticket splurge. Here's what worked for me, scroll on to glean tips!
READ: Tips for Buying Your First Designer Bag
1. Know your style.
Having an idea of your signature style will help you figure out the brands to aim for and pieces that resonate with you. In my case, I like tailored items with a twist and athleisure anything. I'm not really into classic accessories and I prefer limited-edition bags, hats, and shoes.
2. Save up.
There is no other way. I resisted buying from sales of fast fashion brands and I allocated my shopping money to my dream designer bag fund. It took a lot of self-control, but through time, I've learned to appreciate the value of delayed gratification. Heart Evangelista also had the best advice about this: "Stop buying dupes. Just save for the real one."
3. Go local.
Our Filipino designers are extremely talented. They create pieces that will stand out! I'm eyeing a Zarah Juan or a Fino handbag.
.jpg)
4. Watch for sales from international sites.
When international sites go on sale, the markdowns get really insane. Take note of these sales: Black Friday and End-Of-Season! My recommended sites: Net-A-Porter and MyTheresa.
Now that you know the best tips, here are some affordable designer bags you might want to save up for!
SHOP: 8 Affordable Designer Bags to Start Building Your Designer Wardrobe
1. APC Demi Lune Leather Clutch
Demi Lune Leather Clutch, € 159 (P9,323.99), APC, My Theresa
2. Staud Bean Gathered Leather Shoulder Bag
Bean Gathered Leather Shoulder Bag, P13,877, STAUD, Net-a-porter
3. By Far Rachel Mini Chain-Embellished Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag
Rachel Mini Chain-Embellished Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag, P14,612, BY FAR, Net-a-porter
4. Kate Spade Avenue Mini Satchel Bungalow
Avenue Mini Satchel Bungalow, P22,450, KATE SPADE, Trunc.ph
5. Jacquemus Le Chiquito Leather Tote
Le Chiquito Leather Tote, € 379 (P22,223.53), JACQUEMUS, My Theresa
6. Coach Luna Shoulder Bag
Luna Shoulder Bag, P26,500, COACH, Trunc.ph
7. Furla 1927 Mini Top Handle 19
1927 Mini Top Handle 19, P25,500, FURLA, Trunc.ph
8. Mansur Gavriel Classic Textured Leather Bucket Bag
Classic Textured Leather Bucket Bag, P42,924, MANSUR GAVRIEL, Net-a-porter
*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Preview.ph editors.
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
