One in Four Women are Dreaming of Receiving a Luxury Handbag this Christmas
Christmas is just around the corner, and many of us may still be struggling for inspirtaion on what to get for the women closest to us. According to new research, a luxury bag is at the top of 25% of women’s Christmas wish lists, but finding the perfect bag to gift can be a challenge. That’s why Michael Kors has teamed with Personal Stylist Ali Lee to help navigate the world of luxury bags this festive season.
Her expert tips for choosing the perfect luxury handbag include:
- Go Neutral: Opt for a colour like black, tan, beige, or even metallics for maximum versatility.
- Match the Occasion: Whether it’s a chic crossbody for everyday use or a tote for work, think about how the bag will be used.
- Think Long-Term: Choose high-quality materials that ensure the bag will stay beautiful for years to come.
- Be Personal: Skip fleeting trends and pick a timeless style that matches your partner’s unique personality.
Next on the Christmas list for women is designer jewellery, designer fragrances and designer clothing.
Luxury gifts certainly leave a stamp with 62% of women recalling being gifted a luxury item for Christmas before (and loving it) and so gifting luxury seems the perfect move for the discerning woman in your life.
Here are Personal Stylist Ali Lees‘ top tips on what to consider before investing in a designer handbag- whether it’s for you or for someone else:
1. Pick a bag that goes with everything– or close to everything
Buying luxury may feel like a splurge for some, but purchases can be rationalised based on the amount of wear you’ll get from something. While a statement handbag may be tempting, it’s worth thinking about cost-per-wear of a luxury item, particularly if it’s one of your first. This may mean shopping for something slightly more neutral so that you can show off your new dream handbag again and again.
“High-end handbags can be a significant investment, so it’s important to set a clear budget and think about cost-per-wear. Maximum versatility is the name of the game. Try to choose a neutral colour or at least one that matches with the majority of your wardrobe, so you’ll get the maximum use out of your handbag. Aside from the classics – black, brown, tan, and beige – bags in metallics are super easy to co-ordinate with any outfit.”
2. Shop for the occasion you’ll need the bag for
From classy evening clutch bags to everyday office bags carrying your trusty laptop– there truly is a bag for every occasion. The bag you pick (for yourself or your giftee) is going to depend on the occasions it will be used for, the attire that will be paired with the handbag and any storage needs.
Voyager Medium Crossgrain Leather Tote Bag
Kensington Large Pebbled Leather Tote Bag
Jet Set Large Saffiano Leather Crossbody Bag
For 33% of women, a crossbody bag would be their ideal luxury handbag this year, while 26% picked a timeless shoulder bag and 12% picked a clutch. As we get to larger bags, for 17% a tote bag comes out on top.
Jet Set Medium Saffiano Leather Crossbody Bag
Trisha Medium Logo Crossbody Bag
Jet Set Medium Saffiano Leather Crossbody Bag
Ali said: “Think about the occasions you will need the bag for. If you want something smart for the office and roomy enough to fit your laptop in, a more structured tote style will be perfect. If you’re looking for something to go with casual outfits, a more relaxed slouchy style or hobo bag will be perfect. Want something secure, hands-free, and easy access to wear out shopping? A zip-up cross-body bag will be your best friend. Something discreet that won’t interrupt the lines of your outfit? Try a clutch or baguette-style bag.”
3. Consider how well you’ll be able to maintain the quality of your new bag
Savvy shoppers are increasingly trading fast fashion and sale price tags for luxury items that feel like an investment. Not only does this approach make purchases (and gifts) feel more meaningful, but it also promotes a more balanced approach to shopping.
For this reason, quality is so important when it comes to buying luxury- not just on the day of purchase, but also when it’s a few years old. It’s worth checking how durable the material of your bag is e.g. is it wipe clean for any spillages.
“High-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship are crucial when you’re spending a bit more on your first luxury handbag. Look for durable materials and check the stitching to make sure the details are robust with no loose threads. A handbag with little extras like secure zip-pockets, attached purse compartments and phone-sized pouches are also a bonus, and make for a workhorse handbag.”
4. Choose a bag that helps you feel like the most stylish version of yourself
Fashion trends come and go but if you want a bag that comes out of the wardrobe repeatedly, pick something that feels totally and unequivocally you.
This may mean not necessarily shopping the trends dominating A/W this year like ‘Boho Chic’ and ‘Geometric shaped bags’ and instead picking a timeless classic. Some of our favourites at Michael Kors include the Ludlow and the Colby– these are popular year-after-year and remain trendy.
Ludlow Medium Leather Shoulder Bag
Colby Medium Leather Shoulder Bag
“Try not to be swayed by trends if you want to love your bag for years to come. Don’t rush into the decision and take time to think about whether it aligns with your personal style. Ultimately, choose a bag that brings you joy and helps you feel like the most stylish version of yourself!”