Any handbag savant knows that their bags are the accessory to make a sartorial statement. Here, we get an exclusive look inside handbag expert Marianne Theodorsen's eclectic collection of carry-alls and clutches
I have always been drawn to fun accessories, ever since I – as a four-year-old – discovered the joy of several outfit changes in one day. It was around the same time I got my very first handbag – A purple mini pouch decorated with a dancing Minnie Mouse in a full 1980’s getup. That bag really was my pride and joy for a long time.
However, It wasn’t until the early 2000’s that I developed a deep love for bags. It was all thanks to the fashion celebrity of the moment. The sartorial savants toting around various 'it' bags. Sienna Miller, The Olsens, Nicole Richie. I would religiously stalk these girls on Tumblr - eager to copy their outfits down to the tiniest detail. And, of course, they were all carrying the most fabulous bags.
Photo: Marianne Theodorsen
Naturally, at the time, investing in designer bags was merely a pipe dream. It just wasn’t possible for me to spend that kind of money. But now, years later, I’ve become quite the expert at hunting down real scoops on the resale market or marked down marvels at different luxury stores.
I don’t know whether I’m proud or embarrassed to say that I’ve become really good at it and that collecting bags has now become somewhat of a hobby for me. Oh, forget about being embarrassed - anyone who loves a great bag will get what I’m talking about.
After all, some people collect stamps, wine, or records. I collect bags.
Being obsessed with purses, I don’t settle for one bag to cover each need - for me, it goes way beyond that. For me, a bag is the cherry on top of the proverbial outfit cake. A fun and colourful eye-catcher that should be able to make a statement independently of a great dress or coat.
With this in mind, my collection is not necessarily based on practicality. When I consider a purchase, I rarely ask myself, “does this go well with everything”. If I were to describe my collection in one word, it would be colourful. Earthy tones are restricted to my vintage Kelly and a Louis Vuitton bag in the classic monogram canvas. And there are two mini black bags, but that’s it. Everything else is pink, purple, blue, multicoloured. An absolute rainbow delight.
In my world of fun and bright bags, I keep coming back to classic shapes. The iconic Chanel flap, The Hermès Birkin, and the Fendi Baguette are some of my absolute favourites. No matter how crazy the colours or patterns are, I know these are forever favourites that never go out of style.
I’ve managed to gather up quite a nice collection (if I can say so myself) of my favourites - much of it thanks to patience and a lot of time on pre-loved sites like eBay. What my next purchase might be I have no idea of. While I have a list of bags I hope to hunt down one day, I'm also the kind of person who can easily fall in love with a bag on the spot and click it home.
If it sparks joy - I’ll just go for it.