Tales From a Bagaholic

Hi, my name is Victoria, and I’m a bagaholic. I’ve never considered myself a shopaholic, no, but a bagaholic, yes⁠—I’ve always known. But not just any bag. You know the ones that are smaller or more abnormal than rationally acceptable? Those are my vice.

Oh, novelty purses, miniature backpacks, and fantastical wristlets how I adore you. I constantly scour boutiques and T.J. Maxx’s across the Tri-state area for a new addition to my stash… I mean collection; wardrobe, if you will. They are truly an excellent statement accessory.

In the last several months that micro-bags have exploded on the scene, they’ve attracted an instant negative connotation. Impractical. Unreasonable. Absurd. Pfft.

Okay, my guilty pleasure is a beautifully unique bag, but I’m not ashamed of it. Small kitschy bags can still be functional and the ideal choice for a trip to the grocery store or a late-night venture. Why carry a satchel or tote when all you need on hand is a cellphone, card holder, and house key?

Sure, it is a particular taste that stems off of excessiveness—ironically in a small package—but it is a mouthwatering taste. Purchasing an extraordinary bag can be electrifying. It produces some sort of high. It uplifts and sparks inspiration. Those of you who concur will be received with open arms into my coterie.

Still unconvinced? Well, help me help you. Here are my signature bags of choice:

Three’s Company

Here we have my most used and fatigued brown bags. On top is a quite deliberate Fendi backpack knockoff (please don’t judge me for this flea market find). Moving along clockwise, this compact crossbody strictly holds my iPhone 7 Plus and half-empty Balm Dotcom. My next particularly simple boxy bag is a staple for me that tragically lost its fluffy pom-pom somewhere along my travels.

Shop similar styles: Fendi Allover Flower Backpack ($1,085), Alice & Olivia Phone Case ($90)

¡Viva México!

Hung among its vibrant counterparts, this micro beauty was found in the dimly lit and smoky smelling Mexico Pavilion in, yup, Disney World’s Epcot. Have I worn this in public yet? Nope. Will I? I sure hope so!

Shop similar styles: Jacquemes Le Chiquiti ($258), PrettyLittleThing Leopard Mini Bag ($28)

Blush Beauty

This delicately etched blush purse is the perfect dinner party companion. Its triangular form stands apart from a classic hobo bag or rectangular clutch. The “diamond” clasp is the cherry on top for me; shiny and delightful.

Shop similar styles: Balenciaga Acid Pink Triangle Crossbody ($1,050), ROMWE Studded Triangle Bag ($5.95)

Down a Rabbit Hole

Oh baby. This teal/turquoise/aqua (who even knows!?) Coach Mini Bennett is a whimsical masterpiece. It is the precise accompaniment for ‘painting the roses red’… or a Sunday brunch with the girls.  

Shop similar styles: Dolce & Gabbana Floral Box Bag ($2,396), Coach Mini Bennett Satchel ($125)

Foxy Lady

Faux fur all the way. When the winter makes itself present, so does this jet-black fluff. The largest of my small scaled collection, I use this piece to dress up a pair of jeans or a LBD.

Shop similar styles: Attico Ostrich Feather Mini Pouch ($472), Target Faux Fur Satchel Handbag ($30)

English Garden

I suppose I’m a sucker for Epcot’s offerings because this charming milk carton-esque purse was purchased on a separate visit. Mimicking a suburban English apartment, it’s dangling key is quite literally the key to my heart.

Shop similar styles: Betsy Johnson So Fresh Milk Carton Bag ($65), Cariedo Satin Box Clutch ($30)

The Great Gatsby

On the frequent occasion that I am to attend an uncle’s wedding, a cousin’s Sweet Sixteen, or a friend’s Bar Mitzvah, this is my go-to. The interior is slight but its exterior is a crystallized moment, so who cares that I can only fit travel-sized touch ups inside?

Shop similar styles: Judith Leiber Couture Baguettes Crystal Clutch ($2,495), ASOS Rhinestone Fringe Sphere Bag ($51)

Everything but the Kitchen Sink

From a red-hot facial feature crossbody and furless leopard print circle to an era-inspired and hardware-heavy mini suitcase, these are all enticing options for the autumnal months. A fully acrylic beaded pouch, orange sherbet carrier, and woven lacquered wood shoulder bag welcomingly debut when the flowers start to bloom.

Shop similar styles: Betsy Johnson Eyes & Lips Crossbody ($50) Susan Alexandra Ma Cherie Tote ($385), Nordstrom Woven Rattan Canteen Bag ($89)

From my current fixations to your new cravings, these bags are what dreams are made of. They are practical yet impractical. Small but potent. Intoxicating.